Eixample, Girona · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Eixample: The Modern Heart of Girona

Discover Eixample in Girona: A modern neighborhood with historic charm, offering unique architecture, vibrant squares, and a blend of local and international flavors.

Eixample in Girona is a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition. This neighborhood, developed in the late 19th century, offers a charming contrast to the ancient city center. It is characterized by its wide, tree-lined streets and elegant buildings, many of which showcase the architectural style of Catalan Modernism. Strolling through Eixample, you will find a variety of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants that offer both local Catalan and international cuisine. The neighborhood is known for its vibrant atmosphere, especially around Plaça de la Independència, a popular square surrounded by arcaded buildings and lively terraces. It's a perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or a meal while watching the world go by. Eixample is also home to several cultural attractions. The Cinema Museum is a must-visit, offering fascinating exhibits on the history of film. Nearby, the Parc de la Devesa provides a lush green escape with its expansive gardens and picturesque pathways. Whether you are interested in shopping, dining, or simply soaking up the local culture, Eixample offers a delightful experience for every visitor.

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Eixample sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

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    Practical planning

    Eixample Essentials

    Core city planning details in the same structured guide format used across the Country/Region page language.

    Getting There

    Eixample is centrally located in Girona, making it easily accessible from other neighborhoods. You can walk from the historic Old Town, which is about a 15-minute stroll. Alternatively, local buses such as lines 1 and 5 connect Eixample with the train station and other parts of the city. For those arriving by train, it's a short bus ride or a 20-minute walk to reach Eixample.

    Getting Around

    Eixample is a walkable neighborhood with wide boulevards and pedestrian-friendly streets. Bicycles can be rented from various local shops, and Girona has a bike-friendly infrastructure. Local buses also service the area, providing easy access to other neighborhoods. Taxis are available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone or apps.

    Safety

    Eixample is generally safe for tourists; however, it is wise to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur near popular attractions and public transport stations. It is advisable to avoid poorly lit streets at night and remain vigilant with personal belongings.

    Emergency Situations

    In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station is located in the city center, while hospitals and medical facilities are available throughout Girona. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also prevalent in Eixample for any minor health issues.

    Do's and Don'ts

    Fashion: Do dress comfortably for walking, but avoid beachwear when not at the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs; when visiting churches, dress modestly and cover shoulders. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Hola' and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'pà amb tomàquet.' Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

    Local Tips

    To experience Eixample like a local, visit the local bakeries for fresh pastries in the morning and enjoy a leisurely coffee at one of the neighborhood cafés. Engage with local residents; they often have valuable insights about hidden gems in the area. Don't miss the vibrant food markets, where you can sample local produce and specialties, and consider joining a walking tour to learn about the neighborhood's unique architecture and history.

    History of Eixample

    Follow the city from Roman Londinium to its modern global identity through landmark moments that still shape the visitor experience.

    The Expansion of Girona

    The Eixample neighborhood in Girona emerged in the mid-19th century as part of a broader plan to expand the city beyond its medieval walls. This period followed the industrial revolution, which brought significant economic growth and a surge in population. The Eixample was designed to accommodate the growing number of residents and to provide modern urban amenities.

    Architectural Developments

    Characterized by its grid layout and wide boulevards, the Eixample reflects the architectural styles of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Influences from Catalan Modernisme can be seen in the buildings, with decorative facades and intricate details that showcase the artistic movement prevalent during this period. Notable architects contributed to the Eixample's aesthetic, making it a vital part of Girona's architectural heritage.

    Cultural Melting Pot

    Eixample has historically served as a cultural melting pot, bringing together diverse communities in Girona. The neighborhood has seen an influx of immigrants and new residents, which has enriched its cultural landscape. This diversity is reflected in the local festivals, cuisine, and communal activities that celebrate both traditional Catalan culture and influences from other regions.

    The Impact of the Spanish Civil War

    During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), Girona, including the Eixample, was affected by the broader political and social upheaval in Spain. The war led to a period of repression and hardship, but it also fostered a spirit of resilience among the residents. Post-war reconstruction efforts transformed parts of the Eixample, leading to further urban development in the following decades.

    Modern Revival and Urban Renewal

    In recent decades, Eixample has experienced a revival, with urban renewal initiatives aimed at preserving its historical character while adapting to modern needs. The neighborhood has become a hub for local businesses, cultural events, and artistic endeavors, contributing to Girona's reputation as a vibrant city that honors its past while looking toward the future.

    Phrasebook

    Local Phrases

    Browse practical local phrases by situation. Each group opens only when needed, keeping the guide tidy while preserving the full phrase set.

    6 phrase groups English + pronunciation
    Basics
    • HelloHola
      [oh-lah]
    • GoodbyeAdiós
      [ah-dee-ohs]
    • Yes
      [see]
    • NoNo
      [noh]
    • Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
      [por fah-bor/deh nah-dah]
    • Thank youGracias
      [grah-thyahs]
    • Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
      [pehr-dohn/loh syehn-toh]
    • How are you?¿Cómo estás?
      [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
    • Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
      [byehn. ee too]
    • Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
      [ah-blahs een-glehs]
    • I don't understandNo entiendo
      [noh ehn-tyehn-doh]
    Eating & Drinking
    • I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver la carta, por favor
      [meh goo-stah-ree-ah behr lah kahr-tah, por fah-bor]
    • I don't eat meatNo como carne
      [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
    • Cheers!¡Salud!
      [sah-lood]
    • I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
      [meh goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-bor]
    Emergencies
    • Help!¡Ayuda!
      [ah-yoo-dah]
    • Go away!¡Vete!
      [veh-teh]
    • Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
      [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
    • Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
      [yah-mah ah oon may-dee-koh]
    • I'm lostEstoy perdido/a
      [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh/ah]
    • I'm illEstoy enfermo/a
      [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh/ah]
    Shopping
    • I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
      [meh goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
    • I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
      [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
    • How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
      [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
    • That's too expensiveEs demasiado caro
      [ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
    • Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
      [pweh-dehs bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]
    Time & Numbers
    • What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
      [keh oh-rah ehs]
    • It's one o'clockEs la una
      [ehs lah oo-nah]
    • Half past (10)Las diez y media
      [lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
    • MorningMañana
      [mah-nyah-nah]
    • AfternoonTarde
      [tahr-deh]
    • EveningNoche
      [noh-cheh]
    • YesterdayAyer
      [ah-yehr]
    • TodayHoy
      [oy]
    • TomorrowMañana
      [mah-nyah-nah]
    • 1Uno
      [oo-noh]
    • 2Dos
      [dohs]
    • 3Tres
      [trehs]
    • 4Cuatro
      [kwa-troh]
    • 5Cinco
      [theen-koh]
    • 6Seis
      [says]
    • 7Siete
      [syeh-teh]
    • 8Ocho
      [oh-choh]
    • 9Nueve
      [nweh-veh]
    • 10Diez
      [dyehs]
    Transport & Directions
    • Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
      [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
    • What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
      [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon]
    • Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
      [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
    • When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
      [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
    • A ticket (to ....)Un billete (a ....)
      [oon bee-ye-teh (ah ....)]

    Explore Eixample in Photos

    A quick visual tour through classic views, riverside landmarks, royal streets, and skyline moments.

    Fitxer:Girona 006.JPG - Viquipèdia, l'enciclopèdia lliure
    File:Pont de Pedra Girona.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Parc del Migida, Girona.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    Josep Maria Jujol i Gibert - Viquipèdia, l'enciclopèdia lliure
    File:059 Casa de Cultura, pl. de l'Hospital (Girona), pati.jpg - Wikimedia  Commons

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