Eixample: The Modern Heart of Girona
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.
Local tips in Eixample
- Visit Plaça de la Independència for its lively ambiance and excellent dining options.
- Explore the Cinema Museum to learn about the fascinating history of film.
- Take a relaxing stroll through Parc de la Devesa, Girona's largest urban park.
- Try local Catalan dishes in the neighborhood's many traditional restaurants.
- Shop for unique souvenirs and local products in the boutique stores lining the streets.
Eixample: The Modern Heart of Girona
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.
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Torre de Santo Domingo
Explore the Torre de Santo Domingo, a breathtaking landmark in Girona that reflects medieval architecture and offers stunning city views.
Monument del Lleó
Discover Girona's historic charm at the Monument del Lleó, a symbol of resilience and pride in the heart of the city.
Barri Vell
Explore the enchanting Barri Vell of Girona, a historic gem with medieval architecture, charming streets, and a vibrant cultural scene.
Passeig arqueològic
Explore the rich history of Girona at Passeig Arqueològic, where ancient ruins meet beautiful city views, perfect for every traveler.
Plaça del Vi
Discover the enchanting Plaça del Vi in Girona, a historic square brimming with vibrant culture, local cuisine, and stunning architecture.
Monumento a gerona
Discover the Monumento a Gerona, a stunning symbol of Girona's rich history and culture, perfect for memorable experiences and breathtaking views.
Escultura del Lleó
Explore the Escultura del Lleó in Girona, a majestic sculpture embodying the city's rich heritage, art, and culture.
Columna de la Constitució de 1869
Discover the Columna de la Constitució de 1869, a majestic historical landmark in Girona that embodies Spain's democratic ideals and architectural beauty.
Casa Colomer
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Casa Colomer, Girona's celebrated landmark showcasing Catalan Modernisme.
Esculturas sin nombre plaza de Pompeu Fabra
Discover the artistic treasures of Girona at the Sculptures of Plaça Pompeu Fabra, where creativity meets cultural heritage in a vibrant square.
Unmissable attractions to see
Girona Cathedral
Discover the architectural splendor and historical significance of Girona Cathedral, a must-visit landmark in Catalonia.
Parc de la Devesa
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural vibrancy of Parc de la Devesa, the crown jewel of Girona's urban parks.
Banys Àrabs
Immerse yourself in the historical charm of Banys Àrabs, Girona's exquisite Arab Baths, a serene escape into the past.
Museu d'Art de Girona
Discover the rich artistic heritage of Catalonia at Museu d'Art de Girona, a captivating museum showcasing art from the Romanesque to modern times.
Monument del Lleó
Discover the Monument del Lleó in Girona, an iconic landmark rich in history and artistry, perfect for cultural enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.
Casc antic de Girona
Experience the enchanting medieval streets, rich history, and vibrant culture of Casc Antic de Girona, a must-visit destination in Spain.
Temps de flors
Experience the vibrant floral festival of Temps de Flors in Girona, where artistry and nature harmoniously blend in a stunning historical backdrop.
Pujada a la Catedral
Discover the enchanting climb to Girona Cathedral, where stunning views and rich history converge in a captivating journey through this beautiful city.
Font a Jacint Verdaguer
Experience the enchanting Font a Jacint Verdaguer in Girona, a serene fountain celebrating Catalan culture amidst beautiful urban landscapes.
Escales de la catedral
Discover the breathtaking Escales de la Catedral in Girona, where history meets stunning architecture in a picturesque setting.
Essential places to dine
Blessing Restaurant
Discover authentic Honduran cuisine at Blessing Restaurant in Girona – where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
SinoFos Restaurant
Experience culinary excellence at SinoFos Restaurant in Girona - where traditional flavors meet modern dining.
Porcus Girona
Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at Porcus Girona—a vibrant tapas bar offering delightful flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Indigo Restaurant & Lounge
Discover Indigo Restaurant & Lounge in Girona: A modern Mediterranean dining experience blending local flavors with stylish ambiance.
Restaurant Racó del Pernil
Discover the essence of Mediterranean dining at Restaurant Racó del Pernil in Girona - where every dish tells a story.
Restaurant & Tapes Fenix Girona
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Restaurant & Tapes Fenix in Girona - where every meal is a celebration of taste.
Restaurant Nelson
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Restaurant Nelson in Girona - where every meal tells a story.
El Picot
Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at El Picot in Girona – where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Bar restaurant nou girona
Experience authentic Catalan cuisine at Bar Restaurant Nou Girona – where tradition meets modern dining in the heart of Girona.
La Cuina de la Mercè Bar Restaurant Brasseria
Discover authentic Catalan cuisine at La Cuina de la Mercè in Girona - a culinary haven for food lovers.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
Explore Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Girona for unique gifts, quirky home goods, and fun toys that make perfect souvenirs!
Natura
Discover Girona's charm at Natura, a delightful gift shop offering unique clothing and home goods from local artisans.
White Ice!
Explore the stylish offerings at White Ice, Girona's chic clothing store featuring unique apparel and accessories for every fashion enthusiast.
ALE-HOP
Discover unique souvenirs and quirky gifts at ALE-HOP in Girona, the perfect spot to capture your travel memories.
Biels Girona
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Biels Girona, the perfect gift shop for tourists seeking a piece of Girona's vibrant culture.
Lola Casademunt Girona
Explore the latest women's fashion trends at Lola Casademunt Girona, where elegance meets style in the heart of Catalonia.
Boutique Paris
Explore the chic elegance of Boutique Paris in Girona, where unique women's fashion meets a personalized shopping experience.
La Bohème by Maya
Explore La Bohème by Maya in Girona for a unique shopping experience filled with local charm and quality craftsmanship.
Vintage
Discover stylish and orthopedic footwear at Vintage in Girona, your one-stop shop for comfort and fashion in the heart of the city.
A un pas.cat
Explore A Un Pas.cat, a charming boutique in Girona offering unique local crafts and gifts that reflect the city’s vibrant culture and artistry.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The River Cafè Girona
Discover the culinary delights at The River Cafè Girona, where grilled specialties meet stunning riverside views in a vibrant atmosphere.
Bar Restaurant La Terra
Discover the flavors of Girona at Bar Restaurant La Terra, where delicious hamburgers and rich espresso await in a vibrant setting.
Porcus Girona
Experience the vibrant flavors of Spain at Porcus Girona, a charming tapas bar in the heart of the city offering a diverse menu and a warm atmosphere.
La Garrina Natural Wine Restaurante - Solo el Amor Salvara el Mundo
Experience the rich flavors of nature and sustainability at La Garrina Natural Wine Restaurante, where grill specialties meet vegan delights in Girona.
Cua de Gall
Experience the art of cocktail crafting at Cua de Gall, Girona's lively bar offering a unique blend of flavors in a stylish setting.
Espit Chupitos Girona
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Girona at Espit Chupitos, where unique shots and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
SAFO Bar Girona
Experience culinary excellence at SAFO Bar Girona, where exquisite dishes meet a remarkable selection of wines in a charming setting.
El Petit Paradís
Discover the essence of Girona's wine culture at El Petit Paradís, where every sip tells a story and every bite delights.
Bar Estella
Discover the charm of Bar Estella, a delightful wine bar in Girona, perfect for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Chuggle's
Discover Chuggle's, the hidden gem of Girona's beer scene, where craft brews and local flavor come together in a warm, inviting setting.
Local Phrases
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- HelloHola
[oh-lah] - GoodbyeAdiós
[ah-dee-ohs] - YesSí
[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]
- HelloHola
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- 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]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver la carta, por favor
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- 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]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
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- 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]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
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- 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]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
-
- 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 ....)]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
History of Eixample
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Eixample Essentials
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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