Girona Cathedral

Cathedral and Historic Building in Girona

Girona Cathedral
Girona Cathedral
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Михаил Бернгардт

Girona Cathedral (Catedral de Santa Maria) crowns the highest point of Girona's Old Town, rising above a maze of medieval lanes and one of Catalonia's most photogenic staircases. Even before you step inside, the setting feels cinematic: stone steps, warm-toned façades, and viewpoints that look out over the city's rooftops.

It's a must-stop on any Girona walking tour, especially if you're exploring the Jewish Quarter (El Call) and the old city walls on foot. For the best first impression, approach from the riverside and wind your way up through the historic center so the cathedral reveals itself gradually.

History and Significance of the Girona Cathedral

Girona Cathedral is a landmark of layered history: an 11th-century Romanesque foundation that later evolved into a dramatic Gothic project, and finally gained its monumental Baroque façade and staircase. That mix of styles is part of its appeal, because you can read centuries of Girona's story in a single building.

Inside, the cathedral is famous for its vast Gothic nave, celebrated as the widest Gothic nave in the world. The scale is striking and intentionally theatrical, designed to overwhelm in the best way: soaring height, long sightlines, and a sense of calm that contrasts with the busy streets outside.

Beyond architecture, the cathedral functions as a living religious site and a cultural monument, with a treasury of artworks and historic objects that help explain Girona’s role as a major ecclesiastical center in the region.

Things to See and Do in the Girona Cathedral

Start outside on the grand staircase for classic Girona photos and a moment to take in the Old Town atmosphere. It's also a great place to pause on a walking tour, people-watch, and appreciate how the cathedral dominates the skyline.

Inside, prioritize the main nave for the “wow” moment, then slow down to notice the details: chapels, stonework, and the way light shifts across the interior. Many visitors find an audio guide or a short guided tour helps connect what you’re seeing to the cathedral’s long construction timeline.

If you have time, look for quieter corners that feel removed from the crowds, and consider pairing your visit with nearby historic walks (like the city walls) to get a fuller sense of medieval Girona.

How to Get to the Girona Cathedral

The nearest major airports are Barcelona El Prat (BCN) and Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO). For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Girona on Booking.com.

Girona is easy to reach by train, with frequent connections from Barcelona, and the station is a straightforward walk or quick taxi ride from the Old Town. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you’re traveling by car, plan to park outside the tight medieval center and walk up to the cathedral through the Old Town streets. 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 Girona Cathedral

  • Official website: https://catedraldegirona.cat/
  • Entrance fee: Adults: €7.50; Pensioners & students: €5.00; Under 16: €1.50; Under 8: free.
  • Opening hours: (Summer) June 15 – September 15; Monday – Friday: 10:00–19:00; Saturday: 10:00–20:00; Sunday: 12:00–19:00. (Winter) November 1 – March 14; Monday – Saturday: 10:00–17:00; Sunday: 12:00–17:00.
  • Best time to visit: Go early for a quieter interior and better photos on the steps; late afternoon can be beautiful for warm light in the Old Town.
  • How long to spend: Plan 60–90 minutes for the cathedral itself, longer if you're combining it with nearby monuments or the city walls.
  • Accessibility: The approach involves steep streets and a large staircase; mobility-friendly routes may be limited, so check ahead if you need step-free access.
  • Facilities: Expect ticketing and visitor information on-site; bring a light layer since interiors can feel cool, and allow extra time for security and entry lines in peak season.

Where to Stay Close to the Girona Cathedral

Base yourself in Girona’s Old Town (Barri Vell) for the easiest walk to the cathedral, evening strolls through medieval lanes, and the best early-morning atmosphere.

Hotel Nord 1901 A polished, central option near the river and an easy walk up into Barri Vell, with a calm feel that’s great after a day of sightseeing.

Hotel Museu Llegendes de Girona A characterful boutique stay right in the historic core, ideal if you want to be steps from the cathedral area and surrounded by medieval streets.

Hotel Historic Small and atmospheric, with a strong sense of place; perfect for travelers who want a quiet Old Town base close to major sights.

Hotel Carlemany Girona A practical, comfortable choice closer to the train station, useful if you’re doing day trips and want straightforward transport connections.

Hotel Gran Ultonia A reliable full-service hotel with easy access to both the modern center and the Old Town, good for travelers who want convenience and amenities.

Is the Girona Cathedral Worth Visiting?

Yes, it’s absolutely worth visiting for the combination of epic architecture, a genuinely memorable interior scale, and the way it anchors Girona’s Old Town experience. Even if you’re not usually a “cathedral person,” the setting, staircase, and surrounding streets make this a highlight.

Honest Pivot: If you're short on time and prefer outdoor viewpoints over interiors, you could skip paid entry and instead enjoy the staircase, nearby lanes, and a walk on the city walls. Also consider skipping peak midday slots if you dislike crowds and lineups.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (21,288)

Google reviewers rate Girona Cathedral very highly, often describing it as a must-see highlight of Girona. Visitors consistently praise the dramatic staircase and Old Town setting, the impressive interior (especially the enormous Gothic nave), and the peaceful cloister areas; many also enjoy the Game of Thrones filming connection. Common downsides mentioned include the steep climb up to the cathedral and occasional lines or the need to plan tickets/entry to avoid waiting.

Michael Zingalis
2 weeks ago
"Ok Game of Thrones fans, put Girona Cathedral on your list. This place was super cool to see. Just went on December 27, 2025 and the weather wasrainy and cold but it actually made the experience like it was from the show. The little town around the cathedral is great with good places to drop in and eat. Be prepared to walk up the steps and I'd get your tickets in advance if you can...."
Sheree Secrett
4 months ago
"Don’t walk run to this iconic Cathedral. The steps are wonderful to sit and people watch and soak in the Game of Thrones feeling. Inside is grand.The cloisters in the garden are lovely to sit and cool off. I bought the 3 in 1 ticket so no need to line up… go to the tourism office in Girona first. They are so helpful. Quite wonderful...."
Neil Counter
3 months ago
"Lovely cathedral and nice to see where they filmed some of the game of thrones. The walk on the wall surrounding it is quite something and worthdoing. If you more in depth information it's probably worth going on a small guided tour...."

For Different Travelers

Girona Cathedral works well as a flexible stop: you can keep it quick for photos and atmosphere, or go deeper with a longer interior visit and add-on sites nearby.

Families with Kids

The big staircase and the “castle-like” feel of the Old Town can be a hit with kids, especially if you frame it as a medieval adventure. Keep the interior visit shorter and let them lead the pace through the most impressive spaces.

Pair the cathedral with an easy walk along the nearby walls for fresh air and views, then reward everyone with a snack stop in Barri Vell. It’s a good balance of culture and movement.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

The cathedral area is one of Girona's most romantic corners, especially early morning or at dusk when the streets quiet down. The views and stone architecture create a naturally intimate, cinematic vibe.

Make it a slow visit: linger on the steps, wander the lanes without a strict route, and plan a relaxed meal nearby. It’s ideal for couples who like atmosphere as much as attractions.

Budget Travelers

You can enjoy a lot of the cathedral experience for free by focusing on the exterior, the staircase, and the surrounding Old Town streets. Girona is very walkable, so you can build a full day around viewpoints and historic lanes.

If you do pay for entry, consider combining it with nearby included sites to maximize value. Visiting at off-peak times can also help you avoid time-costly queues.

History Buffs

This is a rewarding stop for architecture and church-history fans because the building reflects multiple eras in one place. Look for the transitions in style and how the cathedral’s design choices shaped the interior experience.

To add context, pair it with a guided walk through Barri Vell and the Jewish Quarter, then connect the cathedral's story to Girona's broader medieval and early-modern history.

FAQs for Visiting Girona Cathedral

Getting There

Yes, it’s walkable, but expect an uphill climb into the Old Town. If you prefer, take a short taxi ride closer to Barri Vell and walk the final stretch.
Yes, Girona is a popular and easy day trip, and the cathedral fits well into a one-day Old Town itinerary. Start early so you have time for the walls and riverside bridges too.
The Old Town is compact but full of narrow lanes and steps, so navigation is more about wandering than straight lines. Comfortable shoes make a big difference.

Tickets & Entry

Advance booking is helpful in busy seasons and can save time at the entrance. It’s also useful if you want to coordinate multiple sites on the same ticket.
Yes, there are typically reduced and free categories (such as for children and certain eligible visitors). Check the official ticket page before you go to confirm what applies to you.
Tickets are often structured as combined options with nearby religious sites. If you only want the cathedral, confirm the current ticket types before purchase.

Visiting Experience

It can be busy around midday, especially in peak travel months. Going early or later in the day usually feels calmer.
As an active religious site, modest attire is recommended. Bring a light layer if you’re visiting in cooler weather.
The interior scale of the nave is the standout for most visitors. The exterior staircase is the other must-see moment.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

If you enjoy historical context, a guided tour can significantly improve the experience. It helps you notice details you might otherwise miss.
Many visitors use an audio guide to understand the highlights at their own pace. It’s a good middle ground between self-guided and a full tour.
Combine it with the Jewish Quarter and the city walls for a classic loop. Add riverside bridges afterward for a different perspective of Girona.

Photography

The staircase is the iconic shot, and nearby lanes give great framed views back toward the façade. Overcast or rainy weather can add dramatic mood to stone textures.
Rules can vary by area and exhibition spaces, so check signage on entry. Be respectful during any religious services.
Early morning is best for fewer people on the steps. Late afternoon often gives warmer tones in the Old Town streets.

Accessibility & Facilities

The Old Town approach includes steep streets and steps, which can be challenging. If you need step-free access, plan your route carefully and confirm current access arrangements.
Facilities are typically available in visitor areas, but they may be limited. It’s smart to use restrooms before the uphill walk if you’re coming from the modern center.
There is usually some seating, but not everywhere you may want to pause. Plan short breaks outside on the steps if you need them.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, Barri Vell has plenty of cafés and restaurants within a short walk. It’s easy to pair your visit with a relaxed meal.
Yes, but the most popular spots can fill up at peak times. Walk a few streets away from the main staircase for more options.
Small squares and viewpoints in the Old Town can work for a quick snack. Be mindful of local rules and keep the area tidy.

Safety & Timing

Girona’s center is generally safe and lively, especially during the day and early evening. As anywhere, keep an eye on belongings in crowded spots.
Wet stone steps can be slippery, so take your time and wear shoes with grip. Rain can also make the cathedral area feel extra atmospheric.
Yes, services can limit access to parts of the cathedral and change the visitor flow. If you want an uninterrupted visit, choose a time outside worship hours.

Nearby Attractions to the Girona Cathedral

The Girona Cathedral 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:

(Summer) June 15 - September 15; Monday - Friday: 10:00-19:00; Saturday: 10:00-20:00; Sunday: 12:00-19:00.

(Winter) November 1 - March 14; Monday - Saturday: 10:00-17:00; Sunday: 12:00-17:00.

Price:

Adults: €7.50; Pensioners & students: €5.00; Under 16: €1.50; Under 8: free.

Address: Pl. de la Catedral, s/n, 17004 Girona, Spain
Girona: 1 km
Telephone: +34 972 42 71 89
Official Website

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