MileHacker Logo
Practical Tips & Hacks

Practical Tips & Hacks

Catalonia, Spain

Money-Saving Strategies

Saving money in Girona means making smart choices that stretch your budget.

Discount Cards

  • Girona does not feature a multi-attraction tourist pass with great savings.
  • Individual museum passes might exist for specific networks like the Catalan Museum Pass.
  • For Girona attractions, individual tickets are often the only way.
  • Check for combined tickets for the Cathedral and Arab Baths.

Dining & Food

  • Seek "Menú del Día" for best lunch value (multi-course with drink).
  • Some bars may offer late afternoon drink specials.
  • Tapas bars often bring good value for snacks and drinks.
  • Buying groceries from local supermarkets lowers food expenses significantly.

Free Activities

  • Walk the City Walls (Passeig de la Muralla) for panoramic views.
  • Stroll along the Onyar River and its bridges for iconic views.
  • Explore the Jewish Quarter's labyrinthine alleys.
  • Visit Parc de la Devesa for walks, picnics, and relaxation.

Transport & Stays

  • Walk as much as possible; Girona's city center is very walkable.
  • For frequent local bus use, purchase the T-10 multi-trip card.
  • Book intercity train tickets (AVE/Avant) in advance for better prices.
  • Hostels and guesthouses offer budget-friendly accommodation rates.

Time-Saving Tips

Efficient planning gives you the most from your time in Girona.

Skip-the-Line Benefits

  • For attractions like Girona Cathedral, buy tickets online.
  • This saves time waiting in queues.
  • Especially useful during peak season or busy times.
  • Check the attraction's official website for ticket options.

Efficient Routes

  • Plan your sightseeing geographically to cut down on backtracking.
  • Start at one end of the Barri Vell and work through.
  • Use Google Maps for walking directions and estimated times between sites.
  • This approach optimizes your touring time.

Best Visiting Times

  • Early morning, right at opening time, attractions are less crowded.
  • During the local lunch break (1:30 PM - 3:30 PM) places are quieter.
  • Mid-morning to early afternoon hours are generally the busiest.
  • Especially busy during peak season (summer) and weekends.

Pre-Booking Recommendations

  • Book accommodation, especially during high season or festivals.
  • Pre-book high-speed AVE/Avant train services for better prices.
  • Specific walking tours or day trips benefit from pre-booking.
  • For renowned restaurants like El Celler de Can Roca, book months ahead.

Local Insights

Local customs and advice for a more immersive visit.

Common Tourist Missteps

  • Not trying Catalan cuisine beyond generic paella.
  • Eating dinner too early; most restaurants open after 8:00 PM.
  • Only speaking Spanish; attempts at Catalan are much appreciated.
  • Not booking accommodation well ahead for Temps de Flors (mid-May).

Social Norms

  • Greetings: Two kisses on the cheek for women, handshakes for men.
  • Dining: Meals are leisurely; do not rush.
  • Siesta: Many smaller shops close typically 2 PM to 5 PM.
  • Eye contact: Direct eye contact is a sign of respect in conversation.

Impress Local People

  • "Bon dia!" (Good day - Catalan)
  • "Gràcies!" (Thank you - Catalan)
  • "Si us plau" (Please - Catalan)
  • "Un xuixo, si us plau!" (A xuixo, please!)

General Etiquette

  • Queuing: Less strict than in some countries; be polite yet firm.
  • Noise: Be mindful of noise levels, especially late at night in residential zones.
  • Locals value their sleep; keep quiet during late hours.
  • Direct eye contact is a sign of respect during conversations.

Traveler-Specific Advice

Tailored advice makes travel seamless for different types of travelers.

Solo Traveler Tips

  • Girona is a very safe city for solo travelers.
  • Exercise standard precautions for personal belongings in crowded areas.
  • Stay in hostels with common areas to meet other travelers.
  • Join walking tours or frequent lively tapas bars to meet people.

Group Logistics

  • Book accommodation and restaurant reservations well in advance for groups.
  • Inquire about group passes for attractions, though less common in Girona.
  • For larger groups, private transfers from airports might be more convenient.
  • Car rental can be a good value for day trips with a group.

Family-Friendly Visits

  • Parc de la Devesa and other green spaces offer play areas for children.
  • Kids enjoy walking the City Walls and exploring the Old Quarter's streets.
  • Costa Brava beaches are easily reached for fun family days.
  • Apartments with kitchens simplify meal preparation for families.

Accessibility Notes

  • The Old Quarter has cobblestones and stairs, challenging for some.
  • Plan routes carefully, prioritizing accessible areas like the Eixample.
  • Confirm accessibility directly with specific venues or the tourist office.
  • Many central areas offer flat, pedestrian-friendly paths.

Smart Travel Note

Checking official websites for tickets and events before you go makes your visit smoother.

Time-Saving Tips

Efficient planning gives you the most from your time in Girona.

Skip-the-Line Benefits

For popular attractions like Girona Cathedral, buying tickets online saves time waiting in queues, especially during busy periods.

Best Visiting Hours

Early morning or during local lunch (1:30 PM - 3:30 PM) attractions are typically quieter. Mid-morning to early afternoon is busiest.

Efficient Routing

Plan your sightseeing geographically (e.g., Jewish Quarter to Cathedral to City Walls) to minimize backtracking and save time.

Pre-Booking Recommendations

Travel & Stays

  • Accommodation: Especially during high season or major festivals.
  • Train tickets: For high-speed AVE/Avant services, book for better prices.
  • Car rental: Book if you plan to explore outside the city.

Experiences

  • Specific tours: Guided walking tours or day trips often benefit from pre-booking.
  • Restaurant reservations: High-demand places require reservations months in advance.
  • Attraction tickets: Some popular sites allow online purchase for queue skipping.

Smart Travel Note

Checking official websites for tickets and events before you go makes your visit smoother.

← Previous
Itinerary Suggestions
← Back to Girona
Next →
Resources & References

Next Up: Resources & References

Continue to Resources & References