Reviewed by
Clemmy Manzo
History buffs will have heard of Girona’s well-preserved medieval centre. Others will recognise it as the city of Braavos in Game of Thrones. Whichever your interest, it's a stunning part of this elegant Catalonian city, with a fascinating mix of architectural styles. Set on the cobblestoned streets facing Plaça del Vi, with its back towards the River Onyan, this block of 8 apartments is a short stroll from the main attractions – a Gothic-style Cathedral, the 13th-century Arab Baths, the medieval Walls – and steps from the atmospheric old Jewish Quarter.
Inside, muted colours and minimal furnishings lend the 2- and 3-bedroom apartments a modern, Scandi feel; high ceilings and tall windows add to the comfortable sense of space. They’re chic, but not intimidatingly so: homes-away-from-home. Owned by the Hotel Ciutat de Girona (5 minutes’ walk over the bridge), you're welcome to use their rejuvenating spa or have a breakfast buffet there. But the apartments’ open-plan kitchens, cosy living rooms and sun-drenched balconies might tempt you to stay put for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Inside, muted colours and minimal furnishings lend the 2- and 3-bedroom apartments a modern, Scandi feel; high ceilings and tall windows add to the comfortable sense of space. They’re chic, but not intimidatingly so: homes-away-from-home. Owned by the Hotel Ciutat de Girona (5 minutes’ walk over the bridge), you're welcome to use their rejuvenating spa or have a breakfast buffet there. But the apartments’ open-plan kitchens, cosy living rooms and sun-drenched balconies might tempt you to stay put for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Highs
- A perfect riverside location in the heart of the Old Town, 30 mins' drive from golden beaches
- Spacious, light-filled interiors, with pops of 50s-style furnishings
- Great for families; all bedrooms can be set up as twins and our toddler loved the suitcase of toys provided for him
- Wonderful restaurants all around, and excellent kitchens for self catering a few meals
Lows
- Our double bedroom was on the small side, but there was tons of space in the apartment itself
- There's no parking in the Old Town. Perhaps ditch the car altogether and travel here by plane and train
- No pool, and the closest beaches are a 30-minute drive away
- Note: a refundable security deposit is payable in addition to the stay cost
Best time to go
Visit in May to see Girona’s streets decorated with thousands of flowers during the annual Girona Flower Festival. Cyclists may want to come in June, in time for the city’s famous cycling festival. Otherwise, September is lovely, when the weather is still warm and the nearby beaches are less busy than during peak summer months.
Our top tips
We loved the romantic wine bar Plaça del Vi 7, next door to the apartments. There’s an excellent list of wines and an expert sommelier to guide you through it, plus a small list of traditional tapas. Arrive early-ish for a table as it's very popular.