Illa

We are 2 “mature” women who will be flying from the US to Barcelona mid June. We want to pick up a car at the airport and explore Girona, the Dalí Triangle.and some of the Costa Brava for a week before going to Barcelona.

We would like to pick 2 towns as a base so we don’t have to pack and unpack and we are stuck as how to manage this. As we have aged, we find our travel style has changed; no longer the need to see so many sights but rather get a feel for the people, enjoy the outdoor cafes, dip into art and a museum and not rush around.

Advice would be much appreciated for how to plan our week.

Illa

vanshoppers

You will be jet lagged on arrival, making the drive unnecessarily adventurous. Have you considered 1-2 day downtime in Barcelona?

Illa

Thanks for your reply, Vanshoppers. We have considered the issue you raise. We arrive in the morning and because the drive will not be long, we would prefer to get to our destination, settle in and relax for the remainder of the day.

FTOttawa

So, train from Barcelona to Girona and relax there before picking up a car. Girona for a few nights lends itself admirably to slow travel.

On the coast, we only saw San Feliu de Guixols as it was on the bicycle greenway. Lovely town.

bilboburgler

What FT says is perfect. Girona (pron Hirona) is so chilled

Illa

The advice you all all has given us pause because you agree on the best plan. We have reconsidered accordingly and will head to Girona, and continue on after a good sleep. Thanks so much!!

Maribel

Please don´t drive upon arriving at the Barcelona airport. Just transfer to Sants station and take the high-speed train to Girona. Enjoy Girona for a. few days, and if you want to see the very best of the Northern Costa Brava, rent a car in Girona and move east to the Begur area (either pretty Begur itself or if you prefer Med views, then Aiguablava or further south to the seaside towns of Calella de Palafrugell or Llafranc. This is the most beautiful part of the Costa Brava.

That said, you need reservations ASAP for anywhere on the Costa Brava, especially the northern part, that receives a very loyal, yearly repeat clientele.

Illa

Thank you for your suggestions Maribel. We are taking the helpful advice and will not rent a car on arriving. We are also considering moving east for a couple of days.

Southam

Aside from its convenience, Girona is picturesque and home to many interesting restaurants. Maribel always has enticing restaurant information.

morganphoenix0071

Heads up for a couple of days in Girona. You can explore the Dali Museum from there, too.
Then my personal favorite is Begur for a quaint little village with charm, or Palamos for something bigger by the sea.