Girona & Costa Brava Day Trip from Barcelona with Paella

Summary

Medieval Girona streets, Costa Brava coves, and seaside paella

You’ll swap Barcelona’s bustle for quiet medieval streets in Pals, swim or stroll along Costa Brava’s coast in Calella de Palafrugell, and share paella overlooking the sea. Explore Girona’s cathedral and winding alleys at your own pace—with local stories and small surprises along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the echo of my shoes on Pals’ old stones—somehow it was quieter than I expected, just a few locals chatting in Catalan by the bakery. Our guide Marta waved us over to a viewpoint above the tiled roofs, pointing out where the Pyrenees should’ve been if not for that morning haze. I kept stopping to touch the rough walls (I know, tourist move) because they felt cold and ancient. The shops were just opening, bread smells drifting out. I tried to order a coffee in Spanish but got gently corrected—Catalan here is different. It made me laugh.

The drive down to Calella de Palafrugell was all winding roads and flashes of blue through pine trees. When we finally stepped out, it smelled like salt and sunscreen. Some of us went straight into the water—I hesitated but ended up wading in anyway, which I don’t regret. Lunch was this seafood paella right by the sand; honestly, I’m still thinking about how saffron tastes when you’re half sunburned and tired from swimming. Marta told us about her grandfather fishing here as a kid—she seemed proud in this quiet way.

Girona felt different again: busy but not rushed, with schoolkids darting around and old men playing cards outside cafés. We had a couple hours to wander—the Cathedral steps are steeper than they look on TV (Game of Thrones fans will get it). I got lost in the Jewish Quarter’s narrow alleys; ended up buying candied almonds from a woman who smiled like she knew every lost tourist in town. Walking along the Roman walls at sunset, you could hear bells ringing somewhere below. It’s one of those places that sticks with you even after you’re back on the bus.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Girona and Costa Brava day tour

• Check in at Explore Catalunya Office
• Depart Barcelona through Eixample district
• Walk historic centre of Pals village
• Explore artisan shops and cafés in Pals
• Visit Calella de Palafrugell seaside village
• Swim or walk coastal footpaths
• Optional seafood paella lunch by sea
• Arrive in Girona and get introduction
• Free time to visit Cathedral and Jewish Quarter
• Walk Roman walls or relax in café
• End day at Plaça Catalunya

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, optional hotel pickup is available when booking.

How long is the drive from Barcelona to Girona?

It takes about 1 hour 30 minutes by air-conditioned vehicle.

Can I swim during the Costa Brava stop?

Yes, there’s time to swim at Calella de Palafrugell if you bring swimwear.

Is lunch included on this tour?

A traditional seafood paella lunch is available as an upgrade during booking.

How much free time do we get in Girona?

You’ll have several hours to explore Girona at your own pace.

What languages does the guide speak?

The tour is conducted in English only.

Are infants or small children allowed?

Yes, infants can join with specialized seats or on an adult’s lap.

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour begins near Palau de la Música Catalana and ends at Plaça Catalunya in Barcelona.

What’s included

Your day includes optional hotel pickup from Barcelona, all transport by air-conditioned minibus, guidance from a local expert throughout each stop, plenty of free time off the bus to wander or swim, plus an option to enjoy a traditional seafood paella lunch right by the Mediterranean before returning in the evening.