Girona is an ancient Catalan city that will most certainly charm you with its colours, rich history, breathtaking views from above and handmade goods. The old part of Girona is really similar to the beautiful towns in Tuscany, only with a Spanish charm to it.

By the banks of the Onyar river

Start your tour walking down La Rambla de la Libertat and look for a bridge on your left. Get on the other bank of the river Onyar and capture in your memories, as well as in your camera, one of the most emblematic views in town. The houses meandering by the river are glowing in various shades of yellow, red and orange under the beams of the Catalonian sun.

Keep walking in the new part of Girona and following Carrer de Santa Clara get to the Square of Independence (Plaça de la Independència), devoted to the battle for independence from France. Then you can go back to the other bank and fearlessly venture into the labyrinth of cobbled streets. There you will stumble upon lovely shops that sell tea, read books, fragrant candles, natural soaps, artistic jewelries, vintage clocks, brightly-painted toys and much more.

The Jewish quarter

Do not miss the chance to get lost in one of the best preserved Jewish quarters in the world. Its Catalonian name “call” is derived from the Latin word describing a “set of narrow streets”. The local Jewish community used to have its own mayor and council, independent from the authorities in Girona. It was protected by the king of Catalonia in exchange for an annual fee. The Jews had a strong economic influence being experienced money-lenders, landowners, craftsmen and traders.

 The Girona cathedral “St. Mary” is located right next to the Jewish quarter. In the past this proximity was a prerequisite for the arousal of problems between Catholics and Jews. Local Christians were rebelling against the independence of Judaists and often attacked them, especially during religious holidays. In time the periods of bad blood were alternating with ones of peaceful coexistence. By the end of the 15^th century Catholics had managed to establish a positive relationship with the Jews and even had commerce with them. It all came to an end in 1492 with a royal edict that ordered the expulsion of all Jews in Spain.

The Arab baths

 While in the neighbourhood, stop by the illustrious Arab baths. They were built in the 12^th century in Roman style but their layout is typically Arabic. The baths consist of a few premises, the most impressive of which is the hall with the main pool and its dome. The relaxed atmosphere will surely give you a spa effect without the need of any treatments. When you have had enough of the cool baths, head back to the burning heat of the street to get to the culmination of your walk in Girona.

A walk over the castle wall

Look for signs pointing to the Passeig Arqueològic, the promenade over the castle wall that dates back to the 1^st century BC. During the 14^th century the original Roman construction was used as a base for the new fortification. Not long after, though, the structure lost its main purpose because Girona spread out of its limits.

Take the time to enjoy the sunset from this historical viewpoint. You will see the vibrant colours in the sky, the tiled roofs of Girona, the tower of the cathedral and the imposing Pyrenees in the distance. There is only one catch: to get to this dazzling view you need to “fight off” numerous steps.

Resisting the spell of Girona is nearly impossible. You become so impatient to see what is hidden behind every corner that you do not know which way to take first. But the old part of Girona is fairly small and in a day you will have plenty of hours to see each and every nook. However, falling in love with the city takes a lot less time. The narrow, winding streets still create the atmosphere of a long gone past. It would not surprise me if while strolling in the old town you start dreaming about a time machine.

Useful information: Girona is located only 118 km away from Barcelona. The easiest and fastest way to get there is by train. The journey takes only 40 minutes and there are regular trains every hour or so.

“When the facts speak, the Gods are silent.”

My second trip to the Spanish part of the Basque Country, of course, meant also a return to the most beautiful city in the region – Donostia/ San Sebastian. Here is an indisputable fact: I managed to re-visit it three times in the course of four weeks. This fact does not speak – it shouts that the stunning coastal city really enchanted me. Astounding panoramic views, gorgeous beaches, crystal blue sea, French architecture, exquisite food, lively streets and a multitude of flowers turn San Sebastian into a heavenly place. There is just one catch – to come here in beautiful weather is like playing roulette with 30 rainy and 6 sunny days.

The gardens of Miramar Palace (“Looking at the sea”) offer one of the most dazzling views. The former royal summer residence now houses a musical school. The place is popular among painters, gazing at the sea with the sound of piano or violoncello in the background.

Make sure to stop by La concha beach (“the seashell”). It is said to be the most charming beach in Europe with its spectacular view to the Igueldo and Urgull mounts and the small island of Santa Clara berthed in between them.

Follow the seashore promenade to get to Alderdi Eder Park and the city hall. From this spot you get another lovely chance to marvel at the bay. Before you cross the threshold to the old town, pop in Oiartzun for a dessert of a coffee. This place is extremely popular and it is even claimed to offer the best sweet temptations in town.

Now that you are full of energy you can head up to conquer mount Urgull – my favourite place at sunset. There is a castle on top that was once built to defend the town below. Today there is a small museum that tells the story of San Sebastian – a fishermen’s village that grew into a bourgeois, cosmopolitan and attractive city.

After 2 pm it’s lunchtime as Spanish tradition goes. Head straight to the old part that boasts the highest concentration of bars in the world! Dozens of beautifully arranged pintxos, the local variation of tapas, are awaiting you here. Their name comes from the Spanish word for “pinch” as pintxos were traditionally bites attached to a piece of bread with a stick. I adore the local bar culture that allows you to try out many different culinary combinations before you are full – tortilla de patatas, salty tartelette with aubergine and quail egg, goat cheese with peach marmalade and pinenuts, mozzarella with mint and dried tomatoes, and many more.

Do not limit yourself to just one bar. Try out 1-2 pintxos from a few different places instead. Locals recommended me Zeruko and A fuego negro and I personally loved the food and service at Gandarias. Actually, it is not of great importance where you will try pintxos. The selection of good food here is so vast that you have a pretty good chance of stumbling across a nice place. San Sebastian has earned itself a lot of fame among foodies and culinary critics thanks to its collection of Michelin-starred restaurants and excellent pintxos bars. In 2012 Donostia was ranked first in a worldwide competition for “The best cities for dining”.

Finish your tour of the old quarter by visiting the Square of Constitution (Plaza Constitución) and Hernani Street (Hernani Kalea) that bridges San Sebastian Cathedral (Catedarl del Buen Pastor) with St. Maria church (Iglesia de Santa María).

 Continue your stroll down the seashore promenade heading to the new part. I cannot go without mentioning how delighted to see a rainbow when the fierce waves would crash into the shore. Maybe the city has another little surprise for you!

On the other side of the azure Urumea river you will find Zuriola beach, which is extremely popular with surfers. Es Pan’s sweet shop (C/ Miracruz 10A) is also nearby and their chocolate donuts and apple cake with caramel are definitely worth a try.

San Sebastian needs to be seen, experiences and tasted. The route you take around town is totally up to you. Anyhow one thing is sure – there is no way you can leave disappointed or hungry. Also, don’t forget to get a very good spot to watch the sunset painting beautiful shades in the sea!

Girona is an ancient Catalan city that will most certainly charm you with its colours, rich history, breathtaking views from above and handmade goods. The old part of Girona is really similar to the beautiful towns in Tuscany, only with a Spanish charm to it.

By the banks of the Onyar river

Start your tour walking down La Rambla de la Libertat and look for a bridge on your left. Get on the other bank of the river Onyar and capture in your memories, as well as in your camera, one of the most emblematic views in town. The houses meandering by the river are glowing in various shades of yellow, red and orange under the beams of the Catalonian sun.

Keep walking in the new part of Girona and following Carrer de Santa Clara get to the Square of Independence (Plaça de la Independència), devoted to the battle for independence from France. Then you can go back to the other bank and fearlessly venture into the labyrinth of cobbled streets. There you will stumble upon lovely shops that sell tea, read books, fragrant candles, natural soaps, artistic jewelries, vintage clocks, brightly-painted toys and much more.

The Jewish quarter

Do not miss the chance to get lost in one of the best preserved Jewish quarters in the world. Its Catalonian name “call” is derived from the Latin word describing a “set of narrow streets”. The local Jewish community used to have its own mayor and council, independent from the authorities in Girona. It was protected by the king of Catalonia in exchange for an annual fee. The Jews had a strong economic influence being experienced money-lenders, landowners, craftsmen and traders.

 The Girona cathedral “St. Mary” is located right next to the Jewish quarter. In the past this proximity was a prerequisite for the arousal of problems between Catholics and Jews. Local Christians were rebelling against the independence of Judaists and often attacked them, especially during religious holidays. In time the periods of bad blood were alternating with ones of peaceful coexistence. By the end of the 15^th century Catholics had managed to establish a positive relationship with the Jews and even had commerce with them. It all came to an end in 1492 with a royal edict that ordered the expulsion of all Jews in Spain.

The Arab baths

 While in the neighbourhood, stop by the illustrious Arab baths. They were built in the 12^th century in Roman style but their layout is typically Arabic. The baths consist of a few premises, the most impressive of which is the hall with the main pool and its dome. The relaxed atmosphere will surely give you a spa effect without the need of any treatments. When you have had enough of the cool baths, head back to the burning heat of the street to get to the culmination of your walk in Girona.

A walk over the castle wall

Look for signs pointing to the Passeig Arqueològic, the promenade over the castle wall that dates back to the 1^st century BC. During the 14^th century the original Roman construction was used as a base for the new fortification. Not long after, though, the structure lost its main purpose because Girona spread out of its limits.

Take the time to enjoy the sunset from this historical viewpoint. You will see the vibrant colours in the sky, the tiled roofs of Girona, the tower of the cathedral and the imposing Pyrenees in the distance. There is only one catch: to get to this dazzling view you need to “fight off” numerous steps.

Resisting the spell of Girona is nearly impossible. You become so impatient to see what is hidden behind every corner that you do not know which way to take first. But the old part of Girona is fairly small and in a day you will have plenty of hours to see each and every nook. However, falling in love with the city takes a lot less time. The narrow, winding streets still create the atmosphere of a long gone past. It would not surprise me if while strolling in the old town you start dreaming about a time machine.

Useful information: Girona is located only 118 km away from Barcelona. The easiest and fastest way to get there is by train. The journey takes only 40 minutes and there are regular trains every hour or so.

Girona is an ancient Catalan city that will most certainly charm you with its colours, rich history, breathtaking views from above and handmade goods. The old part of Girona is really similar to the beautiful towns in Tuscany, only with a Spanish charm to it.

By the banks of the Onyar river

Start your tour walking down La Rambla de la Libertat and look for a bridge on your left. Get on the other bank of the river Onyar and capture in your memories, as well as in your camera, one of the most emblematic views in town. The houses meandering by the river are glowing in various shades of yellow, red and orange under the beams of the Catalonian sun.

Keep walking in the new part of Girona and following Carrer de Santa Clara get to the Square of Independence (Plaça de la Independència), devoted to the battle for independence from France. Then you can go back to the other bank and fearlessly venture into the labyrinth of cobbled streets. There you will stumble upon lovely shops that sell tea, read books, fragrant candles, natural soaps, artistic jewelries, vintage clocks, brightly-painted toys and much more.

The Jewish quarter

Do not miss the chance to get lost in one of the best preserved Jewish quarters in the world. Its Catalonian name “call” is derived from the Latin word describing a “set of narrow streets”. The local Jewish community used to have its own mayor and council, independent from the authorities in Girona. It was protected by the king of Catalonia in exchange for an annual fee. The Jews had a strong economic influence being experienced money-lenders, landowners, craftsmen and traders.

 The Girona cathedral “St. Mary” is located right next to the Jewish quarter. In the past this proximity was a prerequisite for the arousal of problems between Catholics and Jews. Local Christians were rebelling against the independence of Judaists and often attacked them, especially during religious holidays. In time the periods of bad blood were alternating with ones of peaceful coexistence. By the end of the 15^th century Catholics had managed to establish a positive relationship with the Jews and even had commerce with them. It all came to an end in 1492 with a royal edict that ordered the expulsion of all Jews in Spain.

The Arab baths

 While in the neighbourhood, stop by the illustrious Arab baths. They were built in the 12^th century in Roman style but their layout is typically Arabic. The baths consist of a few premises, the most impressive of which is the hall with the main pool and its dome. The relaxed atmosphere will surely give you a spa effect without the need of any treatments. When you have had enough of the cool baths, head back to the burning heat of the street to get to the culmination of your walk in Girona.

A walk over the castle wall

Look for signs pointing to the Passeig Arqueològic, the promenade over the castle wall that dates back to the 1^st century BC. During the 14^th century the original Roman construction was used as a base for the new fortification. Not long after, though, the structure lost its main purpose because Girona spread out of its limits.

Take the time to enjoy the sunset from this historical viewpoint. You will see the vibrant colours in the sky, the tiled roofs of Girona, the tower of the cathedral and the imposing Pyrenees in the distance. There is only one catch: to get to this dazzling view you need to “fight off” numerous steps.

Resisting the spell of Girona is nearly impossible. You become so impatient to see what is hidden behind every corner that you do not know which way to take first. But the old part of Girona is fairly small and in a day you will have plenty of hours to see each and every nook. However, falling in love with the city takes a lot less time. The narrow, winding streets still create the atmosphere of a long gone past. It would not surprise me if while strolling in the old town you start dreaming about a time machine.

Useful information: Girona is located only 118 km away from Barcelona. The easiest and fastest way to get there is by train. The journey takes only 40 minutes and there are regular trains every hour or so.

Girona is an ancient Catalan city that will most certainly charm you with its colours, rich history, breathtaking views from above and handmade goods. The old part of Girona is really similar to the beautiful towns in Tuscany, only with a Spanish charm to it.

By the banks of the Onyar river

Start your tour walking down La Rambla de la Libertat and look for a bridge on your left. Get on the other bank of the river Onyar and capture in your memories, as well as in your camera, one of the most emblematic views in town. The houses meandering by the river are glowing in various shades of yellow, red and orange under the beams of the Catalonian sun.

Keep walking in the new part of Girona and following Carrer de Santa Clara get to the Square of Independence (Plaça de la Independència), devoted to the battle for independence from France. Then you can go back to the other bank and fearlessly venture into the labyrinth of cobbled streets. There you will stumble upon lovely shops that sell tea, read books, fragrant candles, natural soaps, artistic jewelries, vintage clocks, brightly-painted toys and much more.

The Jewish quarter

Do not miss the chance to get lost in one of the best preserved Jewish quarters in the world. Its Catalonian name “call” is derived from the Latin word describing a “set of narrow streets”. The local Jewish community used to have its own mayor and council, independent from the authorities in Girona. It was protected by the king of Catalonia in exchange for an annual fee. The Jews had a strong economic influence being experienced money-lenders, landowners, craftsmen and traders.

 The Girona cathedral “St. Mary” is located right next to the Jewish quarter. In the past this proximity was a prerequisite for the arousal of problems between Catholics and Jews. Local Christians were rebelling against the independence of Judaists and often attacked them, especially during religious holidays. In time the periods of bad blood were alternating with ones of peaceful coexistence. By the end of the 15^th century Catholics had managed to establish a positive relationship with the Jews and even had commerce with them. It all came to an end in 1492 with a royal edict that ordered the expulsion of all Jews in Spain.

The Arab baths

 While in the neighbourhood, stop by the illustrious Arab baths. They were built in the 12^th century in Roman style but their layout is typically Arabic. The baths consist of a few premises, the most impressive of which is the hall with the main pool and its dome. The relaxed atmosphere will surely give you a spa effect without the need of any treatments. When you have had enough of the cool baths, head back to the burning heat of the street to get to the culmination of your walk in Girona.

A walk over the castle wall

Look for signs pointing to the Passeig Arqueològic, the promenade over the castle wall that dates back to the 1^st century BC. During the 14^th century the original Roman construction was used as a base for the new fortification. Not long after, though, the structure lost its main purpose because Girona spread out of its limits.

Take the time to enjoy the sunset from this historical viewpoint. You will see the vibrant colours in the sky, the tiled roofs of Girona, the tower of the cathedral and the imposing Pyrenees in the distance. There is only one catch: to get to this dazzling view you need to “fight off” numerous steps.

Resisting the spell of Girona is nearly impossible. You become so impatient to see what is hidden behind every corner that you do not know which way to take first. But the old part of Girona is fairly small and in a day you will have plenty of hours to see each and every nook. However, falling in love with the city takes a lot less time. The narrow, winding streets still create the atmosphere of a long gone past. It would not surprise me if while strolling in the old town you start dreaming about a time machine.

Useful information: Girona is located only 118 km away from Barcelona. The easiest and fastest way to get there is by train. The journey takes only 40 minutes and there are regular trains every hour or so.

Girona is an ancient Catalan city that will most certainly charm you with its colours, rich history, breathtaking views from above and handmade goods. The old part of Girona is really similar to the beautiful towns in Tuscany, only with a Spanish charm to it.

By the banks of the Onyar river

Start your tour walking down La Rambla de la Libertat and look for a bridge on your left. Get on the other bank of the river Onyar and capture in your memories, as well as in your camera, one of the most emblematic views in town. The houses meandering by the river are glowing in various shades of yellow, red and orange under the beams of the Catalonian sun.

Keep walking in the new part of Girona and following Carrer de Santa Clara get to the Square of Independence (Plaça de la Independència), devoted to the battle for independence from France. Then you can go back to the other bank and fearlessly venture into the labyrinth of cobbled streets. There you will stumble upon lovely shops that sell tea, read books, fragrant candles, natural soaps, artistic jewelries, vintage clocks, brightly-painted toys and much more.

The Jewish quarter

Do not miss the chance to get lost in one of the best preserved Jewish quarters in the world. Its Catalonian name “call” is derived from the Latin word describing a “set of narrow streets”. The local Jewish community used to have its own mayor and council, independent from the authorities in Girona. It was protected by the king of Catalonia in exchange for an annual fee. The Jews had a strong economic influence being experienced money-lenders, landowners, craftsmen and traders.

 The Girona cathedral “St. Mary” is located right next to the Jewish quarter. In the past this proximity was a prerequisite for the arousal of problems between Catholics and Jews. Local Christians were rebelling against the independence of Judaists and often attacked them, especially during religious holidays. In time the periods of bad blood were alternating with ones of peaceful coexistence. By the end of the 15^th century Catholics had managed to establish a positive relationship with the Jews and even had commerce with them. It all came to an end in 1492 with a royal edict that ordered the expulsion of all Jews in Spain.

The Arab baths

 While in the neighbourhood, stop by the illustrious Arab baths. They were built in the 12^th century in Roman style but their layout is typically Arabic. The baths consist of a few premises, the most impressive of which is the hall with the main pool and its dome. The relaxed atmosphere will surely give you a spa effect without the need of any treatments. When you have had enough of the cool baths, head back to the burning heat of the street to get to the culmination of your walk in Girona.

A walk over the castle wall

Look for signs pointing to the Passeig Arqueològic, the promenade over the castle wall that dates back to the 1^st century BC. During the 14^th century the original Roman construction was used as a base for the new fortification. Not long after, though, the structure lost its main purpose because Girona spread out of its limits.

Take the time to enjoy the sunset from this historical viewpoint. You will see the vibrant colours in the sky, the tiled roofs of Girona, the tower of the cathedral and the imposing Pyrenees in the distance. There is only one catch: to get to this dazzling view you need to “fight off” numerous steps.

Resisting the spell of Girona is nearly impossible. You become so impatient to see what is hidden behind every corner that you do not know which way to take first. But the old part of Girona is fairly small and in a day you will have plenty of hours to see each and every nook. However, falling in love with the city takes a lot less time. The narrow, winding streets still create the atmosphere of a long gone past. It would not surprise me if while strolling in the old town you start dreaming about a time machine.

Useful information: Girona is located only 118 km away from Barcelona. The easiest and fastest way to get there is by train. The journey takes only 40 minutes and there are regular trains every hour or so.

Girona is an ancient Catalan city that will most certainly charm you with its colours, rich history, breathtaking views from above and handmade goods. The old part of Girona is really similar to the beautiful towns in Tuscany, only with a Spanish charm to it.

By the banks of the Onyar river

Start your tour walking down La Rambla de la Libertat and look for a bridge on your left. Get on the other bank of the river Onyar and capture in your memories, as well as in your camera, one of the most emblematic views in town. The houses meandering by the river are glowing in various shades of yellow, red and orange under the beams of the Catalonian sun.

Keep walking in the new part of Girona and following Carrer de Santa Clara get to the Square of Independence (Plaça de la Independència), devoted to the battle for independence from France. Then you can go back to the other bank and fearlessly venture into the labyrinth of cobbled streets. There you will stumble upon lovely shops that sell tea, read books, fragrant candles, natural soaps, artistic jewelries, vintage clocks, brightly-painted toys and much more.

The Jewish quarter

Do not miss the chance to get lost in one of the best preserved Jewish quarters in the world. Its Catalonian name “call” is derived from the Latin word describing a “set of narrow streets”. The local Jewish community used to have its own mayor and council, independent from the authorities in Girona. It was protected by the king of Catalonia in exchange for an annual fee. The Jews had a strong economic influence being experienced money-lenders, landowners, craftsmen and traders.

 The Girona cathedral “St. Mary” is located right next to the Jewish quarter. In the past this proximity was a prerequisite for the arousal of problems between Catholics and Jews. Local Christians were rebelling against the independence of Judaists and often attacked them, especially during religious holidays. In time the periods of bad blood were alternating with ones of peaceful coexistence. By the end of the 15^th century Catholics had managed to establish a positive relationship with the Jews and even had commerce with them. It all came to an end in 1492 with a royal edict that ordered the expulsion of all Jews in Spain.

The Arab baths

 While in the neighbourhood, stop by the illustrious Arab baths. They were built in the 12^th century in Roman style but their layout is typically Arabic. The baths consist of a few premises, the most impressive of which is the hall with the main pool and its dome. The relaxed atmosphere will surely give you a spa effect without the need of any treatments. When you have had enough of the cool baths, head back to the burning heat of the street to get to the culmination of your walk in Girona.

A walk over the castle wall

Look for signs pointing to the Passeig Arqueològic, the promenade over the castle wall that dates back to the 1^st century BC. During the 14^th century the original Roman construction was used as a base for the new fortification. Not long after, though, the structure lost its main purpose because Girona spread out of its limits.

Take the time to enjoy the sunset from this historical viewpoint. You will see the vibrant colours in the sky, the tiled roofs of Girona, the tower of the cathedral and the imposing Pyrenees in the distance. There is only one catch: to get to this dazzling view you need to “fight off” numerous steps.

Resisting the spell of Girona is nearly impossible. You become so impatient to see what is hidden behind every corner that you do not know which way to take first. But the old part of Girona is fairly small and in a day you will have plenty of hours to see each and every nook. However, falling in love with the city takes a lot less time. The narrow, winding streets still create the atmosphere of a long gone past. It would not surprise me if while strolling in the old town you start dreaming about a time machine.

Useful information: Girona is located only 118 km away from Barcelona. The easiest and fastest way to get there is by train. The journey takes only 40 minutes and there are regular trains every hour or so.

Girona is an ancient Catalan city that will most certainly charm you with its colours, rich history, breathtaking views from above and handmade goods. The old part of Girona is really similar to the beautiful towns in Tuscany, only with a Spanish charm to it.

By the banks of the Onyar river

Start your tour walking down La Rambla de la Libertat and look for a bridge on your left. Get on the other bank of the river Onyar and capture in your memories, as well as in your camera, one of the most emblematic views in town. The houses meandering by the river are glowing in various shades of yellow, red and orange under the beams of the Catalonian sun.

Keep walking in the new part of Girona and following Carrer de Santa Clara get to the Square of Independence (Plaça de la Independència), devoted to the battle for independence from France. Then you can go back to the other bank and fearlessly venture into the labyrinth of cobbled streets. There you will stumble upon lovely shops that sell tea, read books, fragrant candles, natural soaps, artistic jewelries, vintage clocks, brightly-painted toys and much more.

The Jewish quarter

Do not miss the chance to get lost in one of the best preserved Jewish quarters in the world. Its Catalonian name “call” is derived from the Latin word describing a “set of narrow streets”. The local Jewish community used to have its own mayor and council, independent from the authorities in Girona. It was protected by the king of Catalonia in exchange for an annual fee. The Jews had a strong economic influence being experienced money-lenders, landowners, craftsmen and traders.

 The Girona cathedral “St. Mary” is located right next to the Jewish quarter. In the past this proximity was a prerequisite for the arousal of problems between Catholics and Jews. Local Christians were rebelling against the independence of Judaists and often attacked them, especially during religious holidays. In time the periods of bad blood were alternating with ones of peaceful coexistence. By the end of the 15^th century Catholics had managed to establish a positive relationship with the Jews and even had commerce with them. It all came to an end in 1492 with a royal edict that ordered the expulsion of all Jews in Spain.

The Arab baths

 While in the neighbourhood, stop by the illustrious Arab baths. They were built in the 12^th century in Roman style but their layout is typically Arabic. The baths consist of a few premises, the most impressive of which is the hall with the main pool and its dome. The relaxed atmosphere will surely give you a spa effect without the need of any treatments. When you have had enough of the cool baths, head back to the burning heat of the street to get to the culmination of your walk in Girona.

A walk over the castle wall

Look for signs pointing to the Passeig Arqueològic, the promenade over the castle wall that dates back to the 1^st century BC. During the 14^th century the original Roman construction was used as a base for the new fortification. Not long after, though, the structure lost its main purpose because Girona spread out of its limits.

Take the time to enjoy the sunset from this historical viewpoint. You will see the vibrant colours in the sky, the tiled roofs of Girona, the tower of the cathedral and the imposing Pyrenees in the distance. There is only one catch: to get to this dazzling view you need to “fight off” numerous steps.

Resisting the spell of Girona is nearly impossible. You become so impatient to see what is hidden behind every corner that you do not know which way to take first. But the old part of Girona is fairly small and in a day you will have plenty of hours to see each and every nook. However, falling in love with the city takes a lot less time. The narrow, winding streets still create the atmosphere of a long gone past. It would not surprise me if while strolling in the old town you start dreaming about a time machine.

Useful information: Girona is located only 118 km away from Barcelona. The easiest and fastest way to get there is by train. The journey takes only 40 minutes and there are regular trains every hour or so.

The main purpose of travelling is not to discover new lands but new points of view. While on the road, you can learn about the world almost as much as you can learn about yourself. It’s not even necessary for you to go through all the continents to come to a few simple yet invaluable truths. Travelling has taught me a lot and the following five lessons are only the first chapter of the biggest journey we call life.

Languages come in handy

Languages, even these that seem pretty useless, can come in handy in a variety of situations, especially when you’re travelling. Like that time when I used my knowledge of Spanish to escape a serious fine in Italy. Well, I suppose no-one has ever had any doubts that Romance languages are useful. How about Hungarian, though? It is a language that could not be put into any language family for a very long time. Nowadays, it is spoken by only 0,17% of the world population. Yes, it doesn’t sound very promising. Not to mention that the only thing I know how to say in Hungarian is: “Be careful, the doors are closing”. I learned this in the Budapest underground where it would repeat at every station. As scarce as my knowledge was, I still managed to warn an elderly man who was crossing the road right when a car was speeding towards him.

Getting lost is not always scary

Often, people hate not knowing where they are. The unknown scares and confuses them. Most tourists go only on the main boulevards without risking a venture into the labyrinth of small streets, too worried they might mess up their schedule.

I have always been one of these travellers that get lost almost unintentionally. In Italy that is quite easy as some narrow streets can even be missing from the tourist maps. This is how I stumbled upon the Pantheon of Rome. It was not on my list because when I looked it up on the internet I found it “unimpressive”. Well, standing before the gates, I thought I might as well go on the inside. To this day, I consider this  most impressive structure I have ever seen. I wondered: “How come this massive dome with a hole in the middle is still standing there?” As if when the Romans were building it some 2000 years ago the laws of Physics were not yet in action.

Stereotypes can be misleading

Have you ever been told that the Germans are organised and the French are arrogant? You have probably heard that the Spaniards never come on time. That’s as rare as a Swiss man arriving late. Frankly, my friends from Valencia really did not consider arriving for an appointment two hours late much of a deal. However, the Spanish people I met in the North of the country were quite the opposite. I’ve met quiet Italians who eat burgers from American fast food chains. I’ve met sober Russians and gorgeous British ladies. As Oscar Wilde once said: “To define is to limit.” Therefore, do not trust generic national definitions. All one needs for a great adventure is an open mind!

Most people have kind hearts

Even Anne Frank, who witnessed first-hand the atrocities of World War II, believed that deep down, people are good. I agree, although we’re often “waiting” for a right time to show our kindness. Ask someone for directions and look what happens! When I was in Naples I got a motorbike ride to my hotel in the infamous Neapolitan traffic. We passed through a small gap between a car and a bus, just so we can enter the wrong way and stop abruptly in front of some jaywalking pedestrians. That might sound terrible, but it’s also incredibly fun. On that same day, regardless of what popular wisdom seems to teach us, I got a free lunch. On the next day, I even dined gratis!

It’s not the man who makes the journey, but the journey makes the man

Truth be told, travelling never goes as you’ve planned it. When you’re faced with something new and unexpected, you’re creating yourself. On the road, I designed a more independent version of myself. I became much more sociable and I eased into speaking various languages, even when I’m not fluent in them. I learned to fit half of my belongings into a backpack so that I never carry anything unnecessary. I quit buying souvenirs because I decided that a person who collects moments is much more interesting. I started taking more risks when I realised fortune really favours the brave.

Italian national cuisine is not only one of the most famous in the world, but also one of the most loved. Unfortunately, there is a popular misconception that most Italian meals consist of pizza, pasta, lasagna and spaghetti, none of which is particularly good for staying in shape. Truth is that food-making on the Boot is largely influenced by the healthy Mediterranean cuisine. Its meals often include: olive oil, herb seasoning, fruits, vegetables, and are usually accompanied by a glass of wine. The food variety is probably as rich as the history of the country.

Italy has 20 regions, each of them boasting with different dishes. A gastronomic tour of the peninsula is definitely worth it. But if you cannot devote an entire year to your taste buds at least try:

Pizza Margherita with mozzarella di bufala is a classic choice. According to a well-known story, while on a visit to Naples queen Margherita sat at a local restaurant to try the food of the poor. The chef prepared for her a pizza with the colours of the Italian flag – red (tomatoes), white (mozzarella) and green (fresh basil). Nowadays this Neapolitan specialty is still prepared by the same technology – the dough is always rolled out manually and baked in a purposive brick oven heated up to 500 degrees! Following the traditions pizza is also eaten with hands.

Fiori di zucca is a dish which will definitely grab your attention if you’ve never heard of it. It is made with pumpkin blossoms – breaded or filled with a mixture of ricotta, parmesan and basil. The blossoms are picked early in the morning and then put in water until it’s time to cook them. This delicious starter is a staple on the Italian table in the beginning of summer.

According to some sources pasta was first brought to Italy by Marco Polo after his trip to China. But facts actually reveal that lasagna was prepared on the peninsula centuries earlier. It’s more likely that pasta is a heritage from the Arabs. Italians used to dry pasta to preserve it and eat it in the winter or during lean times. Presently pasta is offered in a variety of unconventional combinations. Pasta with strawberries (pasta alle fragole) might sound like a dessert, but it’s actually a main dish.

Pandoro is a savoury cake usually prepared for Christmas or Easter. Its name translates to English as “golden bread” because of the colour it gets from yolks. The shape of the dessert and the traditional sprinkling with powdered sugar reminds of a snowy mountain hill. Pandoro is also frequently topped with mascarpone or melted chocolate and a variety of fruits, raisins and seeds.

Tiramisu is a beloved Italian dessert whose origins are unclear. The delicious combination of ladyfingers, mascarpone, coffee, marsala wine and bitter cocoa has charmed many chefs, sophisticated connoisseurs and ordinary gourmands. The name meaning “pick me up” is due to the high energy value. Legend has it that during the Renaissance naughty Venetians used to eat tiramisu after dinner to get their wild night guaranteed.

Gelato is definitely not a regular ice-cream from the freezer. The Italian version has thicker texture, less fat and is not deeply frozen. Coming across a gelateria offering over a 100 flavours is not unusual. Sadly, you might have to limit to 2 or 3 favourite choices.

Cantuccini are delicious biscotti from Tuscany. They are very crunchy thanks to the use of whole almonds and the double baking. Cantuccini are generally served with wine, but they go perfectly with coffee and tea as well. These biscotti are a lasting food and that’s why the practical Italian housewives like to bake a lot of them at once. The salty version of cantuccini was an invariable part of the diet of the Roman soldier. It was not before the 16^th century in the Medici court that the sweet version got popular.

Photo by Didriks on Flickr

Macedonia is not an Eastern European country, it’s a fruit salad. What’s common between these two is that the country is home to many nationalities and the dessert is made of various fruits. Traditionally, the seasonal fruits are flavoured with sugar and white wine or lemon juice. The salad is served cold sometimes with a scoop of vanilla ice-cream.

Italian cuisine is extremely diverse. It cannot be exhausted even with any cook book. But good dishes were not meant to be discussed as much as they were meant to be enjoyed!