As a busy parent, planning a holiday that keeps everyone happy – from toddlers to teenagers – can feel like solving a puzzle with missing pieces. You want somewhere that’s visually stunning, fun for the kids, relaxing for the adults, and easy to navigate. Recently, my family and I discovered a destination that ticks all these boxes: Girona and the Costa Brava in northern Spain.
If you’re looking for a European getaway that blends culture, beaches, and family-friendly experiences, Girona is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your travel radar.
A city that feels welcoming for families
Girona may be small compared to big Spanish cities like Barcelona, but its charm is undeniable. The historic Barri Vell, or Old Town, is a maze of cobbled streets, pastel-coloured buildings, and tiny squares perfect for little ones to explore safely. My kids loved weaving between the narrow alleyways, discovering tiny cafés and toy shops tucked around corners.
One of our favourite activities was walking along the ancient city walls, which offer panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. Even young children can enjoy the stroll here, as the paths are safe and stroller-friendly in many sections. The colourful houses along the River Onyar are another must-see – they’re bright, cheerful, and make for Instagram-perfect family photos.
Food adventures everyone will enjoy
One of the joys of visiting Girona is that food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive to be delicious. Tapas bars, local bakeries, and small family-run restaurants abound, making it easy to find meals everyone likes.
Our daily routine quickly became: a morning coffee for us adults, fresh pastries for the kids, then a slow stroll through the Old Town. Lunchtime often involved a “menú del día”, a budget-friendly multi-course meal that introduced us to Catalan dishes without overwhelming young palates. And, of course, ice cream stops are practically a requirement when exploring the city with children.
Evenings were perfect for sharing tapas at a relaxed pace while the kids played in nearby squares or watched the fountains. The atmosphere is calm, allowing families to enjoy dining out without feeling rushed.
Beaches and nature: The Costa Brava
Girona’s real magic comes from its location. In less than an hour, you can swap cobbled streets for crystal-clear waters and hidden coves along the Costa Brava. We spent several afternoons exploring family-friendly beaches such as Platja de Sant Pol in Sant Feliu de Guíxols and the sheltered coves near Calella de Palafrugell.
The coastal paths are also great for family walks. Kids can spot colourful boats, lizards sunning themselves on rocks, and sometimes even dolphins offshore! For parents, the stunning scenery and calm Mediterranean waters make it easy to relax while keeping an eye on the little ones.
Comfortable stays for families
Accommodation can make or break a family holiday, and Girona offers plenty of options that suit different budgets and needs. For our trip, we opted for holiday apartments in Girona, which gave us extra space, separate bedrooms, and the flexibility to prepare simple meals when needed.
We also discovered Bravissimo Girona, a company specialising in stylish, design-focused apartments in prime locations around Girona and the Costa Brava. Their properties are not only beautiful but practical for families, offering easy access to both city attractions and beaches. Staying in one of these apartments felt like having a home base while exploring the region, and the kids loved having their own space after busy days of sightseeing.
Tips for parents travelling to Girona
- Walk whenever possible – The Old Town is compact and stroller-friendly. Walking reduces stress and allows for spontaneous discoveries.
- Mix activities – Alternate city exploration with beach afternoons to keep kids engaged and happy.
- Plan meals smartly – Look for menus of the day or share tapas to keep food costs manageable.
- Pack light, but include essentials – Sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes make all the difference for little ones.
- Stay central – Being near the Old Town or river makes it easy to return to your apartment for naps or downtime.
Why Girona Is perfect for busy families
Girona and the Costa Brava offer the ideal combination of culture, nature, and relaxation. You can spend your mornings wandering medieval streets, your afternoons swimming in turquoise waters, and your evenings enjoying tapas or simply soaking in the scenery.
For parents who want a stress-free yet memorable European holiday, Girona delivers. Between the kid-friendly attractions, accessible beaches, and family-friendly accommodation options like Bravissimo Girona, it’s no wonder our family left with happy memories and plans to return.
Whether it’s your first family trip abroad or you’re looking for a new European escape, Girona and the Costa Brava are destinations that can charm every generation.
Girona sounds like a wonderful destination for families, with its charming Old Town, scenic city walls, and colorful riverside houses creating plenty of memorable experiences.