Girona FC Away Fans Guide

City Overview

Girona is a historic city in northeastern Spain, located in the Catalonia region. With a population of around 100,000, it’s known for its medieval architecture, vibrant culture, and proximity to the Costa Brava. Girona is rich in history, with well-preserved fortifications and landmarks such as the Girona Cathedral and Jewish Quarter. For away fans, Girona offers a more relaxed and scenic atmosphere compared to larger Spanish cities like Barcelona and Madrid.

For Away Fans: Girona is welcoming to visitors, including away fans. The local football scene is growing, especially after Girona FC's rise in La Liga, though the atmosphere remains family-friendly and less intense than in larger footballing cities.

Currency Info

Local Currency: Euro (€).

Cash vs. Card: Cards are widely accepted across Girona, including in restaurants, shops, and public transport. However, carrying a small amount of cash is useful for smaller purchases, particularly in markets and smaller cafes. ATMs are easily accessible throughout the city.

Closest Airport

Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO): The nearest airport to Girona, located about 12 km (7.5 miles) from the city center.

Transportation Options:

Bus: Buses from Girona-Costa Brava Airport to the city center are frequent, and the journey takes around 25 minutes. The Sagalés bus service operates regular routes to Girona’s central bus station.

Taxi: A taxi ride from the airport to the city center takes about 15-20 minutes and costs approximately €25-€30.

Alternative Airport

Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), about 100 km (62 miles) from Girona.

Train: The fastest option is to take the Renfe high-speed AVE trains or regional trains from Barcelona Sants station to Girona, with the journey taking about 40-80 minutes, depending on the train type.

Bus: Sagalés buses also operate directly between Barcelona-El Prat Airport and Girona, with the journey lasting about 1.5 hours.

Stadium Name & Location

Name: Estadi Montilivi

Location: Located in the southern part of Girona, about 3 km from the city center.

Capacity: 13,500 seats.

Tips for Away Fans: Estadi Montilivi is a smaller, more intimate stadium compared to others in La Liga. Away fans are seated in a designated section, and the atmosphere is usually friendly. The stadium is easily accessible by public transport or a short taxi ride from the city centre.

Public Transport Options

Buses: Several bus lines serve the area near Estadi Montilivi, particularly routes L1 and L5, which stop close to the stadium. Check local schedules as these may vary, particularly on matchdays.

Walking: If you’re staying in the city center, the stadium is about a 30-40 minute walk, which is a pleasant option for exploring Girona’s streets.

Taxis/Ride-Share: Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Bolt are available, and a ride from the city center to the stadium takes around 10 minutes.

Recommended Area for Hotels

City Center (Barri Vell): Staying in Girona’s Old Town puts you within walking distance of the city's main attractions, bars, and restaurants. Hotels like Hotel Gran Ultonia and Hotel Ciutat de Girona offer comfortable accommodations with good reviews.

Eixample: This neighborhood, just south of the city center, offers more modern amenities and quieter streets while still being close to the action. Consider hotels like Hotel Carlemany for a more modern stay.

Montilivi Area: Closer to the stadium, there are fewer hotels, but Bed & Breakfast Girona is a good option if you want to be within walking distance of Estadi Montilivi.

Best Neighbourhoods for Spending Time

Barri Vell (Old Town): The medieval core of Girona is a must-visit, filled with narrow cobbled streets, impressive architecture, and historical sites like the Girona Cathedral and Jewish Quarter. It's also packed with cafes, restaurants, and bars.

Rambla de la Llibertat: A lively pedestrian street in the heart of the city, perfect for shopping and dining. The area is bustling with markets, street performers, and cafes.

Eixample: A quieter, more residential area with good shopping options and a relaxed atmosphere, great for families or those looking to stay away from the tourist-heavy areas.

Sights & Landmarks

Girona Cathedral: One of the city's most iconic landmarks, known for its large staircase and stunning Gothic architecture. Game of Thrones fans will recognize it as a filming location.

Passeig de la Muralla (City Walls): A walk along the ancient city walls offers spectacular views over Girona and its surroundings.

Jewish Quarter (El Call): One of the best-preserved medieval Jewish quarters in Europe, this area is rich in history and culture, perfect for a relaxing pre-match stroll.

Onyar River & Bridges: Take in the colorful buildings lining the Onyar River and cross one of the many scenic bridges, such as the Eiffel Bridge.

Best Pre-Match Areas or Pubs for Fans

McKiernans Irish Pub: Popular with both locals and visiting fans, this Irish pub in the Old Town is a great spot to catch a match or grab a pint before heading to the stadium.

Txalaka: A popular pinchos bar near the city centre, perfect for small bites and drinks, with a lively atmosphere on matchdays.

El Vermutet Can Gombau: Located in the Old Town, this is a cosy bar with excellent local food and drinks, ideal for pre-match meetups.

Plaça de la Independència: One of the largest and most vibrant squares in Girona, lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars. It’s a popular meeting spot for fans to gather before the match.

Plaça Catalunya: Another central square, ideal for grabbing a drink or meal before the game. It’s also close to major transport links and the city’s historic sites.

Rambla de la Llibertat: A bustling pedestrian street in the heart of Girona, perfect for pre-match drinks and dining, with plenty of bars and outdoor seating.

Safety & Security Information

For Away Fans: Girona is generally a very safe city, and matchdays at Estadi Montilivi are well-organised with security personnel ensuring the safety of both home and away fans. There are usually designated areas for away supporters, and tensions between fans are rare.

Areas to Avoid: As with any city, avoid walking through poorly lit areas late at night, especially in isolated parts of the city or around Devesa Park. Stick to well-populated areas in the city center.

Stadium Security: Expect routine security checks at Estadi Montilivi. Away fans will have a separate section and entrance, and it's recommended to follow the directions provided by stadium staff for a smooth experience.

Getting to Girona from Other Major Cities

From Barcelona:

Train: The Renfe AVE high-speed trains are the quickest option, connecting Barcelona (from Barcelona Sants Station) to Girona in about 40 minutes. Tickets range from €10-€30, depending on how early you book.

Bus: Several bus services, such as Sagalés and Alsa, operate between Barcelona and Girona. The journey takes around 1.5-2 hours, and tickets are typically €12-€20.

Car: The drive from Barcelona to Girona via the AP-7 motorway takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Be prepared for tolls along the route.

From Madrid:

Train: The fastest way to get to Girona from Madrid is by Renfe AVE high-speed train. The journey takes about 3.5 hours with a change at Barcelona Sants. Tickets range from €60-€100, depending on availability and how early you book.

Flight: Direct flights from Madrid to Barcelona-El Prat Airport take about 1 hour, followed by a 40-minute train ride to Girona.

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