When it comes to planning a European city break there are a number of popular spots that often make the shortlist. Capital cities are particular favourites, with millions travelling to Paris, Berlin, Rome, Amsterdam and Madrid every year.
While these are clearly favourites for a reason, there are a multitude of other, lesser-known, spots that don’t tend to attract the same level of attention.
This can make them the ideal location for someone in need of an exciting getaway but without the huge crowds.
One such destination is the unassuming Girona in Catalonia, Spain.
Just a 40-minute train ride away from the bustling Barcelona, it has plenty to offer tourists while retaining its unique charm.
Girona is known as the city of four rivers, for the simple fact that it is situated at the confluence of four rivers – Ter, Galigants, Honiar, and Guel.
Old meets new in Girona, with its historic quarter dominated by medieval buildings and Roman, Arab and Hebrew influences, and an impressive walled enclosure called the Força Vella.
However, its modern side has everything you would expect from a thriving European city, including buzzing restaurants, bars and nightlife.
Tourist Guide Girona explains: “Girona has a beautiful Historic Jewish quarter that is easy to see on foot.
“There are lots of museums there, and the buildings are all of stone, and squashed down narrow cobbled streets.
“You’ll see lots of quaint bars and restaurants in this area too, and it’s great for antique shopping.”
The fact Girona is not dependent on tourism means it isn’t empty in the winter like many other coastal towns.
“The climate is mild in the winter and so Girona is also a great destination at this time,” Tourist Guide Girona continues.
“It has a peaceful feel all year round and is an excellent place to enjoy everything a small city has to offer, while escaping from the throngs of tourists and hustle and bustle of the coast.
“There are plenty of Girona tourist attractions for all the family. You’ll find ancient buildings, botanical gardens, shopping centres and a myriad of outdoor sports.”
And if you’re big into your food you cannot visit Girona without trying its famous invention, the xuixo.
Pronounced “choo-cho” a xuixo is a deep-fried, sugar-coated cylindrical pastry filled with crema catalana.
Flights to Girona from the UK can start from £21.99.