Pros & Cons of Living in Girona

Thinking about to Girona? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Girona.

Nestled in the northeast of Catalonia, Girona is a charming medieval city that has caught the eye of many digital nomads. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and enviable location near both the coast and the mountains, it's easy to see why. But what's it really like to live and work remotely in Girona? Let's dive into the pros and cons.

Pros of Living in Girona as a Digital Nomad

First and foremost, Girona offers an exceptional quality of life. The city is compact and walkable, with a charming old quarter filled with cobblestone streets, ancient walls, and beautiful architecture. The pace of life is slower than in bigger cities like Barcelona, encouraging a healthy work-life balance. Digital nomad Emma Thompson* found this to be a huge plus. "I love that I can step out of my apartment and be in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage site within minutes. It's incredibly inspiring," she says.

The cost of living is another major draw. Compared to other popular digital nomad destinations in Europe, Girona is relatively affordable. According to Numbeo, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €600-700 per month, while a meal at an inexpensive restaurant is about €10-12. This allows digital nomads to enjoy a good standard of living without breaking the bank.

Girona also boasts an excellent food and drink scene. The city is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, including the world-renowned El Celler de Can Roca. But it's not all fine dining – Girona's tapas bars and local eateries serve up delicious, traditional Catalan cuisine at reasonable prices. Digital nomad Alex Martinez* raves about the food culture. "I've tried so many amazing dishes here, from pa amb tomàquet to escalivada. And the local wine is fantastic," he enthuses.

Cons of Living in Girona, Spain as a Digital Nomad

While Girona has many positives, it's not without its challenges. One major con is the lack of a large digital nomad community. Unlike cities such as Lisbon or Berlin, Girona does not have a vast network of remote workers. This can make it difficult to find like-minded individuals to connect with, both professionally and socially.

Another potential obstacle is the language barrier. While many locals speak some English, Catalan is the primary language, followed by Spanish. Digital nomads may find it challenging to navigate daily life and integrate into the community without a basic grasp of these languages. Emma Thompson* admits, "It's been tough at times, but I've found that learning a bit of Catalan goes a long way in helping me feel more connected to the city and its people."

Lastly, Girona's internet speeds can be inconsistent. While high-speed internet is available, some digital nomads have reported connectivity issues, especially in older buildings. Alex Martinez* advises, "Before you commit to an apartment, make sure to check the internet speed and reliability. It can vary quite a bit depending on the location and provider."

So, is Girona the right choice for digital nomads? Ultimately, the answer depends on individual preferences and priorities. For those seeking a high quality of life, affordable cost of living, and rich cultural experiences, Girona has much to offer. However, it's essential to weigh these benefits against potential challenges, such as the language barrier and the lack of a large digital nomad community.

*Names have been changed for privacy.