Three Medieval Gems & Local Lunch All Inclusive Private Tour

If you’re looking for a way to escape the bustle of Barcelona and step back into Spain’s medieval past, the Three Medieval Gems & Local Lunch All-Inclusive Private Tour offers a well-organized, engaging experience. For around $660 per person, you get to explore Besalu, Girona, and Pals—three towns bursting with history, charm, and striking scenery—all in just under a full day. The tour spans roughly nine hours, with door-to-door pickup from central Barcelona, a comfortable vehicle, and a friendly local guide who makes the history come alive.

What I appreciate most about this tour are two key points: First, the expert guides, like Feliciano and Miguel, who manage to make history interesting without overwhelming you with facts; and second, the spectacular views across La Garrotxa Natural Park and from Pals’ hilltop vantage points. The included regional lunch is a highlight, giving you a taste of local cuisine in a setting that matches the towns’ timeless appeal.

One consideration worth noting is that for those with a tight schedule, fitting three towns into one day means some of the visits are brief. If you love to linger and soak up every detail, this might feel a bit rushed at times. However, the overall value is excellent for travelers eager to see a lot without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

Key Points

• Efficient and Comfortable: The tour groups are private, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere with personalized attention.
• Authentic Medieval Atmosphere: Visit well-preserved sites like Besalu’s 12th-century Romanesque bridge and Girona’s stunning cathedral.
• Expert Guidance: Guides like Feliciano and Miguel are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and flexibility, making the day both educational and enjoyable.
• Local Flavors: A delicious three-course regional lunch is included, showcasing local products in a popular Girona restaurant.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking sights, especially from Pals’ hilltop and across La Garrotxa Natural Park; perfect for memorable photos.
• Balanced Pacing: While some reviews mention the tour is a bit fast-paced, it’s ideal for those eager to see highlights without spending days on logistics.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Morning Pickup and Journey Through La Garrotxa

Your day begins early, with pickup from a central Barcelona location around 8:30 am. The comfortable, private vehicle whisks you out of the city and into the volcanic lands of La Garrotxa Natural Park. The scenery along the way is a treat—volcanoes, lush forest, and rugged terrain provide a dramatic backdrop for your morning drive. This part of Catalonia remains relatively undiscovered, offering a peaceful contrast to Barcelona’s busy streets.

First Stop: Besalu and its Romanesque Bridge

The first highlight is Besalu, a small town whose medieval charm feels unchanged by time. The 12th-century Romanesque bridge is a highlight—its elegant curve spans the Fluvia River, creating a perfect photo opportunity. I love how the guide explains the significance of this structure and the town’s history, making it lively and accessible.

A quick coffee break with a croissant prepares you for a walk through the town’s cobbled streets and squares. The tour also includes visits inside some key sites, like the Mikveh, a recently restored Jewish ritual bath, and the remains of a medieval synagogue from the 13th century. These visits give a glimpse into the diverse communities that once thrived here.

Exploring Girona: Cathedral and Culinary Highlights

Next, you’ll travel a comfortable 30-40 minutes to Girona, a city well worth an entire day but packed into a few hours here. The Girona Cathedral with its iconic Gothic façade and the vast interior is awe-inspiring, as noted by reviewers who appreciated the guided explanation of both exterior and inside.

After touring the cathedral, you’ll indulge in a regional three-course lunch at a respected local restaurant. The reviews suggest the food is a highlight—regional products prepared expertly, providing a true taste of Catalonia. This included meal gives a nice rest and a chance to sit down and chat with your guide about the local culture.

Post-lunch, the tour takes you to the Jewish Quarter and other parts of Girona’s old town. Many reviewers comment on the rich history and beautiful architecture, making it a highlight of the day.

The Medieval Village of Pals and Panoramic Views

In the afternoon, the tour heads to Pals, a classic medieval village perched on a hill. Here, you’ll walk through narrow, cobbled streets, admire tiny squares, and climb up next to the Tower of the Hours. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Medas Islands and La Costa Brava’s coastline.

Guided commentary explains the town’s history and architecture, but the real treat is the scenery. As one reviewer mentioned, the vistas are “beautiful to see,” and the landscape makes for memorable photos.

Return Journey

After Pals, the group boards the vehicle for the journey back to Barcelona, where you’ll be dropped off around 5 or 6 pm. The entire experience feels like a well-structured glimpse into Catalonia’s medieval past, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers short on time who want to maximize their day with a curated experience. If you enjoy learning from passionate guides and love places with genuine historical character, this tour will suit you well. The small group setting makes it feel personal, and the included lunch adds a relaxed, local touch that’s often missing in larger tours.

While it moves at a brisk pace—perfect for covering a lot of ground—it’s best for those comfortable with a structured schedule. If you prefer to linger longer in each spot or explore museums on your own, this tour might feel a bit rushed. However, for a rundown with minimal planning, it’s hard to beat.

Practicalities and Value

At $659.18 per person, this tour offers good value when you consider the all-inclusive nature: transportation, guided tours, skip-the-line tickets, and a regional lunch. The small-group format ensures a more personal experience, and the knowledgeable guides seem to make the history come alive, according to multiple reviews.

Booking 56 days in advance on average suggests it’s popular among travelers eager to see Catalonia’s medieval towns without the hassle of figuring out logistics themselves. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be crammed into a large bus or feel like just another face in a crowd.

Considerations

• The tour is typically around 9 hours, so it requires a full day—best for those who don’t mind a busy schedule.
• It’s weather-dependent; poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• The pace is quick, focusing on highlights rather than in-depth exploration, making it suitable for curious travelers who prefer a rundown.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, your pickup from central Barcelona is part of the package, ensuring a hassle-free start to your day.

What does the lunch include?
A three-course meal featuring regional products in a well-known Girona restaurant is included, which many reviewers found delicious and memorable.

How long are the visits at each site?
Typically, each site is visited for around 10-20 minutes, with time allocated for walking and explanations—enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Are tickets to sites included?
Yes, skip-the-line tickets to Girona Cathedral and entrance to the mikveh are included, saving you time and hassle.

Can I book for just two people?
Yes, the tour is private and can accommodate small groups—ideal for couples or small families.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How early do I need to book?
Most travelers book around 56 days in advance, but you can check availability closer to your planned date.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the pace and content are generally suitable for most age groups, especially those interested in history and scenic towns.

To sum it up, this private tour hits a sweet spot for those wanting to explore Catalonia’s medieval charms without the stress of planning or navigating alone. The combination of knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and a tasty meal makes for a memorable day outside of Barcelona. It’s especially well-suited for history enthusiasts, photography fans, or anyone eager to experience authentic Catalan towns with a group of like-minded travelers. Just be ready for a full day that moves swiftly—so bring comfortable shoes and your camera!