## Girona Centre: Exploring the Heart of a Historic Catalan City
Girona Centre, the historic and cultural heart of Girona city in Catalonia, Spain, offers visitors a rich blend of medieval charm, architectural beauty, and vibrant local life. Nestled on a small hill between the rivers Onyar and Ter, Girona Centre is a compact area perfectly suited for exploration on foot, boasting a wealth of landmarks, narrow cobbled streets, and picturesque river views.
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### Location and Accessibility
Located about 100 km north of Barcelona, Girona Centre is easily accessible by train (around 50 minutes from Barcelona Sants station) or via Girona Airport, just 14 km away. The city center’s walkability is exceptional, with a perfect score of 100 out of 100 for ease of access to restaurants, attractions, and amenities within a short distance[1].
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### Historic and Cultural Highlights
**Barri Vell (Old Town):**
The old quarter of Girona, known as Barri Vell, is an enchanting maze of medieval streets and alleys ascending a hillside. It houses some of Girona’s most iconic sites, including:
- **Girona Cathedral:** Dominating the skyline, this cathedral features the widest Gothic nave in the world (23 meters) and combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles. Visitors enter via a dramatic staircase of 90 steps and can explore the cathedral museum[5][6].
- **Jewish Quarter (El Call Jueu):** One of Europe’s best-preserved medieval Jewish neighborhoods, this labyrinth of narrow streets and staircases tells the story of a once-thriving Jewish community until their expulsion in 1492. The Bonastruc ça Porta center, housed in a 15th-century synagogue, offers insights into this rich history[5][6].
- **City Walls (Passeig de la Muralla):** Walk along the ancient city walls dating from the 9th century Carolingian period and the 14th-15th century medieval expansions. The wall walk provides panoramic views over the city and surrounding landscapes[1][5][6].
- **Sant Pere de Galligants Monastery:** A striking 12th-century Romanesque monastery now hosting the Archaeological Museum of Catalonia, with exhibits spanning from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages[5][8].
- **Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs):** Dating from 1194, these baths are inspired by Moorish design and beautifully restored, offering a glimpse into medieval bathing culture[6].
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### Scenic Views and Iconic Spots
- **Onyar River and Painted Houses:** The colorful “hanging houses” lining the river Onyar are Girona’s postcard image. The Eiffel Bridge (Pont de les Peixateries Velles), designed by Gustav Eiffel before his famous Paris tower, is a must-see for its striking red ironwork and river views[5][8].
- **Plaça de la Independència:** A lively 19th-century square filled with terraces, restaurants, and nightlife, anchored by a monument commemorating the city’s defenders from the 1809 siege[6].
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### Cultural Experiences and Activities
- **Museu del Cinema:** Located in the Mercadal district, this museum showcases the history of cinema through a collection of pre-cinema artifacts and exhibits[1][6].
- **Game of Thrones Tours:** Fans of the series can explore filming locations scattered throughout Girona, especially in the Jewish quarter and cathedral area[6][8].
- **Food and Culinary Tours:** Girona is a gastronomic hub, with tours offering tastes of Catalan specialties such as botifarra, pa amb tomàquet, and xuixos (cream-filled pastries)[6].
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### Accommodation and Dining
The city center offers a variety of accommodation options, from stylish design hotels like Museu Llegendes de Girona in the old town to charming bed and breakfasts with views over the city. Dining options abound, with over 200 restaurants within a short walking radius, ranging from Mediterranean fine dining to cozy French creperies[1].
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### Why Visit Girona Centre?
Girona Centre provides a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern Catalan life without the crowds of nearby Barcelona. Its compact size, rich heritage, and scenic beauty make it ideal for a day trip or a longer stay while exploring the Costa Brava region.
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### Summary
| Feature | Highlight |
|----------------------------|---------------------------------------------|
| Location | 100 km north of Barcelona, easily accessible by train and airport |
| Historic Sites | Girona Cathedral, Jewish Quarter, City Walls, Arab Baths |
| Iconic Views | Onyar River painted houses, Eiffel Bridge |
| Museums & Culture | Museu del Cinema, Archaeological Museum |
| Activities | Game of Thrones tours, food tours |
| Dining & Accommodation | 200+ restaurants, diverse hotels and B&Bs |
Girona Centre invites visitors to step back in time while enjoying vibrant urban life, making it a must-visit destination in Catalonia.
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