Girona is a city in the heart of Catalonia known for its medieval charm and connection to the popular TV series Game of Thrones. While the predominant language in Girona is Catalan, Spanish is also spoken and understood.
“Game of Thrones” was a truly remarkable series that captivated audiences worldwide. Over eight exciting years, from 2011 to 2019, this epic fantasy spectacle transported us to many incredible locations across the globe, including Iceland, Malta, Croatia, Northern Ireland, and Morocco. And one of these spots is Girona.
Reminder: Don’t forget to download the Piri Guide to explore Girona step by step with your personal tour guide! 😊
Where is Girona?
Girona is a historic city in Catalonia, Spain. It is located 99 km northeast of Barcelona. The city features medieval architecture. It includes a cathedral, an ancient city wall, and a Jewish quarter. Girona also boasts a picturesque riverside location along the Onyar River.
How to Go to Girona?
By Air:
The city has its own airport, Girona-Costa Brava Airport. It serves as a hub for several low-cost airlines.
By Train:
You can take a train to Girona from various cities in Spain. Renfe, the Spanish national railway company, operates services to and from Girona. The train station is centrally in the city.
By Bus:
There are long-distance bus services connecting Girona to various cities in Spain and neighbouring countries. Companies like ALSA provide bus services to and from Girona.
When to Visit Girona?
Spring and summer offer ideal conditions for a trip to Girona. Yet, it’s crucial to be aware that the city experiences a surge in visitors during the Temps de Flors festival in May and the Sant Joan festival in June. If you intend to visit during these periods, you should secure your accommodation well ahead of time.
3 Film Locations of Game of Thrones in Girona
We’ve mentioned 3 must-visit GoT spots in Girona. Yet, we should remind you that you can find more on the Piri Guide mobile app. Piri Guide detects your location, offers you the best travel routes, and starts telling you the hidden stories of wherever you are. All you have to do is to get your headphones or earbuds and follow the path at your own pace. Then, don’t set out for your trip before downloading the digital travel guide! 😊
Church of Sant Martí
Arya suffered injuries on the steps of this church while attempting to evade the waif. As she fled, she stumbled down a flight of stairs, causing a cascade of orange baskets. Does that jog your memory?
The church has its unique arch carvings and meticulously preserved baroque facade. Additionally, these steps might be recognizable from the 2009 film Perfume: The Story of a Murderer.
Girona Cathedral
The structure blends both Romanesque and Gothic features.
The cathedral takes the central stage, playing a major role in a handful of episodes. And wait for it, it’s a shape-shifting wizard too! It effortlessly transforms into different corners of King’s Landing.
This Gothic building was the Great Sept of Baelor, the main worship place for the Faith of the Seven in the series. Remember how Jaime rode onto the scene on his horse, climbing up these steps? Two hundred Tyrell soldiers, sparrows, beggars, and many more added vitality to the kingdom. Queen Margaery, portrayed by Natalie Dormer, stood on these steps, too!
Galligants Bridge
In the seventh episode of the sixth season, it was a bridge that played a significant role. CGI created a stunningly moulded landscape that Arya Stark gazes upon. The scene is full of intrigue and blurs the line between reality and fiction. Later on, Arya is stabbed by a forlorn girl with the face of an old woman on this same bridge. In the distance, a 400-foot giant of Braavos stands guard over a fictional harbour. Although Arya’s underwater journey was in Northern Ireland, this bridge still captures the essence of the scenario.
You may also want to read the Barcelona Travel Guide!
