Girona and Costa Brava Private Tour with Pick-up from Barcelona

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience for your group ensures a tailored visit.
• Includes a walking tour of Girona, featuring the cathedral, Jewish Quarter, and Game of Thrones filming locations.
• Scenic coastal stops like Calella de Palafrugell, Aiguablava, Tamariu, and Far de Sant Sebastià offer breathtaking views.
• Comfortable transport in a private Mercedes van with bottled water provided.
• Ideal for those with limited time wanting a comprehensive day trip from Barcelona.
• Strong reviews praise the knowledgeable guide, stunning scenery, and delicious restaurant recommendations.

Girona and Costa Brava Private Tour Overview

This 9-hour private tour from Barcelona costs $203.19 per person and is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 based on 86 reviews. The tour is designed for those looking to escape the crowds of Barcelona and explore the cultural riches of Girona alongside the stunning coastline of Costa Brava. It includes pick-up and drop-off, guided walks, scenic viewpoints, and time for lunch, making it a full yet relaxed day suited for travelers who appreciate a personalized approach.

What makes this tour stand out is its exclusivity; it’s tailored to your group, with a private driver-guide leading you through key sites and hidden vistas. The guide’s extensive knowledge shines through, particularly in stories about Girona’s history, local culture, and the film locations from “Game of Thrones”. The stunning coastal viewpoints and the chance to explore charming towns like Calella de Palafrugell and Tamariu make this an appealing choice for lovers of scenic drives and picturesque towns.

Starting Your Day with a Scenic Drive from Barcelona

The tour departs from Barcelona with a scenic one-hour drive to Girona. This transfer in a private Mercedes van offers ample space and comfort, with bottled water provided. The early start helps maximize your time in Girona, and the relaxed pace is praised by many reviews, especially by those tired from travel.

Once in Girona, the guide takes you on a guided walking tour through the historic center, which dates back to the first century. This introduces you to the city’s ancient architecture, narrow alleys, and iconic landmarks. The emphasis on personalized storytelling makes the experience engaging, with many reviews highlighting how knowledgeable and friendly the guide, often named Adrian, is.

Exploring Girona’s Architectural Marvels

Your first stop is the exterior of Girona’s oldest church, Esglesia de Sant Feliu. Construction began in the 4th century, and the church features a blend of architectural styles accrued over centuries. Although the admission is not included, admiring this historic landmark offers a glimpse into Girona’s faith and resilience.

Next, the Girona Cathedral captures attention with its 11th-century façade and impressive size. The guide leads you along narrow streets and Roman walls, giving context to Girona’s long history. The highlight for many is passing by filming locations from “Game of Thrones”, adding a touch of cinematic magic to the walk.

Discovering Girona’s Jewish Quarter and Cultural Heritage

A 30-minute walk takes you into the Patronat Call de Girona, the Jewish Quarter, or “El Call”. This neighborhood is famous for its narrow cobblestone streets and historical significance. The guide shares stories of the Jewish community, their contributions, and the challenges they faced over centuries.

This part of the tour is highly praised for its insightful narration and uncovering hidden corners. Visitors appreciate how this visit deepens their understanding of Girona’s multicultural past, with some noting the storytelling style makes history come alive.

Transitioning to the Costa Brava’s Scenic Coastline

After exploring Girona’s historic heart, the tour heads towards the Costa Brava. The first coastal stop is Calella de Palafrugell, known for its breathtaking viewpoints overlooking rugged coves and the sea. This spot is perfect for taking photos of the coastal landscape and soaking in the serene atmosphere.

The journey continues with a visit to Aiguablava, where you ascend to a panoramic viewpoint near Begur. From here, the views stretch along the coastline’s jagged cliffs and crystal-clear waters, often described as spectacular. Many reviews highlight the photo opportunities and scenic beauty of these stops.

Enjoying a Coastal Lunch in Tamariu

The tour includes about one hour of free time in Tamariu for lunch, at your own expense. This beachside town offers a tranquil setting, ideal for relaxing and enjoying local cuisine. It’s worth noting that the tour is focused more on sightseeing and views rather than beach activities, which is reflected in the quiet, scenic environment.

The guide often recommends restaurants near the water, where visitors can sample fresh seafood or local specialties. Many reviewers commend the restaurant reservations made by guides and mention how much they enjoy the delicious food after a morning of sightseeing.

Reaching the Iconic Far de Sant Sebastià

The final stop is at the Far de Sant Sebastià, a lighthouse perched on the highest viewpoint along the coast. From this vantage point, you can enjoy sweeping views of Llafranc and the coastal cliffs, making it a perfect photo opportunity to conclude the day.

This scenic overlook is praised for its breathtaking landscape, often described as a highlight of the trip. The scenic drive afterward along the coast offers additional photo-worthy vistas, especially for those who appreciate rugged coastlines and dramatic scenery.

Practical Details: Logistics and Comfort

The entire tour includes pick-up and drop-off, either at your hotel, apartment, cruise port, or airport. The private Mercedes van provides spacious seating and ample legroom, making the approximately 9-hour trip comfortable. Bottled water is included, but food and drinks are not.

The stops are designed for sightseeing and appreciating the landscape, with no emphasis on beach activities like swimming or sunbathing. The tour’s pacing is praised for being leisurely and flexible, with plenty of time at key viewpoints and towns for photos, walks, or meals.

The Guide’s Role in Enhancing the Experience

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guide, often named Adrian, as a major strength. Guests appreciate the guide’s ability to share detailed stories, recommend restaurants, and arrange reservations. Several reviews describe the guide as courteous, professional, and engaging, making the experience more memorable.

The guide’s flexibility is also noted, as they accommodate weather changes or specific interests, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable day. The personalized care and enthusiasm stand out, elevating this tour above standard group excursions.

The Overall Value and Suitability

While the $203.19 price might seem high, many reviewers feel the private experience, expert guidance, and scenic stops justify the cost. The tour is well-suited for those who value customized visits, are interested in history and culture, and want to see Costa Brava’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves.

The 9-hour duration makes it a full but manageable day trip, especially for travelers with limited time in Barcelona. The tour’s focus on scenic viewpoints, cultural highlights, and good food makes it a comprehensive option for a memorable Catalonian excursion.

Girona and Costa Brava Private Tour: Final Thoughts

For those seeking a personalized, scenic tour of Girona and the Costa Brava coast, this private excursion offers a well-rounded experience. The expert guidance, beautiful landscapes, and careful itinerary make it a strong choice, particularly for visitors interested in history, architecture, and stunning coastal scenery.

Though there’s no beach swimming involved, the views and towns visited provide ample opportunities for photography and local cuisine. The flexibility and comfort of the private vehicle further enhance the experience, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a relaxed, customized day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking through narrow streets and some uneven surfaces, especially in Girona’s historic center and the Jewish Quarter, so mobility limitations could be a consideration.

Does the tour include meals?
No, lunch is not included. The tour provides about one hour in Tamariu for participants to enjoy lunch at their own expense.

Can I customize the stops or experiences?
Since this is a private tour, your guide can adjust the pacing to suit your interests, with plenty of time at viewpoints and towns.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is provided by Barcelona Y Day Trips, known for their personalized and well-reviewed excursions around Barcelona and its surroundings.