Girona, Besalú & Pals: Medieval Catalonia Day Trip
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Overview
Barcelona: Discover Girona, Besalú and Pals on a Guided Tour. This adventure shows visitors the magic of old Catalonia. It's a trip to three pretty villages: Girona, Besalú, and Pals. Each one has its own special history and beauty.
Get ready to see amazing places! In Girona, there's a big church called the Girona Cathedral. People can walk through the old Jewish area. There's even a bridge designed by Eiffel, the same person who made the Eiffel Tower! Plus, they can see old Arab Baths and a lion statue called “Cul de la Lleona”. Next is Besalú, where they can cross a Roman bridge and visit an old synagogue. They will also discover the church of San Vicente and the monastery of San Pedro. The tour ends in Pals, a town with stone streets and old towers. The views of Empordà are amazing! Check out the church of San Pedro and the Tower of the Hours. Don't miss the Josep Pla viewpoint.
This tour is great for anyone who likes culture, old buildings, and pretty views. It's perfect for people who love history, taking pictures, and seeing the real Catalonia. The tour includes a guide who speaks English and Spanish. Also, there's air conditioning in the vehicle. Food is not included.

Highlights
Explore Medieval Villages: See the charming villages of Girona, Besalú, and Pals.
Discover Historical Sites: Visit the Girona Cathedral and the Jewish Quarter.
Cross Iconic Bridges: Walk across the Eiffel Bridge and the Roman bridge in Besalú.
Enjoy Stunning Views: See the Empordà landscape from Pals.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally enjoyed the tour, highlighting the beautiful locations and knowledgeable guides. Some felt rushed and wanted more free time.

Customers loved seeing the beautiful medieval villages.
Many enjoyed the tour guide's knowledge and enthusiasm.
Visitors appreciated the comfortable transportation.
The small group size allowed for a more personal experience.
Some felt that the tour was too rushed.
A few wished they had more free time to explore on their own.
The Journey
Cul de la Lleona
Seek good fortune by kissing the Cul de la Lleona (Lioness's Bottom) statue in Girona's Plaça Sant Feliu. This quirky tradition, dating back centuries, is said to guarantee a return to the beloved city. A small ladder assists visitors in reaching the statue, creating a fun and memorable photo opportunity. More than just a touristy act, it's a connection to Girona's local folklore and history.
Girona Cathedral
Marvel at the grandeur of Girona Cathedral, a captivating architectural masterpiece showcasing Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. Explore its vast single-nave Gothic interior, the widest of its kind in the world. Discover its rich history, tracing back to a former mosque, and admire the stunning stained glass windows and the famed Tapestry of Creation. Ascend the bell tower for panoramic views of Girona's enchanting cityscape.
Monastery of San Pedro de Galligans
Discover the serene beauty of the Monastery of San Pedro de Galligans, a former Benedictine abbey in Girona. A prime example of Catalan Romanesque architecture, it now houses the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia in Girona. Explore the tranquil cloister with its intricately carved capitals depicting biblical scenes and mythical creatures. Immerse yourself in the history and artistry of this spiritual haven, a testament to Catalonia's rich medieval past.
Pont de les Peixateries Velles (Eiffel Bridge)
Cross the iconic Pont de les Peixateries Velles, also known as the Eiffel Bridge or Iron Bridge, a striking red iron structure designed by Gustave Eiffel's company in 1876. Spanning the Onyar River, this bridge offers picturesque views of Girona's colorful houses along the riverbanks. Experience a blend of industrial design and urban charm as you walk between the old town and the newer parts of the city, capturing the essence of Girona's unique character.
Miqvé de Besalú
Descend into history at the Miqvé de Besalú, a remarkably preserved 12th-century Jewish ritual bath. Located beneath the remains of a former synagogue, this sacred space features a vaulted chamber and a purification pool accessed by a 36-step staircase. One of Europe's oldest and best-preserved mikvehs, it offers a profound glimpse into the region's Jewish heritage and the spiritual practices of medieval Jewish communities.
Monestir de Sant Pere de Besalú
Step back in time at the Monestir de Sant Pere de Besalú, a Romanesque Benedictine monastery founded in 977. Admire the basilica layout, intricately sculpted capitals, and symbolic lion carvings that adorn this historic site. Located in Plaça Sant Pere, the monastery stands as a testament to Catalonia's medieval architectural prowess and spiritual legacy. Explore its tranquil interior and uncover the stories etched into its ancient stones.
Pals
Wander through the beautifully preserved medieval village of Pals, a hidden gem on the Costa Brava. Lose yourself in its cobbled streets, admire the stone archways, and ascend the ancient tower for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Nestled in the Province of Girona, Pals exudes a timeless charm, offering a serene escape and a captivating glimpse into Catalonia’s rich history. Discover artisan shops, savor local cuisine, and soak in the authentic atmosphere of this enchanting village.
Know Before You Go
This guided tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and a guide who speaks both English and Spanish. Meals are not included. Please note that the tour includes walking on uneven surfaces and some moderate inclines. The tour starts and ends in Barcelona. Please confirm the exact meeting point upon booking.
Hot Tip
Some travelers suggest wearing comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets. Consider bringing snacks and water, as meals are not included. It can also be helpful to bring a camera to capture all of the amazing sights.