El Mercadal: Girona's Historical Heartbeat

Discover El Mercadal in Girona, Spain: A vibrant neighborhood blending history, culture, and gastronomy, perfect for tourists seeking an authentic Catalan experience.

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El Mercadal

El Mercadal is the vibrant core of Girona, Spain, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. Located on the east bank of the Onyar River, this neighborhood is renowned for its colorful facades, charming streets, and the iconic Eiffel Bridge, designed by Gustave Eiffel himself. Visitors can stroll along the riverbank, enjoying picturesque views and the lively atmosphere that defines this area. El Mercadal boasts a rich history, with architecture that spans centuries. The area is home to the stunning Plaça de la Independència, a bustling square surrounded by neoclassical buildings, where you can relax at one of the many outdoor cafes. The nearby Museu del Cinema offers an intriguing glimpse into the world of film, making it a must-visit for movie buffs. Food lovers will be delighted by El Mercadal’s culinary scene. The neighborhood is dotted with traditional tapas bars, contemporary restaurants, and quaint bakeries. Don't miss the chance to sample local Catalan dishes while enjoying the vibrant street life. Whether you're exploring its historical landmarks or savoring its gastronomic delights, El Mercadal promises an unforgettable experience.

Local tips in El Mercadal

Visit Plaça de la Independència early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful coffee.
Cross the Eiffel Bridge for the best views of Girona's colorful riverfront houses.
Explore the Museu del Cinema for a unique cultural experience.
Try traditional Catalan dishes at local tapas bars for an authentic culinary experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobbled and perfect for leisurely strolls.

File:Pont de Pedra Girona.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Fitxer:Girona 006.JPG - Viquipèdia, l'enciclopèdia lliure

Archivo:Girona river-street.jpeg - Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre

File:GironaEiffelBridge.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Girona-20120223-00005.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Rambla de la Llibertat P1290879.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Girona Cathedral

Discover the architectural splendor of Girona Cathedral, an iconic landmark with breathtaking interiors and a rich history, in the heart of beautiful Girona, Spain.

Pont de les Peixateries Velles

Explore the stunning Pont de les Peixateries Velles in Girona, a beautiful bridge connecting history, culture, and breathtaking views.

Plaça del Mercadal

Explore the vibrant Plaça del Mercadal, Reus' historical landmark, where culture, cuisine, and community come together in a picturesque setting.

Muralles de Girona

Explore the historic Muralles de Girona, a majestic fortress with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage, perfect for history lovers and adventurers alike.

Basílica de Sant Feliu

Discover the Basilica de Sant Feliu, a historic architectural marvel in Girona, showcasing centuries of art and spirituality.

Sant Pere de Galligants

Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Sant Pere de Galligants, a serene monastery and archaeological treasure in Girona.

Sant Daniel Monastery

Experience the tranquility and historical charm of Sant Daniel Monastery, a must-visit landmark in Girona's beautiful landscape.

Parròquia de Santa Susanna del Mercadal

Explore the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of Parròquia de Santa Susanna del Mercadal, a must-visit Catholic church in Girona, Spain.

Jardins dels Alemanys

Explore the lush beauty of Jardins dels Alemanys in Girona, a serene garden blending nature with history for the perfect getaway.

Torre de Santo Domingo

Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Torre de Santo Domingo, a must-visit scenic spot in the heart of Girona, Spain.

Torre Gironella

Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Torre Gironella, a captivating castle in the heart of Girona, Spain.

Sant Martí de Girona

Discover the historical charm and architectural beauty of Sant Martí de Girona, an enriching stop for every traveler exploring this magnificent city.

Convent of Sant Domènec

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of the Convent of Sant Domènec, a hidden gem in the heart of Girona, Spain, perfect for history lovers and peace seekers.

Centre Cívic Barri Vell-Mercadal

Explore Girona's rich cultural life at the Centre Cívic Barri Vell-Mercadal, where community events and local art come together in a historic setting.

Monument als defensors de Girona el 1808 i 1809

Experience the rich history and artistic beauty of the Monument als Defensors de Girona, a tribute to the city's courageous defenders during the Napoleonic Wars.

Unmissable attractions to see

Museu del Cinema-Col·lecció Tomàs Mallol

Discover the enchanting world of cinema at Museu del Cinema in Girona, where film history and artistry come together in a captivating experience.

Parròquia de Santa Susanna del Mercadal

Explore the stunning Parròquia de Santa Susanna del Mercadal in Girona, a serene Catholic church rich in history and architectural beauty.

Jardins dels Alemanys

Explore the tranquil beauty of Jardins dels Alemanys, a serene garden in Girona perfect for relaxation and stunning views.

Plaça del Primer d'Octubre de 2017

Explore the serene beauty of Plaça del Primer d'Octubre de 2017 in Girona, a peaceful park perfect for relaxation and community events.

Museu Tresor de la Catedral

Explore the rich ecclesiastical history and exquisite artifacts at the Museu Tresor de la Catedral in Girona, a must-visit for culture lovers.

Monumento a gerona

Discover the heart of Girona at the Monument to Girona, where history, culture, and stunning artistry come together in a vibrant atmosphere.

Riu Onyar

Explore the picturesque Riu Onyar in Girona, a vibrant river adorned with colorful buildings, rich history, and stunning views at every turn.

Paso de la Diversidad

Explore the rich tapestry of cultures at Paso de la Diversidad in Girona, a vibrant tourist attraction celebrating art and community diversity.

Casa Furest

Explore Casa Furest, a stunning Novecentista architectural gem in Girona, and immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage.

Essential places to dine

Casa Marieta Restaurant

Experience authentic Catalonian cuisine at Casa Marieta, a family-friendly restaurant in Girona known for its traditional dishes and vibrant atmosphere.

El Celler de Can Roca

Experience culinary artistry at El Celler de Can Roca in Girona – where tradition meets innovation in every exquisite dish.

Restaurant El Cul del Món

Discover authentic Mediterranean flavors at Restaurant El Cul del Món in Girona, where fresh ingredients meet culinary tradition.

Restaurant L'Alqueria

Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Restaurant L'Alqueria in Girona, where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

Restaurant Probocador

Experience the essence of Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurant Probocador in Girona—where every dish is crafted with fresh ingredients and passion.

Restaurant la Taverna

Experience authentic Catalan cuisine at Restaurant la Taverna in Girona—where every dish tells a story.

Restaurant La Taverna del Bon Vi

Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at La Taverna del Bon Vi in Girona – where tradition meets taste.

Restaurant El Rebost

Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Restaurant El Rebost in Girona - a culinary gem offering delicious meals at affordable prices.

Restaurant Steak House

Discover the best steaks in Girona at Restaurant Steak House—where flavor meets tradition in every bite.

Mercadal Cuinats

Experience authentic Catalan flavors at Mercadal Cuinats in Girona - where tradition meets hospitality.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

La Carpa

Discover the magical world of toys and creativity at La Carpa, Girona's charming toy store and art supply paradise.

Boutique Nespresso Santa Clara

Experience the essence of premium coffee at Boutique Nespresso Santa Clara, where every sip is a journey through flavor and craftsmanship.

El Claustre Regal

Discover the charm of Girona at El Claustre Regal, where unique gifts and local artistry come together for an unforgettable shopping experience.

FABstore

Discover the latest trends and unique styles at FABstore, Girona's premier clothing destination for fashion-forward travelers.

Castelli Girona Store

Explore the Castelli Girona Store for top-notch cycling apparel and gear in Girona, Spain, where cycling passion meets exceptional service.

Nou 19

Explore the stylish offerings at Nou 19, Girona's boutique clothing store that combines quality fashion with exceptional service.

Despiral

Explore Girona's fashion scene at Despiral, a stylish women's clothing store offering unique pieces and personalized service.

Guitare

Discover Guitare in Girona, a stylish women's clothing store offering a unique selection of fashionable attire and personalized shopping experiences.

Mas el Mercadal

Discover the historic charm of Mas el Mercadal in Girona, a beautiful landmark that reveals the region's rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty.

Mercadal

Explore stylish footwear at Mercadal, a premier shoe store in Girona, where fashion meets comfort in every step.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Xibarri

Experience the authentic flavors of Spain at Xibarri, a must-visit tapas bar in the heart of Girona, perfect for sharing and savoring.

Casino Girona

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife at Casino Girona, where cocktail culture meets electrifying disco beats in the heart of the city.

El Doll - Cerveseria Moderna & Restaurant

Discover the essence of Girona's culinary scene at El Doll - a modern restaurant offering innovative dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.

Cu cut

Discover Cu cut, a lively bar in Girona, offering a vibrant atmosphere, extensive drinks menu, and a taste of the city's nightlife.

Cua de Gall

Discover Cua de Gall, Girona's cocktail gem offering innovative drinks in a lively atmosphere perfect for every occasion.

La bohème

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Girona at La Bohème, a lively bar known for its unique cocktails and friendly atmosphere.

Cèltic Bar Girona

Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink menu at Cèltic Bar Girona, the perfect spot for nightlife enthusiasts in the heart of Girona.

Mercadal Cuinats

Experience the authentic flavors of Girona at Mercadal Cuinats, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Catalan cuisine with a modern twist.

Espai Cívic Mercadal

Discover the heart of Girona's culture at Espai Cívic Mercadal – a vibrant hub for community activities and artistic expression.

Chuggle's

Discover Chuggle's, Girona's hidden beer hall offering an impressive selection of local and international craft brews in a cozy atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to El Mercadal

Discover El Mercadal with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor
  [por fah-vor]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-thyahs]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón
  [pehr-dohn]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseQuisiera ver el menú, por favor
  [kee-see-eh-rah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseQuisiera pagar, por favor
  [kee-see-eh-rah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]
- 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 meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo/a
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh/ah]
- I'd like to buy...Quisiera comprar...
  [kee-see-eh-rah 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 expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes rebajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs reh-bah-hahr ehl preh-syoh]
- 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)Son las diez y media
  [sohn lahs dyehs ee mee-dyah]
- 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
  [kooah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [theen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [says]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
- 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-yeh-teh (ah ...)]

History of El Mercadal

El Mercadal, whose name translates to 'the market', has its roots in the medieval period when it served as a bustling commercial center in Girona. The neighborhood was strategically located near the city’s historic core, making it a vital point for trade and commerce. Its markets attracted merchants and buyers from various regions, contributing to Girona's economic prosperity.
The architectural landscape of El Mercadal reflects a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, indicative of the neighborhood's evolution over the centuries. Noteworthy buildings showcase intricate facades and historic significance, such as the Church of Sant Feliu, which is just a stone's throw away and highlights the area's rich religious heritage.
Throughout the years, El Mercadal has been a melting pot of cultures, influenced by the Jewish community, Christian reconquest, and later, Catalan nationalism. Festivals and traditions rooted in these diverse influences are celebrated in the neighborhood, showcasing Girona's cultural tapestry. The annual Temps de Flors, where the streets are adorned with flowers, is a testament to this vibrant cultural scene.
During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), El Mercadal, like many areas in Girona, experienced significant turmoil. The neighborhood witnessed the rise of political factions and was affected by the socio-political upheaval of the time. Post-war, El Mercadal played a role in the rebuilding efforts, with a focus on restoring the neighborhood's historical identity.
In recent years, El Mercadal has undergone a revitalization, transforming into a hub for gastronomy and local commerce. The establishment of artisan shops, cafes, and restaurants has breathed new life into the area, attracting both locals and tourists. This modern wave of development pays homage to its historical roots while embracing contemporary culture.

El Mercadal Essentials

El Mercadal is conveniently located in the heart of Girona, making it accessible from various parts of the city. From the Girona train station, you can walk to El Mercadal in about 15 minutes. Alternatively, local buses connect the station to the neighborhood, and taxis are readily available. If you're coming from other neighborhoods, the central location means most can be reached on foot in under 30 minutes.
El Mercadal is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, ideal for exploring on foot. Bicycles can be rented from various local shops, and Girona has an extensive network of bike lanes. Public buses operate throughout the city, with stops near El Mercadal. For longer distances, taxis are also available and are a convenient option.
El Mercadal is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists, but standard precautions should always be taken. Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas, especially near popular tourist spots like Plaça de la Independència. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, so it’s advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station is nearby, and medical facilities are available in the city center. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking, as cobblestone streets can be uneven. Don't wear overly casual attire when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs; it's polite to cover your shoulders when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be mindful of others and keep noise to a minimum. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Bon dia.' Don't forget to use 'Por favor' (please) and 'Gràcies' (thank you) as these go a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Catalan dishes and enjoy tapas with locals. Don't rush your meals; dining is often a leisurely experience.
To experience El Mercadal like a local, visit the food markets in nearby neighborhoods for fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with shopkeepers and locals; they often have stories to share about Girona's rich history. Don’t miss trying a traditional 'xuixo,' a local pastry filled with cream. For an authentic dining experience, seek out family-run eateries rather than tourist-oriented restaurants.

El Mercadal: Girona's Historical Heartbeat

Local tips in El Mercadal