Where to Stay in Girona (Best Places in 2026)

FIRST TIME IN GIRONA

FIRST TIME IN GIRONA

Barri Vell

If it’s your first time in Girona, staying in Barri Vell makes the most sense. It puts you right in the middle of the main sights, so everything is within easy reach.

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ON A BUDGET

ON A BUDGET

Eixample

If you’re looking for something more affordable, Eixample is a great option. It’s just across the river from the old town, so you’re still within easy walking distance of the main sights.

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FOR FAMILIES

FOR FAMILIES

Mercadal

If you’re travelling with family, Mercadal is a great option. You’re within easy reach of the main sights, while having a bit more space and convenience day to day. It has wider streets, plenty of places to eat, and everything you need close by.

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Girona is one of those places that feels like a really easy choice once you understand it. You’ve got the historic side with the old town, and then more modern, local areas just across the river, so it works whether you want character, convenience, or a bit of both.

What I liked most is that it never feels overwhelming. It’s a proper city with plenty going on, but you can still get your bearings quickly and settle into it without that frantic pace you get elsewhere.

There’s a lot of history layered in here too, from Roman and medieval roots through to its well-known Jewish quarter, but it doesn’t feel heavy or museum-like. You just come across it as you wander.

If it’s your first time, staying in Barri Vell puts you right in the middle of it all, with places like Girona Cathedral on your doorstep, which like I already mentioned, you might recognise from Game of Thrones.

That said, you don’t have to stay right in the old town. Areas like Eixample and Mercadal are just as convenient, often better value, and give you a slightly more local feel.

If you can time your visit for spring, even better. Girona hosts its annual Temps de Flors Girona, where the old town is filled with floral displays and installations. It completely transforms the city and feels a bit special. It’s also a really good example of why spring is often considered the best time to visit Spain.

It’s also really easy to get to. Barcelona is close enough for a quick train journey, which makes it a great stop if you’re travelling through Spain or doing a bit of a backpacking route. Once you’re here, you’ll mostly get around on foot.

1. Barri Vell – Where to Stay for the First Time

If it’s your first time in Girona, staying in Barri Vell just makes everything easy. This is the part of the city you’ve probably already seen in photos, and it’s where you’ll naturally spend most of your time anyway. It’s also the area you’ll see most of if you’re visiting on a day trip from Barcelona, so staying here means you’re right in the heart of it.

You’ve got narrow cobbled streets, hidden squares, and that slightly maze-like feel where you turn a corner and find something you weren’t expecting. And the best part is how easy it all feels. Step out of your hotel, grab a coffee, wander for a bit, stop for food, and just repeat.

You’re also right on top of Girona’s main sights. Girona Cathedral is here with its huge stone steps (yes, the ones from Game of Thrones), along with the old city walls, where you can walk along the top for views across the rooftops. The Jewish Quarter is here too, with some of the most atmospheric streets in the city.

It does come with a couple of trade-offs. Streets are narrow, so taxis can’t always drop you right at the door, and it can get a bit busier during the day. But for a first visit, it’s 100% worth it.

• Best For: First-time visitors, sightseeing, short stays.
• The Vibe: Historic, characterful, slightly bustling but relaxed.
• Proximity to Airport: Around 20 minutes by car from Girona-Costa Brava Airport.
• Transport Level: Very walkable, limited car access in parts.
• Budget: Mid to high (you’re paying for location).
• Crowds: Moderate, busier in peak season.

Top Things to Do in Barri Vell

1. Girona Cathedral is one of the main landmarks in the city, and it’s hard to miss once you’re in the old town. The huge stone steps and mix of architectural styles make it worth seeing even if you’re not usually drawn to churches.
2. If you’re planning to see a few of the main sights, it’s worth looking at a combined pass that covers places like Girona Cathedral, the Girona Art Museum, and the Church of Sant Feliu. It’s an easy way to group a few of the highlights together.
3. Just outside the centre, the Monastery of Sant Daniel is a quieter spot and feels a world away from the busier streets. It’s a good one to wander out to if you want a bit of space.
4. For a better understanding of the city itself, Museu d’Història de Girona gives a really good overview, from Roman times through to modern day, and is set inside a former convent.
5. If you’re into architecture, Casa Masó is worth a stop. It was the birthplace of architect Rafael Masó and gives a nice insight into early 20th-century design.
6. One of the best things to do is simply walk along the old city walls (Passeig de la Muralla). The views over the rooftops and surrounding countryside are easily some of the best in Girona.
7. And yes, I couldn’t not include it, there is also a Game of Thrones walking tour, taking you through the medieval streets and Jewish Quarter, pointing out filming locations used for Braavos and King’s Landing. I promise now, I won’t mention it again… maybe.

Best Hotel: B&B Placa Bell-Lloc

This is a lovely little B&B just a short walk from Pont de Pedra. There are great views out towards the mountains, and the rooms have a really authentic, slightly rustic feel.

There’s a shared kitchen and living space, which makes it easy to meet other travellers if you want to. You’ve also got the essentials covered with free Wi-Fi and air conditioning, so it’s comfortable as well as well located.

Best Luxury Hotel: Hotel Palau Fugit

If you’re after a more traditional Spanish stay, this is a great option. There’s a good mix of rooms, from doubles if you’re travelling as a couple to larger apartments with balconies if you want a bit more space.

The staff are genuinely friendly and helpful when it comes to planning your time in the city. There’s also an outdoor pool, which is a nice bonus after a day exploring, and a patio area that’s perfect for a relaxed drink in the evening.

Best Apartment: Casa Cundaro

Casa Cundaro is set right in Girona’s Jewish Quarter, just a short walk from Girona Cathedral, so the location is hard to beat.

It’s a traditional building with plenty of character, centred around a small internal garden. Rooms and apartments are simple but comfortable, with some offering balconies and kitchen space.

Just note that check-in is at a nearby sister property rather than on-site.

Best Airbnb: Nuevo Apartmento modernista en el Barri Vell

This is a lovely, modern space that’s perfect for switching off after a full day exploring Barri Vell. It’s spacious, comfortable, and recently refurbished, so everything feels fresh and easy.

There’s a relaxed feel inside with a flat-screen TV and plenty of room to unwind, but you’re also just a short walk from all the main sights, so you can head straight back out when you’re ready.

2. Eixample – Where to Stay on a Budget

Eixample is the newer, more modern part of Girona, sitting just across the river from the old town. It doesn’t have the same historic charm as Barri Vell, but that’s exactly what makes it a better option if you’re trying to keep costs down.

This is where you’ll find more affordable hotels, larger apartments, and better value overall, especially if you’re after a bit more space. It feels more local too, with everyday shops, bakeries, and restaurants rather than everything being geared towards tourists.

I found this area a really easy base. You can walk into the old town in minutes, but come back to somewhere that feels a bit calmer and more practical. At the time, I was backpacking from Barcelona on a budget, and it made a really solid option for me.

It’s also a bit more straightforward logistically. Streets are wider, access is easier, and you won’t have to deal with the same narrow, cobbled lanes you get in the historic centre.

If you’re travelling on a budget or just want something a bit more low-key, this area makes a lot of sense.

• Best For: Budget travellers, longer stays, more space.
• The Vibe: Local, practical, modern.
• Proximity to Airport: Around 20 minutes by car from Girona-Costa Brava Airport.
• Transport Level: Very easy, walkable with good road access.
• Budget: Low to mid (best value area in the city).
• Crowds: Low to moderate.

Top Things to Do in Eixample

1. If you want some space, head to Parc de la Devesa, the largest green area in Girona. It’s lined with huge plane trees and feels a bit removed from the busier parts of the city.
2. If you’re interested in Girona’s history, it’s worth joining a guided walk through the Jewish Quarter (El Call), one of the best-preserved in Europe. You’ll explore the narrow streets, learn about the community that lived here for centuries, and visit key spots including the Museum of Jewish History Girona.
3. Close by, the Monument als defensors de Girona marks the city’s resistance during the Napoleonic sieges and adds a bit of context to Girona’s history.
4. For a more local feel, this is the area to explore everyday Girona. You’ll find plenty of independent shops, bakeries, and cafés, especially along streets like Carrer de la Creu and Avinguda Jaume I.
5. If you’re into food, it’s worth joining a local food tour starting around Plaça de la Independència. You’ll stop at a few spots to try things like cheeses, wines, and the classic xuixo, along with dishes inspired by the Roca Brothers.
6. If you’re interested in culture, Casa de Cultura de Girona regularly hosts exhibitions and events, so it’s worth checking what’s on while you’re in the city.
7. And one of the simplest things to do here is just wander across the bridges into the old town. Staying in Eixample means you get that contrast between the more modern, local side of Girona and the historic centre within a few minutes’ walk.

Best Hotel: Melia Girona

This hotel is great value for money, with plenty of facilities to make your stay comfortable. There’s a gym, hot tub and sauna, so you’ve got options if you want to unwind without heading out.

There’s also an on-site restaurant, with the choice of eating inside or out on the terrace overlooking the grounds, which is a nice touch in the evening.

Best Hostel: Can Cocollona

Can Cocollona Hostel is a cosy, social stay in the Sant Narcís area, which has a more local, residential feel just outside the centre.

There’s a relaxed shared patio with seating areas, so it’s easy to unwind or meet other travellers. It’s a great budget option, especially if you’re trying to keep costs down without sacrificing location or a social atmosphere.

The hostel offers a mix of shared dorms (4–6 beds), all set up with the essentials for a comfortable stay. You’re also within easy reach of spots like Parc de la Devesa, and it’s a straightforward walk into the old town for the main sights.

Best Airbnb: Apartment with Very Large Balcony

Just a two-minute walk from the train station, you’ll find this delightful apartment right at the centre of Eixample. As you’ve probably guessed from the name, there is a huge balcony overlooking the city, where you can enjoy a nice coffee in the morning or an evening meal with fellow travellers!

If the weather isn’t too great, then curl up on the comfy sofa and watch the flatscreen TV. Otherwise, use this is a comfortable and modern base for your explorations around Eixample!

3. Mercadal – Where to Stay for Families

Mercadal is a great choice if you’re travelling with family and want to be central without dealing with the tighter, busier streets of the old town. It’s also a really practical base if you’re planning to rent a car and get out for a day or two, with easier access and a better chance of finding parking nearby.

It’s a bit more open and straightforward, with wider pavements, plenty of places to eat, and shops close by, which makes day-to-day things like grabbing food or heading out much simpler with kids. Spots like Plaça de la Independència are ideal for this, with lots of casual restaurants and space to sit and take a break.

Spain is generally a very safe place to travel, and this part of Girona feels particularly comfortable for families. It’s well-lit, central, and has a steady, local feel rather than being overly busy or tourist-heavy. It’s the kind of area where you don’t feel on edge, even in the evening, which makes a difference when you’re travelling with kids.

You’re still right next to the main sights, so you can dip in and out of the old town without committing to staying right in it. That balance tends to work really well for families, especially on shorter trips.

Accommodation here also tends to be more spacious, with a better chance of finding apartments or larger rooms that work for groups.

• Best For: Families, space, central location.
• The Vibe: Lively but practical, more local than the old town.
• Proximity to Airport: Around 20 minutes by car from Girona-Costa Brava Airport.
• Transport Level: Flat, central and well-connected.
• Budget: Mid-range.
• Crowds: Moderate.

Top Things to Do in Mercadal

1. If you want something a bit different, Cinema Museum Girona is a good option, especially with kids. It covers the history of film with everything from early cameras to optical illusions.
2. For some outdoor space, Parc de la Devesa is just nearby. It’s the largest park in the city, with plenty of room to walk, cycle, or just let kids run around.
3. If you’re happy to head out for the day, boat trips along the Costa Brava are a great option. Most leave near L’Estartit, around a 40–50 minute drive from Girona.
4. You’ll explore the Montgrí Natural Park and Medes Islands, with chances to swim, see sea caves, and spot marine life.
5. If you want something a bit quieter and more local, Aiguamolls de les Hortes de Santa Eugènia is a peaceful spot just outside the centre, with walking paths and a more natural feel.
6. And for an easy family meal, Casa Marieta on Plaça de la Independència is a solid choice, with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of space.

Best Hotel: Ciutat De Girona

This is a modern, family-friendly hotel where you can properly switch off after a day exploring. There’s an indoor pool, which is great for kids, and a relaxed patio area where you can sit with a book or just take a bit of time out.

Best Luxury Hotel: Hotel Nord 1901

Set in the heart of Mercadal, this is a relaxed, low-key hotel that works well as a base after a day out exploring. The décor is simple and understated, and the overall feel is calm rather than busy.

There’s also an outdoor pool with sun loungers, so kids can stay active while you take a bit of time to unwind.

Best Airbnb: Luxury Apartment in the Centre

This luxury apartment is a great base if you want to stay close to everything. There’s a spacious bedroom, a comfortable living area, and plenty of room to unwind after a day exploring.

It’s also just a short walk from Plaça de Catalunya Girona, so you’re well placed for getting around the city and dipping into the main sights.

Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Girona and where to stay.

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Girona is one of those places that’s really easy to get right, whatever kind of trip you’re planning.

If it’s your first visit, I’d go straight for Barri Vell. You’ve got all the main sights on your doorstep, and it just feels like the heart of the city.

Wherever you end up staying, it’s the kind of place where you can slow down a bit and just enjoy it without overplanning.

Have I missed anything? Let me know in the comments below. Otherwise, enjoy your travels!