The 11 Tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner

Exploring Girona through Its Flavors and History — A Detailed Review of the 11 Tastings Small-Group Tour

Imagine wandering through Girona’s ancient streets, where every corner and cobblestone whispers stories of Roman times, medieval grandeur, and vibrant Catalan life. Now add a layer of sensory delight—local foods, wines, and spirits—culminating in a memorable 3-hour journey that beautifully combines history and gastronomy. For just $102 per person, this tour promises a taste of Girona’s soul, guided by friendly experts who are proud of their city.

What we find particularly appealing about this experience is how it balances the visual beauty of Girona’s architecture with authentic bites and sips that reflect the city’s culinary tradition. We also appreciate how the tour’s small-group setting—limited to 10 participants—ensures a more personal, engaging experience. On the flip side, some travelers might find the three-hour duration a bit brisk if they prefer more leisurely explorations. Nevertheless, this tour is especially well-suited for those who want a compact, immersive taste of Girona’s cultural and culinary treasures.

If you enjoy learning about local history while tasting regional specialties, this tour is a perfect match. Food lovers, history enthusiasts, and those eager to understand Girona from a local perspective will find plenty to love. It’s also ideal if you appreciate small-group settings that foster a relaxed atmosphere and meaningful conversations with guides who are passionate about their city.

Key Points

Authentic Flavors: Savor a range of local delicacies, including cured meats, cheese, and traditional Catalan treats.
Historical Settings: Walk through Girona’s iconic landmarks like the Cathedral and the Basilica of Sant Feliu.
Cultural Insights: Guides share stories that connect Girona’s past with its food traditions.
Quality Tastings: Enjoy some of the best local wines, cava, and the famous Girona xuixos and ratafia.
Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, leading to a more personalized experience.
Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Tour Experience

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Setting the Scene in Girona’s Old Town

The tour begins at Plaça de la Independència, a lively square filled with cafes and historic charm. From here, your guide, possibly someone like John based on glowing reviews, leads you into Girona’s labyrinth of narrow streets and hidden corners. As we walk past postcard-perfect views of the Onyar river, you’ll love the way the colorful houses and medieval bridges set a picturesque backdrop for this culinary journey.

The walk itself isn’t hurried; instead, it’s a chance to soak in the ambiance, observe local life, and get oriented before sampling local bites in some charming stops. The mix of sights and flavors makes this more than just a food tour—it’s a glimpse into Girona’s soul.

Discovering and Tasting Girona’s Iconic Food

One of the highlights is trying Pa amb tomata (bread rubbed with tomato), a simple yet essential Catalan staple. We loved the way this fundamental dish is prepared here, emphasizing quality bread and ripe tomatoes. The tour also features cured meats: fuet, butifarra blanca, and pernil salat—perfect for those who enjoy savory bites. The cheese offerings complement these meats, adding a creamy contrast that highlights the region’s dairy traditions.

The tastings don’t stop there. You’ll sample anxoves (anchovies), which are often a highlight in Catalan cuisine, appreciated for their delicate saltiness. We found the selection of pintxos appealing—small bites that pack a punch—showing the Spanish love for snack-sized flavors.

Sipping on Girona’s Best Beverages

A well-curated part of this tour is the beverage tasting. You’ll have the chance to enjoy cava, the sparkling wine from nearby Catalonia, which perfectly complements the savory bites. Local wine or beer options are available, giving you a taste of Girona’s preferred drinks.

The tour’s highlight might be the tasting of ratafia, a traditional Catalan herbal liqueur, and Xuixo, the city’s beloved pastry filled with crema. Several reviews praise the quality of these treats. As Lisa noted, “Food was gorgeous,” and the guide’s knowledge made the experience all the more enjoyable.

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The Evening Closure: Girona’s Historic Light and Flavors

As the sun begins to set, the group reaches iconic landmarks like the Cathedral and Basilica of Sant Feliu, bathed in golden light. Here, the tour’s storytelling deepens, blending Girona’s ancient past with the present-day culinary scene. It’s an ideal moment for photos and reflection—while savoring the flavors that have been part of Girona for generations.

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Practical Aspects and Value

This tour lasts about three hours—perfect for a mid-afternoon or early evening activity. The small-group format ensures that you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guides’ pride and expertise shine through in their storytelling, making the experience both educational and fun.

The price, $102, includes a generous array of tastings and a drink, providing good value given the quality and intimacy. Remember, you can cancel up to 24 hours ahead, making it flexible for last-minute adjustments.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers curious about Catalan cuisine, history buffs eager to connect food with Girona’s past, and travelers who prefer small, personalized groups. It suits those who want an efficient but meaningful way to understand Girona beyond just sightseeing. If you enjoy quality wines and local specialties like ratafia or Xuixo, you’ll find this tour particularly satisfying.

Final Thoughts

The 11 Tastings of Girona tour offers a genuine, well-rounded experience that combines history, culture, and delicious food. Guided by passionate locals, you’ll enjoy a curated selection of regional treats that tell stories as much as they satisfy your palate. For anyone wanting to capture the essence of Girona in a short time, this tour provides a delightful blend of sights, sounds, and flavors.

While it’s a relatively brisk three hours, the carefully chosen stops and tastings make every minute count. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic food experiences in a relaxed, intimate setting. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this tour offers a perfect way to taste Girona’s soul.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 3 hours, making it perfect for an afternoon or early evening activity without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Plaça de la Independència, 19, in Girona’s Old Town, a lively square ideal for getting oriented.

What’s included in the price?
You get 11 tastings—including cured meats, cheese, pintxos, bread with tomato, and desserts—plus drinks like cava, wine or beer, and ratafia. Water is also provided.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to 10 participants, which fosters a more personal and engaging experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, adding peace of mind.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
The specifics aren’t detailed, but since the focus is on cured meats, cheeses, and traditional Catalan delicacies, it’s best to inquire directly if you have special dietary needs.

To sum it up, if you want to experience Girona in a way that combines local flavors and historical sights, this tour stands out as a thoughtful, tasty, and fun option. It’s perfect for those who want to go beyond the typical sightseeing route and truly taste what makes Girona special.

You can check availability for your dates here: