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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Catalonia, Spain

Nearby Destinations

The region around Girona holds fascinating places reachable within a day. From the stunning Costa Brava to the artistic hub of Figueres and the medieval charm of Besalú, diverse experiences await.

Olot and La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park also present an unique landscape of dormant volcanoes and lush forests, ideal for exploring medieval villages nestled within the terrain.

Popular Day Trip Spots

  • Costa Brava: Charming fishing villages, beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs.
  • Figueres: Home of the world-famous Dalí Theatre-Museum.
  • Besalú: Well-preserved medieval village with an iconic Romanesque bridge.
  • Olot/La Garrotxa: Unique volcanic landscape, great for hiking.

Transportation & Itinerary

Some destinations are easily reachable by public transport, while others benefit from a rental car. From dramatic coastlines to tranquil lakes and ancient monasteries, the region around Girona presents compelling excursions for every interest.

Transportation Choices

Selecting the right transport mode makes your day trip seamless. Consider bus for specific town visits, or a car for greater flexibility.

Options for Getting Around

  • Bus: Sagalés routes to Costa Brava towns, Figueres, Besalú, Olot.
  • Train: High-speed (Avant) trains to Figueres (approx. 12 mins).
  • Car Rental: Most flexibility for multiple stops and hidden coves.

Tour vs. Independent

Decide between the ease of an organized tour and the freedom of independent exploration based on your travel preferences.

Comparing Travel Styles

  • Organized Tour: Convenience, logistics handled, often includes guide.
  • Independent Travel: Freedom to set pace, pick stops, explore off-the-beaten-path.
  • Independent travel may be more economical for groups/budget travelers.

Suggested Itinerary Times

Half-Day Trips

  • Figueres (Dalí Museum): Allocate 3-4 hours plus travel.
  • Besalú: A 2-3 hour trip covers the village and bridge.
  • Always check attraction opening times before travel.
  • Travel time can substantially extend actual visit duration.

Full-Day Trips

  • Costa Brava: Plan 6-8 hours for town exploration and beach time.
  • Olot/La Garrotxa: 6-8 hours for hiking and village visits.
  • Consider traffic and public transport schedules.
  • Longer trips may merit an early start.

Booking Day Trips

  • Guided Tours:Find day trips on GetYourGuide
  • Train Tickets (Renfe):Book via Renfe website
  • Bus Tickets (Sagalés):Purchase at station or online
  • Car Rental:Various international agencies
  • Dalí Museum Tickets:Book in advance online
  • Local Tour Operators:Check with Girona Tourist Office
  • Accommodation Packages:Some hotels coordinate excursions
  • Flexible Cancellation:Check terms when booking

Tip: Combine & Conquer

Pair Figueres with Púbol Castle for a comprehensive Dalí experience, or combine Sant Pere de Rodes Monastery with Cadaqués for a coastal cultural day.

Natural & Cultural Escapes

Girona's province offers diverse natural landscapes, from rugged coastlines to serene lakes and volcanic fields. Beyond the immediate city, the Girona region holds more historical and cultural treasures.

Nature Reserves

Cap de Creus Natural Park, Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park, and La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park await exploration.

Scenic Paths

Explore the Vies Verdes (Greenways) for cycling, or the coastal path (Camí de Ronda) along the Costa Brava for stunning walks.

Diverse Landscapes

Choose from sandy beaches, dramatic mountains, or tranquil rural villages like Pals and Peratallada.

Coastal & Rural Gems

Discover a range of natural settings from the Mediterranean coast to picturesque inland villages. Each area presents a distinct flavor of Catalonia.

Popular Natural Spots

  • Beaches: Platja d'Aro, Sant Feliu de Guíxols, or hidden coves in Begur.
  • Mountains: The Pyrenees for serious hiking (further north).
  • Rural Areas: Santa Pau, Rupit, Peratallada, Pals, Monells.

Cultural Gems

Explore historical sites and rural areas that paint a picture of Catalonia's rich past and present.

Sites to Visit

  • Sant Pere de Rodes Monastery: 9th-century monastery with views.
  • Púbol Castle: Dalí's decorated medieval castle for Gala.
  • Ullastret: Iberian archaeological site, pre-Roman cultures.

Agricultural & Pilgrimage Sites

Empordà Wine Region:Vineyard visits and wine tastings.
Peratallada, Pals, Monells:Preserved medieval villages.
Monestir de Montserrat:Iconic Benedictine monastery, pilgrimage site.
Sant Daniel Valley:Peaceful walks near Girona.
Local Markets:Discover regional produce and crafts.
Coastal Fishing Villages:Experience local maritime culture.

Note: Seasonal Natural Phenomena

  • Spring: Wildflower blooms in natural parks.
  • Autumn: fall foliage in La Garrotxa.
  • Winter: Potential for snow in higher Pyrenees regions.
  • Birdwatching: Prime seasons in Aiguamolls de l'Empordà.
  • Mediterranean Climate: Warm, dry summers and mild winters.

Multi-Day Extensions

Girona serves as a natural stepping stone for longer explorations of Catalonia and beyond. Consider adding a few days to venture further into the region's diverse offerings.

Extend Your Stay

Adding 1-3 days to your itinerary expands your exploration beyond Girona's immediate vicinity. Opportunities for urban and natural discoveries await.

Further Exploration

  • Barcelona: Explore Gaudí's architecture, museums, cultural scene.
  • French Catalonia: Visit Perpignan or the charming artistic town of Collioure.
  • Pyrenees: Hike, ski (winter), or explore mountain villages.

Next Destinations

Girona's location makes it a gateway to several captivating regions, each with its own unique appeal and accessible transport links.

Logical Next Steps

  • Barcelona (south): High-speed train connection, extensive attractions.
  • Southern France (north): High-speed train or car access.
  • Andorra (northwest): Mountain microstate for skiing, shopping, hiking.

Transport Connections

Efficient transport options link Girona to major cities and regions, making multi-day travel straightforward and enjoyable.

Getting Further Afield

  • Train (Renfe AVE/Avant): Fast connections to Barcelona, Figueres, France.
  • Bus (Sagalés, FlixBus): Regional and international links, budget-friendly.
  • Car rental: Ultimate flexibility for exploring at your own pace.

Route Suggestions

Tailor your extended journey to align with your interests, whether they lie in history, natural beauty, or urban exploration.

Themed Extended Routes

  • Cultural & Artistic Route: Girona → Figueres → Cadaqués → French Catalonia.
  • Coast & City Route: Girona → various Costa Brava towns → Barcelona.
  • Nature & Mountains Route: Girona → La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone → Pyrenees.

Book Your Next Adventure

Explore and book diverse experiences for your multi-day extensions. Find tours, activities, and transport options to complete your journey.

Barcelona Experiences

Discover Gaudí's masterpieces, markets, and rich history.

French Catalonia Tours

Explore charming towns across the border with unique cultural blends.

Pyrenees Adventures

Hiking, nature exploration, and mountain village visits.

Tip: Plan Ahead for Popular Sites

For places like Sagrada Família or Dalí Museum, booking tickets well in advance is a good idea, especially during peak season.

Image Spotlight: Besalú's Bridge

The iconic Romanesque bridge of Besalú, a beautifully preserved medieval village, serves as a gateway to history. This architectural marvel is a testament to the region's rich past.

Historical Icon

1

Architectural Wonder

The 12th-century bridge spans the Fluvià river, featuring an unique angular design and fortified entrance.

2

Gateway to History

Cross the bridge to enter Besalú's Old Town, where narrow streets and ancient buildings transport you to another era.

3

Photogenic Landmark

Its dramatic appearance and picturesque setting make it a favorite spot for photographers.

Besalú Village Highlights

  • Jewish Quarter (Call Jueu) and Mikveh (ritual bath).
  • Monastery of Sant Pere.
  • Church of Sant Vicenç.
  • The Old Bridge (Pont Vell).
  • Historic center for leisurely strolls.
  • Local artisan shops and restaurants.

Visiting Besalú

  • Approximately a 30-minute drive from Girona.
  • Direct bus service from Girona is available.
  • Can be visited as a half-day trip (2-3 hours).
  • Combine with Olot or other medieval villages for a full day.
  • Parking is available outside the historic core.
  • Best explored on foot to appreciate its medieval character.

Why Visit Besalú?

Time Capsule

Stepping into Besalú is like traveling back to the Middle Ages, with its untouched streets and buildings.

Rich Heritage

Discover its Christian and Jewish heritage, including a rare, well-preserved mikveh.

Scenic Beauty

The village and its bridge are set amidst beautiful natural surroundings, perfect for photography.

Image Note

The image depicts Besalú's iconic medieval bridge, a must-see for visitors.