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Local Transportation

Local Transportation

Catalonia, Spain

Public Transportation

Girona's public transportation system is mainly a bus network, managed by Transports Municipals del Gironès (TMG). The city center, specifically the Old Quarter, is compact and highly walkable, reducing the need for extensive public transport for tourists within the historic core.

Buses are useful for connecting the city center with surrounding neighborhoods, the train/bus station, and out-of-center attractions or shopping areas.

Ticketing & Routes

  • Single ticket: Purchase directly from the bus driver, ~€1.50 per journey.
  • T-10 card: Multi-person, multi-trip card for 10 journeys at a discounted rate. Purchase at "tabacs" or kiosks.
  • Route maps: Available at bus stops and online via the TMG website. Tourist office also provides information.
  • Tips for navigating: Walking is the most efficient and enjoyable way to explore the Old Quarter. Use buses for longer distances or areas outside the historic center. Google Maps provides accurate directions.

Hours & Frequency

Buses operate early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late evening (10:00 PM - midnight). Frequency varies by line; main lines run every 10-30 minutes during peak hours.

Accessibility

Many buses are low-floor and equipped with ramps for wheelchair users. The Old Quarter's cobblestones and narrow passages remain challenging for mobility issues.

Central Hub

The main bus station is next to the Renfe train station, serving as a central hub for many lines.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis
  • Identification: White with a green light on the roof (available). Clearly display a taxi sign and meter.
  • Hailing: Hail on the street or find at designated taxi stands (train/bus station, Plaça Catalunya).
  • Fares: Regulated and metered. Minimum fare ~€6-€7. Typical city ride €7-€15. Night, weekend, public holiday rates are higher.
Ride-Sharing & Safety
  • Ride-sharing: Uber does not operate. Cabify operates, similar to Uber; book via app.
  • Payment: Taxis accept cash; many accept cards (confirm first). Cabify offers cashless payment.
  • Safety: Both licensed taxis and Cabify are generally safe. Use official services; avoid unregistered vehicles.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Major companies at GRO, BCN, and downtown. Book in advance for better rates.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Available from specialized shops. Popular for Costa Brava roads.

Bicycle Rental

Numerous shops cater to tourists and cyclists. Girocleta city system mainly for residents.

Driving Rules

Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Strict alcohol limits. No phone use while driving.

Walking & Cycling

Girona is a city made for exploration on foot and by bike, presenting intimate views and active experiences.

Pedestrian-Friendly Zones

  • Old Quarter (Barri Vell) is largely pedestrianized and best explored on foot.
  • Its narrow, winding streets, medieval buildings, Cathedral, Jewish Quarter, and city walls are charming.
  • Rambla de la Llibertat and Plaça de la Independència are prominent pedestrian zones.
  • Walkways along the Onyar River present beautiful views of colorful houses.

Walking Tours

  • Guided tours: Various companies offer historical, culinary, or themed tours ("Game of Thrones").
  • Self-guided: Maps and information available at the tourist office. Many travel apps offer self-guided tours.
  • Bicycle infrastructure: Good network of dedicated cycling lanes in newer districts.
  • Vies Verdes (Greenways): Converted railway lines present scenic, car-free routes (Ruta del Carrilet).

Cycling Safety & Areas

  • Safety: Cyclists should be aware of traffic outside dedicated lanes. Helmets are recommended.
  • No-go areas: No specific "no-go" areas due to safety concerns.
  • Old Quarter challenges: Cobblestones and steep inclines are challenging for some pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Roads outside city: Generally safe for cycling but awareness of vehicle traffic is needed.
  • Walking is the core: Girona's charm lies in its walkability and access to natural beauty.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services are not typically available due to Girona's compact size.

Water Transport

No significant boat taxi or public water transportation operates within Girona itself.

Accessibility

Old Quarter's cobblestones and stairs present significant accessibility challenges. Newer parts are flatter.

Rental Requirements

You need a valid driving license for car and scooter rentals. If your license is not from an EU/EEA country and not in Spanish or English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed alongside your national driving license. A valid passport is also necessary. You will need a credit card in the main driver's name for the deposit. The minimum age for renting is typically 21-23, and surcharges often apply for drivers under 25.

Car Rental Companies

  • Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise, and Budget have offices at Girona Airport (GRO).
  • Barcelona Airport (BCN) also has these major rental companies.
  • Some downtown Girona locations (often near the train/bus station) also offer rentals.
  • Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, for better rates and vehicle availability.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Strict limits apply to alcohol consumption. Do not drink and drive.
  • Mobile phone use while driving is strictly prohibited unless using a hands-free system.

Roads and Parking

Road Network

Spain has an excellent network of highways (autopistas) and national roads (autovías/carreteras nacionales).

Well-maintained and easy to navigate.

Parking Challenges

Parking is challenging and expensive in Girona's historic Old Quarter.

Best to use underground parking garages outside the historic center.

On-Street Parking

Often metered or reserved for residents.

Fines for illegal parking are common.

Cycling Infrastructure

City Lanes
  • Girona is a recognized cycling mecca.
  • It has a good network of dedicated cycling lanes within the city, notably in newer districts.
  • Vies Verdes (Greenways) are converted railway lines offering scenic, mostly flat, car-free routes.
Ruta del Carrilet
  • The Ruta del Carrilet connects Girona to coastal towns (Sant Feliu de Guíxols).
  • It also connects to inland areas (Olot), presenting excellent options for leisure cycling.
  • Or for longer excursions.

Specialized Transport

  • Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services are not typically available.
  • No significant boat taxi or public water transportation operates within Girona.
  • Girona does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or other unique transport systems.
  • Accessibility challenges for those with mobility issues in the Old Quarter.
  • Newer parts of the city (Eixample) are generally flatter and offer wider sidewalks, making them more accessible.
  • Accessible taxis can be requested from local taxi companies.
  • Information on accessible routes and services from the Girona Tourist Office.
  • Consider your comfort level with walking, your budget, and specific areas for your main mode of transport.

Seamless Movement

Girona’s size means you rarely need extensive public transport for central sightseeing. However, knowledge of options for getting to and from the train station, or for venturing into the modern parts of the city, is useful.

For day trips and exploring the wider province, rental cars or specific bus routes become more appealing. This section prepares you to move around Girona with ease and confidence.