Spain has been all the rage all year, and it seems 2025 will be no different, except for the fact more hidden gems will surely break out.
With overtourism concerns in major cities, it makes sense why travelers are opting for new destinations rather than the same-o same-o experiences in places where we might even feel unwelcome.
The fair trade-off is to give Spain’s tourism titans a break while letting our wanderlust guide us through some lesser-known treasures, but one such place Expedia is hyping up already broke tourism records, yet still holds on to ‘hidden gem’ status – for now.
Highlighted as the best alternative destination for Barcelona, the beautiful inland city of Girona is set to shine even more in 2025, welcoming travelers to explore its picturesque streets.
One Of Europe’s Best Preserved Medieval Quarters
Tucked away from action-packed Barcelona, Girona lies about 40 minutes Northeast of the icon’s busy streets and pretty beaches.
As one of the many worthwhile stops throughout Catalonia, Girona boasts a fascinating timeline with over 1,400 years of history, most of which is still on display for you to enjoy.
One could argue Girona beholds Europe’s best-preserved medieval quarters as most of the city has remained untouched, boasting timeless streets of cobbled stone, towering cathedrals, and fortified walls.
In other words, don’t expect the eyesores of a few shiny high-rises to ruin your photo-ops.
Speaking of cameras, Game of Thrones was actually filmed here, which speaks volumes to the allure Girona provides.
Given the city’s relatively small size of just 100,000 people, the best way to explore is on foot to ensure every nook and cranny is covered through a maze of alleyways and historic districts, such as the Jewish Quarter’s picturesque Carrer de la Força (one of the best spots for photos!).
Going back further in time, don’t skip out on Girona’s Arab Baths site and Church of Sant Feliu either, but some of the best views are located on an old stone bridge above the River Onyar, Pont de Pedra.
Cheaper, Friendlier, And Less Crowds
When a destination skyrockets, oftentimes, it can take prices sky-high too. As of now, if you were to plan a getaway to Girona next year, as Expedia suggests, you won’t break the bank just yet.
From mid-winter onwards, bed and breakfasts cost around $45 per night, and even familiar names like DoubleTree are only $75.
Better yet, Girona partakes in Spain’s culinary delights, like wine and tapas bars, which typically run as low as $10 a meal. Getting here is easy, too, with a train from Barcelona costing as low as $8.
If there’s a notable surge in price, it will likely be summer, so perhaps a splendid spring getaway should be in your plans for better prices and more palatable weather.
Despite breaking tourism records, the appeal is first and foremost more authenticity and fewer crowds, especially compared to places like Madrid and Barcelona.
While crowds tend to die down in winter, Girona has been an ideal escape for an easily navigable city without the chaos of too many people to push through.
Not to mention, Girona hasn’t pulled out its welcome mats from under tourists’ feet.
It’s proud to show off its city; otherwise, one of the most popular TV shows of all time wouldn’t have been able to film here.
Better Beach Access
Girona isn’t a beach city per se, but it’s a gateway to a much less crowded side of Spain’s famous coastlines.
Barcelona, numerous islands, and the nation’s popular Costa del Sol are great places to visit, but the secret has long been out.
Using Girona as a gateway provides travelers with a fresh perspective on many overlooked beaches, even in the summertime.
Just an hour away lie multiple beautiful beaches without hordes of tourists since it’s a bit off-path.
According to local source Unexpected Catalonia, these are the 7 best beaches to escape Spain’s crowds:
- Cala Cap de Planes
- Cala Fornells
- Cala de Vallpresona
- Cala Murtra
- Cala Ferriol
- Cala Sa Sabolla
- Cala Tavallera
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