Barcelona: Discover Girona, Besalú & Pals on a Guided Tour

For travelers craving a taste of medieval charm and scenic beauty just outside Barcelona, the tour to Girona, Besalú, and Pals offers a compelling mix of history, architecture, and breathtaking views. Organized by Amigo Tours Spain, this full-day excursion promises a well-balanced mix of guided exploration and free time. It’s ideal for those who want to see three of Catalonia’s most picturesque villages without the hassle of planning every detail.

What makes this experience stand out? Firstly, the diverse landscapes and architecture—from Girona’s Gothic cathedral and Eiffel Bridge to Besalú’s ancient Roman bridge and Jewish quarter, and Pals’ cobbled streets and panoramic viewpoints. Second, the well-paced itinerary ensures you get ample time at each stop to wander and soak in the atmosphere. Third, the cost-value ratio is attractive, considering transportation, guides, and authentic sights packed into one day.

However, a potential drawback is the length of travel time—about 4.5 hours on the bus—so it might feel a bit long for those with limited stamina or very young children. Also, the tour is not suited for wheelchair users, which is worth considering if accessibility is a priority. This trip suits history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore Catalonia’s rich heritage in a single day.

Key Points

• Authentic Villages: Visit three of Catalonia’s most charming historical towns, each with unique character.
• Balanced Schedule: Guided tours combined with free time allow for in-depth exploration and relaxed sightseeing.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views, especially from Pals’ viewpoints and Girona’s scenic streets.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation and guided commentary, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.
• Time Consideration: Long travel hours require comfortable shoes and patience.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The day kicks off at Estación de Francia, a central and accessible meeting point in Barcelona. From there, the group boards a comfortable bus for approximately 1.5 hours to Girona. The vehicle’s comfort is generally praised, making the long drive manageable, and some reviewers noted that the guide’s commentary during transit added interesting context about Catalonia.

Exploring Girona

Arriving in Girona, the guided tour lasts about 1.5 hours, taking you through the old town’s charming streets, where every turn offers a new photo opportunity. The Girona Cathedral, with its imposing façade and one of the widest Gothic naves in the world, is a highlight. Visitors love the way it dominates the skyline and provides a sense of stepping back in time.

The Eiffel Bridge, inspired by Gustave Eiffel, is another postcard-worthy landmark, perfect for snapping memorable photos. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s insights into Girona’s medieval legends and architecture, which lend context to what otherwise could be just beautiful buildings.

One of the tour’s highlights is the Jewish quarter, known as Call Jueu, one of Europe’s best-preserved. Wandering through narrow alleyways and discovering the ancient synagogue gives a real sense of Girona’s multicultural past. Many mention the Arab Baths, a well-preserved site that reveals a glimpse of Moorish influence, and the Cul de la Lleona, a small balcony with a lion sculpture that offers a lovely view over the city.

Reviewers frequently comment on how “every corner feels like a postcard,” emphasizing the picturesque streets and rooftops. The break time allows for a quick coffee or souvenir shopping, giving flexibility to explore independently.

The Journey to Besalú

After about 45 minutes back on the bus, you arrive at Besalú, a true medieval gem that seems frozen in time. The highlight here is undoubtedly the Romanesque bridge, which spans the Fluvià River and offers an iconic photo opportunity. Visitors often mention how surreal it feels to walk across a bridge so historically significant, with some saying it “felt like stepping into a storybook.”

The Jewish quarter is another major attraction, where the ancient synagogue and narrow streets reveal layers of Catalan history. The church of San Vicente and San Pedro monastery add to the authenticity, and many reviewers remark on how well-preserved and atmospheric the village remains.

The free time here is appreciated for allowing visitors to explore boutique shops or enjoy local snacks. Some travelers noted that the village, while small, is packed with surprises and ideal for meandering at your own pace.

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Pals: Scenic Heights and Medieval Streets

The final stop is Pals, a hilltop village offering spectacular views of the Empordà. Guided for about 45 minutes, you’ll walk along cobbled streets lined with centuries-old towers and the church of San Pedro. Pals’ Tower of the Hours provides a perfect vantage point, and many appreciate the views of terraced farmland and rolling hills—a picture-perfect backdrop for photos.

You’ll also visit the viewpoint of Josep Pla, which is considered one of the most picturesque spots in Pals. The free time afterwards lets visitors browse artisan shops or enjoy a quiet lunch while soaking in the rural scenery.

Return Journey and Overall Timing

The bus ride back to Barcelona takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving everyone a chance to relax and reflect on the day. Some reviews mention the value of the guided commentary during this time, which helps make sense of all the sights seen throughout the day.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: The whole trip lasts around 11.5 hours, so starting early is recommended to maximize your time.
• Included: Transportation, guided tours in both English and Spanish, and free time at each village. Food and drinks are not included, so consider packing snacks or planning to buy local specialties.
• Comfort: Wear comfortable shoes—your sightseeing will involve lots of walking on cobbled streets and uneven surfaces.
• Accessibility: This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, as some sites involve uneven terrain and steps.
• Pricing: The tour offers good value considering it covers transportation, expert guidance, and multiple authentic visits in one day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, and photography enthusiasts who want to see several highlights of Catalonia without the hassle of organizing transport or guides. If you’re keen on discovering charming medieval towns, soaking in scenic views, and learning about local heritage, this is a great fit.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, or if mobility is a concern, consider alternative options that offer shorter trips or accessible routes. Also, those traveling with very young children should factor in the long hours and walking involved.

The Sum Up

The Barcelona: Discover Girona, Besalú & Pals tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Catalonia’s medieval spirit and scenic beauty. The combination of guided insights, free time, and spectacular vistas makes it an excellent value for those looking to pack a lot into one day. Both the highlights of Girona’s Gothic charm, the timeless allure of Besalú, and the mountain views from Pals come together to create a memorable experience.

Travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and picturesque landscapes will find ample fulfillment here, especially with the convenience of organized transportation and expert guides. While the long day might not suit everyone, the carefully curated itinerary ensures that you won’t just see sights—you’ll feel like you’re walking through stories and history books come alive.

If you’re eager to explore Catalonia’s quintessential villages and capture stunning images along the way, this tour deserves a spot on your Barcelona itinerary. It balances authentic scenery with cultural richness, making it a worthwhile adventure for curious travelers seeking both beauty and history.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from the designated starting point at Estación de Francia in Barcelona.

How long is the total tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11.5 hours, including sightseeing, breaks, and travel time.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not included. You’ll have free time at each village to buy snacks or meals if desired.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While suitable for most ages, consider the long hours and walking involved. Very young children may find the schedule demanding.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and historical site access limitations.

What languages are the guides speaking?
Guides operate in both English and Spanish, providing commentary in both languages simultaneously.

Embark on this day trip if you’re eager to step into Catalonia’s medieval past, enjoy scenic views, and experience local culture—all in one well-organized adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: