Left photo: Girona Cathedral; Middle photo: Sant Marti; Right photo:
Exploring Girona from the point of a view of a transient—a university student, in particular—gives not just academic insight, but also a glimpse into the heart of the city that bears the promise of a second home.
In my late twenties, I felt an undeniable pull toward a life abroad—one I couldn’t shake, no matter how much I tried to ignore it. After years of working in the travel industry without formal studies to back it up, I knew it was time to take the next step. So, I packed my bags and moved to Spain to pursue my master’s degree in tourism. But deep down, I knew I wasn’t just looking for a year of study—I was searching for that ‘maybe.’ Maybe a new path, maybe a fresh start, maybe a place that would feel like home.
Girona, with its cobbled streets, welcoming people, and rich traditions, became my home away from home. It’s a city where history and modern life blend seamlessly, where the rhythm of daily life draws you in. Studying at the local university gave me more than academic knowledge—it offered me a deeper connection to a place that left a lasting mark on me. Girona became just that for me. It’s a city where every stone and alleyway tells a story, and where a simple “Bon dia” can open doors. Studying at the local university gave me more than academic insight—it gave me a glimpse into the heart of a city I have grown to love.
The journey from Manila to Girona was long—nearly 24 hours—but stepping into the city, I knew it was worth every second. It was September, but the summer heat was still pulsating, clearly refusing to let fall in. I arrived with two suitcases and a backpack, a mix of excitement and anxiety bubbling inside me, mostly because I had no wi-fi and no way to contact my landlady’s son, who was supposed to pick me up. Starving and slightly panicked, I bought a sandwich at the station café, hoping they had wi-fi. They didn’t. I was officially unfindable.
Just as I was planning my next move, a young man approached my table and asked my name—my rescue had arrived. We drove through the small city center, and not 15 minutes later, I stood in front of the house that would be my home for the next school year.
From the moment I arrived, Girona embraced me like an old friend. I was lucky enough to be welcomed by the most generous Catalan family, and my landlady, Fina, became one of my figures of comfort. Retired but full of energy, she had a zest for life that was infectious. She sings at the choir, speaks and continues to learn multiple languages, travels frequently, and is actively involved in civic duties. She quickly became my source of steadiness and inspiration. Through her, I saw the heart of Girona—strong, deeply rooted in its beliefs, yet welcoming to those who respect and embrace its culture.
I’ve always felt at home in Girona. An hour and 20 minutes away by regional train from Barcelona (or just 30 minutes on the fast train), it gained global recognition when it became a filming location for Game of Thrones. But long before the cameras arrived, Girona was already a medieval marvel. Its cobbled streets, hidden alleys, ancient churches, and fortress walls have stood the test of time, making the Barri Vell one of the best-preserved old towns in Europe.
No visit to Girona is complete without admiring its most iconic landmarks. The Cathedral of Girona, with its grand Baroque facade and the widest Gothic nave in the world, stands as a testament to the city's rich history. Nearby, the Jewish Quarter (El Call) is a maze of narrow, atmospheric streets that preserve the memory of one of the most significant Jewish communities in medieval Spain. Walking up Pujada de Sant Domènec, a picturesque stone staircase lined with historic buildings, offers one of the most beautiful views of the old town.
Left photo: Girona Cathedral; Middle photo: Sant Marti; Right photo:
For panoramic views of Girona, a walk along Passeig de la Muralla, the ancient city walls, is a must. The path leads to Torre Gironella, a ruined tower that once stood as a stronghold against invaders. From here, you can see the University of Girona, where I spent my second wave of being a student (I have been out of school for years, working) and truly relishing it.
The colorful houses along the Onyar River are another defining feature of the city, their facades reflecting beautifully in the water, creating one of Girona’s most photographed scenes. The Cathedral of Girona, with its grand Baroque facade and the widest Gothic nave in the world, stands as a testament to the city's rich history. Then there’s the Eiffel Bridge, designed by none other than Gustave Eiffel before he built his famous tower in Paris—a vibrant red iron structure that provides some of the best views of the colorful Onyar River houses. Walking along the ancient city walls offers a breathtaking panorama of Girona, giving a sense of how the city was once fortified against invaders.
Top photo: Sunset from University of Girona, a view for all seasons. Bottom photos (left to right): Colorful houses seen from the Eiffel Bridge, Baroque chape; of Sant Narcis..
Beyond its cinematic charm, Girona has another identity—it’s a cyclist’s paradise. Nestled between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean, the city’s varied terrain and breathtaking landscapes have made it a magnet for professional cyclists from around the world. In recent years, the influx of high-income foreigners settling in Girona has had its consequences—rising rents and a shift in the local vibe, something that has stirred mixed feelings among lifelong residents. It’s a complex balance, the push and pull between preserving local authenticity and embracing the benefits of global attention.
I understand—everyone wants a piece of Girona. I do. Whether I was walking to school, or at night with my friends after classes, wandering by the Onyar River on weekends, or strolling through nearly deserted streets on quiet Sundays, the city had a way of offering respite from the world without ever making me feel too far from it.
A cyclist paradise.
Food in Girona is more than just sustenance—it’s an experience. My landlady introduced me to the sweet delights of tortell, a soft ring-shaped cake often enjoyed during festivities, and coca de Sant Joan, a pastry adorned with candied fruits and pine nuts. Then there’s xuixo, Girona’s beloved pastry. A deep-fried, sugar-dusted delight filled with rich custard, it was impossible to resist. Crèma catalana is the local version of crème brûlée, but with a zesty citrus twist. Bunyols, fried dough balls dusted with sugar, didn’t win me over as much. They reminded me too much of something back home that looked similar but tasted entirely different—I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was being tricked with every bite.
The one thing I still need to try? Calçots. These tender, sweet onions are grilled and eaten with romesco sauce, celebrated in a festival called Calçotada in March. It’s a messy, hands-on tradition, and I can’t wait to be part of it one day
Ice cream from Rocambolesc by the Roca brothers
Tortell, a festive Catalan cake
If there’s one thing Girona loves, it’s a good celebration. Festivals and parades bring the city to life year-round. Sant Jordi in April—Catalonia’s own version of Valentine’s Day—is an explosion of roses and
books. Men give flowers, women give novels, and the streets overflow with people. I was stunned by the sheer volume of the crowd; I had never seen so many people packed into one space.
Then there’s Temps de Flors in May, when the city turns into a floral wonderland. Every corner bursts with artistic flower installations, as if Girona herself had decided to dress up for the occasion. But nothing compares to Fires de Sant Narcís, the biggest festival of the year, stretching from late October into early November. Concerts, fireworks, and the awe-inspiring human towers—castells—define the celebration. Watching people climb each other to form these gravity-defying structures, lifting the youngest member to the very top, was a breathtaking testament to the strength of tradition and community.
Girona isn’t just medieval charm—it’s a gateway to some of the most stunning coastal and inland escapes in Catalonia. A quick trip leads to the Costa Brava, where rugged cliffs and turquoise waters create postcard-perfect views. Tossa de Mar is an absolute gem, while Cadaqués, with its whitewashed houses and artistic soul, is forever linked to Salvador Dalí. His house in Port Lligat remains a surreal tribute to his genius. If I could paint, I’d paint Cadaqués too.
For those seeking a mix of history and lively beach culture, Lloret de Mar is an exciting option. Known for its bustling nightlife, golden beaches, and stunning coastal trails, this seaside town offers something for every type of traveler. Beyond the vibrant promenades, Santa Clotilde Gardens, a beautifully manicured oasis overlooking the Mediterranean, provides a quiet escape with spectacular views.
But one of my favorite places lies inland—Banyoles, home to the largest lake in Catalonia. A good friend took me there, and I fell in love instantly. It’s a place that changes with the seasons yet remains timeless. In summer, people bask in the sun along the water’s edge. In fall, the trees glow amber. Even in the winter sun, it holds its quiet magic. And in spring? No doubt, it must be spectacular.
Some places leave a mark so deep that even when you leave, you never really go. Girona was that for me. It wasn’t just about the beauty of its medieval streets or the traditions that filled its calendar—it was the way it made me feel, the way it embraced me with open arms. As my train pulled away, I knew one thing for certain: Girona wasn’t a stop along the way. It was a part of my journey that would stay with me, wherever life led next.
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