Barcelona: Girona Private Guided Tour by High-Speed Train

Travelers craving an authentic day trip from Barcelona will find this private guided tour to Girona both practical and exciting. The experience combines the comfort and speed of Spain’s high-speed AVE train with a thoughtfully curated walking tour of Girona’s historic neighborhoods. It’s an excellent option for those who want to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of driving or navigating public transport alone.

What caught our eye most about this tour? The blend of modern comfort with old-world charm. The fact that the journey to Girona takes just 38 minutes on the fastest train in Spain is a real time-saver, leaving more hours to explore. Plus, the local guide’s insight into Girona’s hidden corners, from the medieval city walls to the filming sites of Game of Thrones, makes it more than just a scenic walk.

One thing to keep in mind? The Arab baths are closed on Sundays—but the replacement visit to the Jewish Museum is equally enriching. This tour suits history buffs, movie fans, or those simply eager to see a picture-perfect Catalan town in a relaxed, private setting.

Key Points

• Fast and Comfortable Transport: The high-speed train whisks you from Barcelona to Girona in just over half an hour.
• Private Guided Experience: Personalized attention from knowledgeable guides enhances the visit.
• Historic and Cultural Highlights: Discover medieval city walls, the Eiffel Bridge, and the Jewish Quarter.
• Filming Locations for Game of Thrones: An exciting addition for fans wanting to see iconic series sites.
• Flexibility and Free Time: 1.5 hours of free time gives you a chance to explore at your own pace.
• Value for Money: At $272, considering the transport, guided tour, and entry to the Arab baths, it’s a well-rounded experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Guide to the Girona Private High-Speed Train Tour

The Journey Begins: High-Speed Train Experience

The trip kicks off with a round-trip ticket on Spain’s high-speed AVE train, which is, according to reviews, impressively punctual and remarkably comfortable. The train reaches speeds of up to 310 km/h, allowing you to cover the 38-minute journey with ease and style.

Traveling by train offers a different perspective: instead of highway scenery or airport delays, you get to see the Catalonian countryside float by through large panoramic windows. We loved the way this mode of transport combined speed with comfort—onboard amenities like toilets, cafes, and spacious seats make it a relaxing start to your day. One reviewer, Oliwia, praised her guide Paco’s expertise, noting how smoothly everything went — from ticketing to the ride.

Arriving in Girona: First Impressions

Once you arrive in Girona’s charming station, your private guide will be ready to lead you into the Old Town, where history seems to have paused centuries ago but still thrives in the narrow alleyways and stone facades. The city is a melting pot of Roman remnants, medieval architecture, and lively modern life.

The guide, often named Richard or Katja in reviews, will share stories and insights that transform this walk into an engaging journey. Expect to learn about the city’s Jewish Quarter—the best-preserved in Europe—and marvel at the cathedral with the widest Gothic nave in the world. As Sheila mentioned, her guide explained regional baking traditions, adding a delightful local flavor to the experience.

Exploring Girona’s Historic Highlights

The tour’s main attractions include:

• Medieval City Walls: Climb to the top for panoramic views of Girona’s rooftops, Onyar River, and distant hills. The walls give a sense of Girona’s strategic importance and charm.
• Pont de les Peixateries Velles: Designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1877, this elegant bridge is a photo favorite. It also symbolizes Girona’s industrial past and the city’s link to France.
• Jewish Quarter: Stroll through one of Europe’s most authentic Jewish neighborhoods. The narrow streets and historic buildings feel like stepping back in time.
• Arab Baths: These stunning Romanesque ruins provide a glimpse into Girona’s ancient past. Note that they are closed on Sundays, but the guide will replace this with a visit to the Museum of Jewish History for a similarly enriching experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Game of Thrones Connection

For fans of the series, Girona’s role as a filming location adds an extra layer of excitement. Your guide will point out the sites where the 6th season was shot, which often are hidden in plain sight within the old city streets. As one review notes, even if you’re not a Game of Thrones fanatic, seeing these locations makes history and filming come together in a captivating way.

Free Time and Personal Exploration

After the guided tour, you’ll enjoy about 90 minutes of free time. Reviewers often suggest grabbing some local tapas, exploring tucked-away cafes, or simply wandering along the Onyar River to admire the colorful houses. It’s your chance to soak up this medieval setting at a relaxed pace before heading back to the train station.

Return Trip and Overall Comfort

The return journey is just as smooth, with reviews highlighting the reliability and comfort of the high-speed train. The entire experience from booking to return is well-organized, with many travelers mentioning how this trip saved time and energy compared to other options like driving or bus tours.

Is It Worth the Price? Analyzing Value

At $272 per person, this tour might seem a bit steep at first glance, but considering what’s included—fast train tickets, a private guide, a curated tour of Girona, and entry to the Arab baths—the value becomes clearer. Private guides bring a personalized touch, often sharing stories and insights that you wouldn’t get on a large group tour.

Many reviews reflect satisfaction with the experience, praising the knowledgeable guides like Katja, Ricar, and Paco, who make the city come alive. The convenience of the train ride is also a significant benefit, especially for travelers who dislike long bus journeys or complicated public transport navigation.

The Tour’s Strengths

• Speed and comfort of high-speed rail
• Personal attention from guides
• Rich historical and cultural content
• Image-perfect views and photo opportunities
• Flexibility with free time for personal exploration

Possible Drawbacks

• The Arab baths are closed on Sundays, although the replacement visit to the Jewish Museum is equally worthwhile.
• The tour involves around 3 hours of walking, which might be demanding for some travelers.
• No hotel pickup, so you’ll need to get yourself to the train station in Barcelona.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who value speed and comfort over long bus rides, and those eager to get an intimate look at Girona’s streets and history. It’s ideal for history lovers, film fans, and those interested in Catalan culture. Given its private nature, it works well for couples, small groups, or individual travelers wanting a more personalized experience.

If you’re short on time but want to see a quintessential Catalan town with expert guidance and a dash of Hollywood, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable walking for around 3 hours, this tour is suitable for most ages. Be mindful of mobility issues, as some sites involve stairs or narrow streets.

Do I need to bring my passport or ID?
Yes, travelers should carry a passport or ID card, especially for access to historic sites.

What if the Arab baths are closed?
On Sundays, the visit to the Arab Baths will be replaced by a tour of the Museum of Jewish History, which offers similar historical insights.

How long is the guided tour of Girona?
The guided walk lasts approximately 1.5 hours, leaving time for exploring on your own afterward.

Is lunch included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, but plenty of local cafes and tapas bars are available during your free time.

Are there bathroom facilities onboard the train?
Yes, the high-speed train provides toilet access and other amenities for comfort during the 38-minute ride.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private group, guides may be flexible with some aspects, but the core itinerary is structured around the train schedule and key sights.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be exploring cobbled streets and historic sites.

Final Thoughts

This private Girona day trip by high-speed train offers a fantastic combination of modern convenience with historical discovery. You’ll enjoy a quick and comfortable journey, guided insights into Girona’s past, and the chance to see famous filming locations—all in a manageable half-day.

It’s perfect for travelers who want to see a beautiful Catalan city without the stress of driving or complicated logistics. The personal touch from experienced guides makes this experience stand out, especially for those who appreciate detailed storytelling and authentic local flavor.

While the price might seem high, the inclusions and the ease of travel make it a smart choice for a well-rounded, enriching day away from Barcelona’s bustling streets. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a Game of Thrones fan, or simply seeking a change of scenery, this tour delivers a memorable slice of Catalonia.

In summary, if you’re after an easy, engaging, and culturally rich way to see Girona, this private high-speed train tour is a compelling option. It combines comfort, expert guidance, and a chance to step into a beautifully preserved medieval city—something you’ll remember long after the train ride ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby