Private Tour Girona & Tossa de Mar from Barcelona

Explore Catalonia’s Historic Gems: Girona and Tossa de Mar in a 10-Hour Private Tour

This private day trip from Barcelona offers an enriching journey through Catalonia’s most captivating sites. For $364 per person, you get a full-day experience that combines urban history, medieval charm, and spectacular coastal scenery. With a duration of 10 hours and a small group of up to 8 participants, the tour promises personalized attention and an intimate atmosphere.

The tour starts with hotel pickup in Barcelona, making logistics straightforward. It includes visits to Girona, with its impressive cathedral and ancient walls, and Tossa de Mar, famous for its 12th-century castle and Vila Vella. The option to extend the day with a scenic cruise along the Costa Brava adds an extra layer of experience, making this tour ideal for those seeking a mix of history, culture, and breathtaking views.

While the tour offers a rich itinerary, it is important to note that lunch and drinks are not included. This allows flexibility for travelers to choose their preferred dining options during the day. This tour suits those with curiosity about Catalonia’s historical towns and coastal scenery, and who appreciate a personalized, small-group experience.

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Key Points

• Price: $364 per person for a 10-hour private tour
• Includes: Visits to Girona and Tossa de Mar, with a hotel pickup and drop-off in Barcelona
• Highlights: Girona Cathedral, the Stone Bridge, ancient city walls, the 12th-century castle in Tossa de Mar, and the Vila Vella
• Optional Extension: Small Costa Brava cruise for scenic views of cliffs and coastline
• Group Size: Small, up to 8 participants for a more personalized experience
• Guide: English and Spanish-speaking guide-driver

Starting the Day: Pickup and Journey to Girona

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Barcelona, simplifying the start of this full-day adventure. The vehicle is adapted to the number of participants, ensuring comfort and ease of travel. The first destination is Girona, known as the “city of the four rivers.” The drive takes approximately 30 minutes, giving travelers a relaxed start while enjoying views of the Catalan landscape.

The private nature of the tour means a flexible schedule, and the guide is available to answer questions along the way. This approach helps set a comfortable tone for the day ahead, emphasizing a personalized experience.

Discovering Girona’s Historic Heart and Iconic Stone Bridge

Girona is renowned for its colorful houses lining the Onyar River, visible from the Stone Bridge (Pont de Pedra). This bridge is a popular photo spot offering panoramic views of the river and the town’s vibrant facades. From there, the tour proceeds to Barri Vell, the city’s old town, with its narrow cobbled streets filled with history.

A highlight here is the Girona Cathedral, known for its impressive baroque façade and widest gothic nave in the world. The cathedral’s grandeur makes it a must-see. The guide offers context about the cathedral’s architectural significance and its role in the famous series “Game of Thrones”, which used some locations in Girona.

The city walls are another standout feature, accessible from various points, offering spectacular views of Girona and surrounding areas. Walking along these ancient fortifications provides a tangible connection to the city’s past defenses. The experience is both scenic and educational, emphasizing Girona’s strategic importance through the ages.

Journey to Tossa de Mar and the 12th-Century Castle

After exploring Girona, the group departs for Tossa de Mar with a 30-minute drive. This coastal town on the Costa Brava is celebrated for its medieval charm and seaside views. The first stop is the castle built in the 12th century, which served as a fortress against pirates.

Perched above the town, this castle offers striking vistas of the beach and old town below. It was historically a defensive structure, and today it remains a symbol of Tossa de Mar’s history. The main square within the castle walls is a scenic spot to soak in the atmosphere and take photographs.

Within the castle walls lies the Vila Vella, the only fortified medieval town remaining on the Costa Brava. Its cobblestone streets are lined with stone houses decorated with pots and colorful flowers, creating an authentic medieval ambiance. Strolling through this lively area provides a glimpse into the town’s past, combined with today’s vibrant local life.

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Tossa de Mar’s Coastal Charm and Lunch on the Promenade

Following the castle visit, the tour guides you to the promenade, where you can enjoy lunch on a terrace overlooking the sea. This scenic setting offers a relaxing break with the sound of waves and views of the Costa Brava’s cliffs in the distance. While lunch is not included in the tour price, the guide can recommend local eateries or suggest where to find refreshments.

After lunch, travelers have free time to explore the Vila Vella and its historic center at their own pace. The area is lively, featuring clothing stores, souvenir shops, and charming streets to wander. This flexibility allows visitors to soak in the atmosphere, browse local products, or simply relax by the sea.

Optional Add-On: Scenic Cruise Along the Costa Brava

One of the tour’s highlights is the optional extension to enjoy a small cruise along the Costa Brava. This cruise offers views of the region’s spectacular cliffs and rugged coastline, further enriching the experience. While not included in the base price, it is a popular choice for travelers seeking a marine perspective of the area’s natural beauty.

This cruise provides an opportunity to see the cliffs, hidden coves, and seaside villages from the water, offering a different angle on the landscape that inspired countless artists and photographers.

Return to Barcelona and Final Reflections

The tour concludes with a return to Barcelona, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. The journey back is comfortable, with the guide sharing insights about the day’s stops and answering questions.

This private tour offers an immersive experience of Catalonia’s history, coastal scenery, and medieval architecture. It is well-suited for those interested in cultural exploration combined with scenic views. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making the day both informative and relaxed.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Since lunch and drinks are not included, travelers should consider bringing snacks or purchasing food during the free time in Tossa de Mar. Comfortable shoes are recommended due to cobblestone streets and walking at each site. Bringing sunglasses and sunscreen will enhance comfort during outdoor sightseeing, especially by the coast.

Booking in advance is advised to secure a spot, especially during busy seasons. The tour’s flexible schedule and private format make it a convenient option for those wanting a personalized day trip without the hassle of group tours.

Final Thoughts on the Girona & Tossa de Mar Private Tour

This 10-hour private tour offers a well-balanced mix of urban history, medieval architecture, and stunning coastal scenery. The highlights include the Girona Cathedral, ancient city walls, the 12th-century castle in Tossa de Mar, and the charming streets of Vila Vella. The optional cruise extension adds an extra layer of scenic beauty, perfect for those who appreciate coastal landscapes.

While the price reflects the personalized experience and private guide, travelers should budget separately for lunch and drinks. This tour excels at providing a comprehensive day of cultural discovery in a relaxed setting, ideal for history lovers and fans of Catalonia’s seaside towns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, this day trip is appropriate for most ages, especially those comfortable with walking on cobblestone streets and outdoor sightseeing. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Can I extend the tour with the cruise?
Yes, the cruise is an optional extension that can be added to enhance the coastal experience. It offers views of cliffs and the coastline and is available on request.

Are meals included in the tour price?
No, lunch and drinks are not included. Travelers can enjoy their own meals or choose from local cafes and restaurants during free time in Tossa de Mar.

What languages are available on the tour?
The tour is led by a guide-driver who speaks English and Spanish. Content may be presented in its original language, with some explanations available in both languages.

How early should I book this tour?
Booking in advance is recommended to guarantee availability, especially during peak seasons. The tour operates on a flexible schedule with check availability options.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, comfortable clothes, and hiking or sports shoes if you plan to walk extensively. Sunscreen is advised for outdoor sightseeing.

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