Private Tour Girona & Tossa de Mar from Barcelona

Exploring Girona and Tossa de Mar: A Journey into Catalonia’s Charm

If you’re considering a day trip from Barcelona that combines history, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of medieval magic, the Private Tour Girona & Tossa de Mar offers a compelling choice. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews point to a well-curated experience that balances cultural insights with spectacular vistas. Expect to spend your day wandering through cobbled streets, exploring ancient fortifications, and soaking up the sea breeze in a lively coastal town.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to explore Girona, a city famed for its impressive cathedral, historic walls, and colorful riverfront. Second, the chance to step back in time at Tossa de Mar, a fortified medieval town with a legendary castle and charming Vila Vella. Third, the small-group format (up to 8 participants) ensures a more intimate and flexible experience, guided by knowledgeable local guides who are praised for their friendliness and insights.

One thing to keep in mind: since the tour includes a fair amount of walking and cobblestone streets, comfortable shoes are a must. Also, as lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to budget some time for a meal with scenic sea views. This tour is ideally suited for travelers looking for a comprehensive day out that offers cultural depth, scenic beauty, and authentic Catalan atmosphere—perfect for history buffs, photographers, and seaside lovers alike.

Good To Know:

• Visit Girona’s historic old town, including the impressive cathedral and ancient city walls.
• Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Girona from its medieval fortifications.
• Discover Tossa de Mar’s castle and Vila Vella, the only fortified medieval town on the Costa Brava.
• Small group size enhances a personalized experience and more flexible sightseeing.
• Optional cruise along the Costa Brava offers a chance to see the rugged coastline from the water.
• All transportation and guiding are included, simplifying your day and maximizing your time.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Why Choose the Private Tour Girona & Tossa de Mar?

This tour offers a nice balance between guided sightseeing and free exploration, making it a flexible, engaging way to see two iconic Catalan destinations. Starting from Barcelona, it’s a full-day experience—about 10 hours—that packs in history, scenic views, and local flavor. The fact that it’s a private group means you’ll avoid large crowds and get a more tailored experience, often a plus for those wanting a relaxed pace or specific interests.

The Girona Experience: City of Four Rivers

The journey begins in Girona, a city that deserves more than a passing glance. The tour kicks off at the Stone Bridge (Pont de Pedra), a perfect spot for snapping photos of the Onyar River and its colorful houses. These buildings, with their bright facades lining the riverbanks, are instantly recognizable and have become a symbol of Girona’s charm.

From there, you’ll wander into the Barri Vell, the old town, a maze of narrow cobblestone streets brimming with history. Your guide will point out notable sites, but expect to soak in the atmosphere—perhaps passing by local cafes, small shops, and historic buildings that have stood the test of time. The highlight here is the Girona Cathedral, famed for its wide Gothic nave, which is considered the broadest in the world. The cathedral’s baroque façade is striking, and the interior provides a cool respite after wandering through the lively streets.

Adding to Girona’s appeal is its popularity as a filming location for Game of Thrones; many visitors enjoy spotting the scenes shot here. While the tour doesn’t specify a dedicated walk through filming sites, it’s a fun bonus for fans.

Finally, walking along the city walls offers panoramic vistas of Girona’s rooftops and the surrounding countryside. These ancient fortifications reveal how the city defended itself in bygone eras. Reviewers mention that the views are “spectacular,” and many appreciate the chance to get a bird’s-eye perspective of the city’s colorful rooftops and river below.

The Tossa de Mar Adventure: Medieval Seaside Charm

After a satisfying exploration of Girona, the tour continues with a 30-minute drive to Tossa de Mar, one of the most picturesque spots on the Costa Brava. Known for its 12th-century castle, built to ward off pirates, Tossa de Mar is a delightful blend of history and seaside allure.

Your first stop here is the castle, which offers sweeping views of the beach and the old town below. The castle’s battlements and towers are a reminder of Tossa’s strategic importance centuries ago. From the main square within the castle walls, you can marvel at the vistas of the Mediterranean and the rugged coastline—truly a picture-perfect moment.

Within the castle walls lies the Vila Vella, the only preserved fortified medieval town on the Costa Brava. Strolling through its narrow, winding streets lined with stone houses decorated with pots and colorful flowers is a highlight. Many visitors describe it as “charming,” with a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for wandering at leisure or snapping photos.

The tour also includes time at the promenade, where you can enjoy lunch at a terrace overlooking the sea. Many reviews praise the scenic setting, with some mentioning that the local cuisine and seafood here are excellent, though the tour itself doesn’t include lunch—so bring some euros for a meal or snacks.

In the afternoon, if you choose, you can opt for a short cruise along the Costa Brava. This optional extension allows you to see the dramatic cliffs and coves from the water, which many find to be the highlight of the day. It’s a relaxing way to end the trip and offers some of the best views of the coastline’s rugged beauty.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Barcelona, a convenient feature that saves you from navigating public transport early in the morning. The vehicle is adapted to the group size, ensuring comfort and space, especially important given the 10-hour duration.

The guide, bilingual in English and Spanish, is praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience both educational and engaging. The small-group format—up to 8 participants—allows for more personalized attention and flexibility in sightseeing.

Duration is approximately 10 hours, which is ample time to explore without feeling rushed. The itinerary balances structured visits with free time, particularly in Tossa de Mar, where you can explore at your own pace.

Cost-wise, at $364 per person, this tour offers good value considering transportation, guided commentary, and the opportunity to explore two significant locations without the hassle of public transit or self-planning. However, since lunch isn’t included, travelers should factor in additional expenses for meals, which can be enjoyed with views of the sea.

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What Travelers Love and What to Consider

Reviewers appreciate the spectacular views—both of Girona from its walls and the coast from Tossa de Mar’s castle. Many mention how the tour strikes a good balance between guided elements and free time, especially in Tossa’s old town, where wandering through cobbled streets feels natural and unhurried.

Some mention that the small group size makes the tour more intimate and flexible, which enhances the overall experience. The guides are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share local insights, making the history come alive.

On the flip side, a few travelers noted that since the tour involves a fair bit of walking on cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, comfortable shoes are essential. Also, since the tour doesn’t include lunch, it’s worth planning for a seaside meal or picnic.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip from Barcelona offers an engaging way to see two iconic Catalan destinations, packed with historical sights and stunning scenery. It’s perfect for those who want a manageable, guided experience without the crowds—ideal for couples, small groups, or travelers wanting a tailored, relaxed day.

While the cost may seem on the higher side, the convenience of transportation, expert guiding, and the opportunity to explore Girona and Tossa de Mar more intimately makes it worth considering. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone craving seaside charm, this tour delivers a rich, memorable experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided day trip from Barcelona that combines culture and coast. It’s especially suited for those who value small-group intimacy and want to avoid the hassle of planning transport and logistics. If you love exploring medieval towns, enjoy spectacular ocean views, and enjoy learning from local guides, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s also a great option for visitors with limited time who want to maximize their experience in Catalonia without sacrificing depth or authenticity. Be prepared for a day of walking and sightseeing, but rest assured, the views and stories you’ll gather will make it well worth the effort.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Barcelona, making the start and end of your day hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, covering travel, sightseeing, and free time in Tossa de Mar.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, a tour guide-driver throughout, and visits to Girona and Tossa de Mar are included. The vehicle is adapted to the group size, ensuring comfort.

Can I extend the tour?
Yes, you can opt for an optional cruise along the Costa Brava, which many find adds a wonderful perspective to the day.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have time to enjoy a meal at your own cost, often with scenic sea views in Tossa de Mar.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and appropriate clothing are recommended, especially for walking on cobblestones and exploring outdoor sites.

This privately guided tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Catalonia’s coastal heritage and historic roots, making it a rewarding addition to any Barcelona visit.

You can check if your dates are available here: