I always spend a lot of time researching the transportation systems of the places I visit. This is to ensure that my travels are as smooth and enjoyable as possible. I’m going to share with you a comprehensive transportation guide for Girona, the charming city located in the heart of Catalonia, Spain. Whether you’re flying in, taking the train, or using other transport methods, I’ll provide you with all the details you need to navigate Girona efficiently and comfortably.
Modes of Transportation
Girona offers a variety of convenient transportation options that make traveling to and around the city very easy. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a frequent traveler, these options will ensure that your journey is both efficient and enjoyable.
Air Travel
The main airport in Girona is Girona-Costa Brava Airport (Aeropuerto de Girona-Costa Brava), which is approximately 12 kilometers (about 7.5 miles) from the city center. The airport is one of Spain’s third-largest aviation hubs and offers numerous flight options from both domestic and international destinations. For travelers coming from Europe or other parts of the world, flying into Girona is a very convenient choice.
Getting to the City from the Airport
Once you arrive at Girona-Costa Brava Airport, you have a few transportation options to get to the city center. The most common and affordable choice is the airport bus service. Buses run frequently from the airport to the main bus station (Estació d’Autobusos) in the city center, and the journey takes around 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, taxis are available at the airport for a more comfortable and direct route, though they are a more expensive option. If you have a lot of luggage or prefer a more private transfer, a taxi might be the best choice.
Train Travel
For travelers coming from other European cities or other parts of Spain, the train is an excellent and convenient option. The Girona train station (Estació de Girona) is the city’s main rail hub, offering connections to major cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, and even Paris. The train ride from Barcelona to Girona takes about 40 to 60 minutes, making it a quick and comfortable way to travel.
Girona’s train station also offers international connections, including a direct train to Paris. If you’re coming from Paris or other parts of Europe, taking the train to Girona offers a scenic and relaxed journey. Additionally, for domestic travelers, trains between Barcelona and Girona are frequent and easy to book.
Public Transportation
Once you arrive in the city, Girona offers excellent public transportation options. The city has a reliable bus system that can take you to all the major attractions. The bus stops are located throughout the city center, and it’s easy to find the best routes using a map or mobile app. If you prefer a more private transport option, taxis are also available. They can be hailed from the street or booked via an app, offering flexibility and convenience for tourists.
The city’s compact size also makes walking a great way to explore. Many of Girona’s top attractions, such as the Girona Cathedral, the Jewish Quarter, and the old city, are located within walking distance of each other. Exploring these landmarks on foot allows you to fully immerse yourself in the history and charm of the city.
Flight Recommendations
Girona’s accessibility through various transportation options makes it easy to choose the right flight for your trip. Whether you’re coming from another European city or need to transfer in Barcelona, there are plenty of flight options available. Here are my recommendations for flights to Girona:
International Flights
Most major European cities, such as Paris, London, Munich, and Berlin, offer direct flights to Girona-Costa Brava Airport. Due to the airport’s strong connection with low-cost airlines, you can often find affordable flights with carriers like EasyJet, Ryanair, and Vueling. These low-cost airlines offer direct flights from cities like London, Paris, and Barcelona, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Recommended Airlines
- EasyJet: As one of Europe’s largest budget airlines, EasyJet offers numerous direct flights to Girona from major cities like Paris, London, and Barcelona. Booking with EasyJet can be an affordable option for travelers looking to fly directly into Girona.
- Ryanair: Ryanair is another key low-cost carrier servicing Girona. It offers flights from several European cities, including London and Dublin. Ryanair is known for its competitive pricing and numerous direct routes to Girona.
Domestic Flights
If you’re traveling from other parts of Spain, Barcelona-El Prat Airport is the most common transfer hub. From Barcelona, it’s easy to reach Girona by bus, train, or car, and these options provide an excellent connection between the two cities.
- From Madrid to Girona: If you’re traveling from Spain’s capital, Madrid, the best way to get to Girona is by high-speed train. The train ride takes about 2.5 hours, offering a fast and comfortable journey.
- From Barcelona to Girona: If you’re coming from Barcelona, the train is the most convenient option. It takes less than an hour to travel from Barcelona to Girona, making it an ideal choice for domestic travelers.
Travel Tips and Recommendations
- Booking Flights and Train Tickets: To secure the best prices on flights and train tickets, I recommend booking in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Low-cost airlines like EasyJet and Ryanair often offer the best prices if you book several weeks in advance. For trains, booking in advance will also help you save money and ensure a reserved seat.
- Luggage and Transfers: After your flight, if you need to transfer from the airport to the city center, check bus schedules or pre-book a taxi for a seamless arrival experience. Many airports, including Girona’s, also offer rental car services if you plan to drive around Girona or explore the surrounding areas.
- Local Transport Cards: Girona’s public transportation system is very convenient, and visitors can purchase local transport cards that allow for unlimited travel within the city for a set number of days. This is ideal for tourists who plan to visit multiple attractions and use public transport frequently.
Girona’s excellent transportation options make it an easy city to visit, whether you’re flying in, taking the train, or using other methods of travel. With frequent flights from major European cities, easy train connections from Barcelona and Madrid, and a well-organized public transport system, Girona is an accessible and convenient destination for any traveler. Once in the city, you can easily navigate between attractions by foot, bus, or taxi.
I hope this Girona travel guide helps you plan your trip and ensures that your journey to this beautiful Catalonian city is smooth and enjoyable!