A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Zaragoza vs. Girona for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Zaragoza or Girona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zaragoza or Girona, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a cultural, historical, and compact city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Girona

Girona is a colorful, medieval, and ancient city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Zaragoza and Girona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Zaragoza or Girona?

Both Girona and Zaragoza have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Zaragoza is more popular for its nightlife, while Girona is known for its historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Zaragoza is popular for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene. Girona is popular for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

How is Zaragoza different from Girona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zaragoza
Girona

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Zaragoza or Girona.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Zaragoza can be an interesting and educational experience. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Girona. 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 Zaragoza or Girona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zaragoza
Girona

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Zaragoza and Girona can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Dining out in Zaragoza is an experience not to be missed. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Girona. 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 Zaragoza or Girona Better for Nightlife?

Zaragoza
Girona

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

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 Zaragoza or Girona Better for its Old Town?

Zaragoza
Girona

Girona is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

Girona offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

Zaragoza is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.


Is the Shopping Better in Zaragoza or Girona?

Zaragoza
Girona

Both Zaragoza and Girona are great shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Zaragoza. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Girona. 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.

Is Zaragoza or Girona Better for Families?

Zaragoza
Girona

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

Zaragoza is a family-friendly place to visit. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

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 Zaragoza or Girona Better for Couples?

Zaragoza
Girona

Zaragoza and Girona are both great to visit as a couple.

Zaragoza is a very popular place to visit for couples. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

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 Zaragoza or Girona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zaragoza
Girona

Both Zaragoza and Girona are good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Zaragoza. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Girona is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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 Zaragoza or Girona Better for Students?

Zaragoza
Girona

Zaragoza and Girona are both good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Zaragoza is a good city to visit for students. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

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

Zaragoza
Girona

Zaragoza is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Zaragoza can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams around the city.

Girona has some 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.


Is Zaragoza or Girona a more walkable city?

Zaragoza
Girona

Girona is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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.

Zaragoza is very walkable. The city center is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Girona or Zaragoza?

How long in Zaragoza or Girona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zaragoza or Girona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zaragoza than Girona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Zaragoza, and 1-2 days is enough time in Girona.

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


  • How many days in Zaragoza or Girona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zaragoza 1-3 
    Girona 1-2

One day in Zaragoza or Girona?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Zaragoza. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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.

A weekend in Zaragoza or Girona?

Zaragoza 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.

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.


Five days in Zaragoza or Girona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zaragoza. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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.

A week in Zaragoza or Girona?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Zaragoza. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Girona or Zaragoza?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Zaragoza is €126, while the average daily cost in Girona is €140. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Zaragoza and Girona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zaragoza 65
    Girona 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zaragoza 130
    Girona 138
Compare Hotels in Zaragoza and Girona

Looking for a hotel in Zaragoza or Girona? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Zaragoza


Hotels in Girona


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Zaragoza Hotel Prices and Girona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zaragoza 23
    Girona 49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zaragoza

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zaragoza:

  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Zaragoza Downtown hotels to Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $54
  • Private transfers Airport-hotel Zaragoza.: $65
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from Zaragoza Airport to City centre: $65
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from the city centre to Zaragoza Airport: $65

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Girona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Girona:

  • Transfer arrival Shuttle Girona Airport to Santa Susanna: $16
  • Girona Airport Bus Transfer from/to Barcelona Center: $21
  • Girona Airport (GRO) to Costa Brava - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98
  • Private Transfer from Tossa de Mar/ Lloret de Mar to Barcelona: $261

Is it cheaper to fly into Zaragoza or Girona?

Prices for flights to both Girona and Zaragoza change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Zaragoza 41
    Girona 41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zaragoza

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zaragoza.

  • Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class: $108

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Girona

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Girona.

  • The 11 tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $88
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $91
  • Girona Evening Food Tour & Tapas Bar Experience: $95
  • The 11 Tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $96
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zaragoza 35
    Girona 24

Tours and Activities in Zaragoza

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zaragoza are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.26
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.26
  • Zaragoza Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.78
  • Zaragoza Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.98
  • Zaragoza : Aquarium entry ticket: $19
  • Zaragoza Aquarium Admission Ticket: $20
  • Combo Amusement Park and Aquarium entry ticket: $33
  • Kayaking in Fluvial EcoTourism with ebroNAUTAS: $43
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $48
  • Zaragoza : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $48

Tours and Activities in Girona

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Girona are as follows:

  • Girona self-guided tour app with multilingual audioguide: $4.26
  • Girona Art Museum: Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket & Audio Guide: $6.39
  • Entrance ticket to the Girona Art Museum: $6.52
  • Museum of Cinema Entry Ticket: $7.46
  • Fábrica-Museo de Anchoas Solés Ticket: $7.71
  • Self-guided Audio City Tour on Your Phone: $11
  • Girona City Tour Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
  • Ticket pass to Girona Cathedral, Sant Felix and Girona Art Museum: $13
  • Catedral, Art Museum, St Felix Church Ticket & Audio: $29
  • E-ticket to Girona's Cathedral, Art Museum & S.t Feliu Church: $29
  • Small Group Walking Tour: $37
  • Guided 2-Hour Walking Tour with Food Tasting: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zaragoza 14
    Girona 9.69

Sample the Local Flavors in Zaragoza

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Zaragoza:

  • Wine Tasting and Tapas: $101
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas in the ancient Town of Zaragoza: $103

Sample the Local Flavors in Girona

Also in Girona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Spanish Wine Tasting in the Costa Brava: $81
  • Local Wineries Tour with Breakfast and Wine Tasting: $148
  • Private Full Day Tour in Alt Empordà with Wine Tasting: $217


When comparing the travel costs between Zaragoza and Girona, we can see that Girona 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 Zaragoza Expensive? and Is Girona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Zaragoza or Girona?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Girona. When comparing the sizes of Zaragoza and Girona, 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 Zaragoza or Girona?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Zaragoza or Girona in the Summer?

Both Girona and Zaragoza are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Zaragoza for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Girona in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zaragoza is generally around the same temperature as Girona. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 26°C (79°F), and Girona fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Girona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zaragoza. Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Girona during summer. Zaragoza gets 344 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Girona. Zaragoza gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Girona receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zaragoza 26°C (79°F) 
    Girona 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Zaragoza or Girona in the Autumn?

Both Girona and Zaragoza during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Zaragoza in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Girona for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Zaragoza is around the same temperature as Girona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zaragoza averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Girona fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Girona. Zaragoza gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 170 hours of full sun.

Zaragoza usually gets less rain in October than Girona. Zaragoza gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Girona receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zaragoza 17°C (63°F) 
    Girona 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Zaragoza or Girona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zaragoza and Girona. Most visitors come to Zaragoza for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Girona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Zaragoza is around the same temperature as Girona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zaragoza in January average around 8°C (46°F), and Girona averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Zaragoza usually receives less sunshine than Girona during winter. Zaragoza gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 148 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Girona. Zaragoza gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Girona receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zaragoza 8°C (46°F) 
    Girona 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Zaragoza or Girona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zaragoza as well as Girona. The spring months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Girona this time of year.

In April, Zaragoza is generally a little warmer than Girona. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 15°C (58°F), and Girona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zaragoza this time of the year. In the spring, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Girona. Zaragoza gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 177 hours of full sun.

Zaragoza usually gets less rain in April than Girona. Zaragoza gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Girona receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zaragoza 15°C (58°F) 
    Girona 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Girona and Zaragoza

Zaragoza Girona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (46°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 16°C (62°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 24°C (75°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 25 mm (1 in) 24°C (74°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 39 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 8°C (47°F) 26 mm (1 in) 9°C (47°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)