Girona and Costa Brava Small Group Tour from Barcelona

Experience the Beauty of Girona and Costa Brava in a Day

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Barcelona and indulge in some of Catalonia’s most picturesque sights, the Girona and Costa Brava small group tour offers a well-balanced, engaging journey. For around $116, you’ll spend about nine hours exploring medieval villages, Roman remnants, and stunning coastline with a knowledgeable guide (some have even called their guides “Papa Bear,” “Guillame,” or “Julio,” which adds a personal touch). A highlight is the private, air-conditioned transport that means no stress and no parking hassles, allowing you to relax and soak in the scenery.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines authentic towns with cinematic fame—Girona’s medieval streets and Game of Thrones filming locations—alongside the natural beauty of Costa Brava’s rugged coastline. The small group size (capped at seven people) keeps things intimate, providing ample opportunity for questions, personalized attention, and genuine moments of discovery. And while the price is modest, the experience feels quite premium, especially with a professional guide leading the way.

The one thing to consider? The tour is quite packed, with just enough time at each stop, which might feel a little rushed if you’re eager to linger or explore in depth. Still, for most travelers, the well-paced itinerary hits a very good balance. This trip best suits those who appreciate history, picture-perfect vistas, and a relaxed but informative day out. If you want a taste of Catalonia’s medieval roots and seaside charm without breaking the bank, this tour is a winner.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personal experience.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers Girona, medieval villages, and Costa Brava’s coast.
• Expert guides provide engaging, detailed commentary.
• Convenient transportation removes the stress of driving and parking.
• Authentic sights include Game of Thrones filming locations, Roman walls, and medieval architecture.
• Flexible timing allows for free time in seaside Calella de Palafrugell.

Why Choose This Tour? An In-Depth Look

This Girona and Costa Brava tour is designed for travelers who want to see more than just Barcelona’s famous streets, without the hassle of organizing multiple day trips or rentals themselves. The experience offers a thoughtfully curated route that combines history, scenery, and local flavor—delivered comfortably via private, air-conditioned transport.

You’ll find the price of $115.86 quite reasonable considering the inclusions: private transportation, a professional guide, and several notable stops. It’s a good value for those seeking an enriching day with minimal planning. Several reviews mention the guides’ knowledge and personable style, which makes all the difference in transforming a sightseeing trip into a memorable journey.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

Starting from the central meeting point on Passeig de Gràcia, the trip kicks off early at 8:30 am. The first stop is the Eiffel Bridge in Girona, a charming iron span built in 1877 by Gustave Eiffel himself. Walking over it gives you an immediate sense of stepping into history, and it’s the gateway to the cobbled streets of the old town.

Next, you’ll visit Pujada de Sant Domenec, a Game of Thrones favorite. This swoon-worthy spot, now part of Girona University, offers fantastic angles for photos and a glimpse into the town’s medieval past. The Girona Cathedral follows, famed for its massive Gothic nave—the second widest in the world—an impressive sight that dominates the skyline.

The scenic drive then takes you into the Emporda wine region, where lush green fields and agricultural landscapes set a tranquil tone. After that, you’ll explore Peratallada, a tiny but perfectly preserved medieval village with just nine residents. This village feels like stepping back in time, with its narrow streets, stone buildings, and castle remains. Reviews rave about how magical and well-preserved this spot is, with one traveler calling it “unbelievable.”

Finally, the coastal leg takes you into Costa Brava, specifically Calella de Palafrugell. This old fishing village, with its charming harbor, offers two hours of free time for a seaside lunch, a swim, or simply wandering the narrow streets. The beauty here can be summed up as classic Mediterranean, with rocky coves and colorful boats. Many reviews highlight the tranquility and scenic vistas you’ll enjoy during your stop.

The return drive to Barcelona takes about two hours, passing through what some call “the Tuscany of Spain,” thanks to the rolling hills and olive groves. The relaxed pace allows you to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Authentic Experiences Worth Noting

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the guides’ expertise—they are not just drivers but storytellers who share detailed insights into each location. Multiple reviewers mention how guides like Guillaume, William, or Julio made the trip engaging and informative, often sharing personal stories and local tips.

The stops at Girona’s Game of Thrones locations truly excite fans, but even for those unfamiliar with the show, the medieval streets and Roman walls are visually stunning and historically interesting. The Girona Cathedral’s immense nave is a standout, and the fact that you walk over the Eiffel Bridge, built by the same engineer as the Eiffel Tower, is a fun tidbit.

In Costa Brava, the seaside town of Calella de Palafrugell leaves a lasting impression—picturesque, peaceful, and ideal for a quick dip or meal by the sea. Several reviews mention how much they valued this relaxing break, especially after a day of sightseeing.

The Value of the Tour

At just under $120, you’re paying for full-day transportation, expert guiding, and access to several key sights—all without the hassle of navigating alone. The small group size enhances the experience, making it easier to interact with your guide and fellow travelers. Since lunch isn’t included, bringing your own or planning ahead is advisable, but the two hours in Calella de Palafrugell provide plenty of options for a seaside meal.

Possible Drawbacks

The main point to keep in mind is the tight schedule—every stop is timed, and during peak season, the short amount of free time in each location might feel hurried for some. If you’re a slow explorer or prefer to linger longer at each site, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re not comfortable with group tours, the small but shared experience could feel a bit rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip works best for history lovers, photographers, and small-group travelers who enjoy engaging guides and scenic spots. It’s also a great choice for those who want to see a variety of sights in one day—medieval architecture, film locations, and coastal vistas—without the stress of planning each part.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, with the start at 8:30 am and returning around 5:30 pm.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is on Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona, and the tour ends back at the same location.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are two hours in Calella de Palafrugell for you to find a seaside restaurant or grab a snack.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear and beach towel if visiting Costa Brava in summer. Comfortable walking shoes and a camera are also recommended.

How big are the groups?
Groups are capped at seven travelers to maintain an intimate experience.

Are there any admission fees?
Most stops are free; the main attractions like Girona Cathedral and Peratallada do not require paid tickets in this itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the itinerary is geared towards those interested in history and scenery, so check the pace if traveling with very young children.

How much time do you spend in each location?
Typically around 20 minutes at key sites in Girona, about an hour in Peratallada, and two hours free in Calella de Palafrugell.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Final Thoughts

This Girona and Costa Brava tour offers a perfect blend of history, scenery, and personal touches that make for a memorable day outside Barcelona. The small-group format with expert guides ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the carefully selected stops showcase the region’s best features—medieval streets, film locations, and coastal charm.

It’s especially ideal for travelers who value authentic sights and stories over generic sightseeing. The value for the money is clear, given the comprehensive itinerary, comfortable transport, and engaging guides. A great choice for those who want to experience Catalonia’s diverse beauty without the hassle of planning every detail.

If you’re short on time but eager to see a different side of Spain—one filled with old-world charm and seaside serenity—this tour will likely check every box. Just be prepared for a busy day, and you’ll come away with plenty of stories (and pictures) to share.