Getting Around Girona Province
How to Get Around in Girona Province
Welcome to Girona Province! Whether you're here for a relaxing vacation, a cycling holiday, or a training camp, this beautiful region of Catalonia is full of charm and natural beauty. At Els Majordoms, we're passionate about introducing our guests to the local culture and ensuring they have all the information they need to explore with ease. As you prepare for your stay, here's a guide to getting around in rural Girona.
“We’ve been hosting travelers in Banyoles, La Garrotxa, and Alt Empordà for years. This guide shares the practical transportation tips we give all our guests, helping you navigate rural Catalonia like a local, with peace of mind guaranteed.”
Arriving by Plane or Train
Most international visitors begin their journey in Girona Province by landing at either Girona-Costa Brava Airport or Barcelona-El Prat Airport. From there, you have several options for reaching your destination in the heart of the countryside.
However, for travelers coming from within Europe, arriving by train is becoming an increasingly popular option. High-speed trains now connect many major European cities, making it easier than ever to travel by rail. While the travel time by train may be longer than by plane, it offers a more relaxed experience. There's no need to worry about long waiting times or rushing through crowded airports. Trains are spacious, comfortable, and allow you to bring plenty of luggage without the extra charges. Train stations are also less crowded than airports and are often conveniently located within city centers, making them easy to reach by car. Plus, traveling by train is a more sustainable option, reducing your carbon footprint while allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the European countryside.
Holiday rental near Girona airport and train stations in Catalonia
All properties within easy reach of airports and train stations
Whether you're arriving by plane or train, all our properties are conveniently located within 50 minutes of Girona-Costa Brava Airport, Barcelona Airport, or Figueres train station. Enjoy easy access to rural Catalonia without sacrificing convenience. Browse All Properties →
Trains: The Ideal Choice for Long and Short Distances
Spain's train network is a fantastic option for both long and short distances. For instance, the AVE high-speed train can take you from Barcelona to Madrid in just 2.5 hours at a very reasonable cost. These trains are spacious, clean, and comfortable, perfect for working on your laptop, chatting with fellow travelers, or simply enjoying the ride.
For shorter trips within Catalonia, regional trains connect Barcelona, Girona, Figueres, and even destinations across the border into France. These trains are affordable, frequent, and a great way to explore the region.
Holiday rental near Figueres train station in Alt Empordà, Girona
Alt Empordà properties near Figueres train station
Traveling by train? Our properties in Alt Empordà are perfectly positioned near Figueres train station, making them ideal for guests arriving by rail. Explore the medieval towns of Besalú and Castellfollit de la Roca, or venture into the Pyrenees—all without needing a car. Browse Alt Empordà Properties →
Buses: Reliable Transportation Across Rural Girona
When it comes to exploring rural Girona, buses are a reliable and economical choice. Besides the Teisa Bus service, which connects Barcelona to Girona, Banyoles, Besalú, and Olot, other popular bus providers include Sarfa and Sagalés, which offer connections to various towns and rural areas within the province. These buses provide a relaxed and scenic journey, with stops in many charming towns along the way. However, be sure to check the schedules in advance, as bus frequencies can be limited in rural areas.
Luxury villa with private pool in Banyoles, Girona Province
Banyoles properties near bus stops
Staying in Banyoles? Our properties in town are within easy walking distance of bus stops, offering direct connections to Girona, Barcelona, and La Garrotxa. Perfect if you prefer exploring by public transport while enjoying the charm of lakeside Banyoles. Browse Banyoles Properties →
Tourist Trains: A Fun Way to Explore the Area
For a fun and unique way to see the sights, especially if you're traveling with kids or have reduced mobility, consider taking one of the tourist trains available in the area. These charming trains offer a relaxed and scenic way to explore local attractions without the need for strenuous walking.
Tren Pinxo de Banyoles: This small train takes you on a delightful journey around Lake Banyoles, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding areas. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty of Banyoles in a leisurely fashion.
Besalú Tourist Train: In the historic town of Besalú, the tourist train offers a convenient way to explore this medieval gem. The train winds through the narrow streets, providing a comfortable way to see the town's iconic landmarks, such as the Romanesque bridge and ancient Jewish quarter.
L'Escala Coastal Train: For breathtaking coastal views, hop on the tourist train that runs along the coastline in L'Escala. This train is perfect for enjoying the sea breeze and stunning Mediterranean vistas.
These tourist trains are especially popular with children, who love the novelty of riding on a train, and they provide an easy option for anyone looking to explore without much walking. You can simply go to a stop, check the schedule, and pay when you get on—there's no need to reserve in advance.
Renting a Car: The Best Way to Explore Rural Girona
For those planning to explore the rural areas of Girona Province, renting a car is often the best option. There are plenty of affordable car rental services available at both Girona and Barcelona airports. Driving through the countryside is generally relaxed, with little traffic outside the cities. However, it's important to remember that roads and vehicles here are smaller compared to those in the United States.
💡 Tip: If you're heading into the countryside, consider renting an SUV or a van with sufficient ground clearance. The most beautiful vacation rentals in the countryside are sometimes accessed by unpaved roads, and a vehicle with higher clearance will provide more comfort on these routes. Additionally, an SUV or van can accommodate more luggage, making your travels more convenient.
While navigating rural roads, be mindful that some of these roads, especially in old town centers, can be quite narrow—too narrow, in fact, for larger vehicles to pass through comfortably. Use common sense; if a road seems too tight, it's best to turn around and find parking nearby. Fortunately, there's usually parking available just outside the narrow streets.
Vacation Rentals with Parking and EV Charging
For guests traveling by car, almost all of our vacation rentals offer private parking, ensuring you have a convenient and secure place to leave your vehicle. This is especially beneficial if you're staying in a rural area where street parking can be limited. Browse all properties with parking →
If you're driving an electric vehicle, you'll be pleased to know that some of our properties also offer EV charging options. While charging stations are still becoming more common across the region, having access to a charger at your accommodation can make your stay even more convenient. Be sure to check with us when booking to confirm if your chosen rental includes this amenity.
Rural holiday rental in La Garrotxa volcanic zone, Girona Province
La Garrotxa properties in the volcanic countryside
Exploring the rural beauty of La Garrotxa? Our properties in this stunning volcanic region offer the perfect countryside escape. With a rental car, you'll have the freedom to discover medieval villages like Besalú and Castellfollit de la Roca, hike through volcanic landscapes, and explore hidden gems at your own pace. Browse La Garrotxa Properties →
Exploring Girona by Motorbike: A Scenic and Freeing Adventure
For those who enjoy the freedom of the open road, exploring Girona Province by motorbike is an exhilarating experience. The region's scenic roads, which stretch from the Pyrenees to the Cap de Creus, offer breathtaking views with very little traffic, making it an ideal destination for motorbike enthusiasts. The best times of the year for motorbiking are during the spring and autumn months (April to June and September to October), when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.
Cruising along the coastline, through the mountains, and across the plains, you'll encounter an array of stunning landscapes. One of the joys of riding in rural Girona is the absence of traffic lights on most country roads, allowing you to enjoy uninterrupted journeys through picturesque surroundings. Whether you're riding to historic cities like Girona and Besalú or simply exploring the countryside, you'll find that parking is easy, with plenty of designated motorbike parking spaces available in towns.
Motorbikes also provide the flexibility to navigate narrow streets in old town centers, where cars might struggle. You can easily ride into the heart of these towns, park your bike, and take a break at a local bar for a leisurely "dinar" (lunch). This makes motorbiking not only a thrilling way to explore but also a convenient option for visiting the region's many hidden gems.
Cycling in Girona: From Easy Rides to Challenging Routes
Cycling is an integral part of life in Girona, whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just looking to explore the area on two wheels. The "Vies Verdes" (Greenways) are a network of trails that follow old railway tracks, making them generally flat and perfect for easy riding. These routes pass through picturesque villages and old train stations that have been transformed into charming bars, offering a fun and leisurely way for the whole family to explore the countryside. The best times of the year for cycling are spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is cooler, and the scenery is at its best.
For those seeking more challenging cycling adventures, the apps Strava and Komoot are excellent resources. These platforms offer detailed maps and routes for mountain biking, road biking, and gravel biking. Girona is a training ground for world-famous cyclists, and these apps allow you to compare your performance on the same routes they ride.
Holiday rental with secure garage and bike storage in Girona Province
Properties with secure garage and bike storage
Bringing your own bike or motorbike? Our properties with garages offer secure storage for your valuable equipment. Whether you're a serious cyclist with high-end gear or a motorcyclist exploring the scenic roads, you'll have peace of mind knowing your bike is safely stored. Browse Properties with Garages →
A Final Word on Navigation
Google Maps is a useful tool for getting around Girona Province, but be cautious when using it off paved roads. The maps work well for main roads and highways, but in rural areas, especially on unpaved roads, it may not always be accurate. We provide detailed driving directions to our guests and are always available to assist if you're in doubt about your route.
Exploring rural Girona is an adventure, and with the right preparation, you'll enjoy every moment of your stay. At Els Majordoms, we're here to help you navigate the region with ease, ensuring you have a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Historic Catalan country estate for large groups in Girona Province
Properties with private parking
Almost all our properties offer private parking spaces, ensuring you have a secure and convenient place for your vehicle. Perfect for road trips, rental cars, and exploring rural Girona at your own pace—with peace of mind guaranteed. Browse Properties with Parking →
Frequently Asked Questions
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The easiest option is renting a car (1 hour drive). Alternatively, take a bus from Barcelona to Girona or Banyoles via Teisa or Sagalés services. Regional trains connect Barcelona to Girona, from where you can take a bus to Banyoles.
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For exploring rural areas and our countryside vacation rentals, a car is highly recommended. While buses and trains connect major towns, many beautiful properties and attractions are best accessed by car, giving you flexibility and convenience.
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Some of our properties offer EV charging facilities. When booking, let us know you're driving an electric vehicle, and we'll confirm which accommodations have charging options available.
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Spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) are ideal for cycling. The weather is mild, roads are less crowded, and the landscapes are beautiful. Girona is famous as a training destination for professional cyclists.
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Most main roads accommodate all vehicle sizes, but old town centers and some countryside roads can be narrow. We recommend renting an SUV or van with good clearance for unpaved access roads to rural properties, but be prepared to park outside narrow village streets.
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Buses are reliable and economical, with regular services on main routes (Teisa, Sarfa, Sagalés). However, frequencies can be limited in rural areas, so check schedules in advance and plan accordingly.
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Yes! We provide detailed driving directions to all our guests, including tips for navigating rural roads. We're always available by phone or WhatsApp if you need assistance during your journey.
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Yes, though with some limitations. Trains and buses connect major towns like Girona, Figueres, Banyoles, and coastal areas. For stays in town centers with good public transport links, you can manage without a car. For rural properties, a car offers much more freedom.
Ready to Explore Girona Province?
Whether you're arriving by train, car, motorbike, or bicycle, Girona Province offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. At Els Majordoms, we take care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying your stay in this beautiful corner of Catalonia.
Browse all our accommodations across Banyoles, La Garrotxa, and Alt Empordà—from cozy rural apartments to luxury villas and historic country estates in rural Girona Province.
We're here to help you plan the perfect stay with peace of mind guaranteed.
