Capella de Sant Nicolau, Girona

Arts Venue, Gallery and Historic Building in Girona

Capella de Sant Nicolau
Capella de Sant Nicolau
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Enric

Tucked beside the Monestir de Sant Pere de Galligants in Girona's historic core, the Capella de Sant Nicolau is a small Romanesque chapel that's best appreciated for its calm setting and sculptural exterior. Today it functions less like a traditional religious site and more like a compact cultural stop, often hosting rotating contemporary exhibitions.

It's an easy “yes” on a walking tour of the Barri Vell: pair it with the monastery museum next door, then continue toward the Cathedral area and the riverside viewpoints for classic Girona photos. Even if you only have time to admire it from outside, the surrounding greenery and benches make it a pleasant pause between bigger sights.

History and Significance of the Capella de Sant Nicolau

The Capella de Sant Nicolau is closely tied to Girona's Romanesque heritage and the nearby monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants. Its simple, sturdy form and distinctive apse design reflect the medieval building traditions that shaped much of Catalonia's religious architecture.

While the chapel’s origins are medieval, visitors should know that what you see today is the result of later reconstruction and restoration. That layered history is part of its appeal: it’s a small building that has repeatedly adapted to the city’s changing needs.

In the present day, its significance is as much cultural as architectural. Rather than being an active church, it’s used as an exhibition space, which gives travelers a chance to experience contemporary art inside a historic shell.

Things to See and Do in the Capella de Sant Nicolau

Start with the exterior. The chapel’s Romanesque lines, stonework, and compact proportions are the main event, and they photograph beautifully in soft morning or late-afternoon light.

If the chapel is open, step inside to see what’s on. Exhibitions rotate, so your experience can range from a quick look to a surprisingly engaging mini-visit, especially if you enjoy contemporary art in unusual venues.

Don't rush away afterward: the small gardens and nearby paths around Sant Pere de Galligants are ideal for a quiet break. It's also a good spot to reset before tackling Girona's steeper lanes and stairways deeper in the Old Town.

How to Get to the Capella de Sant Nicolau

For flights, the most convenient options are Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO) and Barcelona El Prat (BCN), with BCN offering far more international connections. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Girona on Booking.com.

Girona is well connected by rail, and arriving by train is one of the simplest ways to reach the city before continuing on foot or by local bus/taxi into the historic center. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you’re driving, aim for parking outside the tight medieval streets and walk in, since the Barri Vell has limited access and narrow lanes. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Capella de Sant Nicolau

  • Official website: https://web.girona.cat/bolit
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Wednesday: 11:00–14:00. Thursday – Saturday: 11:00–14:00 & 15:00–19:00. Sunday: 11:00–14:00. Closed on Monday, Tuesday.
  • Best time to visit: Go earlier in the day for quieter streets around Sant Pere de Galligants, or late afternoon for warmer light on the stone exterior.
  • How long to spend: Plan 10–25 minutes, longer if the current exhibition grabs you or you want a slow stroll around the gardens.
  • Accessibility: The Old Town area has uneven paving and occasional steps; if mobility is a concern, approach slowly and consider pairing the visit with flatter nearby routes.
  • Facilities: Expect minimal on-site facilities; plan for restrooms, snacks, and water in the busier Old Town corridors a short walk away.

Where to Stay Close to the Capella de Sant Nicolau

Base yourself in Girona's Barri Vell (Old Town) for the easiest walks to Sant Nicolau, the cathedral quarter, and the city's most atmospheric evening strolls.

Hotel Museu Llegendes de Girona A characterful Old Town stay that keeps you close to the historic sights, ideal if you want to step out early for quiet streets.

Hotel Nord 1901 A comfortable, well-located option between the Old Town and modern center, great for travelers who want easy access without feeling isolated.

Hotel Gran Ultonia A practical base with straightforward access to both the train station area and the walk into Barri Vell.

Hotel Carlemany Girona A reliable choice if you prioritize transport convenience and a more modern neighborhood while still being walkable to the historic center.

Hotel Historic A small, atmospheric Old Town hotel that suits travelers who want maximum medieval Girona vibes right outside the door.

Is the Capella de Sant Nicolau Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially as a quick, low-effort stop on a Girona walking route. The chapel's appeal is its Romanesque presence and setting beside Sant Pere de Galligants, plus the chance to catch a rotating exhibition in a uniquely historic space.

Honest Pivot: if you're short on time and only care about “wow” interiors, you may prefer to prioritize Girona Cathedral, the city walls, or the Jewish Quarter lanes. Sant Nicolau can feel minimal inside when the exhibition isn't to your taste, so treat it as a bonus rather than a headline attraction.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.2 (59)

Overall reviews are positive, with many visitors appreciating the chapel’s attractive Romanesque exterior and the peaceful setting near gardens and benches. Several mention it’s a worthwhile stop on a stroll through Girona’s historic area, especially as a quick cultural detour. A recurring theme is that it’s no longer an active church and functions mainly as a small exhibition space, which some find interesting while others feel the interior is underwhelming depending on the show.

macedonboy
6 years ago
"As others have commented, this is no longer a church. The current building is modelled on the old Chapel of San Nicolás which was demolished in 1940and rebuilt. Inside there is just an exhibition space for revolving exhibitions. On the day of the visit, there was an exhibition called J'Accuse which I didn't understand, but it's a matter of personal taste...."
Dash
7 years ago
"To have such beautiful architecture in such a small city is amazing. Well worth a trip up to see and the gardens around it have benches making it aperfect spot to stop and soak in the atmosphere of Girona..."
jacques weverbergh
8 years ago
"English and Spanish versions follow -Las versiones en inglés y español siguen:nLa chapelle funéraire Sant Nicolau était associée à l'origine aumonastère de San Pere, également du XII°siècle, elle présente une abside trilobée. Elle a été entièrement refaite au XX°siècle, en respectant l'édifice original de style lombard, en particulier les arcatures aveugles et les lésènes qui ornent les murs extérieurs. The Sant Nicolau funerary chapel was originally associated with the monastery of San Pere, also of the twelfth century, it presents a trilobed apse. It has been completely redone in the 20th century, respecting the original building of Lombard style, especially the blind arches and lesgenes adorning the outer walls. La capilla funeraria de Sant Nicolau se asoció originalmente con el monasterio de San Pere, también del siglo XII, presenta un ábside trilobulado. Ha sido completamente renovado en el siglo 20, respetando el edificio original de estilo lombardo, especialmente los arcos ciegos y lesgenes que adornan las paredes exteriores...."

For Different Travelers

Capella de Sant Nicolau works best for travelers who enjoy small, quiet landmarks and like stitching together a day from many short stops. It's also a good palate cleanser between Girona's bigger monuments.

Families with Kids

Kids who like exploring “tiny castles/churches” may enjoy the quick in-and-out nature of the visit, especially if you frame it as a short discovery stop rather than a long museum. The nearby open space is handy for a breather.

If your family needs hands-on exhibits, this may depend on what's currently showing inside. Consider pairing it with a walk along the city walls afterward to keep energy levels up.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the chapel is a calm, photogenic detour with a distinctly Girona feel. The stone architecture and quieter corner near Sant Pere de Galligants can feel pleasantly removed from the busier lanes.

Make it part of a slow Old Town wander: stop here, then continue toward scenic viewpoints and finish with a relaxed meal in the historic center.

Budget Travelers

This is a strong budget-friendly stop if you’re building a day around walking and architecture. Even if you only view the exterior and surroundings, it still feels like a worthwhile slice of Girona’s Romanesque character.

If you do go inside, treat it as a “check what’s on” moment rather than a must-pay attraction. Your best value comes from combining it with nearby free-to-enjoy streetscapes and viewpoints.

History Buffs

History lovers will appreciate the chapel’s Romanesque form and its relationship to the medieval monastic complex next door. It’s a compact example of the architectural language that shaped the region.

To deepen the context, pair it with Sant Pere de Galligants and then continue through the Old Town to see how Girona's layers shift from Romanesque to Gothic and beyond.

FAQs for Visiting Capella de Sant Nicolau

Getting There

Yes, it sits within the historic area and is best reached by walking through the Barri Vell. Expect some uneven paving and occasional slopes typical of medieval streets.
Yes, they’re adjacent and naturally pair well in a single stop. Many visitors treat Sant Nicolau as an add-on before or after the monastery.
It’s within the broader Old Town walking zone, so it’s feasible to combine both in one route. Plan for a scenic walk through narrow lanes between major sights.

Tickets & Entry

Usually not for a quick visit, but special exhibitions or events can change entry logistics. If you’re visiting on a tight schedule, confirm the day’s opening window before you go.
Discounts and free-entry categories may exist depending on how the site is managed at the time of your visit. If price matters, check the official listing before arriving.
Yes, and many travelers do. The exterior architecture and the setting are a big part of the experience.

Visiting Experience

Inside is typically a simple exhibition space rather than a richly decorated church interior. Your enjoyment will depend heavily on the current show.
No, most visits are short. It’s best as a quick cultural stop rather than a half-day attraction.
It’s often quieter than Girona’s headline monuments. Crowds are more likely during peak weekends or when a popular exhibition is running.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

It can be, especially on Old Town architecture or history walks. Even when it’s not a formal stop, it fits naturally into a self-guided route.
Combine Sant Nicolau with Sant Pere de Galligants, then continue through the Barri Vell toward the cathedral quarter. Add a riverside viewpoint afterward for classic Girona scenery.
No, it works as a visual and atmospheric stop. A little context about Romanesque Girona helps, but it’s not required.

Photography

Yes, especially for Romanesque stonework and a quieter Girona mood. The surrounding greenery can also frame shots nicely.
Morning and late afternoon are often best for softer light on the stone. Midday can be harsher but still fine for documentary-style shots.
It depends on the exhibition rules at the time of your visit. Look for signage or ask staff if you’re unsure.

Accessibility & Facilities

Accessibility can be limited by the historic setting and surrounding streets. If step-free access is essential, confirm current access arrangements before visiting.
Facilities are typically limited in small exhibition spaces. Plan to use restrooms at nearby museums, cafés, or larger attractions.
Yes, the area around the chapel often has places to pause. It’s a good spot for a short rest during a walking day.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, the Old Town has plenty of options within a short walk. It’s easy to plan a coffee stop before or after.
It can be for a quick snack, thanks to the calmer surroundings. Keep it tidy and be respectful of the monument area.
Absolutely—use it as a short stop on the way to a meal in the Barri Vell. The visit itself won’t take long, so it fits well into a relaxed day.

Safety & Timing

The area is generally calm, but opening hours may be limited and streets can be dimmer later. For the best experience, visit during open hours and keep standard city awareness.
Enjoy the exterior and continue to nearby sights like Sant Pere de Galligants or the Old Town lanes. It still works as a worthwhile stop even without entry.
Rain can make stone streets slippery and reduces the appeal of lingering outside. On wet days, prioritize indoor attractions nearby and treat Sant Nicolau as a quick look.

Nearby Attractions to the Capella de Sant Nicolau

The Capella de Sant Nicolau appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Girona!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Wednesday: 11:00-14:00.

Thursday - Saturday: 11:00-14:00 & 15:00-19:00.

Sunday: 11:00-14:00.

Closed on Monday, Tuesday.

Price:

Free.

Address: Carrer de Santa Llúcia, 10, 17007 Girona, Spain
Girona: 1 km
Telephone: +34 972 42 76 27
Official Website

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