While living in Catalonia, I had the chance to visit and see a few towns beyond Barcelona and Girona. If you are following my Instagram account, maybe you have seen a few of the cities in Catalonia I have been to. I decided to summarize some of what I have seen so you guys have a better reference for things to do if you are ever around. These are my tips, and I believe you should see the towns and cities in Catalonia once. Let’s explore the most beautiful cities in Catalonia.
Cities in Catalonia: Barcelona
If you’re coming to this region, you will arrive at BCN airport, since is the biggest in the region. What should you see in Barcelona? Everyone will say that the first thing to see is Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia. Maybe they are right, maybe they are not.
This is my best tip: Find a free tour of the city. When I first arrived, I did a free tour and loved it a lot. Most definitely, they will take you around the city’s best landmarks and show you other alternatives, making it even more interesting.
Another thing I recommend is going on a food tour in Barcelona or guided tours in Barcelona. There are plenty in the cities, but I did one from Bitemojo. Trust me, there are way too many things to explore and enjoy your visit while visiting Catalonia, but definitely, you should start your trip and dedicate a few days to Barcelona.
Santa Pau
Santa Pau is a small town located in the mountains. The best thing about it is its medieval aspect and how easy is to walk around it. The landscapes, the view, and everything about this town will make you fall in love with it. To get there, you will need to go by bus and it is recommended mostly for a day trip from one of the other cities in Catalonia such as Barcelona and Girona.
Besalú
Besalu town has a lot of Roman influence. I fell in love with the bridge in this town. It is the perfect place to go on a day trip and see amazing views. The north of Catalonia is filled with amazing views you need to see. Besalú is not an exception to this rule. I heard that this is an important stop for those traveling around the region on a bike and is easy to reach, mainly from cities in Catalonia, such as Girona.
Lloret de Mar
Lloret de Mar is an amazing location if you’re looking for a beach and fun. Is surrounded by many nightclubs, casinos, and hotels that will make your holiday much more fun. I have to be sincere: If you’re looking for sightseeing or history, Lloret is not exactly the best place to go. Even though it has a lot of beautiful nature, Lloret is a place to go if you want to have fun. I recommend visiting its restaurants and maybe sleeping over for a night so you can explore a little bit more of its nightlife.
Girona
What can I say about the city I used to live in? Even though many people say that it can be dead sometimes, there’s always something to do. Are you a cultural person? There are plenty of things to do in Girona. Different activities for cultural interests, such as plays, music concerts, and exhibitions, surround the city. The best restaurant in the world is located in this region: El Celler de Can Roca. For those interested in trying new food, this is also a great place to visit.
Are you a Game of Thrones fan? Many of the scenes have been filmed in this city. While exploring the city, you might recognize some of the settings in your favorite series. The other great thing about Girona is that is just a 38 minutes train ride from Barcelona. You can come for a day trip or sleepover to have the chance to get to know a little more.
FAQ on the Best Cities in Catalonia
What are the major cities in Catalonia?
The major cities in Catalonia include Barcelona, Girona, Tarragona, and Lleida.
Is Barcelona Basque or Catalan?
Barcelona is Catalan. It is the capital city of the Catalonia region in Spain and is predominantly Catalan-speaking.
Is Catalonia a country yes or no?
No, Catalonia is not recognized as an independent country. It is an autonomous community within Spain with its distinct culture, language (Catalan), and government.
How many towns are there in Catalonia?
Catalonia is home to numerous towns and cities. While it’s difficult to provide an exact number due to varying definitions of what constitutes a town, Catalonia has hundreds of municipalities, each with unique character and attractions.
Final Thoughts on Cities in Catalonia
In summary, Catalonia has lots to offer, including its mix of culture, history, and beautiful scenery. From the lively city of Barcelona to quaint towns like Santa Pau and Besalú, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Catalonia has it all, whether you’re into famous sights, stunning landscapes, or exciting nightlife. It’s a place where tradition meets modern life, welcoming visitors to explore and create lasting memories.
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