While it’s easily possible to do just a day trip from Barcelona, to really experience gorgeous Girona we recommend staying a few nights so that you can appreciate the beauty of this medieval city. While I’ll also go through a few of our favourite hotels in Girona at the end of this article, here’s how to make the most of Airbnb Girona and all the gorgeous private apartments to stay in. You can also save money by availing of my €35 free Airbnb credit if you sign up for the first time with my sign up link here.
Things To Do in Girona
There is so much to do in the city, from doing a food tour around the medieval city to walking along the Eiffel Bridge which was constructed by Gustav Eiffel before the Eiffel Tower. That’s right – this city even has one up on Paris! We absolutely adore Girona Cathedral, which sits neatly at the top of a hill meaning a little bit of a workout is required to enter.
The town has so many cute and cozy cafes as well as delicious local restaurants and we just love its colourful buildings which line the beautiful Onyar River. Do you see now why you need to spend more than a day in Girona?!
Where to stay in Girona – best neighborhoods
There are so many great accommodation options in Girona from beautiful hotels to cute guesthouses to cheap but cheerful youth hostels. Hotels aside, we think Airbnb Girona is one of the best choices when you’re staying in this oh so beautiful city because it enables you to stay in some truly incredible and authentic local homes. It also works out at excellent value for money and you can stay where the locals stay in some of the best neighborhoods in Girona.
The best area for tourists is probably Barri Vel, otherwise known as the old town, Here you are walking distance to all the main sites, cafes and bars so can easily (and safely) make your way home at night without needing transport. You can also stay in the fascinating Jewish Quarter, which is still alive and bustling today and comes with a side portion if history. The old town of Girona is also where much of Season 6 of Game of Thrones was filmed, so it’s fun to walk around pretending you’re in Westeros.
If you plan to do a few days trips from Girona, such as visiting the beaches of the Costa Brava or touring some of the medieval villages, then staying near the railway station is a good plan. It also means you can head back to Barcelona or the airport quite easily.
Don’t believe us? Well just have a look at these awesome picks and look at the photos and we think you’re mind may be easily changed!
Airbnb Girona: Staying local in the medieval city
An apartment in the historic old town
We absolutely adore this recently renovated and well-equipped apartment which is so neatly decorated with a modern and cozy design and touch. It has one bedroom with a double bed but also a sofa bed in the living room. From the little balcony, you can peek down at the streets and watch life in Girona unfold.
The apartment is superbly located as it’s in the middle of the historic old town with everything within walking distance. If you’re all about location, location, location – this is the place to stay. Starting from just €60 a night.
Boutique Cathedral Studio
This lovely little studio would be absolutely perfect for a couple or solo traveler on more of a budget. Although it is a studio it has everything you could need during your trip. It has a nice modern design and a cute little balcony where you can have your morning coffee if the weather’s nice!
It’s also in a great location close to all of the action in Girona – right in the middle of the old town close to the cathedral and all the cute boutiques and tapas restaurants! If we had to use two words to describe this place we’d describe it as ‘cozy’ and ‘stylish’! From €30 a night.
Boutique apartment in the old town
If you’re looking for a bit of a historical vibe to your visit to Girona where better to stay than this beautiful boutique apartment in a building that was constructed in the 19th century. The design is truly unique with light wood tiles, a wooden ceiling and stone walls. It’s conveniently located close to all the main sites in Girona as well as restaurants, shops and amenities within a short walking distance. A truly charming place that you’ll want to come back to and stay at again!
More on the luxury end of things and perfect for a couple, prices start from €100 a night.
House with a pool
This incredible house is super spacious and can host up to 14 guests! We absolutely love that the house sits atop a hill and so in the suites on the top floor of the house you can see absolutely amazing views of the Old Town and the Pyrenees. It’s located on a cul-de-sac meaning it’s very quiet and peaceful and thus perfect for getting away from it all and having an excellent night’s rest.
The swimming pool is great and you can play table tennis and have a barbecue outside. This place would be perfect for families or groups of friends – so be you 5 sets of couples or one big family, it’s ideal for any big groups. The amazing house is located a 15 minute walk from the city of Girona. If you’re staying here get ready for an outstanding stay and experience. From just €170 a night which is unreal considering how many people can stay!
Party for Five?
Looking for a city center apartment with a view that can easily sleep five people? Then Sleep and Stay Loggia Loft is probably the place for you! It has a true homely feel about it and has outstanding views of Girona Cathedral and its gardens. It is very spacious and up to five people can be hosted in this amazing apartment as it has one bedroom with a queen bed, a queen bed within the loft space and a sofa bed. It’s only a five minute walk to the center of Girona. Judging by the reviews, a place people would return to again and again. From €100 a night.
Studio in the heart of Girona
This studio is simply perfect. The style of the apartment is truly elegant and chic. Although it’s a studio it has everything you need and more for your needs. If you stand on to the balcony you have a lovely view of the Basilica and all of the colourful little buildings that line the streets. From €60 a night.
Apartment in the heart of the city
This apartment in the heart of the city is just so cute and cozy as well as elegantly designed. The lovely stone walls contrast with the modern design to give a really funky feel for guests. True comfort and happiness is guaranteed during your stay here. Starting from €85 a night.
Beautiful cottage in Girona
Wow – this place is just amazing. From the stunning architecture and old-world charm to the gorgeous decor in all of the four bedrooms and amazing views of the Saint Daniel Valley. On the grounds of the property are a swimming pool, spacious gardens and even a ping pong table. We would go to Girona just to stay here! Up to 8 guests can stay in this fabulous property. It’s only about a 20 minute walk to the old town. From €300 a night.
My Two Favourite Hotels in Girona
While I do believe the Airbnbs in Girona are out of this world, I can’t deny that there are also some absolutely gorgeous hotels in town and many that come with a solid history. While in Girona in September as part of #EuroCultureTrip, I stayed at the gorgeous Hotel Noord 1901, a hotel in the historic old town dating back over 100 years. The location couldn’t have been better, the buffet breakfast was delicious and the fact that my room had a view of their beautiful courtyard and swimming pool was definitely a bonus.
During my trip to Costa Brava in June, I also visited Hotel Carelmany, situated off one of my main shopping streets in Girona and not too far from the main square. The restaurant inside the hotel, named Indigo, was one of the best dining experiences we had in Costa Brava and is worth a visit for sure!
Be it an Airbnb in Girona or a boutique hotel or guest house, I guarantee you’ll love your time there – be you a Game of Thrones fan, an art history enthusiast or simply a lover of good food and good wine!
