Galicia

🌊 Why Visit Galicia, Spain?

Galicia – Spain's stunning northwestern corner that's absolutely nothing like the Spain you think you know! This incredible Celtic region feels more like Ireland meets the Mediterranean, with dramatic Atlantic coastlines, ancient forests, and some of Europe's most spectacular seafood.

While everyone else heads south for the scorching sun, clever travelers are discovering Galicia's unique magic – think mystical landscapes, incredible cuisine, and authentic Spanish culture without the crowds. And we should say, it’s still plenty warm just south-of-France-warm, not having to buy new suncream every day hot!

Top reasons to visit Galicia:

• 🦪 World-class seafood – the finest octopus, mussels, and Albariño wine you'll ever taste

• 🏰 Rich Celtic heritage – ancient stone circles, mystical forests, and legendary coastal paths

• ⛪ Santiago de Compostela – the magnificent end point of the famous Camino pilgrimage route

• 🌊 Dramatic coastlines – wild Atlantic beaches and the spectacular Rías Baixas fjords

• 🍷 Incredible wine – discover Spain's most exciting white wines in stunning vineyard settings

🏘️ Best Places to Visit in Galicia

Galicia's cities each offer their own slice of this region's incredible character – from bustling Atlantic ports to elegant cultural centers. The two most popular spots are…

🌊 A Coruña - This brilliant Atlantic port city perfectly captures Galicia's maritime soul with its stunning glass-fronted buildings reflecting the sea, plus the iconic Tower of Hercules lighthouse (a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world's oldest working Roman lighthouse!). The old town buzzes with brilliant tapas bars, while the modern city offers fantastic shopping and cultural attractions.

🏗️ Vigo - Spain's largest fishing port brings serious energy with its bustling harbor, incredible seafood markets, and that authentic working-city vibe that feels wonderfully real. The historic Casco Vello (old town) climbs the hillside with narrow streets perfect for discovering hidden gems, while the modern city offers excellent museums and galleries. Plus, you're perfectly placed for exploring the stunning Rías Baixas wine region.

🎭 Top Things to Do in Galicia

Galicia offers incredible experiences you simply can't find anywhere else in Spain – from mystical pilgrim routes to world-class gastronomy.

Cultural Treasures

• ⛪ Santiago de Compostela Cathedral – The magnificent endpoint of the Camino pilgrimage with breathtaking architecture and spiritual atmosphere

• 🏰 Tower of Hercules, A Coruña – The world's oldest working Roman lighthouse with stunning coastal views

• 🎨 Guggenheim Bilbao Day Trip – Easy journey to Frank Gehry's architectural masterpiece (okay, it's technically Basque Country, but close enough!)

Natural Wonders

• 🌊 Rías Baixas – Spectacular fjord-like coastline with pristine beaches and charming fishing villages

• 🌲 Fragas do Eume – Mystical Atlantic forest that feels like something from a fairy tale

• 🏖️ Playa de las Catedrales – Incredible beach with natural rock arches that look like cathedral vaults

Foodie Adventures

• 🦪 Mercado de la Piedra, A Coruña – Incredible seafood market where you can taste the freshest catches

• 🍷 Albariño Wine Tours – Explore the stunning Rías Baixas wine region with tastings at family vineyards

• 🐙 Pulpería Crawl – Sample Galicia's famous octopus at traditional pulperías (octopus bars)

Active Adventures

• 🥾 Camino de Santiago Final Stage – Walk the last section of this legendary pilgrimage route

• 🚤 Rías Baixas Boat Tours – Explore the spectacular coastline and visit mussel farms from the water

• 🌿 Celtic Castro Settlements – Discover ancient stone circles and mysterious prehistoric sites

🏨 Where to Stay on your Galicia Holidays

Galicia offers fantastic accommodation that reflects this region's unique character – from great value city hotels to elegant historic properties. Whether you want a very cheap holiday in Galicia, or something a little more extravagant, we’ve picked a couple of our favourite options for you here. But we’ve got plenty, so if you can’t find what you’re looking for here, use the search bar at the top 👀🔎👆.

Great Value Options

• 🏨 Hesperia Vigo - This modern hotel in the heart of Vigo puts you right in the action with comfortable rooms and excellent facilities. You're perfectly positioned to explore the bustling port, incredible seafood scene, and use it as your base for discovering the stunning Rías Baixas coastline and wine region.

• 🏨 Gran Hotel de Ferrol - Elegant comfort in this historic naval city with excellent amenities and that authentic Galician hospitality. The location gives you easy access to some of the region's most spectacular coastline, including the dramatic Costa da Morte and beautiful beaches.

• 🏨 Ibis Styles A Coruña - Contemporary style meets great value in this brilliant city center location. You're steps from the historic old town, fantastic restaurants, and perfectly placed for exploring A Coruña's attractions including the legendary Tower of Hercules lighthouse.

• 🏨 Agua de Mar Hotel Boutique - This charming boutique property in Vigo offers excellent value with stylish accommodation and that personal touch that makes all the difference. The intimate atmosphere and great location provide the perfect base for discovering Galicia's unique character and incredible coastal scenery.

Something More Special

• 🏨 Parador de Pontevedra - This stunning historic palace in the heart of Pontevedra's beautiful old town offers authentic Galician elegance with modern comfort. It’s possible to stay here and not pretend to be a mediaeval noble, just like it’s possible to eat chicken wings with a fork - you’re just depriving yourself of the full experience.

• 🏨 Melia Maria Pita - Sophisticated luxury in A Coruña with elegant rooms, premium facilities and an excellent location. The contemporary style and top-notch service make this perfect for those wanting upscale comfort while discovering Galicia's Atlantic charm.

• 🏨 Gran Hotel Nagari Boutique and Spa - The ultimate luxury Galician experience with world-class spa facilities, elegant design, and premium service that creates something truly special. This sophisticated retreat in the heart of Vigo offers the perfect combination of relaxation and refinement for those wanting to experience Galicia in absolute style.

• 🏨 NH Collection A Coruña Finisterre - Premium accommodation with stunning sea views and extensive five star facilities right in the heart of this beautiful Atlantic city. The sophisticated atmosphere and excellent location create the perfect base for exploring Galicia's coastline, culture, and incredible culinary scene.

Whether you're seeking great value exploration or elegant comfort, Galicia's incredible combination of Celtic mystique, world-class cuisine, dramatic coastlines, and authentic Spanish culture creates a uniquely memorable experience that feels like discovering a completely different country!