How to Get to Girona
High-speed train from Barcelona in about 38 minutes, car via the AP-7 or low-cost flights. Girona is around 100 km from Barcelona and very well connected.
Updated: 2026-06-03
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The fastest way to get to Girona is the AVE or Avant from Barcelona-Sants, which covers the journey in about 38 minutes to Girona station on Plaça d'Espanya, right in the centre. You can also take the Rodalies R11, drive via the AP-7, or fly into Girona-Costa Brava Airport, around 13 km away.
The 4 ways to get to Girona
AVE and Avant
From Barcelona-Sants in about 38 minutes to Girona station on Plaça d'Espanya. The fastest option, dropping you in the centre.
Rodalies R11 and RG1
Cheaper regional train with more stops. It takes longer than the high-speed service but works out better value for short trips.
Car via the AP-7
Along the AP-7 motorway from Barcelona, around 100 km. An easy drive with direct exits; bear in mind parking in the old town.
Girona-Costa Brava Airport
About 13 km from the centre, it's a hub for low-cost flights with Ryanair. Bus and taxi connect the airport with the city.
Getting to Girona step by step
By train from Barcelona
AVE and Avant trains leave from Barcelona-Sants and reach Girona station in about 38 minutes. The station is on Plaça d'Espanya, just a few minutes' walk from the Old Town (Barri Vell), the Cathedral and the Onyar river. If you're after cheaper fares, the Rodalies R11 covers the same route with more stops at a lower price.
By car and parking
From Barcelona, the AP-7 brings you to Girona in about an hour, around 100 km. The historic centre is largely pedestrianised, so it's best to leave the car in a car park on the outskirts or near the Barri Vell and explore on foot, as everything is close together.
From the airport
Girona-Costa Brava Airport is about 13 km from the centre and handles plenty of low-cost flights, especially with Ryanair. A bus service links the terminal with Girona station and the centre, and taxis are available too. From Barcelona-El Prat Airport you can take a train or direct bus.
Practical information
Best way to arrive: If you're coming from Barcelona, the AVE or Avant are unbeatable: about 38 minutes and they drop you in the centre. For a stay based on the Costa Brava, a car gives you more freedom.
When to visit Girona: Spring is spectacular thanks to the Temps de Flors flower festival, which fills the Old Town and the Call with blooms (in 2026, from 9 to 17 May). Book ahead, as it's one of the busiest weeks of the year.
Travel tip: Buy your AVE tickets in advance for better prices and pair your visit with a meal in town; Girona is home to El Celler de Can Roca, with 3 Michelin stars, where you need to book many months ahead.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take from Barcelona to Girona by train?
AVE and Avant trains cover the route from Barcelona-Sants in about 38 minutes to Girona station. It's the fastest option and drops you right in the city centre.
Where is Girona's train station?
The station is on Plaça d'Espanya, in the centre of Girona, just a few minutes' walk from the Old Town, the Cathedral, the Onyar river and the Jewish quarter known as the Call.
How far is Girona airport?
Girona-Costa Brava Airport is about 13 km from the centre. It's a hub for low-cost flights, mainly with Ryanair, and you can reach the city by bus or taxi.
Do you need a car to visit Girona?
No. The historic centre is compact and pedestrianised, and is best explored on foot. A car only pays off if you want to combine Girona with villages on the Costa Brava or in the Empordà.
Plan your visit with our guides to Hotels in Girona, What to do in Girona, Restaurants in Girona, Activities in Girona.
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Tours and activities in Girona
Discover the Old Town, the Cathedral and the Jewish quarter of the Call on guided tours, or take a trip out to the Costa Brava. Book ahead to secure your spot.
View activitiesGirona Travel Guides 2027
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