Share the article
Last updated
Spain has been all the rage all year and it looks like 2025 will be no different, apart from the fact that more hidden gems are sure to break out.
With concerns about overtourism in big cities, it makes sense that travelers are opting for new destinations over the same experiences in places where we might not even feel welcome.
The fair trade-off is to give Spain’s tourism titans a break while we let our wanderlust guide us through some lesser-known treasures, but such a place Expedia.com is already breaking tourist records, but still retains its ‘hidden gem’ status – for now.
Highlighted as the best alternative destination to Barcelona, the beautiful inland city Girona will shine even more in 2025 and welcome travelers to explore its picturesque streets.
One of the best preserved medieval districts in Europe
Tucked away from action-packed Barcelona, Girona is about 40 minutes northeast of the icon’s bustling streets and beautiful beaches.
One of Catalonia’s many worthwhile stops, Girona has a fascinating timeline with over 1,400 years of history, most of which can still be seen and enjoyed.
You could say that Girona boasts the best preserved medieval quarters in Europe, as most of the city remains untouched and features timeless cobbled streets, towering cathedrals and fortified walls.
In other words, don’t expect the eyes of some shiny high-rises to ruin your photo shoot.
Speaking of cameras, Game of Thrones was actually filmed here, which speaks volumes about the allure that Girona offers.
Given the city’s relatively small size, with just 100,000 inhabitants, the best way to explore the city is on foot, ensuring that every nook and cranny is covered by a maze of alleys and historic neighborhoods, such as the picturesque Jewish district. Carrer de la Forca (one of the best places for photos!).
If you want to go back even further in time, don’t miss the Arab Baths of Girona and the Church of Sant Feliu, but some of the best views are on an old stone bridge above the River Onyar. Pont de Pedra.
Cheaper, friendlier and less crowds
When a destination skyrockets, prices can often skyrocket as well. If you’re planning a getaway to Girona next year, as Expedia suggests, you won’t be spending much money at this point.
Starting in mid-winter, bed and breakfasts cost around $45 per night, and even household names like DoubleTree cost as little as $75.
Better yet, Girona enjoys the culinary delights of Spainsuch as wine and tapas bars, which typically cost just $10 per meal. Getting here is also easy, with a train from Barcelona and costs only $8.
If there is a notable price increase, it will likely be summer, so perhaps a beautiful spring break should be in your plans for better prices and better weather.
Despite breaking tourism records, the appeal is primarily more authenticity and less crowds, especially compared to places like Madrid and Barcelona.
While the crowds tend to thin out in winter, Girona was an ideal escape for an easily navigable city without the chaos of too many people to squeeze through.
Not to mention that Girona hasn’t pulled its welcome mats out from under tourists’ feet.
It is proud to show off its city; otherwise one of the most popular TV shows of all time could not have filmed here.
Better access to the beach
Girona isn’t a beach town per se, but it is a gateway to a much less busy side of Spain’s famous coastline.
Barcelona, numerous islands and the popular Costa del Sol are great places to visit, but the secret has long been out.
Using Girona as a gateway gives travelers a fresh look at many overlooked beaches, even in summer.
Just an hour’s drive away are several beautiful beaches without hordes of tourists as it is a bit off the beaten track.
According to local source Unexpected CataloniaThese are the 7 best beaches to escape the Spanish crowds:
- Cala Cap de Planes
- Cala Fornells
- Cala de Vallpresona
- Cala Murtra
- Cala Ferriol
- Cala Sa Sabolla
- Cala Tavallera
✈️Join our Travel Off Path community forum: Where travelers come together, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel companions!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to the latest Travel Off Path breaking travel news, delivered straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
