How Far is Girona from Barcelona? A Complete Travel Guide

When planning a trip to Spain, two destinations often stand out for their beauty, culture, and historical richness- Barcelona and Girona. Barcelona, a bustling cosmopolitan hub known for its beaches, architecture, and nightlife, contrasts beautifully with Girona, a medieval gem offering a quieter but equally fascinating experience.

If you’re traveling between these two cities, one of the most common questions is: “How far is Girona from Barcelona?” Whether you are a tourist planning day trips, a business traveler, or someone exploring Catalonia in depth, knowing the distance, travel options, and the best ways to commute is essential.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about traveling from Girona to Barcelona, including distances, travel times, transport modes, cost comparisons, and useful tips for making the most of your journey.

Understanding the Distance: Girona to Barcelona

So, how far is Girona from Barcelona?

• By road, the distance is approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles).
  
• By train, the rail distance is slightly less but follows a similar route.
  
• In terms of time, the journey usually takes between 40 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on the transport you choose.
  

This makes Girona an excellent destination for a day trip from Barcelona or a convenient stop if you’re exploring Catalonia in more detail.

Travel Time Overview

Here’s a quick snapshot of how long it takes to travel from Girona to Barcelona:

• 🚄 High-Speed Train (AVE/AVANT): 38–40 minutes
  
• 🚆 Regular Train (Rodalies): 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
  
• 🚗 Car / Taxi / Private Transfer: 1 hour 10 minutes (via AP-7)
  
• 🚌 Bus: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
  

Depending on your priorities- budget, convenience, or comfort- you can pick the mode that suits you best.

Girona to Barcelona by Train

The train is by far the fastest and most popular way to travel between these two cities. Spain’s high-speed rail system, operated under the AVE and AVANT lines, connects Girona and Barcelona seamlessly.

1. High-Speed Train (AVE/AVANT)

• Travel time: 38–40 minutes
  
• Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes
  
• Departure/Arrival: Girona Train Station (Estació de Girona) → Barcelona Sants Station
  

These trains are modern, comfortable, and perfect for those who want to save time. Seats are spacious, with free Wi-Fi, charging points, and luggage storage.

2. Regional Train (Rodalies R11)

• Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
  
• Frequency: Several departures daily
  
• Departure/Arrival: Girona Station → Barcelona Sants, Passeig de Gràcia, or El Clot
  

While slower, regional trains are cheaper than the AVE and offer more local stops. If you’re budget-conscious, this is a good option.

Girona to Barcelona by Road

If you prefer the freedom of road travel, driving is an excellent choice.

Driving Distance

• Girona to Barcelona distance by car: ~100 km
  
• Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (without heavy traffic)
  
• Route: AP-7 motorway (toll road)
  

Private Transfers and Taxis

Booking a private transfer through Rydeu ensures a stress-free, comfortable, and direct journey. Unlike trains or buses, a taxi or transfer takes you door-to-door, saving time and effort—especially if you’re carrying luggage or traveling in a group.

With Rydeu, you can:

• Pre-book your ride with transparent pricing
  
• Choose from a variety of vehicles
  
• Travel without worrying about delays or missed connections
  

This option is especially convenient for families, business travelers, or anyone who values comfort over cost.

Girona to Barcelona by Bus

Another affordable way to travel is by bus. Several companies operate daily routes connecting Girona and Barcelona.

• Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes
  
• Departure: Girona Bus Station
  
• Arrival: Barcelona Nord Bus Station
  

Buses are budget-friendly but less frequent compared to trains. They are a good option if you’re looking for cheap travel and don’t mind longer travel times.

Girona Airport to Barcelona

Many travelers flying into Girona-Costa Brava Airport also wonder about connections to Barcelona.

• Distance: Girona Airport to Barcelona is about 95 kilometers.
  
• Travel options:
  
  • Shuttle buses directly to Barcelona city center (1 hour 15 minutes)
    
  • Trains (from Girona city, 15 minutes from the airport)
    
  • Private transfers or taxis via Rydeu, offering direct door-to-door service.
    

If your flight lands in Girona but your accommodation is in Barcelona, booking a Rydeu private transfer can make your journey hassle-free.

Which Mode of Travel is Best?

Let’s compare options for traveling from Girona to Barcelona:

Mode of Transport	Travel Time	Comfort	Cost	Best For
High-Speed Train	40 min	★★★★★	Medium	Time-saving travelers
Regional Train	1h 20 min	★★★★☆	Low	Budget-conscious
Car / Taxi (Rydeu)	1h 10 min	★★★★★	Medium-High	Comfort & convenience
Bus	1h 30 min	★★★☆☆	Low	Budget & solo travelers

Day Trip: Girona to Barcelona

Since the distance is relatively short, many travelers choose to explore Girona in a day while staying in Barcelona.

Suggested Day Trip Itinerary:

1. Morning: Take an early AVE train from Barcelona to Girona (arrive in under 40 minutes).
   
2. Explore Girona: Visit the medieval Old Town, Girona Cathedral, the Jewish Quarter, and the iconic Onyar River houses.
   
3. Lunch: Try Catalan specialties at a local restaurant.
   
4. Afternoon: Stroll along the medieval walls for panoramic views.
   
5. Evening: Return to Barcelona via train or a comfortable private ride transfer.
   

This itinerary makes Girona one of the most convenient and rewarding day trips from Barcelona.

Tips for Traveling from Girona to Barcelona

1. Book in Advance: Whether it’s a high-speed train ticket or a Rydeu private transfer, booking early ensures better prices.
   
2. Avoid Rush Hours: If driving, avoid peak traffic hours (8–10 AM and 5–7 PM) when entering or leaving Barcelona.
   
3. Check Train Schedules: High-speed trains sell out quickly, so secure tickets beforehand.
   
4. Plan for Flexibility: Girona and Barcelona both offer so much to explore—consider spending at least a full day in each.
   
5. Comfort vs. Budget: Decide whether you value speed, cost savings, or comfort most, and pick accordingly.
   

Final Thoughts

So, how far is Girona from Barcelona? The answer is around 100 kilometers, a distance easily covered in under two hours by multiple modes of transport. Whether you prefer the speed of the high-speed train, the affordability of a bus, or the comfort of a Rydeu private transfer, traveling between Girona and Barcelona is convenient and accessible.

For those short on time, Girona is perfect for a day trip from Barcelona, while travelers seeking comfort and stress-free journeys can rely on Rydeu for smooth, direct transfers.

In short, the trip from Girona to Barcelona is not just about distance; it’s about making your journey memorable, comfortable, and well-planned. With the right choice of transport, you can enjoy the best of both cities with ease.