Family-Friendly Things to Do in Girona | 10 Unique Activities with Kids

Planning a family holiday in Girona? This charming Catalan city is more than just medieval walls and cobblestone streets - it’s also a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences for kids and parents alike. While you’ll find plenty of guides listing the usual attractions, we’ve rounded up ten family-friendly activities in and around Girona that offer something a little different. From butterfly parks and jam-making workshops to stargazing and cinema magic, these ideas will help you experience the region like a local - and keep the little ones happy, curious, and engaged.

1. Explore the Butterfly Park in Empuriabrava

📍 40 mins from Girona

A magical stop for younger kids and nature lovers, the Butterfly Park is home to over 1,000 butterflies from around the world. Wander through a lush tropical garden filled with parrots, turtles, and exotic plants, perfect for curious young minds and budding biologists.

➡️ Website: www.butterflypark.es

2. Visit the Jam Museum in Torrent

📍 50 mins from Girona

Learn how artisanal jams are made, try dozens of unique flavours (from classic strawberry to wild fig and tomato), or book a hands-on workshop to make your own. Sweet and educational!

➡️ Website: www.museuconfitura.com

3. Cycle the Carrilet Greenway

📍 Starts in Girona

This converted railway line offers a safe, scenic cycling route from Girona to the coast (Olot or Sant Feliu). Rent bikes and stop for picnics, farm visits, or ice cream en route. An active way to see the countryside that kids will love.

➡️ Website: viasverdes.com

4. Wander the Medieval Village of Peratallada

📍 40 mins from Girona

Like stepping into a fairy tale, this car-free village is a joy for families to explore. Kids can roam cobbled streets, peek through castle gates, and refuel on handmade gelato in the main square. Great for a relaxed afternoon adventure.

➡️ Tip: Go early or late to avoid crowds in summer.

5. Take a Boat Ride on Lake Banyoles

📍 30 mins from Girona

Hire a rowboat or hop on the solar-powered "Tirona" boat for a gentle cruise across Catalonia’s largest natural lake. Combine it with a walk around the shaded lake path or a dip in one of the designated swimming zones.

6. Have a Beach Day in Sant Martí d’Empúries

📍 45 mins from Girona

Skip the packed tourist beaches and head for the sandy coves of Sant Martí d’Empúries. Calm waters, shady pines, and ancient Greek ruins nearby make this an ideal family-friendly coastal escape.

➡️ Tip: There are stroller-friendly wooden boardwalks and great seaside eateries nearby.

7. Visit the Cinema Museum in Girona

📍 In Girona Old Town

An underrated gem! This interactive museum is all about the history of film and early visual effects—perfect for curious kids.

➡️ Website: www.museudelcinema.cat

8. Go Stargazing at the Albanyà Observatory

📍 1 hr from Girona

Older kids will be blown away by the night sky experience at this rural observatory. Book a night show and let an expert guide you through constellations, planets, and galaxies using high-powered telescopes.

➡️ Website: www.observatorialbanya.com

9. Paint or Make Your Own Ceramic Masterpiece

📍 In Girona Old Town

This workshop welcomes individuals or families for hands-on pottery sessions. Create your own bowl, paint a tile, or just browse the take-home kits for a DIY version.

➡️ Website: www.poteri.co

10. Explore Nature at Devesa Park

📍 In Girona

Right in the centre of Girona, this vast green park has towering plane trees, open space for running and picnics, and playgrounds to suit all ages. Don’t miss the outdoor market here on Tuesdays and Saturdays.