When planning a family holiday, we’re always looking for a destination that balances adventure, relaxation and culture – somewhere that keeps the kids entertained while still giving the adults that sense of discovery that makes travelling so special. Recently, we found exactly that in Girona and the Costa Brava, a stunning region in north-eastern Spain that offers the perfect mix of historic cities, beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.
Often overshadowed by nearby Barcelona, Girona is one of those places that quietly wins you over. It’s compact, welcoming and full of character, making it ideal for families travelling with children. Add to that the dramatic coastline of the Costa Brava, with its turquoise waters and hidden coves, and you’ve got a destination that delivers memorable experiences for all ages.
If you’re looking for a European family holiday that combines culture, nature, and fun outdoor adventures, Girona and the Costa Brava should absolutely be on your list.
A historic city that feels like a real-life adventure
Girona’s Old Town, known as Barri Vell, is the kind of place that instantly captures children’s imaginations. Its winding cobbled streets, ancient stone buildings and hidden staircases make it feel almost like stepping into a storybook.
Our kids loved exploring the narrow alleyways and discovering little squares tucked between historic buildings. The city feels safe and easy to walk around, which means parents can relax while children enjoy the sense of adventure that comes with wandering somewhere new.
One of the highlights for the whole family was walking along the ancient city walls. These well-preserved fortifications stretch around the historic centre and offer incredible views across Girona’s rooftops, church towers and surrounding countryside. For children, climbing the towers and walking along the ramparts feels like exploring a castle.
Another must-see is the colourful row of houses along the River Onyar. Painted in shades of yellow, red and orange, they’re one of Girona’s most iconic sights and make for wonderful family photos.
Easy family cycling in nature
One of the things Girona is particularly famous for is cycling. In fact, many professional cyclists train in the region thanks to its scenic routes and mild climate. But you don’t need to be an expert cyclist to enjoy it – there are plenty of family-friendly routes perfect for kids.
A great option is the Via Verde cycling paths, which follow old railway lines through the countryside. These routes are mostly flat and surrounded by beautiful landscapes, passing through forests, fields and charming villages.
Renting bikes for the day and heading out into nature quickly became one of our favourite family activities. The kids loved the sense of freedom, and the peaceful surroundings made it a relaxing experience for everyone.
It’s also a fantastic way to see more of the region beyond the city itself.
Beach days on the Costa Brava
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Girona is how close it is to the Costa Brava, one of the most beautiful coastlines in Spain. Within about 30–45 minutes you can reach a variety of beaches, from wide sandy bays to small hidden coves surrounded by cliffs.
For families, the Costa Brava offers far more than just sunbathing. Many beaches have calm, clear water that’s ideal for swimming and paddling, and there are plenty of activities to keep children entertained.
One of the highlights for us was kayaking along the coastline. Several beaches offer guided kayaking tours that allow you to explore caves, rocky coves and quiet beaches that are only accessible from the water. Even older children can join in, making it a fun and slightly adventurous experience for the whole family.
Other activities include paddleboarding, snorkelling, and boat trips along the coast. Some families even choose to rent a small boat for the day and discover hidden coves at their own pace.
Places like Calella de Palafrugell, Tossa de Mar, S’Agaró and Begur are particularly beautiful, with crystal-clear water and picturesque seaside villages where you can stop for ice cream or lunch after a morning at the beach.
Family-friendly food and relaxed evenings
Food is always an important part of any trip, and Girona’s relaxed dining culture works wonderfully for families. The city is full of cafés, bakeries and restaurants where you can enjoy simple, delicious meals without the pressure that sometimes comes with dining out with children.
Many evenings we found ourselves sitting in small squares in the Old Town, sharing tapas while the kids watched the world go by. It’s the sort of relaxed atmosphere that makes travelling with children feel easy rather than stressful.
From freshly baked pastries in the morning to seafood dinners by the coast, Girona offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy local Catalan flavours.
Finding the right place to stay
Accommodation can make a big difference when travelling as a family, especially if you want a bit more space than a typical hotel room provides. Many families choose holiday rentals in Girona because they offer the flexibility of multiple bedrooms, kitchens and living areas.
This extra space makes it easier to relax after a busy day exploring, and it also allows you to prepare simple meals or snacks when travelling with younger children.
During our research, we came across Bravissimo Girona, a company that offers beautifully designed apartments in prime locations around Girona and the Costa Brava. Their properties combine stylish interiors with practical layouts, making them particularly well suited to families who want comfort as well as convenience.
Staying in a central apartment also means you can easily walk to many of Girona’s attractions, restaurants and cafés.
Easy to reach from the any point
Another reason Girona works so well for a family holiday is how accessible it is. There are regular flights from the UK to both Girona Airport and Barcelona Airport. From Barcelona, the train journey to Girona takes around 40 minutes, making it very manageable even with children.
Once you’re there, the region is easy to explore by car or public transport, especially if you plan to visit different beaches along the Costa Brava.
Why Girona and the Costa Brava are perfect for families
Girona and the Costa Brava offer a fantastic combination of experiences for families. You can spend one day exploring medieval streets and city walls, the next cycling through countryside trails, and the following afternoon kayaking along the Mediterranean coast.
Few destinations offer such a variety of activities within such a short distance.
For families looking for a European destination that blends culture, outdoor adventure and beautiful scenery, Girona and the Costa Brava are hard to beat. With welcoming streets, exciting activities for children and comfortable accommodation options like those offered by Bravissimo Girona, it’s the kind of place where unforgettable family memories are easily made.
