When it comes to planning a family holiday, I’m always looking for somewhere that balances fun for the kids with something that feels like a proper break for the grown-ups too. Beautiful scenery, good food, plenty of outdoor activities and somewhere that doesn’t feel overwhelmingly busy – that’s usually my ideal combination.
Recently I discovered a destination that ticks all those boxes and more: Girona and the Costa Brava, in the north-east of Spain. While many people head straight for Barcelona, this nearby region offers a wonderful mix of culture, beaches and family-friendly adventures that make it perfect for a relaxed holiday with children.
From wandering through medieval streets to kayaking along the Mediterranean coast, it’s the kind of place where every day can bring something different.
Exploring Girona’s magical Old Town
Girona is one of those cities that immediately feels charming and welcoming. The historic centre, known as the Barri Vell, is a maze of cobbled streets, stone staircases and hidden squares that make exploring feel like a treasure hunt for kids.
One of the highlights of our visit was walking along the ancient city walls, which wrap around the old town and offer spectacular views over the rooftops and countryside. Children love the sense of adventure here – climbing the towers and peering out over the city like little explorers.
Another iconic spot is the row of colourful houses along the River Onyar. Painted in bright shades of yellow, red and orange, they create one of the most photographed views in Girona and are perfect for family snaps.
The city itself is wonderfully walkable, which makes sightseeing much easier when travelling with children. You can wander slowly, stop for ice cream, and discover new corners of the city without needing to rush from one attraction to another.
Cycling through beautiful countryside
If your family enjoys being active, Girona is a fantastic place for cycling. The region is actually famous among professional cyclists, but there are plenty of routes that are perfect for families too.
One of the best options is cycling along the Via Verde routes, which follow old railway lines that have been converted into scenic paths. These trails are mostly flat and easy to navigate, making them ideal for children and casual riders.
Along the way you’ll pass through forests, small villages and open countryside, stopping whenever you fancy for a picnic or a quick break. It’s a lovely way to experience the natural beauty of the region and burn off some of that holiday energy.
Bike rental shops are easy to find in Girona, and many offer family bikes or child seats, so everyone can join in.
Beach adventures on the Costa Brava
Of course, one of the biggest reasons families choose this area is the stunning Costa Brava coastline. Within around 30–45 minutes of Girona you can reach some truly beautiful beaches, ranging from wide sandy bays to tiny hidden coves surrounded by cliffs and pine trees.
What makes the Costa Brava especially great for families is the number of activities available on the water. If your kids enjoy adventure, there are plenty of ways to make beach days even more exciting.
Kayaking is one of the most popular options, allowing families to paddle along the coastline and explore caves, rock formations and secret beaches that you can’t reach on foot. Many beaches also offer paddleboarding, snorkelling, or even small boat rentals if you fancy exploring the coastline at your own pace.
Some of our favourite seaside towns included Calella de Palafrugell, with its postcard-perfect white houses and turquoise water, and Tossa de Mar, where a medieval castle overlooks the beach. Both offer the perfect mix of scenery, relaxed beach vibes and family-friendly cafés.
Food, ice Cream and relaxed evenings
One of the joys of travelling in Spain is how relaxed everything feels when it comes to food. Girona is full of small cafés, bakeries and restaurants where families are warmly welcomed.
Our days often began with a simple breakfast of coffee and pastries before heading out to explore. Later, after a busy day of sightseeing or beach adventures, evenings were spent enjoying tapas in lively squares while the kids tucked into ice cream.
There’s something wonderfully unhurried about the atmosphere here, which makes dining out with children far less stressful than in some busier cities.
Finding the perfect place to stay
When travelling as a family, having enough space to relax is incredibly important. That’s why many visitors choose holiday rentals in Girona, which provide far more flexibility than a traditional hotel room.
Apartments offer the convenience of separate bedrooms, a kitchen for preparing snacks or simple meals, and a comfortable living space where everyone can unwind after a busy day.
One company that stands out in the area is Bravissimo Girona, which offers beautifully designed apartments in some of the best locations across Girona and the Costa Brava. Their properties combine stylish interiors with practical layouts that work particularly well for families.
Staying in a centrally located apartment also means you can easily walk to restaurants, shops and many of Girona’s main attractions.
Easy to reach from the UK
Another advantage of choosing Girona for a family holiday is how simple it is to reach. There are regular flights from the UK to both Girona Airport and Barcelona Airport. From Barcelona, a quick train journey of around 40 minutes brings you directly to Girona.
Once you arrive, the region is easy to explore by car or public transport, making it straightforward to visit different beaches and nearby towns along the Costa Brava.
A family holiday to remember
Girona and the Costa Brava offer the kind of holiday that families dream about – a destination where culture, nature and adventure all come together.
One day you might be exploring medieval streets and ancient city walls, the next cycling through peaceful countryside, and the following afternoon kayaking along the Mediterranean coast.
For families looking for a European getaway that combines beautiful scenery, exciting activities and a relaxed atmosphere, Girona and the Costa Brava are a truly wonderful choice. It’s the sort of place where unforgettable memories are made – and where you’ll probably start planning your next visit before the holiday even ends.