Plaça de la Independència, Girona

Area, Attraction and Square in Girona

Plaça de la Independència
Plaça de la Independència
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Enfo

Plaça de la Independència is Girona's classic, café-lined square: a handsome neoclassical plaza framed by arcades and warm-toned façades, with a monument at its center commemorating the city's defenders. It sits just outside the medieval core, making it an easy, natural pause between Old Town sights and the modern streets around the river.

Most travelers experience it as part of a walking tour, using the square as a convenient meeting point, coffee stop, or lunch break. It's also one of the best places in Girona to people-watch under the porticoes, especially when the terraces are buzzing.

History and Significance of the Plaça de la Independència

Plaça de la Independència was designed in a neoclassical style and built on the site of the former convent of Sant Agustí. Its uniform arcades and symmetrical layout give it a distinctly “European grand square” feel, different from the tighter medieval lanes nearby.

At the heart of the plaza stands the monument dedicated to Girona’s defenders during the sieges of 1808–1809, a defining episode of local identity during the Peninsular War. Even if you don’t dive deep into the history, the monument provides a clear focal point and a sense of why this square is more than just a dining hub.

Today, the square’s significance is also social: it’s one of Girona’s most popular gathering places, where locals meet for drinks, families linger after errands, and visitors reset their pace before heading back into the Old Town.

Things to See and Do in the Plaça de la Independència

Start by taking a slow lap under the arcades. The porticoes create a pleasant rhythm of shade and light, and they’re ideal for a relaxed stroll even on hot days or during light rain.

Spend a few minutes at the central monument, then step back to appreciate the square’s geometry and the way the arcades frame views in every direction. If you like photography, the repeated arches make strong leading lines, especially when the terraces are set up.

Finally, do what Girona does best here: take a seat. Whether it's a quick coffee, a vermut, or a longer meal, the square is built for lingering, and it's one of the easiest places in the city to settle in without needing a plan.

How to Get to the Plaça de la Independència

The nearest major airports are Barcelona El Prat (BCN) and Girona–Costa Brava (GRO), with additional options via Perpignan (PGF) in France depending on your route. 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 center before continuing on foot toward the square. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you’re traveling by car, aim for public parking on the edge of the center and walk in, since the historic core has restricted access and narrow 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 Plaça de la Independència

  • Official website: https://www.girona.cat/web/turisme/eng/monuments_independencia.php
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Come in the morning for quieter photos under the arcades, or in the early evening when the terraces fill up and the square feels most alive.
  • How long to spend: Plan 15–30 minutes for a look around, or 60–90 minutes if you’re stopping for a drink or meal.
  • Accessibility: The square is generally flat and easy to navigate, with good exterior accessibility; surfaces can be a bit uneven in places.
  • Facilities: There are plenty of cafés and restaurants around the perimeter for restrooms and refreshments; seating is mainly via terraces and benches.

Where to Stay Close to the Plaça de la Independència

Base yourself in or near Girona’s Old Town and river area for the best walkability to major sights, dining, and evening atmosphere.

Hotel Nord 1901 A polished, central option that’s an easy stroll to the square and great for travelers who want comfort without being far from the action.

Hotel Gran Ultonia A reliable full-service stay close to both the center and transport links, ideal if you want a straightforward base with modern amenities.

Hotel Ultonia A practical sister property with a central location that works well for short stays and early starts, especially if you’re mixing sightseeing with day trips.

Ciutat de Girona A strong pick for being right in the middle of things, making it easy to pop back for a break between Old Town climbs and riverside wandering.

Hotel Historic A characterful choice inside the medieval quarter, best if you want to lean into Girona’s historic atmosphere and don’t mind a more boutique feel.

Is the Plaça de la Independència Worth Visiting?

Yes, it’s worth visiting because it’s one of Girona’s most pleasant “reset points”: attractive architecture, a central monument, and an easy place to pause during a walking day. Even if you don’t sit down for a meal, the arcades and symmetry make it a quick, satisfying stop.

Honest Pivot: If you're short on time and mainly want medieval lanes, cathedral viewpoints, and city walls, you could skip lingering here and simply pass through. The square shines most for travelers who enjoy café culture, people-watching, and a calmer, more open space between denser Old Town sights.

For Different Travelers

Plaça de la Independència is flexible: it can be a fast photo stop, a meeting point, or a long lunch. How much you'll enjoy it depends on whether you like lively terraces and urban atmosphere more than “ticketed” attractions.

Families with Kids

Families will appreciate the open layout and the ability to take a breather without committing to a museum schedule. It’s a convenient spot to regroup, grab snacks, and let kids stretch their legs while adults enjoy the arcades.

That said, it’s still a dining-focused square, so the vibe can be busy at peak meal times. Aim for earlier hours if you want a calmer stop and easier stroller maneuvering.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the square is an easy win: classic architecture, soft evening light under the arches, and plenty of terrace options for a relaxed drink. It’s especially nice as a pre-dinner stroll or a post-dinner wander when the city feels slower.

If you're building a romantic Girona itinerary, use the square as a transition between riverside views and the lantern-lit Old Town streets. The contrast between open plaza and medieval lanes is part of the charm.

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers can enjoy the square without spending anything: it’s a scenic place to sit, people-watch, and take photos. If you do want a break, consider a simple coffee rather than a full terrace meal, since prime-location seating can add up.

It also works well as a “free highlight” between paid attractions. Pair it with a self-guided walk through the historic center to keep your day both memorable and low-cost.

FAQs for Visiting Plaça de la Independència

Getting There

Yes, it’s very close and easy to reach on foot from the Old Town. It also works well as a waypoint between riverside streets and medieval lanes.
Yes, it’s a straightforward walk through central streets. If you prefer, a short taxi ride can also get you close.
Yes, it’s a clear, open landmark with plenty of space to gather. The central monument and arcades make it easy to identify.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s a public square and you can enter freely. You only pay if you choose to sit at a café or restaurant.
No, the monument and architecture are viewed from the public space. Nearby museums and sights elsewhere in the city may have admission fees.
Yes, many city walking tours pass through or stop here. It’s often used as a convenient pause point in an itinerary.

Visiting Experience

It’s one of Girona’s most attractive squares for architecture, atmosphere, and people-watching. The arcades also make it comfortable in different weather.
Yes, the perimeter is lined with restaurants and cafés, and terraces are a big part of the scene. You can still enjoy it without sitting down.
It can get busy around lunch and dinner. If you want a quieter feel, visit earlier in the day.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Use it as a break between the river bridges and the Old Town climbs. It also pairs well with a self-guided loop through central Girona.
Both work: it’s photogenic in 10 minutes, but it’s also ideal for a longer terrace stop. Your pace and dining plans will decide.
No, it’s enjoyable for its architecture and atmosphere alone. A quick note about the 1808–1809 sieges adds extra meaning to the monument.

Photography

Try shooting along the arcades to capture repeating arches and strong lines. A wider shot from a corner helps show the square’s symmetry.
Yes, evening light and terrace ambience can look great. Keep an eye on people in the frame since it’s a social hotspot.
Yes, you can walk right up to it. Be considerate of others, especially during busy terrace hours.

Accessibility & Facilities

Generally yes, with good exterior accessibility and a mostly flat layout. Some surfaces may be uneven, so take it slowly.
Restrooms are typically available through cafés and restaurants if you’re a customer. Plan a drink stop if you need facilities.
Yes, the arcades provide reliable shade along the edges. Midday sun can still be strong in the open center.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, it’s one of Girona’s most popular dining squares with lots of terrace seating. It’s a safe choice when you want options in one place.
At peak times, popular spots can fill up quickly. Reserving is smart if you have a specific restaurant in mind.
Yes, you’ll find cafés and lighter bites around the square and on nearby streets. It’s easy to keep it simple if you’re on the move.

Safety & Timing

It’s generally a lively, well-trafficked area in the evenings. As in any busy place, keep an eye on your belongings.
Early evening is the sweet spot when terraces come alive and the light softens. Late morning is best for a calmer, more local feel.
If you dislike crowds, avoid peak lunch and dinner windows. If you’re sensitive to noise, choose a quick pass-through rather than a long terrace sit.

Nearby Attractions to the Plaça de la Independència

  • Pont de Pedra: A central bridge with classic river views and an easy link between neighborhoods.
  • Rambla de la Llibertat: A lively promenade-style street for strolling, shopping, and soaking up Girona's everyday rhythm.
  • Onyar River Houses: The colorful façades along the river are one of Girona's signature photo spots.
  • Girona Cathedral: A dramatic hilltop cathedral that anchors the Old Town and rewards the climb with standout architecture.
  • City Walls (Passeig de la Muralla): A scenic walk with elevated viewpoints over rooftops and surrounding landscapes.

The Plaça de la Independència 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:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Pl. de la Independència, 17001 Girona, Spain
Girona: 1 km
Official Website

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