A medieval fortress city crammed with Gothic wonders within its 9th century walls, hotels in Girona truly are a gateway to the past. Stay in the heart of the city to enjoy historic Catalonia, with access to sites such as Girona Cathedral and the lush La Devesa Park. Its location in the heart of northeast Catalonia means that both the coast and the mountains are a short distance away.
Having been under siege 25 times in its long and rich history, Girona has emerged as the historic gem of Catalonia. Hotels in Girona place you among medieval and Gothic structures which are ideally explored on foot. Begin your tour of the city at the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona – arguably Girona’s most important religious building. The imposing Roman Catholic Church stands proudly over the city and features an enormous and humbling 23-meter wide nave. A stroll along the charming River Onyar takes you past the colorful facades of the buildings which line its banks. Cross the Pont d’en Gómez and you’ll find a wealth of museums and art galleries to enjoy all within walking distance of your hotel in Girona. The Musea d’Història de Girona features artifacts dating from the Roman Era, while the Girona Art Museum showcases Romanesque and contemporary pieces housed in a former palace. Nearby you’ll find El Call, one of Europe’s best preserved Jewish Quarters. Gorgeous cobbled streets and stone staircases characterize this unique attraction of the city. The 40-acre La Devesa Park is a popular urban space in the city featuring wooded areas, sports facilities, and a street market held every Tuesday and Thursday. A great way to get your bearings is to walk along the city walls. The Passeig de la Muralla wraps right around the city and is mandatory if you’re staying in cozy hotels in the heart of Girona. Finish off your historic exploration of the city with a little vermouth and wine – the perfect way to unwind with locals in Catalonia.
Girona’s location in north-east Catalonia means that day trips to both the gorgeous Balearic Coast and souring Pyrenees are simple and cost effective. In summer, the Costa Brava beckons. From hotels in Girona it’s less than an hour to the sea, where beach towns like L’Escala and Sant Feliu de Guíxols tempt sun seekers with golden shores and turquoise water. If you’re looking for a traditional beach vacation to Catalonia, then L’Escala charms with coastal hillwalking, family activities, and even concerts and festivals in the summer. Beaches like Portitxol are well worth a day trip from hotels in Girona when the weather gets warmer. Sant Feliu de Guíxols is another desirable destination on the Costa Brava that’s famous for its gorgeous seaside Benedictine Monastery and bustling market packed with seasonal Spanish produce. Head north from hotels in Girona and you’ll hit the stunning Pyrenees on the border with France. For scenic hiking, ancient hilltop fortresses, and nature spotting; Paratge Natural l’Albera is only one hour away. If you’re on vacation with kids, the Tortoise Breeding Centre of Albera is a great excursion. If you happen to be visiting Girona in winter, then head into the Girona Pyrenees to enjoy skiing and snowboarding in La Molina and Masella Alpine ski resorts, located just two hours from the medieval heart of Girona.
Any vacation to a hotel in Girona would not be complete without a couple of days exploring Catalonia’s iconic capital. Barcelona hums with exciting prospects, and gorgeous boutique hotels in the heart of the city or 5-star hotels overlooking the ocean are ideal for discovering the unique architecture and atmosphere of the city. Marvel at Gaudí’s Sagrada Família and Park Güell before strolling down the famous tree-lined La Rambla and pick up some delicious sweet turrón to take home. La Barceloneta is the city’s central beach, and a hub of local and tourist life in the summer. Lapped by deep blue water and home to the Barcelona Aquarium, families with little ones will adore warm summer days on Barcelona’s coast. For something a little more adult, Sitges attracts crowds for its nightlife, small but historic center, and its beaches. A popular gay vacation destination, the tapas bars and clubs stuffed into its vibrant center provide a jovial atmosphere come nightfall. Sitges’s many beaches also offer plenty of choice and variety – but watch out because there are several popular nudist beaches in the area you may wish to avoid! Hotels in Girona place you in the heart of Catalonia, with so many destinations on your doorstep waiting to be explored.