Girona's Temps de Flors is a springtime spectacle that transforms the city's ancient streets and monuments into a living canvas of color and fragrance. For about nine days in May, the Barri Vell (old town) and the Jewish Quarter, known as El Call, host more than a hundred floral installations created by local associations, florists, and artists. The festival, which began in 1954, has grown into one of Catalonia's most anticipated cultural events, drawing visitors from around the world.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning enthusiast, planning ahead is key to enjoying the festival without the stress of crowds and queues. This guide covers everything you need to know—from what to expect and when to go, to navigating the city and finding the best spots to eat and stay. You'll also find tips on how to use the festival to access monuments that are normally closed or require an entrance fee.
What is Temps de Flors?
Temps de Flors, which translates to “Time of Flowers,” is an annual floral exhibition held in Girona since 1954. For nine days, the city’s historic center and Jewish Quarter become an open-air gallery, with installations in courtyards, on building facades, and even floating on the River Onyar. The displays are free to view, and they offer a rare chance to step inside monuments and private patios that are usually closed to the public.
The festival has deep roots in the community. Originally organized by volunteers, it now involves professional florists, artists, and local associations. Each year, the installations are completely renewed, so even repeat visitors will find something new. A notable tribute was paid to the festival’s founder, Maria Cobarcí, with a moving display of metallic figures on the cathedral steps after her passing—a testament to the event’s emotional resonance.
When is Temps de Flors?
Temps de Flors typically runs for nine days in May, but exact dates vary each year. For historical comparison, the published dates were May 10–18 in 2025 and May 9–17 in 2026. Since the organizers have not yet announced future editions, it's wise to check the official festival website for the most up-to-date information.
For the most reliable information, consult the official tourism website of Spain or the Girona city council. They publish the dates as soon as they are confirmed, usually several months in advance. Keep in mind that the festival’s opening week often includes a weekend, which is the busiest time.
Where to see the best flower displays
The heart of Temps de Flors lies in Girona’s historic center, particularly in the Jewish Quarter, El Call. Key locations include the Cathedral, whose 90 stone steps are often adorned with elaborate arrangements; the Arab Baths, where the central pool spills over with blossoms; and the Capella de Sant Nicolau. Each venue offers a unique experience, blending art and architecture.
One of the festival’s highlights is the opportunity to explore spaces that are normally inaccessible. For instance, the Arab Baths and the Girona History Museum, which usually charge an entrance fee, are free during the festival. In past editions, the cloisters of Sant Pere de Galligants have featured huge wicker baskets filled with dahlias. To make sense of the many installations, pick up the official map at the tourist office or check the festival’s website for suggested itineraries.
Beyond the main monuments, you’ll find creative displays in unexpected corners: a courtyard dedicated to Saint Christopher, filled with flowering bicycles; a giant Scrabble board spelling flower names; or old tires painted orange and stuffed with carnations. The entire city participates—locals decorate their balconies and shopkeepers dress their windows, creating a community-wide celebration.
How to plan your visit
The single most important tip for visiting Temps de Flors is to avoid weekends if you can. The festival is hugely popular with locals, and the narrow streets of the historic center get extremely crowded on Saturdays and Sundays. If a weekend visit is your only option, go early in the morning and be prepared to queue up to 15 minutes for the most popular displays—the wait is usually worth it.
Make the most of the free access to monuments by planning your route around the key venues. The cathedral steps and the Arab Baths are often crowded, so consider visiting them on a weekday. Also, remember that the floral designs are completely renewed every year, so even if you’ve been before, you’ll encounter fresh creations. Bring comfortable shoes and a camera.
One of the best decisions you can make is to stay overnight. This allows you to see the displays along the River Onyar illuminated at night, which is a magical experience. However, hotels in the city center book up two to three months in advance, especially for weekends. Alternatively, you can visit as a day trip from Barcelona, but you’ll miss the evening atmosphere.
How to get to Girona
Girona is well-connected by public transport. From Barcelona, you can take the high-speed AVE train from Estació de Sants, which takes about 35 minutes, or a slower train from Barcelona Sants that takes around 1.5 hours. Regular buses also run from Barcelona's Estació del Nord, taking about 1 hour 45 minutes. Girona’s own airport and nearby Barcelona–El Prat offer flights from many European cities.
Driving is not recommended during the festival because parking is limited and expensive. If you do drive, consider parking outside the city and walking or using public transport into the center. The train station is about a 20-minute walk from the historic heart, where most displays are concentrated. During the festival, local buses may be rerouted, so check the city's transport website for updates.
Getting around during the festival
Girona is a compact, walkable city, and the festival’s installations are mostly within the Barri Vell and El Call. Walking is the best way to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden patios. For those who prefer wheels, public bikes are available for about 2€ a day, but navigating cobblestone streets and crowds can be tricky.
The festival organizers offer three suggested itineraries, which you can follow using the official map. These routes help you cover the highlights efficiently and avoid backtracking. Maps are available at the tourist office, and volunteers are often stationed along the routes to offer guidance.
If you need a break from the crowds, head to the less-touristed parts of the city, such as the leafy Devesa Park, or the banks of the Onyar River further upstream. These spots offer a quieter perspective on the city and are perfect for a picnic.
Where to eat and stay
During Temps de Flors, restaurants in the historic center are especially crowded, particularly on weekends from 1 to 3 pm. Booking ahead is essential, especially for dinners. Many eateries offer special floral-themed menus, so look out for those. For traditional Catalan cuisine, try Casa Marieta on Plaça de la Independència, which serves more than 40 home-style dishes. Another excellent choice is Fonda Cal Ros, located under the Voltes d'en Rosés, known for its commitment to local produce and Catalan classics.
For a sweet break, Rocambolesc, the ice cream shop by Jordi Roca of El Celler de Can Roca fame, offers imaginative flavors like baked apple and coconut with violet. Be prepared for queues, but the artistry is worth it.
Accommodation is the biggest headache during the festival. As mentioned, center-city hotels fill up two to three months in advance. If you can’t find a room in the heart of Girona, consider staying in a nearby town such as Figueres or even Barcelona, keeping in mind that the train ride is quick. Alternatively, look into rental apartments in the residential areas just outside the old town.
Beyond the flowers: things to do in Girona
If you have more time, Girona has plenty to offer beyond the floral displays. Walk along the city’s medieval walls for panoramic views, or visit the impressive Girona Cathedral, which houses one of the widest Gothic naves in the world. The Jewish History Museum and the Arab Baths are usually part of the festival circuit, providing free access.
For fans of the TV series Game of Thrones, Girona served as a filming location for season six, and several tours highlight these sites. The city also has a lively culinary scene, with many tapas bars and restaurants along the Rambla de la Llibertat, where you can sample local wines and pintxos.
If you’re visiting in October, you can enjoy the Fires de Sant Narcís, another major festival in Girona, or if you’re around on April 23rd, the Sant Jordi celebration fills the city with roses and books.
Final tips for a smooth visit
To summarize: go on a weekday if possible, book your stay well in advance, and rely on public transport. Wear comfortable shoes for all the walking, and bring a refillable water bottle—staying hydrated is essential in the spring sun.
Check the festival’s official website or the tourism office’s social media for last-minute updates on venues and any changes to the program. Remember to be patient—queues are part of the experience, but they move quickly. Most importantly, take your time to enjoy the artistic creativity on display; this is a festival that highlights the best of Catalan culture.
Plan Your Visit
Temps de Flors is a unique celebration that combines art, nature, and community in the stunning setting of Girona’s historic center. Whether you come for the flowers, the free monuments, or the lively atmosphere, the festival offers an unforgettable experience. To compare this visit with other celebrations, use our guide to festivals in Spain.
For the latest details on dates and practicalities, always consult the official organizers before making your plans. And if you’re already thinking about other Spanish celebrations, you might enjoy our guide to the country’s most colorful events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Girona, Spain famous?
Girona is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Girona Cathedral and the Jewish Quarter (El Call). It is also known for hosting Temps de Flors, an annual floral festival that transforms the city with spectacular flower displays. Additionally, Girona has gained fame as a filming location for Game of Thrones and as a culinary destination, featuring restaurants like El Celler de Can Roca.
What is the world's most famous flower festival?
While many countries hold flower festivals, some of the most famous include the Chelsea Flower Show in London, the Keukenhof in the Netherlands, and the Rose Parade in Pasadena. In Spain, Girona's Temps de Flors is particularly renowned for its integration of floral art with historic architecture, offering free access to monuments and a unique cultural experience.
Where can I find flowers in Girona?
During Temps de Flors, flowers are everywhere in Girona, especially in the historic center (Barri Vell) and the Jewish Quarter (El Call). Key locations include the Cathedral steps, the Arab Baths, the Capella de Sant Nicolau, and the Sant Pere de Galligants cloisters. Displays also line the River Onyar and appear in courtyards and on balconies throughout the city. The official festival map shows all installation sites.
