Girona & Costa Brava Day Trip: Small Group, Pickup Barcelona

Summary

Medieval alleys in girona, sea breeze in costa brava, small group day escape

You’ll wander Girona’s tangled medieval lanes with a local guide, walk ancient walls above red rooftops, and taste fresh seafood by Costa Brava’s clear water. With hotel pickup from Barcelona and a small group vibe, you’ll feel more like a guest than a tourist — and maybe find yourself lingering over that last view longer than you meant to.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the stones felt under my shoes in Girona — a bit uneven, cool from the morning shade. Our guide, Marta, pointed out a tiny bakery tucked behind the Onyar River houses. The smell of bread drifted through those winding medieval streets, mixing with something floral (maybe jasmine?) from a window box. We paused on that iron bridge — Eiffel’s handiwork — and I tried to get a photo but just ended up watching the river for a while instead. It’s funny how you forget about your phone when you’re actually there.

I didn’t expect to feel so small walking along the old city walls. You can see all of Girona from up there — red roofs, church towers, laundry flapping on balconies. Marta told us about the Jewish Quarter and how its narrow alleys kept secrets for centuries; she showed us where old mezuzahs once hung beside doorways. Someone in our group asked if Game of Thrones really filmed here, and she just grinned and pointed at the cathedral steps. I still think about that view — it’s not like anything back home.

After Girona we headed to Pals, which was quieter than I thought it’d be. The stones were warm by then and there was this faint smell of thyme growing somewhere nearby. Lunch was on our own in Calella de Palafrugell — I ordered grilled sardines because Marta said they were “the real taste of Costa Brava.” She was right. We sat outside by the water and watched local kids daring each other to jump off rocks into that cold blue-green sea. I could’ve stayed for hours but eventually we piled back into the van for Barcelona, everyone a little sun-tired and quiet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Girona and Costa Brava villages

• Walking tour of Girona Old Town
• See colorful Onyar River houses
• Visit Girona Jewish Quarter
• Walk Girona city walls
• Marvel at Girona Cathedral
• Visit Museum of Archaeology
• Explore Arab Baths
• Travel to medieval village of Pals
• Tour fishing village Calella de Palafrugell

Top questions

How long is the Girona & Costa Brava day trip from Barcelona?

The full-day tour typically lasts around 10 hours including travel time from Barcelona.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel or apartment pickup and drop-off in Barcelona city are included between 8 and 9 am.

How many people are in each group?

The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 people per group.

What towns do we visit besides Girona?

You’ll also visit Pals and Calella de Palafrugell on the Costa Brava coast.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No, lunch is not included but you’ll have free time to choose among several restaurants in Calella de Palafrugell.

Are there any walking tours during the trip?

Yes, guided walking tours are included in Girona, Pals, and Calella de Palafrugell.

Are infants or children allowed on this tour?

Yes, children are welcome; infant seats are available if requested in advance.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or apartment pickup and drop-off in Barcelona city (between 8–9 am), comfortable travel by air-conditioned minivan with no more than eight people per group, guided walking tours through Girona’s Old Town (including Jewish Quarter), Pals village, and Calella de Palafrugell on Costa Brava—all led by a professional local guide who brings stories to life as you go.