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Strategically located between the regions of Pla del Estany, l'Alt Empordà and Garrotxa, the Condal Village of Besalú is one of the most important medieval sites of Catalonia. The combination of culture, tradition, gastronomy and nature makes Besalú one of the most popular tourist destinations throughout Spain.
What to see in Besalú in one day?
The historical heritage of Besalú is remarkably well preserved thanks to the ongoing restoration work in recent years. We highlight the Old Bridge and the Jewish Quarter.
The Old Bridge
The bridge of medieval origin is the quintessential image of the town. Built in the 12th century, it crosses the Fluvià river and is a must visit. The views from above the bridge are fantastic, but where its monumentality is best appreciated is from down by the riverbank, and additionally, it's from where you can take the best photos.
The Jewish Quarter and the Mikveh
The Jewish Quarter, is among the most important in Europe. A walking tour through the streets of the quarter will reveal authentic architectural treasures, although the most important of all are the Mikvehs. The Jewish baths, discovered accidentally in 1964, are the third to be found in Europe and the only ones in all of Spain.
The Monastery of Saint Peter
Together with the church of Sant Vicenç, the church-hospital of Sant Julià, the Cornellà House, the Monastery of Sant Pere, one of the 10 monasteries in Catalonia that you must not miss, and the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria, they complete the entirety of a unique ensemble declared a "National Historic-Artistic Ensemble" in 1966.
Practical tips for visiting Besalú
To appreciate all the details of the site, we remind you that you can take part in guided walking tours organized by the Tourist Office in the village itself.
In addition, of course, we recommend complimenting your visit with a good meal at one of the many restaurants nestled amongst the village streets, some with pleasant views of the medieval bridge itself.
What to visit near Besalú?
If you want to fill up the rest of your day, you could go visit the volcanoes of Garrotxa, the Fageda d'en Jordà, the prehistoric caves of Serinyà or the Lake of Banyoles, all of them just a few minutes by car from the village. Keep in mind that during winter, the best route would be to first visit one of these places and then quickly tour around Besalú to look for a restaurant, and finish visiting the rest of the village in the afternoon-evening.
