Destinations, Europe, Spain

Postcards from Girona

Catherine Sweeney
September 19, 2012

Photos of Girona, Spain

My first afternoon in Girona, Spain went along much like most of my visits to a new place. I look for a place to eat, take a lot of photos, walk for miles and occasionally lose my way. After arriving in Girona by train from Barcelona, 65 miles to the south, I headed out for tapas at one of the many outdoor restaurants surrounding the Placa Independencia. Afterwards, I walked for miles through the narrow cobblestone streets, around Girona Cathedral and along the Rio Onyar, one of the four rivers that meet at the city. Girona is often referred to as the Spanish Venice because of the rivers, bridges and picturesque buildings.

When I decided to make my way back to the hotel, I realized that I was completely lost and walking in circles. When traveling, I often start exploring a new place without a map assuming that I’ll find my way eventually. On this afternoon, it took longer than usual but I didn’t mind — it gave me more time to admire the sights of Girona. As it turned out, I had been very close to my hotel a few times, but was just on the opposite side of the river.

There will be more to come soon. For now, enjoy the photos. I hope they give you a bit of the essence of Girona.

 

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52 thoughts on “Postcards from Girona”

  1. jenny@atasteoftravel

    Girona looks fabulous..an interesting city. I love the coloured houses overlooking the river. I’m very envious of you being there for TBEX. Have fun!

  4. Mary @ The World Is A Book

    Absolutely beautiful pictures, Cathy! I wouldn’t mind getting lost here for hours. Love all the architecture and didn’t know that about being the Spanish Venice. I can’t wait to see more pictures and have a wonderful time at TBEX. Jealous 🙂

    1. Cathy Post author

      It’s interesting how several European cities are nicknamed “The Venice of ….”. I think Amsterdam and Bruges have that claim, too.

  6. Tonya @ The Traveling Praters

    Girona is beautiful! I love the old architecture. I’m sure you’ll learn much about the city while you’re there. And now that you mention it, getting lost in the city doesn’t sound like such a terrible thing. Have fun at TBEX!

    1. Cathy Post author

      Getting lost in places like Girona is a whole different thing. Makes it fun, actually. 🙂

  7. Jackie Smith

    So envious of your being in Girona AND of getting to attend TBEX. Have a fabulous time! (From the looks of these photos, that won’t be difficult to do). Keep us posted. . .

    1. Cathy Post author

      I can definitely see where you’d get lost in Bruges. I had no idea where I was going when I was there, but it didn’t matter — loved it!

  9. Leigh

    It sounds like a great start to your travels through Spain. What a scenic section along the river. I can see how you could get messed up.

  10. Lisa @ Gone With The Family

    Girona looks fabulous! If there’s one thing that I’m an expert at it’s getting lost – I have absolutely no sense of direction! I think I have more fun wandering aimlessly than the people who know exactly how to get from point A to point B though! Have a great time at TBEX!!

    1. Cathy Post author

      It really can be fun. I’ve only had a few occasions where my getting lost got a little scary.

  17. Dave Collins

    Smart idea of Girona getting behind TBEX. It’s one of those cities that few people are familiar with, but it’s a real gem. It’s funny that Ryanair calls the airport “Barcelona Girona” – as if you’d only ever fly there if you thought it was near to Barcelona!

    1. Cathy Post author

      I was wondering about the airport name, too. Does seem a bit far away to be considered one of Barcelona’s airports.

  19. Andrew Graeme Gould

    Simply wandering around is a great way to get the feel of a place, and to find interesting images. Looking forward to hearing and seeing more!

    1. Cathy Post author

      Can’t believe I’m so behind in sharing more pics and info about my trip. I’m working on it!

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    1. Cathy Post author

      “Well, I’ve never been to Spain, but I’ve been to ….” — remember that song? 🙂 Anyway, I’m glad that I can now say that I’ve been there!

    1. Cathy Post author

      It was my first trip to Spain and I loved every place I visited. Lots more to see, however.

  24. Laurel

    I love how you’ve captured Girona, it’s such a beautiful city and one of those places that I could walk around for hours trying all the tapas.

    1. Cathy Post author

      Thanks, Laurel. I would have kept walking around for hours there, even if I hadn’t gotten lost!

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