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

Experience a full day exploring Catalonia’s most captivating towns—Besalú, Figueres, and Girona—on this carefully curated day trip from Barcelona. For $340 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours soaking in history, art, and stunning landscapes, all with a small-group vibe that makes it more personal and relaxed.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to wander through a town considered one of Spain’s most photogenic—Besalú—with its iconic medieval bridge. We also appreciated the visit to the Dalí Museum in Figueres, which offers an unexpectedly playful and immersive encounter with surrealist art. The included authentic Mediterranean lunch is another real highlight, giving us a taste of local flavors in a charming setting.

One potential consideration is the pace—while the day is packed with sights, some may find it a bit rushed, especially if you love lingering in each location. Also, this trip isn’t suitable for children under 8 or travelers with mobility issues, so it’s best for those who enjoy walking and a bit of exploration.

This tour suits travelers who are eager to experience authentic Catalan towns, enjoy art and architecture, and don’t mind a full day of sightseeing. If you appreciate small-group tours with personalized attention and want a balanced mix of history, art, and culinary delights, this trip is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Up to 10 participants for a more intimate, engaging tour.
• Rich cultural stops: Medieval Besalú, Dalí Museum, and Girona’s historic core.
• Authentic food: A well-chosen Mediterranean lunch enhances the day.
• Expert guide: A knowledgeable guide makes historical and cultural details come alive.
• Comfortable transport: A vehicle suited to the group size ensures a smooth journey.
• Flexible options: Multilingual audio guide and optional language support.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour

When we first read about this tour, what stood out was how the itinerary balances historic charm with artistic marvels and scenic views. It’s not just about ticking boxes but about really experiencing the essence of Catalonia’s towns, all within a manageable day from Barcelona.

Starting from Barcelona: Comfort and Convenience

The trip begins with a hotel pickup, which is a significant advantage—no trying to figure out public transport or navigating busy streets. The vehicle, adapted to the group size, promises a comfortable start to the day’s adventure, setting a relaxed tone. With a small group of up to 10, you’re likely to enjoy a more personalized experience—your guide can tailor explanations and answer questions more naturally.

Exploring Besalú: Medieval Marvels and Photogenic Charm

Our first stop is Besalú, a town often called one of Spain’s most beautiful places and a favorite among travelers for its medieval atmosphere. The highlight here is undoubtedly the Old Bridge of Besalú—a Romanesque structure believed to have been built in the 11th century, reconstructed multiple times, notably after damage in the civil war. Walking across this bridge feels like stepping back in time, with its tower and archways providing countless opportunities for photos.

Beyond the bridge, we wandered through cobbled streets lined with historic facades. The town’s ecclesiastical monuments, including churches like Sant Pere, Santa María, and Sant Vicenç, blend Romanesque and Gothic styles, offering a tangible sense of the town’s layered history. The well-preserved Jewish quarter is another highlight, giving insight into the diverse communities that once thrived here.

A reviewer from GetYourGuide mentioned, “Nos encantó la experiencia, viajamos en un coche cómodo, nuestro guía Rodrigo súper simpático y bien informado, los lugares a los que fuimos súper bellos y el lugar donde comimos espectacular. Súper recomendado este tour,” emphasizing the guide’s friendliness and the beauty of the stops.

The Surreal World of Salvador Dalí in Figueres

Next, we head to Figueres to visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum, designed by Salvador Dalí himself. From the outside, the museum’s eccentric, avant-garde façade hints at the whimsical inside. Once inside, it’s a sensory overload of paintings, sculptures, and installations that reflect Dalí’s quirky genius.

You’ll find yourself immersed in his surreal universe, with works like “The Persistence of Memory” and many others that challenge conventional perceptions of reality. The museum isn’t just a collection; it’s a reflection of Dalí’s wild imagination, making it a must-see for art lovers and curious travelers alike. For those less inclined toward museums, the experience itself is a visual feast that promises to surprise and delight.

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Delighting in Local Flavors: The Lunch Break

Midday, the tour offers a well-deserved pause for a delicious Mediterranean lunch. Options include a restaurant with authentic flavors close to Figueres or a traditional tapas spot—both promising a taste of local cuisine. The review from a traveler notes that “el lugar donde comimos fue espectacular,” highlighting how good food can elevate the overall experience.

Discovering Girona’s Historic Heart

As we head back toward Barcelona, the charming city of Girona beckons. Starting with the Stone Bridge (Pont de Pedra), you get panoramic views over the Onyar River and those iconic colorful houses. The old town, Barri Vell, is a labyrinth of narrow, cobbled streets, each corner revealing a piece of the city’s layered past.

A highlight here is Girona Cathedral, famous for its imposing Gothic nave and baroque façade. Its wide nave is large enough to impress even seasoned travelers. The city’s association with Game of Thrones adds a pop culture twist, as many scenes were shot here, giving fans a fun reason to explore further.

Finally, walking along the city walls offers a spectacular perspective—think of it as a scenic balcony overlooking Girona and beyond. The walls are accessible from various points, making it easy to enjoy this panoramic walk before returning to Barcelona.

Returning to Barcelona: Reflecting on a Day Well-Spent

The trip wraps up with a comfortable return journey, leaving you with a treasure trove of memories. This tour’s ability to blend history, art, and scenic views in a manageable day makes it appealing, especially for those wanting an authentic taste of Catalonia without the hassle of planning.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This experience is particularly valuable if you’re someone who appreciates small-group tours that foster a more personal connection with your guide. The pace is brisk but manageable, giving enough time at each stop to soak in the atmosphere and take photos. If you love discovering photogenic towns, admiring medieval architecture, or exploring surrealist art, this trip hits all those notes.

The inclusion of lunch means you won’t have to worry about finding good food on your own, and the guided approach means you get context and stories that bring each location to life. The tour’s reviews praise the scenic views and delicious food, validating the value of the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a vehicle adapted to the group size, with hotel pickup and drop-off from Barcelona for added convenience.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, making it a full day of exploring but still manageable for most travelers.

What are the main sights I will see?
You’ll visit Besalú’s medieval bridge and streets, the Dalí Museum in Figueres, Girona’s Cathedral, and walk along the historic city walls.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but there is a recommended restaurant with authentic Mediterranean flavors, or a traditional tapas spot, both offering delicious local cuisine.

Can I join if I don’t speak Spanish or English?
Yes, the tour is offered in multiple languages including Spanish, English, and Arabic, with an audio guide available in several other languages.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 8 years or travelers with mobility impairments, as it involves walking through historic towns and uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

This guided day trip from Barcelona offers a taste of Catalonia’s diverse heritage—medieval streets, surreal art, and scenic vistas all in one satisfying package. The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and well-chosen stops make it a standout for travelers who want a genuine, immersive experience without the stress of self-planning.

Perfect for those who love picturesque towns, artful surprises, and local flavors, this tour delivers a balanced mix of history, culture, and scenery. If you’re looking to see some of the most iconic sights in the region while enjoying a comfortable, engaging day, this trip checks all the boxes.

Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, you’ll come away with stories to tell and plenty of photos to cherish. Just be prepared for a full day, and bring your sense of curiosity—and comfortable shoes.

You can check availability for your dates here: