Full Day Girona and Besalu Private Tour

A Perfect Day for History, Charm, and a Touch of TV Fame
This full-day private tour from Barcelona takes you into the heart of two remarkable medieval towns: Girona and Besalú. For about six hours, with a private guide and driver, you’ll explore Girona’s stunning Cathedral, walk through the Old Jewish Quarter, and stroll along the narrow streets of Besalú, a town so well-preserved it’s been designated a National Historic and Artistic Monument. Priced at around $1,550 for up to 7 people, it’s a good investment if you’re craving an intimate, expertly guided experience that combines history, architecture, and a bit of pop culture.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see two of Catalonia’s most charming medieval towns in one seamless trip—without the hassle of driving yourself. Also, the knowledgeable guides and drivers make a real difference, bringing the towns’ stories alive. It’s clear from reviews that travelers appreciate friendly, fluent guides who go beyond the surface to bring history and filming locations to life.

A possible drawback? The price tag might be steep for some, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a couple. Also, some may find the six-hour duration a bit brisk, especially if you’re slow at wandering or want more time in each place. However, if you’re eager to maximize a day exploring Catalonia’s medieval gems and don’t want to worry about logistics, this tour suits those with a love for history, architecture, and TV fandom.

This experience appeals best to travelers who value personalized attention, want to see notable filming locations from Game of Thrones, or simply enjoy beautiful, well-preserved historic towns. If you’re looking for an efficient way to see more than just Barcelona’s urban sights, this tour offers a delightful escape into Spain’s past and culture.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored visit.
• Expert guides and drivers: Fluent English speakers who bring the towns’ stories alive.
• Flexible pickup and drop-off: Convenient hotel transfers mean no stress.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Girona’s cathedral, Jewish Quarter, and Besalú’s medieval streets.
• Authentic culture: Walk through preserved historic sites and learn about their significance.
• Ideal for film fans: Includes locations from Game of Thrones.

Exploring Girona and Besalú: An In-Depth Look

Why Choose This Tour?

Traveling from Barcelona to Girona and Besalú with a private guide means you gain more than just a few snapshots. It’s about deepening your understanding of Catalonia’s history, architecture, and culture. The private setup ensures your questions get answered, and your pace is tailored to your interests—something that group tours often lack.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Girona Cathedral
Your day begins with a visit to the spectacular Girona Cathedral, famed for its impressive Gothic architecture and its imposing façade. Inside, you’ll find a blend of Gothic and Baroque elements, with a wide nave and a stunning cloister. The guide will highlight how the cathedral’s history intertwines with the city’s development over centuries.

Crucially, this stop also includes famous filming locations from Game of Thrones. Fans of the series will recognize parts of the Old Town and the cathedral’s surroundings, often described as looking like a medieval set frozen in time.

What travelers love:
“We loved the way the guide explained all about Girona’s history while showing us the Game of Thrones spots,” shares one traveler. The guide’s storytelling makes the visit engaging, especially for TV buffs.

Potential drawback:
If medieval architecture isn’t your thing, you might find the cathedral’s grandeur less captivating. But for most, it’s a highlight.

Time spent: Approximately 3 hours—ample enough to explore without feeling rushed.

Stop 2: Girona’s Jewish Quarter
Next, you’ll meander through the well-preserved Jewish Quarter, widely regarded as one of the best in Europe. Its narrow winding streets and ancient buildings offer a tangible sense of the past. You’ll learn about the Jewish community’s historical significance in Girona and see the Carrer de la Força, the main street through this area.

Highlights:
This quarter’s authenticity is striking. Its labyrinthine streets look just as they did centuries ago, and the guide will point out notable features and historical anecdotes.

What travelers appreciate:
One reviewer said, “The Jewish quarter is the best-preserved in Europe. Walking through it felt like stepping back in time.”

Time allocated: About 2 hours—just enough to soak in the atmosphere and hear stories behind the stones.

Stop 3: Besalú
After Girona, your private vehicle takes you to Besalú, a town renowned for its medieval charm and remarkably intact city walls from the 12th century. Named a National Historic and Artistic Monument in 1996, Besalú feels like a living open-air museum.

Walking through its twisting streets, you’ll see the famous Jewish quarter, the Romanesque bridge over the Fluvià River, and remnants of ancient gates. Your guide will explain the historical importance of the Jewish community that once thrived here.

What makes Besalú special:
Its combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it one of the most picturesque medieval towns in Spain. The preserved fortifications and the cobblestone streets are a delight to explore.

What travelers say:
One review calls Besalú “one of the most beautiful old towns in Spain,” and the walking tour through its narrow streets was described as “magical.”

Time spent: About 2 hours, enough for a leisurely walk and some photos, but not a full day’s exploration.

Practicalities and Tips

Transportation:
The tour includes a private driver who picks you up and drops you at your hotel in Barcelona, making the experience hassle-free. The vehicle is comfortable, and the timing is designed to maximize sightseeing and minimize travel fatigue.

Group size and price:
Limited to up to 7 people, the price of roughly $1,550 reflects the personalized, private nature of the tour. This price might seem high, but when you factor in private transportation, guided insights, and flexibility, it offers good value—especially for groups sharing the cost.

Booking and cancellation:
The tour is booked on average 34 days in advance, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those who want an in-depth, private experience of Catalonia’s medieval towns, especially if you’re interested in history, architecture, and filming locations. It’s perfect for small groups, families, or couples eager for a tailored day away from crowded group tours. The knowledgeable guides make a difference, turning a sightseeing trip into a storytelling journey.

If your plans are flexible and you’re keen to see highlights without rushing, this tour delivers a memorable taste of Girona and Besalú’s historical charm.

FAQ

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it’s approximately 6 hours, including sightseeing and transportation.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, admission tickets are free for the attractions visited.

Can I be picked up at my hotel in Barcelona?
Yes, pickup is offered at your hotel, making the experience convenient.

How many people can join?
Up to 7 people, making it intimate but still spacious enough for a small group.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience may be enjoyable for older children interested in history or TV shows.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Is there a guide included?
Yes, a knowledgeable guide accompanies you, sharing insights about each site.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes and a camera are recommended; bring water, especially in warmer months.

To sum it up, this private Girona and Besalú tour offers a well-balanced combination of history, authentic medieval ambiance, and pop culture. It suits travelers who appreciate personalized service, want to explore beyond Barcelona’s city limits, and enjoy stories behind the stones. The guides’ expertise and the chance to walk through remarkably preserved towns make it a worthwhile addition to any Catalan itinerary—especially if you’re eager to see Game of Thrones filming locations or just soak in medieval charm at your own pace.