Girona & Costa Brava Small-Group Tour with Pickup from Barcelona

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $114.67 per person and lasts approximately 10 hours.
• Small-Group Experience: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• Comfortable Transportation: Includes pickup and drop-off from your Barcelona hotel and air-conditioned vehicle travel.
• Visit Girona’s Old Town: Explore key sites like the Roman walls, Girona Cathedral, and the well-preserved Jewish Quarter, with guided walking tours.
• Charming Costa Brava Villages: Walk through Pals, a medieval village, and enjoy free time in Calella de Palafrugell, a traditional fishing village with scenic coves.
• Free Exploration and Lunch: You have independent time for sightseeing, dining, or swimming, with lunch on your own in Calella de Palafrugell.

Girona & Costa Brava Small-Group Tour with Pickup from Barcelona Overview

This full-day tour provides an easy way to see some of Catalonia’s most beautiful spots beyond Barcelona. For $114.67, you get around 10 hours of guided sightseeing, small-group intimacy, and convenient hotel pickup. The tour is highly rated with a 5.0 rating based on 5,522 reviews and is recommended by 97% of travelers.

The experience is designed for those who want to explore at a relaxed pace, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way through historic towns, medieval villages, and coastal scenery. The small-group format ensures personalized attention and easier access to the highlights.

While the tour includes all transportation, food and drinks are not included, so you are free to choose your preferred lunch spot or enjoy local snacks in the villages. The flexibility for independent exploration is a standout feature, allowing travelers to tailor their experience at each stop.

The Charm of Girona’s Medieval Old Town

The tour begins with a guided walking tour of Girona’s Old Town, a city founded by Romans in 77 B.C.. The guide highlights the colorful houses along the Onyar River and leads visitors through the Jewish Quarter (“El Call”), one of the best-preserved in Europe.

Next, the city walls (“Passeig de la Muralla”) offer panoramic views of Girona, perfect for photo opportunities. Travelers can also admire the Girona Cathedral, known for its massive Gothic nave, which spans 23 meters in width—a sight even more famous as a “Game of Thrones” filming location.

Additional stops include the Museum of Archaeology of Catalonia and the Arab Baths from the 12th century, both offering insights into Girona’s long and layered history. The Arab Baths, in particular, attract praise for their impressive preservation.

Exploring the Onyar River and Its Famous Houses

A quick stop along the Onyar River highlights the vividly painted houses reflected in the water, creating a charming photo opportunity. This spot emphasizes Girona’s picturesque setting and its blend of history and vibrant urban life.

Discovering Girona’s Jewish Heritage

The Patronat Call de Girona tour takes visitors into the narrow, winding alleys of the Jewish neighborhood. The stone archways and historic ambiance make this a fascinating glimpse into 13th-century Catalonia.

Walking the City Walls for Historic Context

Walking along the Passeig de la Muralla, travelers gain a sense of Girona’s defensive history. The guide shares stories behind the walls, and the views of the city and surrounding landscape provide a memorable backdrop.

Visiting Girona’s Iconic Cathedral

The Girona Cathedral stands out as a highlight, with its largest Gothic nave in the world. This architectural marvel draws attention not only for its size but also for its cultural significance and its role as a “Game of Thrones” filming site.

Pals: A Medieval Village Step Back in Time

After Girona, the tour moves to Pals, a medieval village with cobbled streets, Romanesque and Gothic architecture, stone arches, and Moorish doorways. The walk offers a genuine taste of historic Catalonia, free from modern tourist crowds.

Relaxing in Calella de Palafrugell

The final stop is Calella de Palafrugell, a fishing village that has maintained its traditional charm. Visitors can walk along narrow streets, admire steep tiled roofs, and explore coastal coves.

The village provides free time for sightseeing, dining (lunch is not included), or swimming in the scenic coves. The reviews praise this spot for its authenticity and beauty, making it a standout for relaxing by the sea.

Logistics: Pickup, Transport, and Group Size

The tour departs at 8:30 am, with hotel pickup in Barcelona between 8 and 9 am. An air-conditioned vehicle transports the group, which is limited to 8 participants for an intimate experience. The small size allows for better interaction and easier movement through sites.

The drop-off is back in Barcelona at the end of the day, making it a convenient way to explore without the hassle of organizing transportation independently.

The Value of This Tour

At just over $114, the tour offers a comprehensive day with multiple stops, guided explanations, and free time at key locations. The small-group format enhances comfort and engagement, with many reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery.

While food and drinks are not included, travelers appreciate the flexibility to choose their own dining options, whether it be in Girona, Pals, or Calella de Palafrugell.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This experience suits those who enjoy history, architecture, and scenic coastal views. The relaxed pace and small-group format are perfect for travelers seeking a personalized and less hurried exploration. It is especially appealing to those who value guided insights but also want free time to explore independently.

Limitations to Consider

The tour involves walking across uneven surfaces, cobbled streets, and historic sites, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The lunch is not included, so travelers should budget extra for meals. Also, during festivals or busy periods, Girona may be crowded, which could affect the experience.

Girona & Costa Brava Small-Group Tour with Pickup from Barcelona: Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of guided sightseeing and free exploration in some of Catalonia’s most charming towns. The expert guides and small-group setting ensure a personal and informative experience. The scenic coastal villages and historic Girona provide a diverse glimpse into the region’s rich culture.

The 10-hour itinerary is well-paced, giving ample time at each stop while avoiding rushed visits. The air-conditioned transport and hotel pickup add to the convenience, making it an ideal way to escape Barcelona’s bustle and see the countryside with ease.

Travelers who value authentic experiences, beautiful scenery, and expert guidance will find this tour highly worthwhile. Its affordable price point offers good value for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering the small-group intimacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $114.67 per person.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 10 hours.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, it includes round-trip transportation from your Barcelona hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle.

What stops are included?
Stops feature Girona’s Old Town, the Jewish Quarter, City Walls, Girona Cathedral, and Arab Baths. It also visits the medieval village of Pals and Calella de Palafrugell.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is on your own, providing flexibility to choose where to dine.

What is the group size?
It is a small-group tour with a maximum of 8 travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is operated by In Out Barcelona Tours.