Girona, also known as the city of the four rivers, is one of the places with the best-preserved historic centre in the country. This city captivates visitors with its medieval charm, rich culture and exquisite gastronomy. Its privileged location, between the Pyrenees mountain range and Barcelona, makes it an outstanding destination to travel to at any time of the year, but there is a special time when the capital of province, on Costa Brava, is transformed into an even more impressive spectacle: the “Temps de Flors” (Flower Festival).
During this festival, the town dresses up in an explosion of colour and fragrance. This event is held in spring, transforming its streets and monuments into gardens full of petals and ornamental flowers.
With Shuttle2Sun‘s shared transfer services and private transfer services, low-cost and sustainable, you can travel to Girona from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station. Now you can book your transfer up to 24 hours in advance.
Origins of ‘Temps de Flors’ (Flower Festival)
“Girona, Temps de Flors” has its beginnings in 1954, when a group of young entrepreneurs organised the first Provincial Flower Show Competition.
The first edition was held in the Rest Room of the Municipal Theatre, which became too small for the great success it enjoyed, so over the years the location was changed, moving on to various emblematic places in the city, such as the Public Library and the Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants, until finally settling in the courtyards and gardens of the Barri Vell (Old Quarter).
The collaboration between associations and the backing of the city council in 1992 marked a milestone in its development, consolidating its position as an essential icon of Girona, keeping the traditional spirit alive, thanks to the hard work of people such as Rosa Maria Labayen, David Marca and Josep Tarrés.
The most emblematic locations of the festival
In the last edition, more than 365,000 people came to Girona to enjoy this incredible spring event.
With more than 100 floral installations spread throughout the different neighbourhoods of the municipality, there is plenty to explore and enjoy for those who wish to experience the beauty and special atmosphere of the festival.
Among the impressive displays, the Arab Baths, a 12th century Romanesque building located at the foot of the Cathedral, are a highlight. Although from the outside the building may go unnoticed, its interior reveals the reason why this place is so emblematic, offering a unique historical and cultural experience.
Of course, the Cathedral of Santa Maria is one of the most popular and photographed monuments for visitors. This 11th century Gothic work has the widest Gothic nave in the world, and, in front of its imposing main façade, the steps of the temple are adorned with floral ornamentation that captivates the attention of all those present, year after year.
Plaça dels Jurats, located in the heart of the Barri Vell, also becomes a dream setting with its colourful floral decorations that contrast with the medieval architecture of the surrounding buildings.
One of the city’s jewels is the Call de Girona, the best-preserved former Jewish quarter in Europe. Culturally, it was one of the most important Jewish communities in the West. During the festival, this picturesque quarter is filled with colourful floral decorations that highlight the beauty of its medieval architecture. Visitors can stroll through its alleyways and discover hidden courtyards where special floral displays are held, immersing themselves in the rich history and culture of Girona’s Jewish population.
Other highlights include the Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants, a 12th century Romanesque jewel that now houses the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia, as well as the church of Sant Martí de Sacosta, known for its impressive floral decorations during the festival.
Also, the Convent of Sant Domènec, founded in the 13th century, offers a serene experience with its Gothic cloister adorned with floral installations during the “Temps de Flors”.
Many residents open their private courtyards and gardens to the public during the festival, allowing visitors to explore hidden corners and discover real gems that add a special touch to the experience.
In addition, during these days, the 20th Window Dressing and Interior Decoration Competition is organised to involve local businesses in the city’s festivities. This competition offers establishments the opportunity to decorate their shop windows and interior spaces with creativity and originality, using natural flowers. A jury will evaluate them, based on criteria such as originality, artistic quality and the degree of connection with the theme, awarding three prizes and three runners-up prizes.
Visiting these emblematic locations will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the “Temps de Flors” and enjoy an unforgettable experience full of colour and aroma.
Remember that, with Shuttle2Sun‘s shared transfer services and private transfer services, you can travel to Girona from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
Activities and events on these dates
As well as being a festival of nature, colours and aromas, the festival is also a celebration of Catalan culture and tradition. During the event, you can also attend concerts, art exhibitions, workshops and activities for the whole family. The city’s restaurants and bars come alive and offer visitors the opportunity to taste local produce.
In addition, during these days you have at your disposal the guided tours of the “Temps de Flors”, where you will visit the most emblematic places, hand in hand with your guide.
“Girona, Temps de Flors” is undoubtedly one of the most special times to visit the city. So, if you’re thinking of travelling to this city, don’t think twice! Remember that with the shared transfer services and private transfer services, low-cost and sustainable, offered by Shuttle2Sun, you can travel to the capital of the province of Girona, from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station. Now you can book your transfer up to 24 hours in advance.
