Where to stay in Girona
Girona is defined by the Onyar River, which splits the compact medieval core from the modern grid. Most visitors center their stay within a fifteen-minute walk of the river. The historic Barri Vell sits on the steep eastern bank, while the western side offers easier logistics and flatter terrain. Choosing where to stay depends on whether you prefer the atmospheric, hilly cobblestones of the old quarter or the functional, convenient grid of the Eixample.
Barri Vell
This is the heart of Girona, where you navigate narrow, sloping alleys and stone staircases. It feels like stepping back centuries, though you will be climbing hills constantly. From here, you are steps away from the Girona Cathedral and the Arab Baths. The neighborhood is entirely pedestrianized, making it quiet at night but tricky if you are arriving with heavy luggage by car.
Eixample
The Eixample is the city’s post-industrial grid, offering wide, flat boulevards that are significantly easier to navigate with suitcases. It feels vibrant and local, filled with independent boutiques and cafes along Carrer de la Creu. You can easily walk to the train station in ten minutes or cross the bridge into the old town in five minutes.
Mercadal
Tucked between the river and the newer city, Mercadal offers the perfect middle ground. The streets are lined with bustling tapas bars and outdoor terraces, particularly around Plaça de la Independència. It feels energetic and very social. You are within a five-minute walk of the Pont de les Peixateries Velles and the main commercial streets, balancing old-world charm with modern amenities.
One thing to think about
Avoid staying directly on the main tourist thoroughfares like Rambla de la Llibertat if you are a light sleeper. The proximity to high-traffic dining spots and the echo of cobblestone streets can create significant noise well past midnight, especially during the warmer summer months.
Other places to stay in Spain: lastminute.com · Megabon
Once you have a bed
The things that sell out first in Girona are the small-group tours and the skip-the-line tickets.
Common questions
Do I need a rental car to see the city?
Absolutely not. Girona is exceptionally walkable, and the city center is small enough that you can cross between the historic and modern districts on foot in under fifteen minutes. If you plan to explore the surrounding Costa Brava, pick up a rental car from the train station only on the specific days you intend to leave the city.
Which side of the river is better for a first-time visitor?
The Barri Vell side offers the quintessential Girona experience with views and history, but the Eixample is far more practical for luggage and transport access. For a first visit, I recommend staying on the Mercadal side; it provides the best of both worlds, keeping you central to the historic sights while remaining accessible by taxi or foot from the bus and train terminals.
Is it worth staying near the train station?
Staying near the station is only useful if you have an early morning departure or late-night arrival. While the area is functional and cheaper, it lacks the medieval charm of the city center. Given that the station is only a ten to fifteen-minute walk from the main attractions, you are better off staying in the heart of the city to enjoy the atmosphere.
Hotel links go to Booking.com.