Girona

A cool drink on the terrace of Hotel Carlemany (Plaça Miquel Santaló) is a real draw at this contemporary option close to Girona’s main shopping area and cathedral, while the Hotel Gran Ultonia (Gran Vía de Jaume I 22B) is a grand offering near the Barri Vell neighbourhood and vibrant atmosphere of Plaça Independencia. Hotel URH Girona (Joan Pons 1) boasts an enticing rooftop pool and relaxing rooms, while in the historic quarter the Hotel Condal (Joan Maragall 10) offers close proximity to the bus and train station.

There are plenty of alluring shops to get stuck into during a trip to Girona, particularly for foodies, thanks to an enchanting range of delis and patisseries that offer delicious baked treats and local produce. The city does come equipped with recognisable international stores, but the real beauty of Girona’s shopping scene is to be found in the independent shops and unique boutiques. Head to the Old Town for ample opportunities to find intriguing items including homewares and jewellery, while similarly interesting goods can be picked up on Tuesdays and Saturdays at Parc de la Devesa’s market.

Girona is a beautiful historic city where inspiring Catalonian flavours can be found in rich supply. El Celler de Can Roca (Can Sunyer 48) boasts three Michelin stars and currently sits atop the World’s Best Restaurants list, run by the Roca brothers, combining traditional Spanish ingredients with innovative craft. Restaurant Txalaka (Bonastruc Porta 4) is popular among both locals and visitors, offering a wide variety of Basque flavours. For creative tapas try +Cub (Albereda 15), or for something a little more traditional head to Café Le Bistrot (Pujada Sant Domènec 4), which offers both Catalan and French dishes.

Girona Temps de Flors

May In May

This festival literally translates as the Girona Time of Flowers, and in May the city celebrates the onset of springtimes colourful bloom. Famous landmarks such as the cathedral are decked out in vibrant displays, while quieter, more nondescript corners of the city also burst into life.

Primavera Sound

May

The Primavera Sound festival is an hour’s drive away in Barcelona, and is a trendy event that attracts visitors from around the world to enjoy five days of sun-drenched hedonism.

World Sacred Music Festival

July

A variety of venues across Girona play host to the World Sacred Music Festival, which takes place during the first 10 days of July and sees all manner of musical celebration of different cultures and faiths.

Fira d'Indians

September

The coastal town of Begur hold this festival over three days in September, which throws up a local feel with ancient ties. There was a large number of people that left Begur for Cuba in the 19th century, who later returned home and brought certain colourful influences with them. Fira d’Indians celebrates this historic link to the Americas through music, dance, international markets and interesting exhibitions.

Girona Film Festival

October

The popular Girona Film Festival takes place during the second week of October, and showcases a variety of films to the local audience.