Knowing Catalonia, especially Barcelona and the region around, I recommend the following plan for a 3 days trip in Girona. Girona has many secrets to discover. You will find some of the best culinary offerings in the world. It also has a great cultural side and incredible architecture. With this 3 day plan you are able to enjoy the best of this exciting city, sample its delicious cuisine and enjoy Girona’s finest hotels after a busy day of sightseeing.
Day 1
Morning: Breakfast in the Old Town
Enjoy your breakfast in the Old Town. Start exploring the old quarter’s charming cobbled street filled with churrerias/bakeries where you can choose from healthy options or the local treat called Xuixos (a cross between a croissant and a churro but filled with custard cream).
After breakfast, start exploring by visiting the most impressive building in town and widest Gothic nave in the world, Girona Cathedral (known from the Game of Thrones). After climbing 91 steps, take the opportunity to wander along the surrounding gardens and take a walk along the city wall. Next follow the narrow streets which lead to the Jewish Quarter.
Afternoon: Take in the city’s incredible views
If there is a view that identifies the city of Girona, it’s the vistas of the colourful houses, “the hanging houses of Girona”, on the banks of the Onyar River with the cathedral and the tower of the Basilica of Sant Feliu in the background. Cross the river Onyar using Pont de les Peixateries Velles, a famous bridge built by Gustave Eiffel, who designed it and built it ten years before creating the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Don’t miss out on an ice cream at Jordi Roca’s ice cream shop Rocambolesc. It is in the heart of Girona. You won’t regret it!
Evening: Dinner at the central square
After a long day walking, you can get one of the best dining experiences in the Girona’s central square, located next to the river and offering plenty of choice. You can try to book a table at “The Bistrot” for a romantic evening at the bottom of the iconic Pujada de Sant Domènech steps.
Day 2
Morning: Visit the fishing town of Cadaqués.
While at the Costa Brava a visit to Cadaqués is a must. A small fishing town full of gorgeous whitewashed houses, turquoise waters and, of course, Salvador Dali’s famous house. Taking a stroll through the picturesque village is simply breath-taking with its cobbled streets and charming buildings all along the seafront. Explore your way to Casa Serinyana, one of the most iconic modernist buildings in Cadaquès.
Afternoon: Discover Salvador Dali’s house
Spend the afternoon in Portlligat, just a 15 minutes’ walk from Cadaques. Here you’ll reach Casa Salvador Dalí. A must-see museum for art-lovers and a unique art studio where Dali lived and created most of his best work.
Evening: Treat yourself to dinner at Celler de Can Roca
Unfortunately this is a very difficult task. If you get to plan this trip a very long time in advance you have to try to take the opportunity to book a table at Celler de Can Roca. Problem: There is a waiting list of up to 10 months! This is one of the best restaurants in the world and a dining experience to remember. The wait will be definitely worth it.
Day 3
Morning: Enjoy Hotel Camiral
If you’ve chosen to stay in the five-star Hotel Camiral, start with their fantastic Mediterranean breakfast buffet before heading out and practising your swing on an award winning 18-hole championship golf course. If you are not a golfer, then head to their Spa and choose a treatment from their endless list.
Afternoon: Use offered activities by Hotel Camiral
Make sure you take advantage of all the activities offered by the hotel. Choose from swimming in their pool or take a cycling tour. Activities are offered plenty. Play tennis, play paddle (mix betwenn squash and tennis or try horse riding.
Evening
Dinner at Hotel Camiral’s own 1477 Restaurant which features the finest offerings from local artisan food producers, showcasing European cuisine with distinctly Catalan influences. Alternatively, try The Lounge Bar, a welcoming place to get-together for a drink or cocktail, and a more informal dining experience. It serves classic bar favourites, fresh seafood and local tapas to share, complemented by a selection of delicious local and international wines.
For more info:
Hotel Camiral: Click here or call +34 972 472 249
PGA Catalunya Resort: visit website
How to get to Girona:
Plenty of direct flights, especially all leading low cost carriers, from many European Cities fly to Girona.
Just check here
Sven Franssen