Pedro DominguesVigo is the largest city in Galicia, Spain, and perhaps that is why it is more widely known around the world than the capital of its province: Pontevedra. There are many things to do in Vigo and around Vigo, and in this article I will share with you my best tips.
Cies Islands, which close Vigo estuary, are one of the most visited tourist attractions in Galicia and are easily accessible from the ports of Vigo, Baiona, and Cangas. I clearly highlight them in the list I will share below.
Baiona is one of the most interesting cities in all of Galicia, much more spectacular than Vigo itself, in my opinion. There are also plenty of extraordinary viewpoints along the coast that offer incredible views of the estuary, and you will love visiting them all.
Ready to visit Vigo and Galicia? Let’s get started and discover the best that Vigo has to offer!
Where is Vigo located, in Spain?
Vigo is located in the north of Spain (Galicia), more precisely in the province of Pontevedra and very close to the north of Portugal. It is less than 100km away from Santiago de Compostela and also not far from other Spanish provinces, such as A Coruña, Lugo and Ourense. Check the image below and other articles about the region in the vicinity of Vigo.
Other useful articles in this blog: 1 - Things to do in Santiago de Compostela 2 - Things to do in Galicia 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 GuimarĂ£es 10 - Peneda GerĂªs National Park Itinerary 11 - Douro Valley Itinerary 12 - TrĂ¡s-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 MonĂ§Ă£o 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 PĂ³voa de Varzim 23 - Things to do in Vila Nova de Gaia 24 - Minho | Northern Portugal Itinerary
How to get to Vigo, in Spain?
If you’re planning a trip to Vigo but haven’t booked your travel yet, I recommend using Skyscanner or Google Flights to compare prices and flight conditions before making a purchase. Flying there is an option because Galicia has 3 different airports, one of them being in Vigo, the other one in Santiago de Compostela, and the third one in A Coruña.
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 or with Avanza.
That being said, I highly recommend renting a car to explore the sights I’m going to mention in this article from around Vigo. It will provide you much better flexibility, and you will enjoy exploring Galicia coastline on your own terms. 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 Vigo and Vigo Estuary?
I have visited Galicia in different seasons of the year, and it never disappointed me. You can visit Vigo at any time of the year, as long as the weather is good to enjoy the beautiful coastline of Galicia. However, it is during the summer that you can make the most of the best beaches and visit the islands. đŸ˜‰
Regarding festivals, it’s a must to visit Vigo during the Great Week of Vigo, with various concerts and lots of entertainment. Learn more about it here.
Tours to visit Vigo and other locations in Galicia from Vigo
Guided excursions in Vigo region mainly focus on the Cies Islands and on boat scenic tours of Vigo Estuary. With Get Your Guide, Civitatis or Viator, you can find some options if you’re interested in guided tours. đŸ˜‰ Below are some tips, but of course, you can find other alternatives. It’s best to book those that allow free cancellations close to the date of the excursion and to choose those with more positive reviews and ratings! đŸ˜‰
1 - Free Walking Tour of Vigo 2 - Private Tour of Vigo 3 - Ferry to Cies Islands 4 - Ferry to Ons Island 5 - San SimĂ³n Island Ferry Tickets and Tour 6 - Albariño Private Wine Tour from Vigo
Gastronomy in Vigo
- Fish and seafood are undoubtedly the main highlight, especially the octopus or mussels. Take a mussel tasting tour, why not?
- Don’t miss trying the Galician pie, which is a kind of empanada.
- Dedicate yourself to discovering various types of tapas, so typical of Spain.
Restaurants in Vigo region
Below I also give you some suggestions on where to eat when visiting Vigo and other places around the Vigo estuary. These are just a few suggestions, as there are plenty of great places to eat well along the Galician coast.
- Restaurant Casa Vella – Vigo
- Restaurant Follas Novas – Vigo
- Restaurant Casa Marco – Vigo
- Restaurant O Porton – Vigo
- Tapas Areal – Vigo
- Taberna A Pedra – Vigo
- Restaurant Rocamar – Baiona
- Restaurant O Bruño – Cangas
- Martinnus Taperia – Cangas
Accommodation tips in Vigo region
- Where to stay in Vigo: CĂ©ntrico Apartament | Lar AtlĂ¡ntica | Hotel Ogalia | Hotel Coia
- Where to stay in Baiona: Estela do Mar | Casa do Marqués
- Alojamento em Cangas: Hotel Playa | Casa dos Nores | Casa Choupas
Things to do in Vigo | City and Surroundings
What to visit in Vigo and in Vigo estuary? What are the best things to do in Vigo, Spain? I will share with you 20 must-visit tourist attractions, but if you read carefully the text that follows, you will find some more tips on places not to be missed along with those 20 places.
1. Visit the Castle of Vigo
Although Vigo is a modern city, it has a rich history that can be explored by visiting its castle, or Castro de Vigo, situated on Mount Castro. The castle’s beautiful gardens are complemented by stunning viewpoints overlooking the city, port, and Vigo estuary. Rising up in the city center next to the historic old town, the castle is a must-see tourist attraction in Vigo.
2. Visit the Historic Center of Vigo
If you have time to explore more of the city, I suggest the following points of interest:
- Take a walk on Rua do PrĂncipe and visit the Contemporary Art Museum.
- Stop by the Plaza de la Puerta del Sol, with its dinosaur-shaped shrubs.
- Visit the Plaza de la ConstituciĂ³n, one of the most central locations in the historic center of Vigo.
- Visit the Concatedral de Santa Maria de Vigo.
- Go shopping at the Stone Market.
- Stroll along the waterfront promenade in Vigo.
- Check out the ruins of the Castle of SĂ£o SebastiĂ£o, and then descend to Vigo Olive Tree, with a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the estuary, but not quite as extraordinary as the one in the castle.
In the surrounding areas of Vigo city center, why don’t you take a small detour to Castrelos Park and visit the Palace and Museum of Quiñones de LeĂ³n? What about climbing up to Mount Guia to visit the chapel up there and observe Vigo estuary once again from a higher viewpoint?
3. Visit Monterreal Fortress in Baiona overlooking Vigo Estuary
I had a delicious seafood paella in Baiona, so I really recommend you take a break and enjoy a good fish dish in the restaurants by the sea.
Among the many things to do in Baiona, a visit to Monterreal Fortress is, in my opinion, the most mandatory. It is located on the peninsula of Mount Boi.
If you choose to take the seaside promenade around the fortress, you have two options: either you do it on top of the walls or on the outside of the fortress. I did both:
- From the outside of the fortress, you will have access to some of Baiona’s beaches along the way: Ribeira Beach, Barbeira Beach, Frades Beach, and Cuncheira Beach. And it’s free.
- You will have a more privileged view from the top of the walls, specially to the beautiful marina of Baiona, and the possibility to visit the chapel of Our Lady of Carmel and each of the towers of the fortress: the Clock Tower, the Tenaza Tower, and the Prince Tower. The entrance to the fortress is through the Gate of Felipe IV, after paying a symbolic price.
Although the current walls are more recent, it is known that walled enclosures in Baiona exist since the 2nd century BC. In the city I also recommend you to visit Santa Liberata Square and the nearby chapels, such as the chapel with the same name, the church of Santa Maria de Baiona, and the Chapel of SĂ£o JoĂ£o do Castelo. You can also stroll along Ventura Misa Street and visit the Concello Square and the MisericĂ³rdia Chapel, next to the convent of the Madres Dominicas.
4. Visit Monteferro Park
Similarly, Monteferro park is a short distance away from Vigo, on the south bank of Vigo estuary, on a prominent cape of Galician coast facing the Atlantic Ocean. In its center you will find the monument to the universal marina with the statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the supposed queen of the seas, and of course, another viewpoint.
5. Visit the Monument of the Virgin of the Rock in Baiona
In the outskirts of Baiona, it is a must to visit to the monument of the Virgin of the Rock, more precisely the balcony at the top of the statue. In reality, the balcony is a supposed boat that the Virgin of the Rock, with 15 meters high, holds on her forearm, accessible by a spiral staircase. From there you have an interesting viewpoint to Mount Boi, to the city of Baiona, and also Monteferro, which I mentioned in the previous tourist spot.
Very close to the Virgin of the Rock is the Silleiro Cape Lighthouse, which I do not highlight as one of the must-do things in Vigo estuary, but is worth a visit if you pass through Baiona. It is a fairly modern lighthouse.
Extra tip: If you have the available time, why don't you move south to A Guarda and visit Mount of Santa Trega?
6. Visit Samil Beach and Toralla Island
Another point of interest in this article is Samil beach and the small island of Toralla. The island is visitable, but you’ll have to cross the bridge on foot, as entry by car is forbidden to non-residents. Samil beach is interesting for its frontal view of Cies Islands, although at a considerable distance. It has a beautiful seaside avenue for an evening stroll.
7. Visit Cies Islands departing from Vigo
Cies Islands are part of the Atlantic Islands National Park of Galicia, and I have a complete article about them on this blog. Open it to check out everything you have to visit there, and all the activities available for tourists: the trails, beaches, and viewpoints. There you will also have access to more photos and info about my own experience!
Here I leave you with just a sample of what you can expect on Cies Islands: the most famous view of the islands from the viewpoint of Alto do PrĂncipe.
8. Visit the Viewpoint of Mount Alba
Mount Alba is famous for its sunset, although most of the viewpoints I will mention in this article are great rivals. At the top of the mountain, you will find, in addition to the viewpoint for Vigo Estuary, the Chapel of Our Lady of Alba.
After visiting the chapel, stop by the nearby Mirador O Cepudo restaurant for a snack with an equally stunning view. Another great viewpoint is the MaĂºxo Grande, which is just a short distance away.
9. Visit Redondela
I spent a night in Redondela on one of my last visits to Galicia and Vigo region. Redondela is the end of one of the stages of the Portuguese pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, so I found many pilgrims resting there before moving to the next stage of the journey.
Don’t forget to visit the Convent of Vilavella, which dates back to the early 16th century: today it functions as an events hall. Further ahead, you will enter the historic center, and you will come across the Church of Our Lady of Redondela, the City Hall Square, and the CastelĂ£o avenue, on the banks of the river.
10. Sit on the “best bench in Redondela”
But what really impresses in Redondela is its “best bench”, strategically located on top of a hill not far from the Rande Bridge. From there, you have privileged views of the estuary that extends before and after the bridge, with mussel rafts scattered over the waters.
11. Visit the Castle of Soutomaior
The Castle of Soutomaior itself would be reason enough to visit this site, however I also highlight the botanical park, chapel, and lake. The gardens feature blooming camellias in the right season, as well as a variety of other plants and flowers that add color and vibrancy to the fortress.
12. Visit Peneda viewpoint in Soutomaior
Peneda viewpoint, located next to the Peneda chapel, is similar to Mount Alba and offers a perfect spot to observe the beginning of Vigo Estuary and SĂ£o SimĂ£o Cove. For those interested in more viewpoints, the viewpoint of Alto da Cabaleira also provides a nice view.
13. Climb to the top of Cotorredondo Tower in MarĂn
Cotorredondo viewpoint is located in a fire lookout tower to the north of Vigo estuary. Leaving the car at the base of the tower, you have to climb up to the 4th floor (if my memory serves me right) to observe the available views of both Vigo and Pontevedra estuaries! It’s extraordinary how far you can see from this place. I visited it on a cloudy day, and I was still very amazed and impressed.
14. Cross the Roman Bridge of Ponte Sampaio
The Bridge of Ponte Sampaio crosses the Verdugo River just before it flows into the coves where the Vigo estuary begins. It’s an old bridge, of Roman origin, although the current construction is more recent. It’s a passage point on the Portuguese Pilgrimage Route to Santiago de Compostela.
Next to the bridge, there is a river beach, Xunqueira, which is a tourist spot of scenic interest allowing a good view of the various arches of the bridge.
15. Visit Faro Domaio viewpoint, in Moaña
Next to a telecommunications center, at the top of Mount Domaio (Morrazo mountain range), you can find this viewpoint. From there, you can observe the entire Vigo estuary, from the Rande bridge to the Cies islands, the latter if the weather is good and the sky is completely clear.
16. Sit on Paralaia bench to enjoy the views of Moaña
A cross and a bench for some brutal photos over Vigo estuary. This viewpoint is located on Paralaia mountain, in the Moaña region, just like the previous one at Faro Domaio. I also visited another viewpoint in the region named Balcões do Rei.
17. Visit Cangas, on the north coast of Vigo estuary
Although not as extraordinary as Baiona, for example, Cangas also has a beautiful promenade, with the possibility of seeing many boats along it, in Vigo estuary. Some of Cangas’ docks are especially photogenic. You also have the old and new alamedas, separated by the municipal market. If you have the time, also walk through the narrow streets of the historic center around the Church of Santiago.
18. Hike to the Viewpoint of Facho de DonĂ³n
To climb up to the viewpoint, you need to take a small trail up the mountain, which I found to be easy and quick, but always uphill. There is a parking lot at the base of the mountain, where you can leave your car.
Due to its altitude and position by the coast, this place was strategic for observing the sea and for vigilance against pirate attacks in the past. For this purpose, there is an old, round watchtower at the top of the hill.
But the ruins of Castro de DonĂ³n are what mostly impresses, dating back to a few centuries BC. They served as a sanctuary at the top of the hill in the first centuries after Christ.
The viewpoint is impressive and makes visiting this place one of the best things to do in Vigo region, without a doubt. You can see from there a huge portion of the Galician coast towards the Cies islands, but not only. From there you can also observe the island of Ons, in the distance, and the coast of Baiona.
It provides excellent views of Vigo and Pontevedra estuaries, and some say that Finisterre can be distinguished on the horizon on clear days. Well, I’m not so sure about this as I didn’t see it. đŸ˜‰
19. Hike at Cape Home and visit Melide Beach
From the top of Mount Facho de DonĂ³n, you’ll see Cape Home and its lighthouse in the distance, also. There are two other lighthouses nearby: Robaleiro and Subrido. In between them lies the beautiful Melide Beach, which I highly recommend visiting during the summer for its scenic beauty. How about taking a quick hike along this stretch of the coast, relaxing a bit on the beach, and visiting all three lighthouses?
20. Visit the island of SĂ£o SimĂ£o, known as “the island of thoughts”
The islands of SĂ£o SimĂ£o and Santo AntĂ³nio are connected by a bridge, just a short distance from Cesantes beach. They are actually very small islands, so they don’t have much to offer. What I suggest here is taking a boat ride to them, which is interesting for getting to know Vigo estuary better, in addition to a trip to the Cies Islands.
The company Mardeons promotes these boat tours, which depart from the ports of Vigo and Cangas and last an average of three hours. It will be a guided tour of Vigo estuary, with explanations throughout the excursion of the most significant historical events that have taken place in the region, including the Battle of Rande and pirate invasions, among others. I believe it’s well worth it, and of course, you will also disembark on the island of SĂ£o SimĂ£o to visit it.
Note that you can also book a visit to San SimĂ³n through the excursion presented earlier in this article! >>> San SimĂ³n Island Ferry Tickets and Tour
From these 20 Things to do in Vigo and surroundings, which are the the best?
You must have noticed my passion for viewpoints, given the almost exaggerated amount of observation spots for the Vigo estuary that I mentioned. I thrill at viewpoints, it’s a fact, and when traveling, I always try to add the best ones from each place to my itineraries. Good viewpoints make me dream and want to travel more and more, to explore and discover new places.
I’ll leave you here my favorite things to do in Vigo from the list I’ve been presenting, to help you in case you have less time and can’t go to all these places in one trip to Galicia. It’s just my opinion, here it goes:
- Visit Vigo Castle.
- Visit the City and Fortress of Baiona, and the Virgin of the Rock.
- Eat delicious fish dishes!
- Visit the Cies Islands.
- Climb to the viewpoint next to the best bench in Redondela.
- Visit Cotorrendondo tower and viewpoint.
- And visit Facho de DonĂ³n, obviously.
Other Things to do in Vigo surroundings?
Of course there are plenty of more places to visit in Vigo surroundings, considering the rest of Galicia territory or even the north of Portugal. đŸ˜‰ Why don’t you go visit Santiago de Compostela in the heart of Galicia, the Galician Coast to the north (Death Coast), the roman walls in Lugo, the thermal baths of Ourense, or even the outstanding canyons of Ribeira Sacra? đŸ˜‰
For years I visited Galicia frequently, on several long weekend getaways. I have traveled the entire coast and I also visited many other cities and places in the interior, equally remarkable. Check also my full post of Things to do in Galicia.
1. Visit Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela almost needs no introduction. It has a stunning cathedral, picturesque plazas, and charming streets, being an ideal destination for anyone seeking a unique cultural experience. This city has something for everyone, and you can use it as a base for several interesting tours in Galicia, such as the following ones.
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 CatĂ³licos 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 - RĂas Baixas Day Trip 2 - Cies Island Tour 3 - RĂas Baixas, Arosa Island & Combarro Day Trip 4 - Excursion to Rias Baixas (Boat with mussels and wine) 5 - RĂas 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. Visit Ons Island and Pontevedra
Vigo is just part of Pontevedra province, in Galicia. You should go visit also the city of Pontevedra, with a well-preserved historic center, with cobbled streets, beautiful squares, and old churches. Don’t forget its estuary, passing through the towns of Combarro, Sanxenxo and O Grove. If you enjoyed Cies Islands, why don’t you go visit the island of Ons, another paradise for nature lovers, and with excellent beaches?
3. Visit the Death Coast, Finisterre and La Coruña
You cannot miss visiting Costa da Morte (Death Coast in english), with around 200 km of extension, full of impressive cliffs, wild beaches, centennial lighthouses, and many other treasures that deserve to be discovered.
The name of this coast comes from the many shipwrecks that occurred there over the centuries due to adverse weather conditions, dangerous sea currents, and the countless rocks scattered along the coast. One of its main attractions is the Finisterre Lighthouse, which would be considered the end of the world in the past, as it was the westernmost point of known Europe. Another must-visit place is Carnota Beach, one of the longest beaches in Europe, with about 7 km of extension. How about doing the lighthouse route on Costa da Morte?
For nature lovers, the Corrubedo Dunes Natural Park is a hidden treasure of the region, with sand dunes, lagoons, and a great variety of birds to observe. For history buffs, the city of La Coruña is an option that cannot be missed on the itinerary, with its famous Tower of Hercules in great prominence.
4. Visit Lugo and Ribadeo (Cathedrals Beach)
Regarding Lugo, it is known for its Roman walls, which were built in the 3rd century to protect the city from barbarian invaders. The walls are over 2 km long and are one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in the Iberian Peninsula.
Ribadeo, on the other hand, is a coastal city that harbors one of the most beautiful estuaries in Europe. It has another must-see attraction, which is the surreal Beach of the Cathedrals, with spectacular rock formations. During low tide, it is possible to walk among the rocks by the seaside and appreciate the most stunning natural beauty of the Galician coast.
5. Visit the Cliffs of Ribeira Sacra and the Thermal baths of Ourense
Ribeira Sacra will be another nature destination in Galicia, alongside the winding Sil and Minho rivers, where you can take boat trips through impressive gorges and deep valleys. There are plenty of amazing viewpoints to discover, several ancient monasteries and churches, and also hiking trails.
Ribeira Sacra is also known for its wines, which are produced on the region’s slopes, near the rivers. You can visit some wineries and also do some wine tastings.
Finally, don’t forget to visit Ourense, bathing in its public, free and open-air thermal pools. đŸ˜‰ Of course, there are also paid places for those seeking a more reserved experience. They are one of the best experiences in Galicia!
6. Visit the North of Portugal and the City of 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 GuimarĂ£es.
- Experience Peneda-GerĂªs 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).
- Things to do in Porto
- Things to do in Viana do Castelo
- Things to do in Braga
- Things to do in GuimarĂ£es
- Peneda GerĂªs National Park Itinerary
- Douro Valley Itinerary
- TrĂ¡s-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 MonĂ§Ă£o
- Things to do in Ponte de Lima
- Things to do in Matosinhos
- Things to do in Vila do Conde
- Things to do in PĂ³voa de Varzim
- Things to do in Vila Nova de Gaia
- Minho | Northern Portugal Itinerary
