Parc de la Devesa, Girona

Gardens, Park and Walk in Girona

Parc de la Devesa
Parc de la Devesa
CC BY-SA 3.0 / klimmanet

Parc de la Devesa is Girona's largest urban park, a broad, leafy green space just outside the historic core and close to the riverfront. It's the kind of place locals use daily—for jogging loops, dog walks, and quick breathers between sightseeing stops—while visitors love it as a calm counterpoint to the busy lanes of the Barri Vell.

If you're doing a self-guided walking tour of Girona, the park makes an easy add-on between the old town and the modern center, and it's especially handy when you have time to fill before a train. For the best feel of the park, aim for the long, straight, tree-lined promenades and the open esplanades where the light filters through the canopy.

History and Significance of the Parc de la Devesa

Parc de la Devesa is more than “just a park” in Girona—it's a defining piece of the city's everyday life and one of the largest urban green spaces in Catalonia. Its scale is immediately noticeable: long avenues, wide clearings, and a sense of breathing room that's rare so close to a historic center.

A major part of the park’s identity comes from its monumental plane trees, many planted in the mid-19th century and now towering overhead. The result is a distinctive, cathedral-like canopy that shapes the park’s atmosphere in every season, from deep summer shade to winter’s stark, graphic branches.

Today, the Devesa also functions as a civic “hinge” between nature, sport, and city culture, with nearby venues and municipal facilities that keep the area active beyond a simple stroll.

Things to See and Do in the Parc de la Devesa

Start with a slow walk beneath the plane-tree avenues—the signature experience here is the rhythm of the straight paths and the changing light through the leaves. It’s a great place to reset after climbing Girona’s old town walls or weaving through the medieval streets.

If you’re traveling with kids (or just want a more active break), look for playground areas and open spaces that work well for a casual picnic. Runners and walkers can use the park’s long, flat stretches for an easy workout, and it’s also popular for cycling at a relaxed pace.

Depending on the time of year, you may encounter temporary events or seasonal setups around the perimeter. Some visitors enjoy the extra buzz; others prefer the park on quieter days when it feels more purely green and spacious.

How to Get to the Parc de la Devesa

The nearest major airport is Barcelona–El Prat (BCN), with Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO) also serving the region for some routes. 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 makes the park an easy first or last stop because it sits close to the station area and central neighborhoods. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you're driving, aim for parking near the park's edges and be mindful of city traffic rules and any low-emissions restrictions in central Girona. 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 Parc de la Devesa

  • Official website: https://web.girona.cat/sostenibilitat/ladevesa/inici
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Late afternoon is ideal for softer light under the trees and a more relaxed, local atmosphere.
  • How long to spend: Plan 30–60 minutes for a stroll, or 1–2 hours if you want a picnic, playground time, or a longer riverside walk.
  • Accessibility: Paths are generally wide and flat, making the park a practical option for strollers and travelers who prefer step-free walking.
  • Facilities: Expect a mix of park amenities and nearby services, with some areas offering water points and restrooms around municipal sports facilities.

Where to Stay Close to the Parc de la Devesa

Base yourself in central Girona (Eixample or the edge of Barri Vell) for the easiest walk to the park plus quick access to restaurants, shops, and the historic sights.

Hotel Carlemany Girona A reliable, comfortable choice in the Eixample with an easy walk to both the park and the old town—great if you want convenience without being in the busiest lanes.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Girona A modern stay that suits travelers who like predictable amenities and a straightforward base for walking to the park and onward into the center.

Hotel Gran Ultonia Well placed for splitting your time between Barri Vell and the Devesa area, with a practical, city-hotel feel that works for short breaks.

Hotel Ultonia A solid mid-range option in a central corridor—handy for early starts, late returns, and quick access to the park for morning runs.

Hotel Nord 1901 A boutique-style pick closer to the old town vibe, ideal if you want charm and walkability while still keeping the park within easy reach.

Is the Parc de la Devesa Worth Visiting?

Yes—Parc de la Devesa is worth visiting because it gives you a different side of Girona: spacious, local, and restorative. It's especially valuable if your itinerary is heavy on stone streets, museums, and viewpoints, and you want a simple place to slow down.

Honest Pivot: If you're on a very tight schedule and only care about Girona's medieval highlights, you could skip it in favor of Barri Vell and the city walls. Also, if street noise bothers you, the park's perimeter can feel loud at times—choose interior paths for a calmer experience.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (10,208)

Reviews are strongly positive overall (4.4/5 from a very large number of visitors). Travelers consistently praise the park as a spacious, beautiful place for an easy walk, jogging, cycling, picnics, and spending time with dogs, with standout tree-lined areas and good light later in the day. Common drawbacks mentioned include traffic noise along the perimeter and occasional seasonal or temporary installations that some feel detract from the park’s natural atmosphere.

PJJ
a week ago
"Really great place to walk around and take somepicture if you have to wait for your train. I recommend you go there around 4 PM. Lighting is reallygreat...."
Karina O'Fly
3 months ago
"Decent park near the centre of Girona. Great place to walk dogs or go for a run"
A a Krykora
3 months ago
"Unfortunately too noisy from busy streets along the perimeter. The park itself is beautiful, with magnificent trees, but all the tourist stuff andattractions they temporarily built for the season are ugly and diminish the purpose of the park...."

For Different Travelers

Parc de la Devesa works best as a flexible “buffer” stop: you can make it a quick stroll, a workout loop, or a low-key picnic depending on your pace. It's also a useful anchor point for connecting neighborhoods on foot.

Families with Kids

The park’s open space is a big win for families who need room to move after time in the old town. Look for playground areas and wide paths that make stroller navigation easier.

Pair the visit with a simple snack break and let kids burn off energy before heading back to Girona’s narrower streets. Late afternoon can be especially pleasant, but midday shade under the trees is also helpful in warm months.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the Devesa is a gentle, unhurried contrast to Girona’s more dramatic viewpoints and historic corners. A slow walk under the tall trees feels surprisingly intimate for such a large park.

Consider timing your visit for golden-hour light filtering through the canopy, then continue on foot toward the riverfront or into the old town for dinner.

Budget Travelers

This is one of the easiest “high value, low cost” stops in Girona: you can spend quality time here without paying for entry. It's also a smart place to rest between walking-heavy attractions.

Bring a takeaway coffee or picnic supplies and treat it as your recharge zone. If you’re traveling with a bike or enjoy running, it’s an excellent free fitness stop as well.

FAQs for Visiting Parc de la Devesa

Getting There

Yes, it’s close enough to reach on foot from Barri Vell and the central shopping streets. The walk is straightforward and works well as a connector between neighborhoods.
Yes, it’s a handy stop if you have time before or after a train because it’s near central routes and easy to reach without a taxi. It’s a good “first impression” stroll if you arrive with luggage light.
Yes, city buses serve the central Girona area and can drop you within a short walk. If you’re unsure, ask your accommodation for the closest stop to Passeig de la Devesa.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s a public park and you can enter freely. You only pay for specific facilities or events if you choose to use them.
Sometimes there are seasonal installations or nearby venues with their own pricing. Treat those as separate from the park itself.
No booking is needed for a normal visit. If you’re planning to use sports facilities or attend an event, check the relevant organizer’s details.

Visiting Experience

Walk a straight stretch beneath the plane trees, then loop back through an open clearing for contrast. This gives you the signature feel in under an hour.
The interior paths can feel calm and shaded, but the perimeter may pick up traffic noise. For a quieter walk, stay deeper inside the tree avenues.
Yes, it’s popular for both thanks to flat terrain and long, uninterrupted paths. Keep your pace considerate in busier areas.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it’s a great “breather” stop between historic sights and modern Girona. It also helps balance a day that’s otherwise all stone streets and stairs.
Combine it with a riverside stroll and then head into Barri Vell for viewpoints and historic lanes. It also works well before dinner as a reset.
If you want maximum historic highlights, prioritize Barri Vell first. If you still have 30 minutes spare, the park is a relaxing add-on.

Photography

Late afternoon often gives the most flattering light through the canopy and along the paths. Overcast days also work well for even, soft tones.
The long tree-lined avenues create strong leading lines, and the open clearings give you scale. Look for symmetry and repeating trunks for classic shots.
Yes, the shade and filtered light can be very forgiving, especially in warmer months. Choose quieter interior paths for fewer background distractions.

Accessibility & Facilities

Many routes are wide and relatively flat, which generally suits wheels well. Surface quality can vary by area, so stick to main paths for the smoothest experience.
Some facilities are available around municipal sports areas and nearby buildings. It’s still smart to plan a restroom stop before a long walk.
There are water points in some areas, but availability can vary. Carry a bottle, especially in summer.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, it’s a popular place for casual picnics thanks to shade and open space. Bring a small blanket and keep the area tidy.
Yes, you’ll find options in the surrounding streets and near nearby venues. It’s easy to pair the park with a coffee stop.
Some areas may have seasonal kiosks or nearby facilities, but it’s not guaranteed year-round. For certainty, pick up snacks in the center before you go.

Safety & Timing

In general, it’s a well-used urban park, especially during daytime. As in any city, keep an eye on belongings in busier areas.
Yes—the tree structure is dramatic and the park is still pleasant for a brisk walk. Just dress for cooler shade under the canopy.
If you dislike crowds or event noise, avoid peak times during festivals or market activity nearby. Early mornings and late afternoons are usually calmer.

Nearby Attractions to the Parc de la Devesa

The Parc de la Devesa appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Girona!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Passeig de la Devesa, 38, 17007 Girona, Spain
Girona: 1 km
Official Website

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