Girona Cathedral
A breathtaking Gothic cathedral with the world's widest nave, famous for its Game of Thrones filming location.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Girona Cathedral
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking Gothic cathedral with the world's widest nave, famous for its Game of Thrones filming location.
"Don’t walk, run to this iconic Cathedral. The steps are wonderful to sit and people watch."
📸 Capture GOT Magic
Recreate iconic Game of Thrones scenes on the grand steps!
🎟️ Smart Ticket Purchase
Get a 3-in-1 ticket for great value, including the Basilica.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Gothic Nave
Interior
Marvel at the world's widest Gothic nave, a breathtaking feat of medieval architecture.

Game of Thrones Steps
Exterior Staircase
Recreate iconic 'Walk of Shame' scenes from Game of Thrones on these majestic steps.
Romanesque Cloisters
North Side
Find a peaceful escape in the serene Romanesque cloisters and gardens.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Game of Thrones Vibes
Ticket Bundles for Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture GOT Magic
Recreate iconic Game of Thrones scenes on the grand steps!
🎟️ Smart Ticket Purchase
Get a 3-in-1 ticket for great value, including the Basilica.
🚶♀️ Explore the Cloisters
Don't miss the peaceful Romanesque cloisters and gardens.
🎧 Audio Guide Recommended
Enhance your visit with the detailed audio tour for historical context.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture GOT Magic
Recreate iconic Game of Thrones scenes on the grand steps!
🎟️ Smart Ticket Purchase
Get a 3-in-1 ticket for great value, including the Basilica.
🚶♀️ Explore the Cloisters
Don't miss the peaceful Romanesque cloisters and gardens.
🎧 Audio Guide Recommended
Enhance your visit with the detailed audio tour for historical context.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Lots of walking and climbing stairs, wear comfy shoes!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Girona Cathedral for its stunning architecture, particularly its record-breaking Gothic nave, and its iconic status as a Game of Thrones filming location. The grand staircase and the peaceful cloisters are frequently highlighted as favorite spots. While the entrance fee is considered reasonable for the experience, some visitors have noted issues with audio guide availability.
"Don’t walk run to this iconic Cathedral. The steps are wonderful to sit and people watch and soak in the Game of Thrones feeling. Inside is grand. The cloisters in the garden are lovely to sit and cool off. I bought the 3 in 1 ticket so no need to line up… go to the tourism office in Girona first. They are so helpful. Quite wonderful."
Sheree Secrett
"800 years in the making, and well worth a visit.
At only €7.50 for the Cathedral and the Basilica down the road, it very fairly priced.
There is an audio tour which is detailed and insightful, and provides good context to the building.
Overall, it’s a highly impressive, historic must visit in Girona!
Don’t forget to walk around the beautiful gardens just to the north."
Austen Urry
"This was a truly moving experience.
From the moment you stand at the bottom of the steps and look up it's magnificent.
€7.50 entry for an adult and it include the basilica across the road which is amazing value for money.
Only downside was they didn't give us the audio guide that supposedly comes with entry fee. This didn't detract but would have been nice.
When you step inside and look up you can't help but be awed by the view. There are so many chapels inside and they truly need to be seen to be fully appreciated.
I can't think of why you'd visit Girona and not come here.
Game of Thrones fans may also recognise this cathedral and it's step as the "shame" scene in series 6."
Adam Sinclair
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Girona Airport (GRO), you can take a taxi directly to the cathedral, which is about a 20-minute drive. Alternatively, you can take a bus to the city center and then walk or take a local bus to the cathedral. Taxis can be around €30, so consider this if you're on a budget.
Yes, Girona Cathedral is very accessible from Barcelona. High-speed trains run frequently from Barcelona Sants station to Girona, taking only about 40 minutes. From Girona train station, it's a pleasant walk or a short taxi/bus ride to the cathedral.
Girona's historic center, where the cathedral is located, is very walkable. Many visitors explore on foot after arriving by train or bus. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the charming streets and the cathedral's steps.
Parking near Girona Cathedral can be challenging due to its central location in the old town. It's recommended to use public transport or park in a designated public parking garage on the outskirts of the old town and walk.
Yes, local buses operate within Girona and can take you close to the cathedral. However, given the compact nature of the historic center, walking is often the most enjoyable and efficient way to reach it from most parts of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Girona Cathedral typically costs around €7.50 for adults, which often includes access to the Basilica and sometimes an audio guide. Combined tickets offering access to multiple sites are also available and provide good value.
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance, especially during peak season or for specific tours, is advisable to avoid queues. You can often buy tickets at the tourism office or directly at the cathedral entrance.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the cathedral is open from morning to late afternoon. It's best to check the official website or inquire at the local tourism office for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays.
As a place of worship, it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting Girona Cathedral. Shoulders and knees should ideally be covered. While not strictly enforced for tourists, it's a good practice to follow.
Often, the ticket price for Girona Cathedral includes an audio guide, which provides detailed historical context and insights into the architecture. It's highly recommended to use it to fully appreciate the site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The grand Baroque staircase leading to Girona Cathedral is famous worldwide as a filming location for Game of Thrones, specifically for Cersei Lannister's 'Walk of Shame' scene. It's a popular spot for photos and soaking in the show's atmosphere.
Girona Cathedral showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Construction began in the 11th century in Romanesque style, but it was later expanded and completed in the Gothic style, most notably featuring its impressive Gothic nave.
Girona Cathedral boasts the world's widest Gothic nave, measuring an astonishing 22 meters (72 feet) across. This architectural marvel creates a vast, awe-inspiring interior space that is a highlight for many visitors.
Occasionally, Girona Cathedral hosts cultural events, concerts, and even traditional Catalan human tower performances (castellers) on its steps, especially during local festivals. These events add a unique dimension to the visitor experience.
Adjacent to the cathedral, you can explore beautiful gardens and cloisters, offering a tranquil respite. These areas provide lovely views of the cathedral's architecture and are perfect for a moment of quiet reflection.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand staircase is iconic for Game of Thrones fans. For architectural shots, frame the facade from the plaza below. Inside, capture the scale of the nave and the details of the chapels. The cloisters also offer beautiful, serene photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed inside Girona Cathedral, but it's important to be respectful. Flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork and maintain the solemn atmosphere. Always check for any specific signage.
For exterior shots, early morning or late afternoon light offers beautiful golden hues. The steps can be less crowded in the early morning. Inside, diffused light from the windows can create dramatic effects, especially in the nave.
Absolutely! The main staircase is the prime spot to recreate iconic Game of Thrones scenes. You can also find vantage points that mimic camera angles used in the show, especially around the plaza.
For interior shots, use a wider aperture to let in more light and a higher ISO if needed. A tripod can be helpful for stability in low light, but be mindful of any restrictions. Capturing the vastness of the nave requires a wide-angle lens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the cathedral itself is a significant site, exploring the surrounding city offers more for families. The colorful houses along the Onyar River are visually stimulating, and walking along the city walls provides a sense of adventure. Pack snacks and water, as exploring can involve a lot of walking and climbing stairs.
🎬 Game of Thrones Enthusiasts
Beyond the steps, take time to appreciate the cathedral's actual historical and architectural grandeur. The impressive Gothic nave and the Romanesque cloisters offer a deeper understanding of the site's importance, even beyond its on-screen fame. Many visitors find that the real-life beauty of the cathedral enhances their appreciation of its role in the show.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Getting to Girona from Barcelona via high-speed train is also relatively affordable, especially if booked in advance. Once in Girona, the city center is highly walkable, saving on local transportation costs. Consider packing your own snacks and water to avoid purchasing them at tourist-heavy spots near the cathedral.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Game of Thrones Connection
Beyond its cinematic fame, the cathedral's historical and architectural significance is profound. Its construction spanned centuries, beginning in the Romanesque period and evolving into a magnificent Gothic masterpiece. This blend of styles is evident throughout the structure, offering a rich tapestry of history for visitors to explore. The presence of Game of Thrones has undoubtedly boosted tourism, drawing a new wave of visitors eager to see these famous filming locations firsthand.
Architectural Marvel: Romanesque to Gothic
The transition from Romanesque to Gothic is visible in different parts of the cathedral, offering a fascinating study for architecture enthusiasts. The exterior, with its grand staircase and Baroque facade, presents a dramatic approach. Inside, the soaring ceilings, intricate stonework, and numerous chapels reflect the grandeur of Gothic design. Visitors often remark on the breathtaking view upon entering, with the immense nave dominating the space. The cloisters, dating back to the Romanesque period, offer a serene contrast with their carved capitals and peaceful garden setting.
Exploring the Surroundings
Other notable sites include the Arab Baths (Banyoles), the Passeig de la Muralla (city walls offering panoramic views), and the Eiffel Bridge, built by Gustave Eiffel himself. For history buffs, the Sant Pere de Galligants Monastery is another significant landmark. Many visitors combine a trip to the cathedral with exploring these nearby attractions, making for a comprehensive day trip from Barcelona.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit