About Girona
Girona, METM18’s host city, lies some 40 km inland of the Costa Brava and roughly 100 km north of Barcelona. In fact, the city is so far north you can glimpse the snow-capped Pyrenees from its 14th-century ramparts in the medieval quarter – it’s well worth the bracing climb to the top.


The River Onyar splits Girona in two, with brightly painted houses adorning the riverside. Eleven bridges span the river, including one built by the famous Eiffel Company. Five of these bridges connect the old town to the city’s commercial hub on the left bank, where you’ll find plenty of lively bars and eateries near the Plaça de la Independència.

Girona’s historic heart lies to the east of the river. The city’s cathedral (a familiar sight to Game of Thrones fans) towers above the old town atop a sweeping set of stairs. Below is a charming patchwork of porticoed streets and cobbled squares. Amble a mere 10 minutes south of the cathedral through these tiny streets and vaulted passageways and you’ll find Centre Cultural La Mercè, METM18’s venue.
The city’s museums celebrate its rich and varied history. And there’s something
Arriving early or planning to stay on after METM18? Here’s a more detailed guide to Girona’s must-see sites.
Getting around

Girona is beautifully compact: a leisurely stroll around the old town takes about two hours. In what’s now becoming a METM tradition, there are plenty of steps to climb, so pack some good shoes.
If getting around on two wheels is more your thing, try Girocleta, the city’s bicycle-sharing system. Hire a bike for just 2 EUR a day (150 EUR refundable deposit) and use the docking stations around the city.
For all other local travel needs, including info on accessibility, click here.