Private Full-Day Girona GOT and Costa Brava Tour

A Day to Explore Catalonia’s Medieval Charms and Coastal Beauty

If you’re traveling to Barcelona and craving a full-day escape into the historic, scenic, and film-famous corners of Catalonia, the Private Full-Day Girona GOT and Costa Brava Tour might just be your best bet. For around $174 per person, you’ll spend about 9 to 11 hours discovering the medieval streets of Girona—famous for its appearances in Game of Thrones—the rustic allure of the village Pals, and the stunning coastlines of Calella de Palafrugell along the Costa Brava.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances history and scenery with authentic local flavors. First, the chance to stroll through Girona’s ancient Jewish quarter and cathedral, both of which showcase architecture and atmospheres dating back centuries, is a treat for history buffs and Instagram lovers alike. Then, the visit to Pals offers a taste of true rural charm, with its Romanesque buildings and a chance to indulge in a delicious seafood rice casserole—an authentic Catalan dish. Finally, ending in Calella de Palafrugell, where clear waters and rocky coves beckon, provides a relaxing Mediterranean finale.

A possible drawback? The tour’s long day means a fair amount of time on the road—about 4.5 hours total driving—so travelers who prefer slow-paced sightseeing with ample leisure might find it a tad rushed. Plus, the tour price excludes lunch, so you’ll want to budget extra for a meal, though many reviews highlight the quality and flavor of Pals’ local cuisine.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, scenic beauty, and a touch of film history. If you appreciate a well-organized day with knowledgeable guides—such as André, who earns high praise for his friendliness and insight—this tour will be especially rewarding. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of Catalonia beyond Barcelona’s bustling streets.

This experience made our article of The 12 Most Popular Full-Day Tours In Barcelona.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Girona, Pals, and Calella de Palafrugell
• Expert guide providing engaging historical and cultural insights
• Authentic Catalan cuisine in Pals, with options for seafood and rice dishes
• Stunning scenic stops along the Costa Brava coastline
• Flexible and private experience tailored to your group’s pace
• Good value for a full day of sightseeing and culture

A Deep Dive into the Girona GOT and Costa Brava Tour

When we first read about this tour, what caught our eye was its focus on famous filming locations in Girona, combined with visits to authentic towns and a beautiful coastal village. The experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into Catalonia’s layered history, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights—all wrapped into one organized package.

Pickup and Transport

The tour begins early, with a pickup from your Barcelona hotel around 8:30 am. The private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility. The drive to Girona takes approximately 70 minutes, which, based on reviews, often feels like a smooth start rather than a long haul. André, the guide, is praised for his friendly demeanor and good communication, making the ride both informative and pleasant.

Girona: The Filming Hotspot

Arriving in Girona, you’ll immediately see why it’s a favorite among filmmakers. The route includes stops at Església de Sant Feliu, the Passeig de la Muralla (city walls), and the iconic Girona Cathedral—each with its own story and visual appeal.

Sant Feliu Church is a quick stop, but more importantly, it’s where you hear about local legends like Sant Narcis and Sant Feliu, adding a layer of local lore to your walk. Visitors raved about this part of the tour, with one reviewer calling it “an excellent experience,” highlighting how the guide’s storytelling added depth to the visit.

Next, a walk along the city walls offers panoramic views of Girona’s rooftops and the river. Here, you’ll recognize some Game of Thrones scenes set in King’s Landing, making this a highlight for fans. The cathedral itself, with its remarkable façade and cloister, appears in the series, and you’ll appreciate the chance to stand there, imagining the drama that unfolded on these stones.

Walking through the Jewish Quarter is another favorite moment, with its narrow alleys and medieval ambiance. Several reviews mention how André’s insights help bring the streets alive, making history accessible and engaging.

Girona’s Iconic Bridge and Colorful Riverside

Crossing the Eiffel Bridge (Pont de les Peixateries Velles), you’ll get that classic photo of the Onyar River and characteristic rainbow-hued houses—a postcard moment. Many travelers mention this as a “must-see selfie spot,” and it truly looks like a painting you’ll want to take home.

Pals: Medieval Charm and a Taste of Local Cuisine

After about 40 minutes’ drive, you arrive at Pals, a well-preserved medieval village. This is where you get a real sense of rural Catalonia, with cobblestone streets, watchtowers, and the Romanesque church of Sant Pere. The highlight here is the lunch, which many reviews describe as delicious. The tour suggests trying the rice casserole, a regional specialty, and it seems to live up to its reputation.

You’ll have around 2 hours and 40 minutes in Pals, allowing ample time to explore the historic center at your own pace. Observers loved walking through the streets, admiring the medieval architecture, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Costa Brava’s Coastal Retreat in Calella de Palafrugell

The final stop is Calella de Palafrugell, a charming fishing village that’s perfect for relaxing and enjoying the Mediterranean scenery. The crystal-clear waters and rugged coastline offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, or a gentle walk along the shore. Many reviews praise how this part of the tour feels like a peaceful reward after a busy day.

Swimmers and sunbathers will appreciate the calm waters, while others enjoy capturing photos of the rugged cliffs and picturesque harbor. The roughly 1.5 hours here passes quickly, but it’s enough to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

Return to Barcelona

The journey back takes about two hours. Many travelers appreciated the comfort of the private vehicle, and some even used this time to review photos or relax after the busy day. The tour wraps up around 6 pm, leaving you with a full day of memorable sights and experiences.

What Real Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise André, the guide, for his knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility. A reviewer sums up, “André is a great tour guide. He is knowledgeable, friendly, and provided a lot of useful historical context for the sites we visited.” That personal touch can make all the difference when exploring unfamiliar places.

Some feedback points to consider include the long drive, which might be tiring for those who prefer more leisure, and the fact that lunch is not included—so plan to budget around €15-20 for a meal in Pals. One less favorable review mentioned a guide who was not as attentive or clear, underscoring that the guide’s personality and communication style are key to enjoying this tour.

Why It’s a Good Deal

While the price of $174 includes private transportation and a full day of guided sightseeing, the real value lies in the authentic experiences: walking through medieval streets, tasting local dishes, and snapping photos in legendary filming locations. It’s a well-organized, immersive day that appeals to those seeking both culture and scenery.

Who Should Book This?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full-day, curated experience away from the hustle of Barcelona. It’s perfect if you value guided insights, scenic diversity, and the chance to explore historic towns and coastlines in one seamless trip. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll love the locations, but even if you’re just after authentic Catalan towns and stunning landscapes, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes. The tour provides private, air-conditioned transportation from Barcelona and back, making the long day more comfortable and stress-free.

How long is the drive from Barcelona?
The drive to Girona takes about 70 minutes, and the return trip is roughly two hours. The total transportation time is around 4.5 hours, spread throughout the day.

What is the tour’s length?
The tour lasts about 9 to 11 hours, depending on pace and stops, starting early at 8:30 am and returning around 6 pm.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. However, the stop at Pals offers opportunities to try local dishes, especially the renowned rice casserole.

Is this a group tour?
No, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for customized pacing and more personal interaction.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since the tour involves walking through historic towns and along city walls. Sun protection and swimwear might be useful for Calella de Palafrugell.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the itinerary is set, many positive reviews suggest guides are flexible and attentive to traveler needs.

What’s the best thing about this tour?
Most travelers agree it’s the combination of beautiful scenery, historical insight, and the authenticity of local cuisine. The guide’s knowledge elevates the experience, making it more than just sightseeing.

Are there any downsides?
The main consideration is the amount of time spent on the road, which might feel long for some. Also, since lunch isn’t included, extra planning is necessary.

All in all, this private Girona and Costa Brava tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenic beauty, and local flavor. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided storytelling, authentic towns, and stunning coastal views—pack your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready for a memorable day outside Barcelona.