Ma-Ma-My Sharona! Surely even you have heard of this classic 80s tune, right? Or at least, just the chorus? Either way, it's easy to mistake that this song mentions Girona, the beautiful northeastern city in Spain. While the 80s hit doesn't actually mention the city, if you're suddenly curious about it, you might want to check out the place yourself. It's actually one of the more underrated cities in the country, often overlooked for the likes of Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, and more. Though it's certainly less popular than these cities, learning more about it might make you want to come here yourself!
Barri Vell
Translated into English as 'Old Town,' Barri Vell reeks of history and culture. A walled-city in Catalonia, you can get a good glimpse of what life in the region was like centuries ago. From its cobblestone pathways to the stone houses, not to mention the stunning architecture of buildings like the Girona Town Hall and Rambla de la Libertad, it's as if you traveled back in time the moment you step foot here. But don't worry, the many people who live and visit here will assure you that you're still, very much, in the 21st century!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Devesa-Güell
Here in Catalonia, you either
move to Barcelona or move to Girona. And if you go for the latter, one of the best places to settle down in is Devesa-Güell! A quiet suburban area that's different from the other places on this list, it's arguably the most family-friendly neighborhood in the city. You'll realize it when you go to La Devesa Park, the biggest of its kind in the city. Here, both local and visiting families spend the day playing, having a picnic, and bonding with each other. Notably, Devesa-Güell is also a foodie destination in Catalonia, what with the many tapas bars, seafood restaurants, traditional cafes, and more here!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
El Call
Also known as the Jewish Quarter, it's one of the more historic corners of the city. Technically, it's actually part of Barri Vell, but the place is so unique from the other areas within the latter that it's become its own neighborhood. Of course, the place's riches in Jewish culture already separates it from the rest of the city. But what makes people prefer to stay here is that it's a very affordable area. The food here is cheap, the accommodations are mid-range, and public transport allows you to go about freely without having to rent a car!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Eixample
Eixample is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful parts of Girona. So much so that you might even enjoy riding your bike here
than in Barcelona, a city where cycling is already a common way of life! Packed with history and nature, each and every corner is a feast for the eyes. Whether it's the remnants of Medieval Catalonia, or the mysterious stone pathways, or even the narrow cobblestone streets, there's always a snapshot just waiting to happen. So make sure your phone or camera is fully charged before you explore the district.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Figueres
Aching to learn more about Girona? Head on over to Figueres! This place is the cultural hub of Girona, full of museums and galleries that showcase the history and heritage of, not just the city, but of Catalonia as a whole. If you're lucky, you might end up here during one of their many festivals and fiestas—often held on
public holidays—which also offer a peek into the local lifestyle here. Furthermore, Figueres is also the artistic center of the city, a place where artists have set up their studios and showcase their best works for all the world to see!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Lloret de Mar
One of the main reasons people go to Girona is to enjoy the Costa Brava coastline. And among the many places on this list, the coastal village of Lloret de Mar is your best bet to really soak in the sun and the sea. Not only is Lloret beach just a hop and a skip away, but the entire area is one of the more peaceful in the city that you can really relax and set your mind at ease here. It's no wonder it's also a popular honeymoon destination, not just in Catalonia, but in the entire country of Spain as well!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Mercadal
Weirdly enough, Mercadal is located just opposite Barri Vell and it couldn't be any farther from the latter. It's the nightlife hub of Girona, a place where bars, pubs, and nightclubs reign supreme. While most structures here remain classic and historic, the most popular areas are the ones where people turn up the moment the sun goes down. During the day, you can lounge about in a
rented luxury apartment, booked hotel room, or your own home here, see the rights, or just enjoy walking around. But once night falls? You have a treasure trove of hotspots to look forward to!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Don't think that just because not a lot of people talk about or even known of Girona that it's not a city worth looking into. On the contrary, you might want to check this place out the next time you want to spend some time in Catalonia!
