Solo Summer 2025 Day 3: A Perfect Farewell in Catalonia

My final day in Girona was everything a traveler could ask for—rich in history, full of flavor, and soaked in beauty. After days of wandering its cobbled lanes and falling in love with its medieval charm, I made sure to end my time in the city with a thoughtfully curated itinerary. Girona sent me off in style!

A Window into the Past: The Museum of Jewish History

I began the day with a visit to the Museum of Jewish History (Museu d’Història dels Jueus), nestled in the heart of the old Jewish Quarter—one of the best-preserved in Europe. This museum is a quiet gem, offering a moving and insightful look into Girona’s once-thriving Jewish community, which flourished from the 9th to the 15th century before the expulsion in 1492.

Housed in a restored medieval building, the exhibits include Hebrew manuscripts, gravestones, and ceremonial objects, all thoughtfully displayed to highlight the intellectual and spiritual contributions of Girona’s Jewish residents. There’s something powerful about walking through those halls, knowing that philosophers, rabbis, and poets once shaped this city’s soul from these very streets. It’s more than just a museum—it’s a tribute to memory.

A Taste of Excellence: Lunch at Massana

For lunch, I treated myself to a serious culinary splurge at Restaurant Massana, Girona’s one-Michelin-star temple to Catalan cuisine. Run by Pere Massana and his team, this fine dining spot is known for its seasonal tasting menus that blend tradition with modern technique.

I opted for the tasting menu with wine pairing, and every course was a revelation. Highlights included a delicately prepared smoked eel with apple and celery, tender lamb with aubergine textures, and a mind-blowing dessert that paired dark chocolate with citrus in a way I didn’t know was possible. Each dish was expertly paired with regional and international wines that elevated the flavors even further. The service was impeccable—attentive but never intrusive—and the ambiance elegant without being stiff. It wasn’t just a meal, it was an experience.

A Walk Through Time: The Archaeology Museum of Catalonia

After lunch, I made my way to the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia (Museu d'Arqueologia de Catalunya - Girona), located within the atmospheric setting of the former Sant Pere de Galligants Benedictine monastery. The building itself is a marvel, with Romanesque architecture that adds an extra layer of history to the visit.

Inside, the museum offers a chronological journey through the region’s past, from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. I found the Roman and Iberian artifacts particularly fascinating—pottery, tools, and remnants of ancient dwellings that bring life to Catalonia’s deep and layered history. It was a peaceful and reflective way to end the afternoon, walking among ancient stones and thinking about the many civilizations that have left their mark on this land.

Farewell, Girona

As the sun began to dip behind the city’s ancient walls, I returned to my room for one last quiet evening in Girona. I packed my bags slowly, letting the day’s experiences settle in, feeling grateful for the beauty and complexity of this city.

Tomorrow, I head to France—to the sun-drenched elegance of Avignon. But a part of me will stay behind in Girona, wandering its winding streets and whispering stories through the stones.

Adios Girona. Bonjour Avignon! The next chapter begins.