A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Girona vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Girona or Florence?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Girona and Florence. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Girona

Girona is a colorful, medieval, and ancient city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Florence

Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Girona and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Girona or Florence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Florence than Girona. Florence is bigger than Girona, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Florence is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and impressive beauty, while Girona is more popular for its small town charm and quaint atmosphere. Florence is more touristy than Girona and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Girona is well known for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

How is Girona different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence and Girona. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Girona or Florence?

Florence is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Girona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

Is the Food Better in Girona or Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Florence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Girona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

Is Girona or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Florence is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Girona or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Girona and Florence.

With a famous historical old-town, Girona offers plenty to see. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

The rich history of Florence can be explored in its historical center. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Is the Shopping Better in Girona or Florence?

Both Girona and Florence are great shopping destinations.

Girona is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Girona or Florence Better for Families?

Florence is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Girona or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Florence is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Girona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

Is Girona or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Florence. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Girona or Florence Better for Students?

Florence is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Florence is a very popular place to visit for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Plenty of students visit Girona. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

Is Girona or Florence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Girona and Florence offer notable public transit options.

Girona has a few public transit options. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

Florence has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Girona or Florence a more walkable city?

Girona and Florence both are world-class when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Girona on foot. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Florence. Most people explore the city on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Girona Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Girona?

How long in Girona or Florence?

Both Girona and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Girona. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Girona, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

Families should spend more time in Florence than Girona. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Florence, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Florence than Girona. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Florence that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Girona if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Florence.

One day in Girona or Florence?

The beautiful city of Girona offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Girona or Florence?

Girona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Girona, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Girona or Florence?

Girona is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Girona or Florence?

Girona is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the alluring destination of Florence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Girona and Florence, we can see that Florence is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Girona Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Girona or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Girona. When comparing the sizes of Girona and Florence, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Girona or Florence?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Girona or Florence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Girona as well as Florence. Many visitors come to Girona in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Girona is around the same temperature as Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Girona averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Florence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Girona this time of the year. In the summer, Girona often gets less sunshine than Florence. Girona gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Girona usually gets more rain in July than Florence. Girona gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Girona or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Girona are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Girona for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Florence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Girona is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Girona in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Girona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during autumn. Girona gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Girona usually receives less rain than Florence. Girona gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Girona or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Girona during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Girona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In January, Girona is generally a little warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Girona average around 8°C (46°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Girona often gets more sunshine than Florence. Girona gets 148 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Girona usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Florence. Girona gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Girona or Florence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Girona and Florence. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Girona this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the natural beauty.

Girona is cooler than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Girona averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Girona usually receives less sunshine than Florence during spring. Girona gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Girona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Florence. Girona gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Girona