Barcelona: Besalú, Figueres, and Girona Day Trip with Lunch

Discover Catalonia’s Medieval Charm and Artistic Treasures in One Day

This full-day tour from Barcelona, priced at $340 per person, offers an ideal blend of history, art, and scenic beauty. With a duration of 10 hours, it covers Besalú’s medieval streets, the Dalí Museum in Figueres, and the vibrant old town of Girona, including a delicious Mediterranean lunch. This trip suits those interested in experiencing Catalonia’s diverse cultural highlights comfortably and efficiently, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

The tour’s strength lies in its well-organized itinerary and intimate group size—up to 10 participants—which allows for personalized attention from the guide. While the tour involves some walking and outdoor exploration, it’s accessible for most travelers, though not suitable for children under 8, or individuals with mobility challenges. The combination of historic sites, art, and panoramic views promises a well-rounded day, with plenty of opportunities for photo-taking and savoring local flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip from Barcelona with hotel pickup and small-group setting
• Visit Besalú’s Romanesque Old Bridge and medieval streets
• Explore the Dalí Theatre and Museum in Figueres, designed by Salvador Dalí himself
• Tour Girona’s Old Town and Cathedral, including panoramic walks along historic city walls
• Enjoy a Mediterranean lunch, either at a local restaurant or tapas spot
• Guided in multiple languages, with audio guides available in several languages

Starting from Barcelona: Convenient Pickup and Small Group Experience

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Barcelona, making access straightforward for travelers staying in the city. The vehicle used is adapted to the number of participants, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout the day. This private group experience keeps the atmosphere intimate, with a maximum of 10 people, fostering a relaxed and engaging environment.

The timing is flexible, with starting times available depending on the day, so travelers can choose what best fits their plans. The 10-hour duration provides ample time to appreciate each site without feeling rushed, balancing sightseeing with rest and meal breaks.

Exploring Besalú’s Iconic Old Bridge and Medieval Streets

The first stop is the medieval town of Besalú, renowned for its Romanesque Old Bridge and well-preserved streets. The Old Bridge of Besalú, believed to date back to the 11th century, is constructed on an earlier Roman bridge. Its rebuilt sections after civil war damage give it a layered history that visitors find captivating.

Walking along the narrow streets and facades, visitors can feel transported to the Middle Ages. The town’s ecclesiastical monuments, including the churches of Sant Pere, Santa María, and Sant Vicenç, blend Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The Jewish quarter is especially notable as one of the best-preserved on the peninsula, offering a glimpse into the town’s diverse past.

Salvador Dalí’s Surreal World at the Museum in Figueres

After exploring Besalú, the tour proceeds to Figueres, home of the Dalí Theatre and Museum. This museum, designed by Salvador Dalí himself, is a work of art with its extravagant facade and quirky installations that reflect the artist’s unique style.

Visitors spend time admiring Dalí’s famous paintings, sculptures, and mind-bending installations inside the museum. The experience is not only about viewing art but also about understanding Dalí’s unconventional approach to creativity. The museum’s design and exhibits have been praised for exceeding expectations, making it a highlight of the trip.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Mediterranean Lunch Close to Figueres

Lunch is included as part of the tour, with options catering to different tastes. Travelers can choose between a restaurant offering authentic Mediterranean flavors or a typical Spanish tapas spot. The restaurant is located about 15 minutes from Figueres, making it convenient without adding travel time.

The meal allows for a chance to relax and enjoy local ingredients, complementing the cultural exploration of the morning. This break also provides an opportunity to savor regional dishes and recharge for the afternoon.

Walking the Historic Streets and Walls of Girona

On the return to Barcelona, the group stops in Girona, a city known for its colorful houses along the Onyar River and medieval walls. The first visit is to the Stone Bridge (Pont de Pedra), offering panoramic views of the river and the vibrant buildings.

Next, the tour explores Barri Vell, the old town of Girona, characterized by narrow, cobbled streets full of history and charm. The Girona Cathedral, featuring an impressive Baroque façade and the widest Gothic nave in the world, is a must-see. This site is also famous for its role as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

The walk along the city walls provides spectacular views of the city and surrounding landscape, offering a perspective on the defense strategies of the past. The accessible points along the walls make it a memorable and scenic finish to the day’s sightseeing.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour includes all tickets for the Dalí Museum and Girona Cathedral, ensuring a smooth experience without additional costs. The private guide provides insights in Spanish, English, and Arabic, with audio guides available in French, Italian, Portuguese, and German.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water for outdoor walking. The tour not allowed smoking or flash photography, respecting site rules and preservation efforts.

The full-day experience is designed for those who want a rundown of Catalonia’s cultural gems, without the hassle of planning individual visits. Booking in advance is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

The Value of a Well-Rounded Cultural Journey

At $340 per person, this tour offers a balanced itinerary with guided visits to some of the most photogenic and historically significant sites in Catalonia. The inclusion of lunch, tickets, and hotel transfers adds convenience, making it an attractive option for travelers seeking an organized yet personal experience.

The small group size enhances interaction with the guide, who shares detailed information about each location, adding depth to the sightseeing. The mix of medieval architecture, modern surreal art, and lively city streets makes this day trip a worthy investment for anyone interested in exploring Catalonia’s rich cultural landscape.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This trip appeals to history enthusiasts, art lovers, and foodies alike. It’s perfect for those who appreciate well-preserved medieval towns, world-famous museums, and scenic city walks. The tour is less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those booking for children under 8, due to walking requirements and the itinerary’s focus.

This comprehensive day trip from Barcelona delivers a satisfying mix of sights, stories, and flavors, making it a smart choice for a full immersion into Catalonia in just one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour features hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end the day comfortably.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, with flexible start times depending on the day.

What sites are visited during the tour? The tour visits Besalú’s Old Bridge and streets, the Dalí Museum in Figueres, and Girona’s Cathedral, Old Town, and city walls.

Are tickets to the attractions included? Yes, tickets for the Dalí Museum and Girona Cathedral are part of the package.

Can I choose my lunch? The tour offers a lunch option either at a Mediterranean restaurant or a tapas spot, depending on your preference.

Is this tour suitable for children? The experience is not suitable for children under 8 years or travelers with mobility limitations.

What languages are guides available in? Guides speak Spanish, English, and Arabic; audio guides are provided in French, Italian, Portuguese, and German.

How do I book this tour? Reservations can be made in advance, with the option to pay later to keep your plans flexible.

What should I bring on the day? Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water for outdoor walking.

Is there a cancellation policy? Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

This well-organized day trip from Barcelona offers a rich taste of Catalonia’s most treasured sights, making it a worthwhile addition to any itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby