Things to do & places to visit in Galicia, Spain

Galicia #9 destination in Spain 2023. The average rating score is 4.52 based on 82.8k traveler reviews, of 120 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Madrid, current date and time: Monday, April 29, 2024, 11:24.

Top things to do (24)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Islas Cíes (2.789 reviews)
- Wonderful islands, beaches, excursions and views!
Spent More than 3 hours Islands

Islas Cíes are located in the Western part of Galicia Region, near Vigo, the main city of this region, in the North of Spain. We came here to spend all day and try to do all excursions, we could in the island and really it was lovely! Wonderful views, amazing beaches, very nice hikes, etc. We could see three lighthouses (Cíes, Porta and Peiró), also we could see two beaches (Nosa Señora and Rodas, this last one wonderful), some bird viewpoints or little mountains, from where we could see very nice views. Really, an amazing full day: walks, views, beaches, lighthouses and a pic-nic with local wine! Top in the region! (See also Islas Cíes, Praia de Rodas, Ruta de O Alto do Príncipe and Ruta del Monte d'Aro) See more..
5.0 Camino de Santiago (1.188 reviews)
- Oct 2022 Walks in Spain - Portugal
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Hiking Trails

A network of paths leading to a church holding the remains of St. James (Santo Iago), the patron saint of Spain... See more..
5.0 MEGA Museo Estrella Galicia (499 reviews)
- Not bad but not as good as other ones in other countries
Monday: Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

MEGA es un museo único en España. El primer museo dedicado a la cultura de la cerveza en nuestro país. Un museo dentro de la fábrica en activo de Estrella Galicia, en el que se vive la cerveza con los 5 sentidos. En MEGA ofrecemos experiencias en las que la cerveza se toca, se huele, se ve, se cata y se siente. Visitar MEGA es recorrer más de 110 años de tradición cervecera familiar. Distribuido en cuatro plantas y tres mil metros cuadrados, en nuestro museo podrás descubrir, aprender y divertirte con la historia de la cerveza, los estilos cerveceros que hay en el mundo, y conocer las materias primas y los procesos de elaboración. Adentrarte en la sala de calderas, nuestra catedral; asomarte a nuestra fábrica en tiempo real; conocer la evolución de nuestros envases, nuestras campañas publicitarias, y ¡mucho más! MEGA es la cuna de nuestra cerveza. Es otro mundo. El Mundo Estrella Galicia. Ven y descubre qué significa vivir la cerveza #NivelMEGA. See more..
5.0 Los Acantilados Marinos Mas Altos de La UE (462 reviews)
- Wonderful views of steep coast!
Mountains

See more..
4.5 Cathedral De Santiago de Compostela (10.7k reviews)
- Museum and rooftop tour
Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites

The cathedral is nice, it reminds of other big cathedrals for example in Leon, Burgos, Toledo. I am used to Spanish cathedrals. The entrance is free but I think it is worth it to pay for the museum and the tour of the rooftop (requires a bit good conditions because the rooftop has some steep stairs). I paid 10 euro per person and enjoyed. The museum is really big and there is a lot to see, whereas the rooftop tour lasts about one hour and it is guided so you get nice information about the construction of the cathedral and can also ask questions. Overall a nice experience! See more..
4.5 Tower of Hercules (Torre de Hercules) (5.634 reviews)
- Definitely Worth A Visit - Especially For the Views From the Top!
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lighthouses

Built by the Romans around AD 98–117, this is the world's oldest functioning lighthouse. See more..
4.5 As Catedrais Beach (4.731 reviews)
- Must
Beaches

A must visit place. It is "just" a beach, but will never forget the geometries. Few tips to consider: - access is free but limited to certain amount of people per day,.so you must book in advance through the website. - you can not go anytime: due the tides literally disappears twice a day See more..
4.5 Plaza del Obradoiro (3.419 reviews)
- Customary Pilgrim Arrival Point
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

Large, pleasant city plaza containing the church of St. James. See more..
4.5 Praza de María Pita (2.720 reviews)
- Dont compate it. Enjoy it.
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Very nice little square with town hall. If you compare it to Madrid, Barcelona, Paris or London is a modest place. But don't compare it enjoy it. But enjoy it after 10 because in Spain life starts after nightfall. When the square gets illuminated it looks like people get attracted to it. Drink a few glasses of Spanish wine in some of the dozen restaurants on the square. See more..
4.5 Santiago de Compostela. Casco Historico (2.690 reviews)
- So Many Things To See
Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

The old town and historic centre of Santiago is one of the world's most beautiful urban areas. It's an amazingly compact medieval district with Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings. The oldest buildings and monuments are clustered around the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela with its tomb of St James. Thanks to royal patronage and the importance of the cathedral as a pilgrimage site, many of the churches and buildings are richly adorned with enough artefacts to fill a couple of days. See more..
4.5 Botafumeiro (2.671 reviews)
- Cathedral Censor
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

The original Botafumeiro, dating to 1851, is the largest censor in the world. When full, it weighs in at a mere 150 pounds, is over 5 feet in height, and has a golden sheen. Another large silver-colored censor or thurible (called “La Alcachofa”) dates to 1971. The censor is attached to a rope hung from a pulley mechanism in the dome on the roof of the church. Eight red-robed tiraboleiros pull the ropes and bring it into a swinging motion almost to the roof of the side naves reaching speeds of 45 mph and dispensing thick clouds of incense. The Botafumeiro is normally only swung on Holy Days such as Christmas and Easter and Pilgrim’s Masses during Jubilee years. I’d already attended two Masses and while it hung over the altar, it wasn’t used. Much to my delight and amazement, the Botafumeiro was swung at the conclusion of the final Sunday Mass I attended. While Mass is a solemn event, the audience became downright gleeful watching this performance! Pictures don’t do it justice. See more..
4.5 Muralla Romana de Lugo (2.204 reviews)
- Lugo's claim to fame (well deserved)
Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins • Points of Interest & Landmarks

These Roman walls still stand after more than 1,700 years. Originally, there were 10 gates and 85 towers (of which 71 remain intact). Getting up on top of the walls for a walk is not difficult and the reward is the opportunity to experience Lugo's glory days. This is a National Monument and a World Heritage Site. On the Iberian Peninsula, it is the best preserved and relatively intact Roman wall. When walking, be certain to look for the Medieval sculptural elements of Knights on horseback and all other exceptional pieces while exploring the walls. See more..
4.5 Faro de Fisterra (2.071 reviews)
- Beautiful End to My Camino
Spent 1-2 hours Lighthouses

It was fitting to end my walk from Irun here and observe the tokens of other walkers who had completed their journey for varied reasons. Happy that the dumping of clothing has been abandoned. It was a highlight to hear someone playing a digeridoo at the end of the earth...thanks Pedro. The final 3 km walk was from town..without a backpack ...was a relief !! Glad I did this walk to Finnesterra. See more..
4.5 Monte de San Pedro (1.979 reviews)
- Spectacular place
Monday: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM Historic Walking Areas

This was a military fort but now turned into a beautiful park with historic information posted everywhere. See more..
4.5 Playa Samil (1.705 reviews)
- Playa Samil - Samil beach
Beaches

Vigo's most popular beach, a long stretch of white sand, with several fantastic kids open air free pools, a rollerskating rink and half pipe on the prom, a very high water slide (pay), a picnic area, toilets, showers, two or three restaurants and a couple more and a bowling alley on the other side of the road. See more..
4.5 Playa A Lanzada (1.472 reviews)
- Beautiful beach
Beaches

This is a really beautiful beach and was quite deserted when we visited in early Sept. on a day when temps reached 38c. It was very clean and seems to be a couple of miles long with a rocky part at one end, which is great for rockpooling and paddling for little ones. See more..
4.5 Casco antiguo de Pontevedra (1.196 reviews)
- Wonderful space to be walking for days
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The old town of Pontevedra has so many monuments, squares, restaurants and shops that it takes several days to cover it It is one of the best preserved historical centers in all of Galicia. It is also declared a Historic-Artistic Site, and is undoubtedly the stone witness of the medieval splendor that the city lived through. Here, the cliché is made that the best way to discover a place is by walking through its streets, squares and most emblematic places and immersing yourself fully in its culture, and also in its history. I recommend staying in a central hotel and going out every day for breakfast or dinner in one of its many places, especially when the weather is good. Do not forget to visit the central market where you can see, taste and buy any product from Galicia See more..
4.5 Parque Monte del Castro (1.078 reviews)
- Magnificent views
Parks

Worth the walk up to the park from the marina. Views are panoramic and absolutely magnificent. Be aware that it is a steep walk up and down. It’s a lovely park with many people running walking and taking dogs for a stroll. See more..
4.5 Praia de Rodas (1.013 reviews)
- Very nice beach and views
Beaches

Praia de Rodas is one of the some beaches located in Cíes Islands, near Vigo, in the Western part of Galicia Region, in the North of Spain. It is a sand beach with white sand, so it is a very nice place, which you see when arrive to the island (the little port is close to this beach). We see it, when we began a hike around all main island, and when we finished, we went to this beach to relax, drink a glass of wine and bath. It was very good! Really, it is a very nice place to bath and/or sunbath, while you see views and relax. (See also Islas Cíes, Ruta de O Alto do Príncipe and Ruta del Monte d'Aro) See more..
4.5 Los Horreos de Combarro (999 reviews)
- Horreos are private
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Very nice town, worth a visit. We went by bus from Pontevedra. The bus does not run so often but it is fast and not complicated, but it is often not punctual. The horreos are very interesting but they are often in the backyard of restaurants or private houses making it hard to photograph them. The best photo is the one from the beach with the city on the background. The historical center is small and you can see it all quite fast. Then, you can walk further and there will be a more modern part of the town by the water too. See more..
4.5 Castro de Santa Trega (974 reviews)
- Thousands of Years of History
Monday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Monuments & Statues

Incredible to see the remains from more than 2,000 years ago. The site is well preserved and accessible to walk around and take pictures including the surrounding areas of the mountain. See more..
4.5 Catedral de Lugo (953 reviews)
- Truly a spiritual experience
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Churches & Cathedrals

Lugo is a memorable city and its cathedral is among the most beautiful in northern Spain rivalling Santiago de Compostela on the inside. Certainly take the time to visit Lugo and put an hour or two aside for the cathedral and environs. See more..
4.5 Avenida da Mariña (898 reviews)
- A lovely place to walk and enjoy the views
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Avenida de la Marina is one of the most traditional streets in La Coruna. The galleries that line this street are one of the most famous sights of the city and one of the largest glass complexes in the world. The complex was built in two phases when the old walls were demolished. The first in 1870 and 1876 and the second in 1879 and 1884. This glazed scenography of the galleries has given La Coruna the name of the Crystal City. It is very relaxing place with good ambiance and scenic view. And also one of the liveliest areas of the city with many restaurants, bars and street cafes. See more..
4.5 Barco Islas Cies - Cruceros Rias Baixas (886 reviews)
- Good experience
Monday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Ferries

Boat trip to fron Vigo port to Cies Islands (National Park of Atlantic Islands of Galicia). With several hiking trails and viewpoints. Several restaurants with typical food and beautiful beaches with crystal clear water. See more..
4.5 Ourense Thermal Springs (878 reviews)
- A very pleasant Onsen type hot spring experience.
Hot Springs & Geysers

Only Termas de Outariz are open. Park at Muino da Veg, much closer than Outariz/Reza. Signposted and paved all the way to the parking. Google maps does not know it, but Waze finds the way. Go when they open when it is less busy. See more..
4.5 Illa Pancha (725 reviews)
- Nice walk, recommended
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks

I really recommend the walk from Ribadeo center to Illa Pancha through the Estrada do Faro. It is really nice, all paved with beautiful views along the coast. It took me around 40 minutes one way and I really enjoyed it. The island itself is very small and there is only this hotel with a bar/restaurant and the lighthouse but the best are the views from the other side to it. See more..
4.5 Parque de la Alameda (722 reviews)
- Miradoiro da Catedral
Spent < 1 hour Parks

This large, lovely park borders the old town and was only a short stroll from my hotel. The park is much more than just a green space, with beautiful monuments, sculptured gardens, and the most magnificent view of the Cathedral’s west façade from the Miradoiro da Catedral. Another highlight – the delightfully contemporary sculpture of As Duas Marias. See more..
4.5 Hostal de los Reyes Catolicos (718 reviews)
- Amazing Looking Building
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Originally a hostel and hospital for pilgrims at the very end of the Way of St James, this building is now a hotel. Thats to the royal patronage of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand, the building is richly adorned. Masons, engineers, and sculptors from all over Europe helped to create this work of Plateresque architecture. The most impressive aspect of the exterior is the facade to the entrance with the Plateresque arch and Gothic border, decorated with the apostles, the evangelists, the figures of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand on either side of the door. An amazing landmark in Plaza del Obradoiro. See more..
4.5 Santuario da Virxe da Barca (716 reviews)
- The Virgin of the Boat
Points of Interest & Landmarks

This Roman Catholic Church was founded in the 17th century but has a long religious history before that. The church was rebuilt in 2015 after a devastating 2013 fire. It is dedicated to the Virgin of the Boat and reflects a nautical décor that is delightfully refreshing. The location is spectacular, directly on the coast facing the sea and near the lighthouse. Legend says this is the place where the Virgin Mary arrived in a stone boat to encourage Saint James in his evangelization efforts. Nearby are ‘magical’ stones with healing properties, said to be the remnants of the Virgin’s boat. Muxía is also one of the final destinations for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago, the Way of Saint James. Marker zero is located near the A Ferida monument. I visited with Tour Galicia. See more..
4.5 Iglesia de la Virgen Peregrina (695 reviews)
- Reverent site for peregrinos
Religious Sites

Stunning architecture and a must-stop for pilgrims. Opportunity to ascend the tower to see the views. Highly recommended. See more..