Girona Day Trip at a Glance: Quick Facts
Thinking about hopping across the border for the day? Here’s a quick snapshot of what to expect on your Perpignan to Girona day trip. This table gives you all the essential info upfront, so you can see just how easy and rewarding this adventure is.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Perpignan | ~65 km / 40 miles |
| Travel Time | 40 mins (train), 1 hour (car), 1.5 hours (bus) |
| Estimated Day Cost | €60 (Budget) to €120 (Mid-Range) per person |
| Best Time to Go in 2025 | Spring (April-May) & Autumn (Sep-Oct), Tue-Fri |
| Main Attraction | The stunningly preserved Medieval Old Town & Cathedral |
Why Take a Day Trip to Girona from Perpignan?
Imagine this: you start your morning with a croissant in French Catalonia and, in less than an hour, you’re sipping a café con leche in the heart of Spanish Catalonia. A day trip from Perpignan to Girona isn’t just a trip; it’s a seamless journey between two vibrant cultures connected by a shared Catalan heritage. You’re trading charming French cityscapes for a labyrinth of medieval Spanish streets, a city so epic it served as a backdrop for Game of Thrones. This guide has everything you need—from transport logistics to a step-by-step itinerary—to plan the perfect cross-border adventure in 2025.
How to Get from Perpignan to Girona
Crossing the border is surprisingly simple, with excellent options to suit every budget and travel style. Whether you value speed, flexibility, or affordability, getting to Girona is a breeze.
By High-Speed Train (The Fastest Option)
For sheer speed and convenience, the train is unbeatable. The high-speed AVE/TGV line, co-operated by Spain’s Renfe and France’s SNCF, whisks you from city center to city center in a flash.
- Journey Time: A lightning-fast ~40 minutes.
- Cost: Varies significantly. Book in advance via Omio, Trainline, or the official rail sites to snag one-way tickets for as low as €15-€25. Last-minute fares can climb to €50+.
- Convenience: The Girona train station is a pleasant, flat ~15-minute walk from the edge of the historic Old Town.
By Car (The Flexible Option)
If you love the freedom of the open road and the ability to make spontaneous stops, driving is a fantastic choice. The journey is short and straightforward.
- Journey Time: Just under 1 hour without traffic.
- Route: The route primarily follows the A9 motorway in France, which becomes the AP-7 in Spain. Be aware these are toll roads.
- Parking: This is crucial! Do not attempt to drive into the Old Town’s narrow streets. Instead, use one of the large underground public car parks (pàrquings) near Plaça de la Constitució or along the river. Expect to pay around €2-€3 per hour.
By Bus (The Budget Option)
For travelers keeping a close eye on their wallet, the bus is the undisputed champion of affordability. Companies like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus offer regular, comfortable services.
- Journey Time: Approximately 1.5 hours.
- Cost: The cheapest way to go, with fares often starting from an incredible €5-€15 when booked ahead.
- Convenience: The bus station is conveniently located right next to the train station, making the walk to the Old Town just as easy.
| Method | Time | Cost (One-Way) | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | ~40 mins | €€ – €€€ (€15 – €50+) | High (Fast & direct) |
| Car | ~1 hour | €€ (Fuel + Tolls) | High (Flexibility) |
| Bus | ~1.5 hours | € (€5 – €15) | Medium (Longer journey) |
Top 5 Unmissable Attractions in Girona
Girona’s Old Town is a treasure trove of historical wonders. Here are the five sights you absolutely cannot miss on your day trip.
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Explore the Girona Cathedral & Climb the Steps
Dominating the skyline, Girona’s Cathedral is a masterpiece of architecture. Its magnificent Baroque facade sits atop a grand staircase of 90 steps. Inside, you’ll discover the widest Gothic nave in the world and the priceless, 11th-century Tapestry of Creation.
Game of Thrones Connection: This is it! The grand staircase was the filming location for the Great Sept of Baelor in King’s Landing, where Cersei began her infamous walk of shame.
Practical Info: Entry costs €7.50 (includes the Basilica de Sant Feliu and Art Museum). Open generally from 10:00 to 18:00.
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Walk the Medieval City Walls (Passeig de la Muralla)
For the best views of the city, the surrounding countryside, and the distant Pyrenees, take a walk along the ancient city walls. This free, scenic walkway offers incredible panoramic photo opportunities. You can access the walls from several points, with the easiest entrance located near the Cathedral gardens.
Practical Info: Free to access and always open.
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Get Lost in the Jewish Quarter (El Call)
Step back in time as you wander through El Call, one of Europe’s best-preserved Jewish Quarters. This labyrinth of narrow cobblestone alleys, hidden courtyards, and stone archways is pure atmosphere. For a deeper understanding of its history, visit the Museum of Jewish History.
Practical Info: Free to explore. The museum has a €4 entry fee.
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Photograph the Colorful Houses on the Onyar River
The postcard-perfect image of Girona is the view of the brightly painted houses hanging precariously over the Onyar River. For the best photos, head to two specific bridges: the iconic red Pont de les Peixateries Velles (built by Gustave Eiffel’s company before the Eiffel Tower!) and the sturdy Pont de Pedra.
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Step Back in Time at the Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs)
Don’t let the name fool you; these are not Moorish but 12th-century Romanesque baths built in the style of Muslim bathhouses. The highlight is the stunning octagonal central pool, with slender columns supporting a beautiful cupola that lets in ethereal light.
Game of Thrones Connection: This atmospheric spot was used for scenes in Braavos, including where a wounded Arya Stark hid from the Waif.
Practical Info: A bargain at just €3 entry.
A Perfect One-Day Itinerary from Perpignan
Want a foolproof plan? Follow this step-by-step itinerary to maximize your day in Girona without feeling rushed.
- Morning (9:00 – 13:00): Arrival and Grand Sights
- 9:00: Catch an early high-speed train from Perpignan for a quick and scenic start.
- 10:00: Arrive in Girona. Take a leisurely 15-minute walk to the Old Town and grab a coffee at a local café in Plaça de la Independència.
- 10:30: Make your way to the Girona Cathedral. Tackle the famous steps and spend time marveling at the vast interior.
- 12:00: From behind the cathedral, find the entrance to the City Walls (Passeig de la Muralla) and enjoy a breathtaking walk with panoramic views.
- Lunch (13:00 – 14:30): A Taste of Catalonia
- It’s time for lunch! Seek out a restaurant offering a “Menú del Día” (Menu of the Day). This set lunch menu is a fantastic way to enjoy a three-course authentic meal for an excellent price (€15-€25). Consider a classic spot like Le Bistrot on the picturesque Pujada de Sant Domènec steps.
- Afternoon (14:30 – 18:00): Medieval Mazes and Iconic Views
- 14:30: Immerse yourself in the atmospheric, winding streets of the Jewish Quarter (El Call).
- 16:00: Visit the tranquil and beautiful Arab Baths.
- 17:00: Head towards the river. Cross the Pont de Pedra and then the iconic red Eiffel Bridge to capture those classic photos of the Onyar River houses as the afternoon light works its magic.
- Evening (18:00 onwards): Departure
- 18:00: Find a nice spot for a final drink or some delicious tapas before you head home.
- 19:00: Walk back to the station to catch your train, filled with memories of an incredible day in Girona.
Where to Eat in Girona (For Every Budget)
Catalan cuisine is a treat, and Girona has options for everyone, from quick bites to memorable meals.
Budget (€)
For a quick, delicious, and affordable meal, you can’t go wrong with König. This local chain is famous for its fantastic sandwiches (bocadillos) and tapas. Another great choice is El Pinguí for simple, well-made local food.
Mid-Range (€€)
This is where Girona shines. Look for the Menú del Día at lunchtime for incredible value. We recommend L’Alqueria for excellent rice dishes and paella, or Le Bistrot for classic Catalan food in a beautiful setting.
Splurge/Experience (€€€)
While Girona is home to the legendary El Celler de Can Roca (a 3-Michelin-star restaurant that needs booking a year in advance!), a more accessible splurge for a day trip is a high-end tapas bar like Vintages, where you can sample exquisite small plates.
Insider Tips for Your Girona Day Trip
- Wear comfortable shoes. You will be walking a lot on cobblestones and hills. Your feet will thank you!
- Book train tickets in advance. For the best prices on the high-speed rail, book at least 2-4 weeks ahead of your travel date.
- Carry Euros (€). Remember, you are crossing into Spain, which uses the Euro.
- Learn a little Catalan. A friendly “Bon Dia” (Good Day) and “Gràcies” (Thank you) will be much appreciated by locals.
- Check opening times. Many smaller shops and some restaurants close for a siesta between 14:00 and 16:30. Museums are often closed on Mondays.
- If driving, photograph your parking spot. It’s easy to forget where you parked after a long day of exploring.
Planning Your Visit: What to Pack
Packing light is key for a day trip. Here’s a simple checklist:
- Passport / ID Card: Essential, as you are crossing an international border.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Non-negotiable for Girona’s cobbled streets.
- Camera and/or Smartphone: To capture all the beautiful sights.
- Portable Power Bank: To keep your devices charged.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while you explore.
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses: The Spanish sun can be strong, even outside of summer.
- A Light Jacket or Sweater: Even in warmer months, evenings can get cool.
Estimated Day Trip Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much to budget? Here’s a sample breakdown for your day trip from Perpignan to Girona.
| Expense | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Transport (Return) | €20 (Advance Bus) | €60 (Advance Train) |
| Lunch | €15 (Sandwich/Tapas) | €25 (Menú del Día) |
| Attractions | €3 (Arab Baths only) | €10.50 (Cathedral + Baths) |
| Coffee/Snacks | €5 | €15 |
| TOTAL (per person) | ~€43 | ~€110.50 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How far is Girona from the French border?
Girona is very close to the French border. The main border crossing at La Jonquera/Le Perthus is approximately 40 km (25 miles) north of the city, which is only about a 30-40 minute drive.
How many days do you need in Girona, Spain?
You can comfortably see all the main highlights of Girona’s Old Town in one full day, which is why it’s a perfect day trip destination. If you wish to explore at a more relaxed pace and visit more museums, two days would be ideal.
Is there a train between Barcelona and Girona?
Absolutely! The train connection between Barcelona and Girona is excellent and frequent. The high-speed AVE/AVANT train takes just under 40 minutes, making it a very popular route. Slower, cheaper regional trains are also available and take about 1.5 hours.
Where do trains from Girona go to?
Girona is a key station on the international high-speed line. From Girona, you can take direct trains to major Spanish cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Zaragoza, as well as French cities including Nîmes, Montpellier, Lyon, and even Paris.
TL;DR: The Ultimate Girona Day Trip in a Nutshell
- Go by Train: It’s the fastest and easiest way, taking just 40 minutes. Book ahead for cheap fares.
- Must-Sees: Walk the City Walls (free views!), climb the Cathedral steps (GoT location!), get lost in the Jewish Quarter, and snap a photo of the colorful houses on the Onyar River from the Eiffel Bridge.
- Eat Smart: Find a restaurant offering a “Menú del Día” at lunchtime for the best value.
- Wear Comfy Shoes: Cobblestones are everywhere.
- Budget: You can have an amazing day for around €45 with smart planning, or a more comfortable experience for about €110.
A day trip from Perpignan to Girona is more than just a change of scenery; it’s an effortless dive into a rich and captivating history. With its medieval charm, cinematic streets, and delicious food, Girona offers an unforgettable Spanish experience just a short journey away. So go ahead, cross the border—an incredible adventure awaits!
