Pedro DominguesGalicia is a land of lush greenery, rolling hills, and dramatic coastlines. Located in the northwestern corner of Spain, this region is renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, history buff, or simply looking for a unique and authentic travel experience, Galicia has something to offer.
One of the main draws of Galicia is its stunning coastline, which stretches for over 1200 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean. From rugged cliffs and hidden coves to long stretches of white sand beaches, the coastline is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most popular beach destinations in Galicia is Rias Baixas, a series of estuaries and bays that are dotted with charming fishing villages, historic towns, and picturesque lighthouses.
But there’s much more to Galicia than just its coastline. The region is also known for its rich cultural heritage, which dates back to prehistoric times. Santiago de Compostela needs no introduction, and visitors can also explore ancient megalithic structures, Roman ruins, and medieval castles, as well as museums and art galleries that showcase the region’s unique history and traditions.
For foodies, Galicia is a gastronomic paradise, with a cuisine that is based on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and centuries-old recipes. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Galicia, with a variety of activities that range from hiking and biking to fishing and kayaking. The region is home to several natural parks and reserves, including Serra do Courel and Fragas do Eume, which offer stunning landscapes and unique ecosystems.
In this blog post, I’ll dive deeper into some of the top things to do in Galicia, from exploring historic towns and sampling local cuisine to hiking along scenic trails and relaxing on pristine beaches. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Galicia is a destination that is sure to captivate and inspire. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the magic of this enchanting region!
Where is Galicia located, in Spain?
Galicia is located in the north of Spain, on the border with the north of Portugal, namely with the districts of Viana do Castelo, Braga, Vila Real and even Bragança. It borders also two fabulous natural parks in Portugal: Montesinho Natural Park and Peneda-Gerês National Park. Check the image below and other articles about the region in the vicinity of Galicia.
Other useful articles in this blog: 1 - Things to do in Santiago de Compostela 2 - Things to do in Vigo 3 - Visit the Ons and Cies Islands 4 - Things to do in Pontevedra 5 - Things to do in La Coruna 6 - Things to do in Viana do Castelo 7 - Things to do in Braga 8 - Things to do in Porto 9 - Things to do in Guimarães 10 - Peneda Gerês National Park Itinerary 11 - Douro Valley Itinerary 12 - Trás-os-Montes Itinerary 13 - Things to do in Esposende 14 - Things to do in Barcelos 15 - Things to do in Arcos de Valdevez 16 - Things to do in Caminha 17 - Things to do in Valença 18 - Things to do in Monção 19 - Things to do in Ponte de Lima 20 - Things to do in Matosinhos 21 - Things to do in Vila do Conde 22 - Things to do in Póvoa de Varzim 23 - Things to do in Vila Nova de Gaia
How to get to Galicia, in Spain?
If you’re planning a trip to Galicia but haven’t booked your travel yet, I recommend using Skyscanner or Google Flights to compare prices and flight conditions before making a purchase. Galicia has its own airport near Santiago de Compostela, so flying in is an option to consider.
If you’re already in the region and looking for public transport options, there are trains and buses available. Check out Rome2rio website to explore possible routes to your destination. For example, you will find many trains from other locations of Spain with Renfe. Regarding buses check with ALSA, but in this case there are some locations that may need a ride with other bus companies.
That being said, I highly recommend renting a car to explore the treasures of Galicia on your own terms. With its rugged coastline and charming seaside cities, there are many stunning viewpoints and interesting places to discover. Discover Cars is a great resource to compare prices and options from multiple car rental companies before choosing the best fit for your needs.
Take out Travel Insurance to visit Spain
To be protected against several types of travel hazards, I also recommend that you take out travel insurance for your stay in Spain, and I recommend to do it with World Nomads.
When to visit Galicia?
Galicia offers something for every season, so plan your visit based on what you want to experience there.
- Summer is the perfect time for those who love to soak up the sun on the beach. With its long coastline and picturesque islands, Galicia has many beautiful beaches to explore during this season.
- Spring is ideal for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Baixa Limia Natural Park is the perfect place to explore the region’s natural beauty, with its lush forests and scenic hiking trails. During this season, the weather is mild, and the blooming flora adds to the park’s beauty.
- No matter what season you visit Galicia, a relaxing dip in the thermal waters of Ourense is a must-do. The province of Ourense has many hot springs, which are known for their healing properties and are the perfect place to unwind and relax.
- As for festivals, Festa dos Maios in May and Festa de São Froilán in October are popular events in Galicia. Festa dos Maios, also known as the Festival of the May Trees, is a celebration of spring and the season of renewal. During Festa de São Froilán, Lugo’s streets are filled with music, food, and drink, making it a great time to visit and experience Galician culture.
- If you’re planning to visit Santiago de Compostela, join the crowds celebrating the day of the Apostle during the last two weeks of July. The city’s streets are filled with pilgrims, and there are many events and concerts to attend during this time.
Gastronomy in Galicia
- Galicia’s coastline is known for its delicious seafood, with octopus and mussels being among the most popular dishes. If you’re near Minho River, be sure to try the lamprey and eels.
- Don’t miss out on trying the famous Galician Pie, a type of empanada, and Bica Gallega, a buttery traditional cake from the region of Ourense.
- Tapas are a must-try in Spain, and Galicia is no exception. Explore a variety of them during your trip.
- If you venture inland, you’ll find delicious meat dishes, such as Ternera Gallega (Galician veal). Cheese lovers should try Queixo de San Simón da Costa (San Simón cheese).
- Make sure to sample the typical Lacón Gallego con grelos, a dish made with cured pork shoulder and turnip greens.
- While in Santiago de Compostela, don’t miss the opportunity to try the famous and traditional Torta de Santiago.
- And of course, no trip to Galicia would be complete without trying a refreshing Estrella Galicia beer.
Restaurants in Galicia
- Santiago de Compostela: Casa de Xantar O Dezaseis, A Noiesa – Casa De Comida, Mesón 42, Casa Marcelo, Los Caracoles Restaurant
- Ourense: A Taberna Restaurant, La Garza Restaurant, A Palleira
- Ribadavia: RIBEIRO E XAMÓN, O Birrán
- Allariz: O Pepiño de Allariz, Pallabarro, Fío de Liño
- Ribeira Sacra: Restaurant Praia da Cova, Parada De Sil
- Lugo: Os Cachivaches, Fonte Do Rei
- Ribadeo: Restaurant O Piano, Casa Villaronta
- Viveiro: Mesón O Recuncho, A Chabola
- Monforte de Lemos: Tapería – Restaurant LA FÁBRICA
- Sanxenxo: Taberna Maruca, Restaurant O Barco
- O Grove: Taberna Lavandeiro, O Cruceiro, O Chiringuito
- Vilanova de Arousa: Restaurant Faro Da Lúa
- Combarro: Restaurant O Bocoi, TINTANEGRA
- Cambados: A Fonte Do Viño
- Pontevedra: Casa Fidel O’Pulpeiro, Restaurant Santa Clara, Restaurant Loaira
- Vigo: Restaurant Casa Vella, Restaurant Follas Novas, Restaurant Casa Marco, Restaurant O Porton, Tapas Areal, Taberna A Pedra
- Baiona: Restaurant Rocamar
- Cangas: Restaurant O Bruño, Martinnus Taperia
- Corunha: A Taberna de Cunqueiro
- Muxia: Lonxa d´alvaro
- Finisterra: Tira do Cordel
- Laxe: Mar De Fondo
- Ferrol: Casalexo
Guided Tours to visit Galicia
You can also take tours with Get Your Guide, Viator or Civitatis during your itinerary in Galicia. Here are some examples, but you should also do your own research on the search engines of both sites.
1. Guided Tours to visit Galicia from Santiago de Compostela
You may consider Santiago de Compostela as your base to visit Galicia. If you do so, consider the following tours to visit that city and also surroundings departing from there.
GUIDED TOURS TO VISIT SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA: 1 - Free Walking Tour of Santiago de Compostela 2 - Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and Museum Guided Tour 3 - Hostal de Los Reyes Católicos Guided Tour 4 - Food Tour of Santiago de Compostela 5 - Mysteries Walking Tour with Traditional Gallegan Dinner 6 - Templars Tour of Santiago 7 - Santiago de Compostela: Massage Treatment 8 - Guided Tour of the Cathedral of Santiago GUIDED TOURS TO VISIT GALICIA FROM SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA: 1 - Rías Baixas Day Trip 2 - Cies Island Tour 3 - Rías Baixas, Arosa Island & Combarro Day Trip 4 - Excursion to Rias Baixas (Boat with mussels and wine) 5 - Rías Baixas: Boat Trip, Mussels, Wine, and Winery Visit Tour 6 - Vigo & Baiona Day Trip 7 - Finisterre and Costa da Morte Day Trip 8 - Tour to Muxia and Fisterra 9 - Coruña and Betanzos Day trip 10 - Lugo, Ribadeo & Beach of the Cathedrals Trip 11 - As Catedrais Beach, Tapia & Rinlo Tour 12 - Excursion to Catedrais Beach, Pancha Island and Asturias 13 - Excursion to Cathedrals Beach and Asturias from Santiago 14 - Ribeira Sacra & Ourense Tour 15 - From Santiago: Excursion to Ribeira Sacra and Ourense 16 - Full Day Excursion to Ribeira Sacra and Winery with Tastings
2. Other Guided Tours to visit Galicia
You may also find other guided tour options from other Galician locations, for example Lugo, Vigo, Sanxenxo or even Coruña. Check the ones I share below, for example, the top Galicia kayaking tours available. 😉
GUIDED TOURS TO VISIT GALICIA FROM VIGO: 1 - Ferry to the Cies Islands 2 - Free Walking Tour of Vigo GUIDED TOURS TO VISIT GALICIA FROM LUGO: 1 - Free Walking Tour of Lugo 2 - Lugo Guided City Tour 3 - As Catedrais Beach & Ribadeo Tour 4 - Castro de Viladonga Tour 5 - Ribeira Sacra Tour GUIDED TOURS TO VISIT GALICIA FROM SANXENXO / O GROVE: 1 - Galician Mussels Boat Tour + Tasting 2 - Ría Arousa Boat Trip & Seafood Dinner & Queimada Celebration 3 - Ons Island Ferry 4 - Sálvora Island Tour OTHER GUIDED TOURS TO VISIT GALICIA: 1- Cathedrals Beach Boat Trip from Foz 2 - Galicia Kayaking Tour in Foz 3 - Ézaro Waterfall Kayaking Tour 4 - Finisterre & Costa da Morte Day Trip from Coruña 5 - A Coruña: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide 6 - Boat Trip on the Ría de Pontevedra from Combarro 7 - Monforte de Lemos Guided Tour 8 - Ferrol Guided Tour 9 - Terras Gauda Winery Visit
TOP 20 Things to do in Galicia
Before diving into the details of all the best things to do in Galicia, I’ll share with you a quick list of the top 20 must-sees according to my preferences. I think they’ll pique your interest.
If you don’t have much time to explore Galicia, it’s best to focus on these places only.
1. Visit Santa Trega Mountain
2. Visit the City of Baiona
3. Visit Cies Islands
4. Visit Mount Facho of Donón
5. Visit the City of Pontevedra
6. Visit the Granaries and Town of Combarro
7. Walk on Paseo das Pedras Negras in San Vicente do Grove
8. Visit Fefiñáns Square in Cambados
9. Visit Curota Viewpoint
10. Visit Santiago de Compostela
11. Visit Finisterra Cape
12. Visit Vilán Cape
13. Visit Hercules Tower in A Coruña
14. Visit Limo Viewpoint – Ortigueira Estuary
15. Visit Ortegal Cape
16. Visit San Roque Viewpoint – Viveiro Estuary
17. Visit the Cathedrals Beach in Ribadeo
18. Visit the Roman Wall of Lugo
19. Visit the canyons of River Sil in Ribeira Sacra
20. Visit the Thermal Baths in Ourense
Things to do in Galicia | Spain
Below are suggestions for at least 30 days of travel in Galicia, with each bullet point representing a day itinerary in the region. Due to the size of Galicia, this is a very intense itinerary. I will present suggestions region by region, starting from Pontevedra province to A Coruña, and then Lugo and Ourense. If you do not have 30 days, which is normal for most people, I recommend doing it in stages as Galicia deserves all the time you can give it. That’s what I did for several years.
1. Things to do in Galicia from Tui to Guarda and Santa Trega Mountain
- I’m Portuguese, so I will consider you will start with Tui, crossing the Portugal-Spain border through the road-rail bridge of Valença-Tui. If possible, also visit Valença Fortress, in Portugal, immediately on the other side of Minho river, you will not regret it.
- Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria de Tui.
- Explore the main squares of Tui: San Fernando Square, Concello Square, and Armada Espanhola Square.
- Visit the Chapel of San Telmo, the Arch Tower, and the Alameda Park near Santo Domingo Convent.
- Hike the Folón and Picón mills trail.
- Visit the Mountain and Castro of Santa Trega. Observe Portugal from afar and River Minho from its viewpoints. Visit the chapel and the archaeological museum.
- End the day in Guarda with a visit to the Guarda port, Reló Square, Church of Santa Maria, and Santa Cruz Castle.
- Don’t forget to enjoy a delicious seafood dish for dinner to kick off the trip in style! Any type of seafood is good when visiting Galicia.
- Where to stay in Guarda: Hotel Eli-Mar | Hotel Apartamento Marouco
- Where to stay in Baiona: Estela do Mar | Casa do Marqués
2. Things to do in Galicia from Baiona to Vigo
- Start with a visit to the lighthouse of Cape Silleiro.
- Visit the viewpoint and monument of the Virgin of the Rock.
- Visit the Fortress of Monterreal in Baiona and take the maritime walk around the peninsula of Monte Boi.
- Discover the city of Baiona: Santa Liberata square, Santa Maria de Baiona church, Chapel of São João do Castelo, Rua Ventura Misa, Concello Square and convent of Madres Dominicas.
- Check out Monte Alba viewpoint.
- Go for a swim at Samil Beach overlooking Cies Islands.
- End the day in Vigo, going up to the viewpoint of the Castle of Vigo, and of course, with a good dish of fish. Again!
- Where to stay in Vigo: Céntrico Apartament | Lar Atlántica | Hotel Ogalia | Hotel Coia
3. Things to do in Galicia’s Cies Islands
- Depart to Cies Islands from Vigo.
- Relax at Praia de Rodas or Praia de Nossa Senhora.
- Take the trails on the island, the main highlights are: lighthouse on the island of Faro; viewpoint from the top of Pedra do Campá; viewpoint from Alto do Príncipe.
4. Things to do in Galicia from Vigo to Pontevedra
- Visit Redondela, or at least go and sit on the “best bench in Redondela” (viewpoint).
- Visit the Castle of Soutomaior.
- Go up to the Cotorredondo tower (viewpoint).
- Climb to the viewpoint of Mount Facho of Donón.
- Hike at Cape Home to visit its lighthouses, and also to go for a swim at Melide beach.
- Leave for Pontevedra at the end of the day.
- Where to stay in Pontevedra: Hospédate Pontevedra | Acolá Hostel for shared accommodation | Hotel HHB Pontevedra Confort | Apartamentos Herreros 28
5. Things to do in Galicia from Pontevedra to Sanxenxo, passing through Combarro
- Visit the Sanctuary of the Pilgrim Virgin of Pontevedra and Loro Ravachol.
- Explore the historic center of Pontevedra: Ferraria Square, Convent of San Francisco, Estrela Square, Leña Square, Church of São Bartolomeu, Convent of Santa Clara, Treuco Square, and Alonzo da Fonseca Square.
- Explore the banks of Lérez River near the Burgo Bridge and the Chains Bridge.
- Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maior in Pontevedra.
- Walk along the Alameda of Pontevedra and see the Ruins of the Church of São Domingos.
- Visit Combarro, a small town near Pontevedra with fabulous granaries and a beautiful marina.
- Climb to the viewpoint of the Campanario and pass through the A Granxa viewpoint.
- If you have the time, take the Seca maritime trail at the end of the day. Then head to Sanxenxo or Portonovo for the night. And have seafood again, why not?
- Where to stay in Sanxenxo: Pensión San Antón | Hotel Carlos I Silgar
6. Things to do in Galicia – Ons Island, Sanxenxo and Portonovo
- Take a boat from Sanxenxo / Portonovo to visit Ons Island.
- Relax on the nudist beach of Melide or on any of the other several beaches on the island of Ons.
- Take the island trails, considering the main highlights: the viewpoint of “fedorentos” and the lighthouse of the island of Ons.
- At the end of the day, returning from the island, go for a walk between Portonovo and Sanxenxo by the sea, paying special attention to the seaports.
7. Things to do in Galicia – A Lanzada, O Grove, La Toja Island and Cambados
- For this section you will need 2 days, at least. Not just 1 day, as for the previous shared.
- Go practice water sports on A Lanzada beach, very famous in Galicia.
- Visit the Chapel of Our Lady of Lanzada.
- Walk on the pleasant walkways of Paseo de Pedras Negras in San Vicente do Grove.
- Climb to the Viewpoint of Siradella in O Grove.
- Visit the Chapels of San Campio and San Sebastián on the island of La Toja.
- Take a boat tour on the Arousa estuary with mussel tasting. See this excursion tip or contact MiniCruceros Proba.
- Visit the winery of the Fefiñáns Palace and the homonymous square in Cambados.
- Explore the neighborhood of São Tomé in Cambados and the island of San Sadurniño.
- Just relax on the region, which is one of the most popular for beach tourism in Galicia.
- Where to stay in O Grove: Habitaciones Castelao | Hotel Talaso Louxo La Toja
- Where to stay in Cambados: Hotel El Duende
8. Things to do in Galicia from Arousa Island to Corrubedo
- Cross the bridge to the island of Arousa and go to the viewpoint of Con de Ferro, passing through the Port of Xufre.
- Climb to the viewpoint of Faro das Luas.
- See the Arousa estuary from the viewpoint of Alto do Xiabre.
- Visit Padrón: Paseo do Espolón, Carmo Convent, Santiago Bridge, and the botanical garden.
- Enjoy the magnificent views from Curota viewpoint, one of the best in Galicia.
- Explore the lagoons of Corrubedo dune park, and visit the lighthouse.
- Pass by the viewpoint of Mount Tahúme.
- Where to stay in Corrubedo: A Casa da Tia Elisa (Ribeira) | Apartamento en Ribeira
9. Things to do in Galicia from Corrubedo to Santiago de Compostela
- Consider at least 2 days for this section, the same as for point 7.
- Depart from Corrubedo to Santiago de Compostela passing on the way through Castro de Baronha, Viewpoint of Mount Enxa, and Viewpoint of San Lois.
- Explore every corner of Santiago de Compostela:
- Obradoiro Square and Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela;
- Quintana Square and Praterías Square;
- Abastos Market;
- Rua do Vilar;
- Alameda Park;
- Other places that you can find in my article of things to do in Santiago de Compostela. These are just the main ones.
- Visit Ponte Maceira
- Where to stay in Santiago de Compostela: Campanas de San Juan | Pensión Residencia Fonseca | Casa da Balconada | Hotel San Miguel | Hostal Alfonso | Parador de Santiago
10. Things to do in Galicia’s Costa da Morte up to Finisterre
- Costa da Morte can be translated into English as Death Coast. 😉
- On the way to Muros, make a stop at Cruz de Pelos viewpoint, one of my favorites in Galicia. Then head to either Mount Naraio or Mount Louro viewpoints.
- Go to Punta Lariño lighthouse and take a look at Lariño Beach next to it.
- Relax at Carnota Beach and climb up to the viewpoint of As Paxareiras, which offers a great view of the entire beach.
- Continue to Ézaro waterfall and viewpoint.
- Go to the tip of Cape Finisterre.
- Where to stay in Costa da Morte: Casa da Vasca (Malpica) | Hotel O Náutico (Laxe) | A torre de Laxe | Muxia Mare | Pensión Rustica Alemana (Muxia) | Hotel O Semaforo (Finisterra) | Apartamentos o Almacen (Finisterra) | Pensión O Prouso (Carnota)
- Where to stay in Muros, Nóia or Porto do Son: Casa del Ancla (Muros) | Hostal Kukia (Nóia) | Hostal Valadares (Nóia) | PortoSín Suites | Hotel Villa del Son (Porto do Son)
11. Things to do in Galicia from Finisterre to Malpica
- Start by visiting Faro Touriñan, the westernmost point in Spain.
- See the views from the Mount Facho Lourido viewpoint to the tip of Muxía.
- Continue on to Muxía lighthouse and visit the Sanctuary of Virxe da Barca.
- Drive around Camariñas estuary to the lighthouse of Cape Vilán, one of my favorites on the Death Coast, and in all of Galicia, and one of the most important in the region.
- Visit the English cemetery and then Laxe Lighthouse.
- Go up to Mount Branco Viewpoint.
- Don’t forget the Roncudo lighthouse, but prioritize the one in Punta Nariga, another of my favourites.
- In the evening, make your way to the city of A Coruña.
- Where to stay in the city of A Coruña: Hotel Lois | Hostal Alboran | Hotel Alda Galeria Coruña | Eurostars Blue Coruña | Cabanas de Canide
12. Things to do in Galicia – City of A Coruña
- Visit the Tower of Hercules and walk all around the peninsula.
- Discover the beaches of A Coruña, in particular Órzan beach and its promenade.
- Stroll through Marina Avenue and visit the Castle of Santo Antón.
- Discover the old part of A Coruña, not forgetting the Palace of Maria Pita and the main churches of the city: Church of San Xurxo, Collegiate Church of Santa Maria do Campo, and others.
- Stroll through the pleasant city gardens.
- Taste the traditional Coruña beer (Estrella Galicia) while waiting for a sunset, for example from Mount of San Pedro.
- Where to stay in the city of A Coruña: Hotel Lois | Hostal Alboran | Hotel Alda Galeria Coruña | Eurostars Blue Coruña | Cabanas de Canide
13. Things to do in Galicia – Betanzos e Pontedeume
You’re halfway through this itinerary, catch your breath. I recommend:
- Visiting the historical center of Betanzos: Church of Santiago in Constitution Square, Church of Santa Maria de Azougue in Férnan Pérez de Andrade Square, and the Church of San Francisco.
- Exploring Pontedeume and spending the rest of the time relaxing on Madalena Beach.
- Where to stay in Betanzos and Pontedeume: Montebreamo (Pontedeume) | Hostal Pórtico (Betanzos) | Mirador de La Muralla (Betanzos) | La Casona de Betanzos
14. Things to do in Galicia’s Natural Park of Fragas do Eume
- Visit the Monastery of São João de Caaveiro.
- Go to the Eume Dam.
- Search for the best viewpoints in the Fragas do Eume Natural Park, for example, the Carbueira viewpoint.
15. Things to do in Galicia’s region of Ferrol
- Visit the city of Ferrol:
- Start at the Square of Arms, where Ferrol City Hall is located.
- Continue along the Royal road towards Reina Sofía Park, stopping at the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows and adjacent square, next to Ferrol Maritime Captaincy and gardens at the rear, and at the Church of San Francisco.
- Descend to the Bastion of San Xoán and then to the Church of Our Lady of Socorro.
- Walk along Ferrol marina and visit the naval and shipbuilding museums.
- Discover the Pescadaria and San Julián de Ferrol Co-Cathedral.
- Visit the nearby Castle of San Filipe and Castle of Palma.
- Go up to Pena Bailadora battery viewpoint and to Ancos viewpoint.
- Watch the sunset by the lighthouse of Cape Prior or at Punta Frouxeira lighthouse.
- Where to stay in Ferrol: Hotel Alda El Suizo | Gran Hotel de Ferrol
16. Things to do in Galicia – Serra da Capelada and Ortigueira Estuary
- Enjoy the first hours of your morning in Vilarrube beach.
- Visit the Sanctuary of Santo André de Teixido.
- See the views from Garita da Herbeira.
- Go to Limo viewpoint, another one of my favorites in Galicia.
- Visit Cape Ortegal lighthouse.
- Climb to Miranda viewpoint and then to the Cason Castle viewpoint, with different perspectives of Ortigueira estuary. They are inferior to Limo Viewpoint, in my opinion.
- Drive around Ortigueira estuary to Estaca de Bares, stopping before at the supposed “best bench in the world” (Coitelo viewpoint) and at Pena Furada viewpoint.
- Where to stay near the Ortigueira Estuary: Muiño das Cañotas | Hotel Viento del Norte | Pension Las Palomas | Hospedaje a Goleta
17. Things to do in Galicia – Viveiro Estuary
- Walk Fuciño do Porco Trail and Rio Landro River Trail.
- Relax from the trails on the pleasant beach of Covas.
- Explore the Historic Center of Viveiro: Carlos V Gate, Misericórdia Bridge, the Maritime Façade of Viveiro, Plaza Maior, the Church of Santa Maria, the Convent of San Francisco, the Convent and Church of las Concepcionistas, and Lourdes grotto.
- See the best view of Viveiro estuary at San Roque viewpoint, another of the most extraordinary in Galicia.
- Where to stay in Viveiro: Thalasso Hotel in Viveiro.
18. Things to do in Galicia – Ribadeo and Cathedrals Beach
- Visit the beach of the Cathedrals at low tide and explore each of its caves and surreal rock formations.
- Visit the island of Pancha.
- Explore Ribadeo, paying attention to its Indian heritage: Moreno Tower and Neighborhood of San Roque.
- Climb up to the viewpoint of Santa Cruz and also observe the estuary from Cargadeiro.
- Where to stay in Ribadeo: Villas las Catedrales | Hotel Santa Cruz
19. Things to do in Galicia – Mondonhedo and Lugo
- On the way to Lugo, stop by Mondonhedo and visit:
- Mondonhedo Cathedral
- Passatempo Bridge and Moinhos neighborhood, the Old Fountain, and the Churches of Santiago and of Our Lady of Remedies.
- In Lugo, don’t forget to:
- Take the circular route on the top of Lugo’s Roman walls.
- Visit all its gates: Santiago, Miña, Nova, Falsa, San Pedro, do Bispo Odoario, de San Fernando, da Estação, de Campo Castelo, and do Bispo Aguirre.
- Visit Lugo Cathedral and the Provincial Museum of Lugo.
- Visit Praza Maior de Lugo and Praza do Campo Castelo.
- Explore the Roman bridge of Lugo and the thermal spa.
- Where to stay in Lugo: Apartamentos Porta Nova in Lugo | Lugo 360
20. Things to do in Galicia’s Nature Reserve of Serra dos Ancares
- Consider going on an itinerary to the following places (2 days minimum):
- Doiras Castle
- Piornedo Village
- Ancares Port
- Balouta Viewpoint and village
- O Cebreiro
- Proba de Navia de Suarna
- Becerreá
- Think of doing the trail to the peak of the Three Bishops.
21. Things to do in Galicia’s Ribeira Sacra
- For this section, consider at least 3 days. 😉
- Visit Portomarín.
- Get to know Monforte de Lemos:
- The College of Nossa Senhora da Antiga
- The Convent of Clarissas in Monforte de Lemos
- The Old Bridge
- The Parador of Monforte de Lemos
- The Keep Tower of the Castle.
- Hike, if the dam allows it, to Castro Candaz.
- Go to the village of Belesar.
- Relax at the river beach of Cova.
- Visit Castro de Arxeriz and the Ethnographic Museum of Arxeriz.
- Hike to the Augacaída Waterfall.
- Discover the various viewpoints in Ribeira Sacra region. My favorites are:
- Cabo do Mundo Viewpoint
- Pé do Home Viewpoint
- Vilouxe Viewpoint
- Balcões de Madrid Viewpoint
- Pena de Matacás Viewpoint
- Viewpoint to the Meander of A Barxa
- Pena do Castelo Viewpoint
- Santiorxo Viewpoint
- Cividade Viewpoint
- Visit the Monastery of Santo Estevo de Ribas, the Monastery of Santa Cristina de Ribas de Sil, and the Monastery of San Pedro de Rocas.
- Walk along the Mao river boardwalks.
- Consider taking a hot air balloon ride over Ribeira Sacra.
- Take a boat ride through the canyons of River Sil.
- Where to stay in Ribeira Sacra: Balcón da Ribeira (Parada de Sil).
22. Things to do in Galicia – City and Thermal Baths of Ourense
- Explore the center of Ourense: Main Square of Ourense, the Cathedral, the Church of Santa Eufemia, the Roman Bridge of Ourense, and the Church of Santa Maria.
- Relax in the thermal baths of Ourense: As Burgas in the city center, Outariz, Chavasqueira, and Muiño da Veiga.
- Where to stay in the city of Ourense: Hotel Novo Cándido | NH Ourense | A Casa da Pena Vixia | Grelo Hostel (dorms in Ourense)
23. Things to do in Galicia’s “pueblos” of Ribadavia, Allariz and surroundings
- Visit the Church of Veracruz, near Ourense.
- Explore Ribadavia: castle, historic center, and Prexigueiro thermal baths.
- Consider doing the following hikes:
- Visit the Monastery of Celanova.
- Go to Allariz and visit:
- The botanical garden and green spaces.
- The Roman bridge of Allariz.
- The Church of Santa Maria de Vilanova.
- The Castle of Allariz.
- The Plaza Mayor and the Church of Santiago de Allariz
- The Plaza de Abaixo.
- The Church of San Pedro de Allariz.
- The Church of San Bento.
- The Convent of Santa Clara and the Museum of Sacred Art.
- Where to stay in Allariz: Casco Histórico | Hotel Oca Villa
24. Things to do in Galicia’s Natural Parks of Baixa Limia and O Invernadeiro
For this last day in Galicia, I will be considering you want to return to Portugal, but through a different exit. You will need to decide the border you want to cross:
- If you want to leave through Verín, then go explore the Natural park O Invernadeiro, taking some mountain roads.
- If you want to leave through Portela do Homem, towards Peneda-Gerês National Park, go discover the Baixa Limia Natural Park and some of its natural lagoons, such as Pozo Caído or Pozo da Seima, my favorites. You can also walk the trail to Pozas do Mallón, visit Aceredo (a village submerged in Lima river), the Roman ruins of Aquis Querquennis, or the outdoor thermal pools of Bande and Lobios.
Maps | Things to do in Galicia
1 - Map for Santiago de Compostela 2 - Map for the Province of A Coruña 3 - Map for the City of Pontevedra 4 - Map for the region of Vigo 5 - Map for the region of Sanxenxo and O Grove 6 - Map for the province of Lugo 7 - Map for the province of Ourense 8 - Map for all River Minho attractions
Extra – Visit the North of Portugal and Porto
Portugal is my country! Whether you’re looking to explore the region’s historic cities, wander through picturesque towns, or hike through rugged mountains and valleys, there’s something for everyone in the North of Portugal.
Here are just a few of the top things to do there:
- Explore Porto’s Historic City Center: Porto’s city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with stunning architecture and colorful buildings. Visit the iconic Ribeira district, stroll along Douro River, and sample the city’s famous port wine.
- Visit Douro Valley, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world. Take a river cruise, visit local vineyards and wineries, and enjoy the stunning landscapes.
- Discover Braga’s History: Braga is one of the oldest cities in Portugal and is known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Visit Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, Braga Cathedral, and the medieval Castle and Historic Center of Guimarães.
- Experience Peneda-Gerês National Park: This stunning national park is a paradise for nature lovers. Hike through the rugged mountains, swim in crystal-clear lagoons, and spot rare wildlife.
- Enjoy the Local Cuisine: North Portugal is famous for its delicious cuisine, from fresh seafood to hearty stews and flavorful wines. Sample the local specialties, such as bacalhau (cod), cozido (meat and vegetable stew), and vinho verde (young, slightly effervescent wine).
- Porto Day Trip from Santiago de Compostela
- Things to do in Porto
- Things to do in Viana do Castelo
- Things to do in Braga
- Things to do in Guimarães
- Peneda Gerês National Park Itinerary
- Douro Valley Itinerary
- Trás-os-Montes Itinerary
- Things to do in Esposende
- Things to do in Barcelos
- Things to do in Arcos de Valdevez
- Things to do in Caminha
- Things to do in Valença
- Things to do in Monção
- Things to do in Ponte de Lima
- Things to do in Matosinhos
- Things to do in Vila do Conde
- Things to do in Póvoa de Varzim
- Things to do in Vila Nova de Gaia
