Private Tour Girona & Tossa de Mar from Barcelona

Exploring the Charm of Catalonia: A Detailed Look at the Private Girona & Tossa de Mar Tour

If you’re seeking a taste of authentic Catalonia beyond Barcelona’s bustling streets, this private tour of Girona and Tossa de Mar offers a wonderful blend of history, scenic views, and leisurely exploration. Organized by MADRID LANDS and priced at $365 per person, it promises a day filled with cobbled streets, ancient walls, and spectacular coastal vistas. We’ve reviewed this experience to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your travel plans.

What makes this tour truly appealing are three standout features: the chance to walk along Girona’s impressive fortified walls, visiting the city’s stunning cathedral with its record-breaking nave, and the opportunity to experience Tossa de Mar’s well-preserved medieval fortress. Plus, the small-group format with a dedicated guide-driver promises a more personalized and relaxed experience.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the overall length of the day—be prepared for a fair amount of travel and walking. This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, scenic landscapes, and culture but may prefer a more leisurely pace rather than a tightly packed schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Catalan towns: Explore Girona’s medieval streets and Tossa de Mar’s historic fortress.
• Spectacular views: From Girona’s city walls to Tossa’s coastline, scenic vistas are plentiful.
• Small-group experience: Up to 8 participants provide a intimate, personalized feel.
• Expert guidance: A dedicated guide-driver enriches the journey with local insights.
• Flexible options: Optional extension with a scenic cruise along the Costa Brava.
• Value for money: All transportation, guide, and visits included in the price.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting from Barcelona: Comfort and Convenience

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Barcelona, which is a major convenience. It saves you the hassle of navigating public transport and ensures a smooth start to the day. The vehicle provided is adapted to the group size, keeping the experience cozy and comfortable—crucial when covering a range of destinations in a single day.

First Stop: Girona—The “City of the Four Rivers”

Our first destination is Girona, a city famous for its unique layout and vibrant history. The drive from Barcelona takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving travelers a chance to relax and enjoy the scenic drive through Catalonia’s landscape.

We begin at the Stone Bridge (Pont de Pedra). This iconic bridge offers an immediate sense of place, with panoramic views of the Onyar River and the charming, colorful houses that cling to its banks. It’s a popular spot for photos and sets the tone for what’s to come.

From there, we head into Girona’s Old Town (Barri Vell). Narrow, winding cobblestone streets lead us through a labyrinth of history, lined with medieval buildings and lively cafes. This area is a highlight for those who love wandering historical neighborhoods without a strict schedule.

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The Magnificent Girona Cathedral

The crown jewel of Girona is its Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona. Known for its baroque façade and the widest Gothic nave in the world, the cathedral is impressive both inside and out. Visitors are often taken aback by the sheer scale of the interior, which is a visual feast of stained glass windows and stonework.

Interestingly, Girona’s cathedral has also gained fame as a filming location for the series “Game of Thrones,” adding a touch of modern pop culture appeal for fans.

Walking the City Walls: Spectacular Panoramas

No visit to Girona is complete without walking along the ancient city walls. These ramparts date back to medieval times and offer spectacular views of the city, surrounding countryside, and beyond. The accessible points of the walls allow a leisurely stroll with plenty of photo opportunities and a sense of stepping back in time.

Guests have mentioned the views from the wall as a major highlight, with one reviewer noting “the panoramic scenery made you feel like you were on the top of the world.” The walls also provide insight into Girona’s defensive architecture, making this a meaningful stop for history buffs.

Transition to Tossa de Mar: Coastal Charm

After wrapping up in Girona, the tour continues with a scenic 30-minute drive to Tossa de Mar, a jewel on the Costa Brava. This town offers a dramatic contrast to Girona’s cityscape, with its medieval fortress overlooking a picturesque bay.

Tossa de Mar Castle: A 12th-Century Defense

Perched atop a hill, the castle in Tossa de Mar was built in the 12th century to defend against pirates and invaders. The views from the castle’s main square are breathtaking—overlooking the beach and the old town. Many guests comment on how the castle’s history adds depth to their visit, imagining the battles and lives from centuries past.

Exploring Vila Vella: The Only Fortified Medieval Town on the Costa Brava

Inside the castle walls lies Vila Vella, the only surviving fortified medieval town on the Costa Brava. Walking through its cobbled streets, lined with stone houses, pots, and colorful flowers, feels like stepping into a living postcard. Reviews describe it as “a magical place where history and seaside charm collide,” and many mention how the small, winding streets invite relaxed exploration.

Guests often spend time browsing local stores selling souvenirs, or simply soaking in the seaside atmosphere with views of the shimmering water below.

Lunch with a View

The tour includes a lunch break on a terrace overlooking the sea, giving you a chance to enjoy local cuisine with stunning scenery. Many travelers appreciate this relaxed pause, a perfect blend of delicious food and panoramic vistas.

Free Time and Optional Extra: A Cruise Along the Costa Brava

After lunch, you’ll have free time to revisit the old town or to wander along the promenade. For those wanting to extend the adventure, there’s an option to take a scenic cruise along the coast, offering views of dramatic cliffs and hidden coves that give the Costa Brava its famous rugged beauty.

Guests who have taken this optional extension have described it as “the perfect way to see the coast from a different perspective,” and praise the cruise for its spectacular scenery.

Transportation, Group Size, and Practical Details

The entire journey is conducted in a vehicle suited to the group size, which is capped at 8 participants. This small-group format ensures a more intimate experience, with personalized attention from your guide-driver. The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time and stops, making it a full but comfortably paced day.

Pickup and drop-off at your Barcelona hotel is included, which is especially convenient if you’re staying in or near the city center. The tour is offered in English and Spanish, so language accessibility is good.

What to Prepare

Given the amount of walking and outdoor exploration, wearing comfortable shoes and sun protection like sunglasses is advised. Pack light, comfy clothing, and, if you want to capture the views, a camera or smartphone.

Pricing and Value

At $365 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, guided by knowledgeable local guides. The price includes transportation, entry to Girona, and Tossa de Mar, plus the guide-driver services. While lunch and optional extras like a cruise are not included, the overall cost remains competitive considering the personalized experience and the scope of sights covered.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to combine cultural discovery with scenic beauty. It’s perfect if you enjoy walking through historic streets, appreciating panoramic views, and leisurely exploring small towns. The small group size and private guide make it especially suitable for those seeking a tailored, relaxed adventure without feeling rushed.

If you’re interested in history, medieval architecture, or coastal landscapes, this tour checks all those boxes. The optional cruise makes it even more appealing for those looking for a little extra adventure on the water.

The Sum Up

This private Girona and Tossa de Mar tour from Barcelona offers a comprehensive glimpse into Catalonia’s historical and coastal charm. The day’s pace allows you to explore significant landmarks, soak in spectacular scenery, and enjoy authentic local flavor—without the crowds or rush of larger tours. The small-group format and expert guidance ensure a personalized experience, making it a worthwhile choice for those who value quality and authenticity.

While it’s a full day, the variety of stops—from Girona’s grand cathedral and medieval walls to Tossa de Mar’s fortress and seaside charm—keeps the experience lively and engaging. Perfect for history lovers, scenic seekers, and anyone wanting a deeper dive into Costa Brava’s treasures.

For travelers who appreciate a mix of culture, history, and stunning coastal views, this tour delivers a balanced and memorable day out. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy walking and exploring at a relaxed, comfortable pace, with the flexibility of optional extras like a scenic cruise.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a tour guide-driver, transportation suited to the group size, and visits to Girona and Tossa de Mar.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour is a fixed itinerary, but the optional cruise extension can be added if you want to see the coastline from the water.

How long is the transfer from Barcelona to Girona?
It takes approximately 1.5 hours by vehicle, providing a comfortable start to the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and suitable clothing are recommended. A camera is also a good idea for capturing views.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a stop on the coast for a scenic meal on a terrace overlooking the sea.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the group size?
Up to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes, families comfortable with walking and outdoor exploration should enjoy this day trip.

Are there any age restrictions?
There are no specific age restrictions, but keep in mind the walking involved.

What languages are the guides available in?
The tour is offered in English and Spanish.

This detailed guide should help you decide if this private tour is the right way to uncover some of Catalonia’s most captivating sights—combining history, scenic beauty, and relaxed exploration into one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: