Besalú, in the province of Girona, in northern Catalonia, has a spectacular Romanesque bridge that spans the Fluvià River and the atmospheric old town is a treat to wander around.
Inside the medieval walls, you’ll find narrow cobbled streets, historic stone buildings, the remains of a Jewish quarter and the medieval mikveh (Jewish ritual bath), as well as churches and small artisan shops.
Surrounded by the volcanic landscapes of La Garrotxa, Besalú makes a lovely day trip from Barcelona or Girona, particularly for anyone interested in Catalan history and medieval architecture. It is also a good place for film fans – Besalú was recently used as a filming location for Disney’s live action Tangled!
The Best Things to Do in Besalú
Cross the Medieval Bridge
The stunning bridge over the River Fluvià is Besalú’s most famous landmark. With its fortified gateway and sweeping arches, make sure you enjoy the view of the bridge before you cross over into the walled city. There is a viewpoint by the car park before you cross, and the view from the adjacent road bridge is just as spectacular.
The bridge was first documented in 1075, with major changes occurring over the years due to floods and defensive needs, and an extensive reconstruction in the 14th century. During the Civil War in 1939, two of the bridge’s arches were blown up as part of the Republican retreat!
The current bridge is a reconstruction dating from the early 1960s, using some of its historic fabric and foundations, and even though it isn’t entirely original it is still very impressive.
There is another viewpoint of the bridge at the Mirador de Besalú which gives you a different perspective.
Visit the Jewish Quarter and Mikveh
Besalú had an important Jewish community during the Middle Ages, and you can still see traces of the old Jewish quarter around Plaça dels Jueus and the narrow streets leading towards the river.
The highlight is the medieval mikvé, a remarkably well-preserved Jewish ritual bath. It is underground, built in Romanesque style, and is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in Europe, but you need to join a guided visit arranged through the tourist office to go inside.
Stroll Through the Old Town
Besalú’s pretty cobbled streets are a joy to explore. Lined with Romanesque houses, arcaded squares, and charming stone buildings, it feels like you’re stepping back into the Middle Ages. Besalú was officially declared a historic-artistic national site in 1966, and it is perfect for a wander.
Don’t miss the medieval streets around Carrer del Pont Vell, Carrer Tallaferro and Plaça de la Llibertat. You can also see the remains of the medieval gates that led into the city at Portal de Rocafort and Portal de la Força.
Peek Inside the Monastery of Sant Pere
Founded in the 10th century, this Romanesque monastery is a peaceful and elegant building with a striking altar. Both times I have visited it has been closed, but there is a glass door where you can peek inside.
Casa Llaudes (Casa Cornellà)
Opposite the Monastery, on the other side of the Plaça Prat de Sant Pere, Casa Llaudes isn’t always open to the public, but if you see the doors are open it is definitely worth stepping inside! During the Medieval festival it was open and had craft demonstrations in the entrance hall so we went in to look.
This house was built by the Cornellà family in the 12th century, and it is a beautiful and well-preserved Romanesque style home, with a large porticoed patio. It is listed on Google maps as Casa Llaudes, as the Llaudes family acquired it in the 15th century.
The Doorway to the Església-Hospital de Sant Julià
The Church and Hospital of Sant Julià dates back to the 12th century and used to be a hostel built by the counts of Besalu to accomodate pilgrims who arrived in the village. The only original part is the impressive façade which has some beautiful carvings of animals and plants.
Admire the Church of Sant Vicenç
Another fine Romanesque church, Sant Vicenç dates back to the 11th century. It’s only 1€ to go inside so it’s worth a look. When I visited in the afternoon the sun was streaming through the stained-glass window above the entrance, making a colourful pattern on the stone floor.
People Watch at the Plaça Major & Plaça de la Llibertat
The main square of Besalú is a lively meeting point, surrounded by arcades and traditional cafés. It’s a great place to sit with a drink or meal and take a break as you watch the world go by.
The first time I visited Besalú in September there was a Sardana (traditional dance) performance in the square which was lovely to watch.
Spot Contemporary Art
You’ll spot some quirky contemporary sculptures dotted around the old town too, including chairs incorporated into the walls of historic buildings. These are works from part of a 1994 artistic exchange between the Italian region of Frosinone and Girona Provencial Council, when young Gironan and Italian artists spent a month in the city, and left several examples of their works here.
Taste Some Local Catalan Specialities
Traditional restaurants in Besalú serve Catalan dishes here, from escudella (a rich stew) to grilled meats and local cheeses. Shops sell a range of local produce from the Garrotxa region including fesols de Santa Pau (small white beans), local cured meats, honey, preserves and more.
Ratafia is a traditional Catalan herbal liqueur is particularly associated with the Garrotxa. You can buy bottles to take home, and Besalú even has a Ratafia Fair in December if you’re here then!
Shop for Souvenirs
If you’re looking for souvenirs aside from food and drink, local craftwork like artisan ceramics, handmade leather goods from Taller de Cuir on Carrer del Pont, forged-iron decoration, jewellery and other handmade artworks are good options.
Enjoy a Medieval Festival
The Besalú Medieval Fair takes place at the end of August or in early September, transforms the town into a living history experience. There is a themed market in the main square, costumed performers, traditional craft demonstrations, and reenactments that bring the past to life.
I went with a friend and had a great time – the jousting was a highlight for me, watching the riders show off their skills. The town does get very busy for events like this though, especially with day trippers, so if you can stay overnight you might get a better chance to explore before the crowds arrive.
Get Hands on at the Exposició S.XV – Alma Cubrae
This small exhibition focuses on life in 15th-century Besalú and medieval warfare. Entry is just €3 and you can see a range of armour, weapons, costumes, props and highly detailed mannequins, with a mixture of original and reconstructed pieces. You can also get a closer look at medieval arms and armour and even try some on for yourself!
Walk along the Fluvià River
If you have more time, leave the old centre and walk along the Fluvià River. There is a small riverside beach near the Pont Vell and a flat, easy path following part of the river and passing the town’s vegetable gardens and remains of a flour mill.
Consider Circusland
Circusland is a museum dedicated to the history of the circus. It’s not related to Medieval history at all, but is worth considering if you’re travelling with children or have a particular interest in circus history. I decided not to go in, instead preferring to explore the streets and down by the river.
How to Get to Besalú
Day Tours to Besalú from Barcelona
If you like to have everything taken care of then a day tour from Barcelona to Besalú is a great option. Most tours from Barcelona will include other stops during the tour, this area of Catalonia is renowned for it’s medieval villages and stunning scenery so a day tour will help you pack a lot into a relatively short amount of time.
Of course, you’ll have less time to explore than you would if you travelled independently but it is much less hassle.
These are some of the top-rated tours to Besalú from Barcelona:
- Medieval Three Villages Small Group Day Trip from Barcelona
- Visit the charming medieval villages of Besalú and Tavertet with your guide
- Enjoy free time in Rupit to visit medieval locations and eat lunch (own expense)
- Take in stunning views of the countryside from the Tavertet cliffs
- See beautiful Castellfollit de la Roca village on the edge of a basalt cliff
- Medieval Villages & La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Hiking. Small Group Tour
- Hike through la Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park
- Guided tour of Besalú, with free time to explore
- Small-group tour limited to eight participants for a personalized experience
Driving from Barcelona to Besalú by Car
This is by far the most flexible option if you’re comfortable driving in Spain with your own car or are thinking of hiring a car in Barcelona. Besalú is about 133 km from Barcelona, and the drive takes roughly 1½ to 2 hours depending on traffic. There is a large free car park just outside the town, close to the Tourism Office, although it can get busy at the weekends and during festivals.
Driving also gives you the chance to combine a trip to Besalú with other places in the area, such as Castellfollit de la Roca, Olot and Banyoles.
Taking the Bus to Besalú from Barcelona
I haven’t taken the bus myself so haven’t checked this information personally, but according to their website, TEISA operates a direct bus from Barcelona to Besalú on the OLOT-BARCELONA PER BANYOLES line.
The service departs from Barcelona Gran Via 658 and takes roughly 2 hours. Current timetable information shows several services per day, with the first bus leaving Barcelona at 9.15am and arriving at Besalú just before 11am.
The frequency varies by day and season, so check current timetables before you travel. I couldn’t see a way to pre-book tickets on the website so it seems you just have to turn up and wait at the bus stop.
I’m also not sure if you can use a credit card to pay or if it’s just cash – the Teisa website suggests it’s cash only which is surprising but could be the case; prices seem to be €22 one way per person.
Visiting Besalú from Girona
Girona is the nearest large city to Besalú and could be a good base to stay for a few days while you explore more of the region, or a stop off on the way to Besalú. You could get the high-speed or local train to Girona from Barcelona, and then a direct bus from Girona to Besalú, stopping overnight in Girona if you like (which I would recommend!).
Buses to Besalú leave from Girona bus station which is just behind the train station. There is a TEISA desk in the bus station where you can buy tickets or make enquiries. The bus takes just under an hour from Girona on the GIRONA-OLOT PER BANYOLES line, and run more or less every hour. Check the timetables here.
If you’re staying in Girona and are looking for a tour to Besalu from Girona then this is a great choice:
- Besalú, Banyoles Lake & Volcanic Castellfollit from Girona
- Cover some of Garrotxa’s most charming places in a single day
- Stretch your legs on included walking tours
- Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in Girona
Where to Stay in Besalú
Besalú is small enough that you don’t need to stay in the centre to enjoy it, but spending a night here is a lovely way to explore the medieval town after the day-trippers have gone home. Rather than large chain hotels, you’ll mostly find small independent hotels, guesthouses and traditional rural accommodation.
Here are some of the best options if you’re looking for somewhere with character.
Casa Marcial – Best for Solo Travellers or Couples in the Historic Centre
Casa Marcial is a small adults-only hotel in the heart of Besalú’s historic centre, just 100 metres from the famous medieval bridge. It has a garden and outdoor swimming pool, which would be very nice in summer!
The rooms are modern and comfortable rather than traditionally decorated, but the location is hard to beat if you want to step straight out into the medieval streets. It has consistently high guest reviews, particularly for its location, cleanliness and staff.
Mas Pere Pau – Best for a Traditional Catalan Experience
For something more rural and traditionally Catalan, consider Mas Pere Pau, a family-run masia surrounded by countryside just five minutes’ drive from Besalú.
The property combines a small hotel with a restaurant serving traditional Catalan cuisine, giving you a chance to experience a little more of rural Catalonia rather than staying in a hotel in the old town. There is an outdoor swimming pool, and free parking so a great choice if you have a car.
Hotel 3 Arcs – a Small Hotel in the Old Town
Hotel 3 Arcs is a small independent hotel in the historic centre, close to the main sights and medieval streets. It is a more straightforward and modern option than a traditional masia, but its small size makes it a good alternative to staying in a larger hotel.
Its central location means you can easily explore Besalú on foot and return to your room during the day if you need a break from sightseeing.
➡️Check rates and availability
I hope that this blog post has helped you get a good idea of what to do in Besalu, and convinced you to visit, either on a day trip from Barcelona or Girona, or for an overnight stop. I really enjoyed wandering the streets on a quieter day, and then the buzz of the Medieval Festival on another visit. It’s a lovely place to visit in Catalonia, and not to be missed during your Barcelona trip!