Galicia, an autonomous community in north-west Spain, is a verdant region with an Atlantic coastline. The cathedral of the regional capital Santiago de Compostela is the supposed burial place of the biblical apostle St James the Greater, and a destination for those travelling the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. The western cliffs of Cape Finisterre were considered by the Romans to be the end of the known world
10 Places to visit in Galicia
1. Vigo
In Vigo, the story goes that Captain Nemo's secret lies in the Ría de Vigo, where the Nautilus used to get gold from sunken galleons. The modern and enterprising city invites you to explore the Old Town, try some oysters in A Pedra or spend a day on Samil beach.
2. Cies Islands
The Cíes Islands are the Vigo estuary's greatest treasure: an incredible Maritime-Terrestrial National Park and one of the most beautiful places in the country. The archipelago is made up of three islands: Monte Agudo, O Faro and San Martiño. The first two are joined by a long stretch of sand: Rodas beach, considered the best beach in the world by The Guardian newspaper. A perfect destination for trekking with the family, escapes to unspoilt beaches and camping.
3. Santiago de Compostela and the Way of St James
A World Heritage Site since 1985, Santiago de Compostela is a cosmopolitan city that welcomes visitors and pilgrims from all over the world. The historic centre is home to the famous Cathedral and the Portico de la Gloria. Other attractions include the squares of Obradoiro, Quintana and Toural, various churches and palaces of different architectural styles, shops, bars, restaurants and the Horticultural Market. Climbing to the rooftops of the Cathedral offers spectacular views of the city and its surroundings.
4. La Coruña
A Coruña is a vibrant city with beaches in the centre, a long promenade and the iconic Torre de Hércules lighthouse. The Plaza de María Pita and the glass galleries are places to visit, as are the Fine Arts Museum and the House of Sciences.
At dusk, the San Carlos and Méndez Núñez Gardens are options for a relaxing or more lively stroll. Watching the sunset from the Tower of Hercules is an unforgettable experience.
5. Ribeira Sacra and Sil Gorge
The Sil and Minho gorges are perfect for a catamaran trip, revealing impressive landscapes and historic monasteries such as Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil and Santa Cristina.
Ribeira Sacra is known for its Amandi wines, appreciated since Roman times. The natural beauty and the difficult harvest on the terraced hillsides make this region a jewel not to be missed.
6. Pontevedra
Pontevedra is synonymous with hospitality, reflected in the Church of the Pilgrim Virgin. The city has a vibrant historic centre, parks, boulevards and riverside walks. The Portuguese Way of St James passes through the city. Sculpture Island is an ideal place to combine nature and culture, with works by renowned artists
7. Lugo
Lugo is known for the San Froilán festivities and its rich gastronomy. The city has a splendid Roman past, visible in the World Heritage Wall, the Thermal Baths and the Roman Bridge. The Cathedral and the Virgin of the Big Eyes are must-sees.
8. Playa de las Catedrales
Playa de las Catedrales is an impressive natural monument, sculpted by the sea over the centuries. During low tide, you can explore majestic arches and caves, walking among the unique rock formations. It's a place that conveys a sense of grandeur and mystery, providing a truly unique experience.
9. Monte Santa Tecla - La Guardia
The Celtic hillfort of Santa Tecla dates back to the 1st century. Santa Tecla is a hill with spectacular surroundings, breathtaking views and the river separating Spain from Portugal. At its summit is one of Galicia's largest and most visited hillforts. At its peak, between 3,000 and 5,000 people lived here and the state of preservation is excellent.
It's a very varied trail, passing by Moinho beach, Lamiña beach and Armona beach, with Portugal always on the horizon. The various viewpoints on Monte de Santa Tecla make this a privileged place to see Portugal's coastline.
10. Cape Finisterre
Cape Finisterre is a granite promontory 3 km long and 600 metres high. The emblematic cape has been awarded the distinction of European Heritage Site and is the last stage of the Way of St James, the famous km 0. Located around 90 kilometres from Santiago de Compostela, it is the final destination for some of the pilgrims on the Way of Saint James.
How to get There?
✈️ Galicia has three airports in the region:
- Vigo/Redondela (Peinador airport);
- Santiago de Compostela Airport (Rosalia de Castro Airport);
- A Coruña Airport (Alvedro Airport).
Our Courses in Galicia
