10 reasons why you need to book your next holidays in Galicia

It may be covered in a grey cloud for the majority of the year and you will definitely need to wrap up warm but Galicia manages to capture the hearts of all who visit. Perhaps, this is because of the delicious food, or maybe it has something to do with the welcoming charm of the Galician residents. However, one thing is for sure, holidays in Galicia are guaranteed to make you smile.

The best time to visit this region is during the late spring and early summer months when the temperatures are milder. Between May and September is an ideal time to explore the picturesque landscapes, coastal areas and all the recommended things to do in Galicia. Yet, if you do choose to visit outside of the summer months, you are still in for a treat. Just remember to wrap up warm and bring waterproof clothing.

Looking for the ideal spot for resting your head while exploring? The cities of Vigo and Ourense are both fantastic destinations that offer an excellent base when exploring the top Galicia attractions. If you want to be in the heart of a lively yet relaxed city, the Occidental Vigo is the perfect hideaway and its prestigious location, in front of the AVE high-speed train station, with views of Cangas, means that day trips to other key areas in Galicia are even easier. Alternatively, head to Ourense, known by the Romans as the “city of gold” and nowadays referred to as the “city of water” thanks to its eight majestic bridges that cross the Miño River. Here you can check into the Barceló Ourense and enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage. 

In Galicia, where every cobblestoned street tells a tale and every dish is a celebration of the sea, immerse yourself in a holiday filled with history, spirituality and gastronomic delights. Discover the best places to visit in Galicia and get ready for an enchanting trip to one of Spain’s most captivating regions. 

If there is one thing that Galicia is famous for, it is the mouth-wateringly delicious seafood. Indulging in Galician octopus will leave you convinced that it is the best you have ever tasted. From the way it is cooked, the little wooden plate it is served on and the artful way that it is cut with scissors, each element contributes to its exquisite taste. But it is not just pulpo a feira that is a stand-out dish on menus in Galicia. You will get to try the freshest oysters imaginable as well as delicacies such as blue lobster, langoustines, red shrimps, clams and mussels. After tucking into a plate of local seafood, you will wonder why you haven’t enjoyed holidays in Galicia sooner.

Step into a world of maritime allure and historic charm as you explore the bewitching Old Town of Vigo. Start your exploration through the city’s winding streets at the Plaza Compostela, famous for its iconic statue of the Sireno - a mythical guardian of the city. In this plaza, you can find an eclectic mix of bakeries, restaurants and bars along with many streets that lead you into timeless neighbourhoods full of artisan stores and quaint houses. It is as if time has stood still in Vigo. Traversing the city you will find streets lined with basket makers, artisan jewellers, antique dealers and gift stores selling local arts and crafts. Head to Calle de las Ostras (Oyster Street) to enjoy a lively atmosphere among locals and tourists alike, all keen to enjoy the freshly caught oysters as the tantalising aroma of seafood wafts through the air.

Beyond the cityscape, the coastal neighbourhood of Bouzas provides a picturesque setting for a stroll along the waterfront of Vigo. It is just a 15-minute taxi journey from the city centre and is a wonderful plan for a late afternoon, or early evening, as the sunsets are Instagram-worthy. Take a stroll along the maritime boardwalk, making sure to stop off at one of the up-market dining spots to enjoy some tasty local cuisine. Don’t forget that in this part of the world, it is not uncommon to receive a tapas plate when you order a beer or wine - ideal for trying new flavours and dishes.

A short ferry ride from Vigo transports you to this natural island paradise, part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. The islands are famous for their untouched, natural landscapes and boast buttercream powdery sand beaches, crystalline waters and eye-catching greenery. Whether you choose to hike the well-signposted trails or relax on the secluded beaches of Rodas or Figueiras while admiring the bird life, the Cies Islands provide an idyllic escape from the ordinary. Cars are absent, a limited visitor count has been put in place and the natural environment all work wonders for creating a serene, blissful environment to disconnect from the world. This archipelago is without a doubt one of the best natural treasures Galicia has to offer. 

When in Vigo, the high-speed train makes everywhere very accessible. Spend the day exploring the neighbouring city of Pontevedra, famous for its picture-perfect old town. Begin your day at the Praza da Leña where you can enjoy a hot cup of coffee while soaking up the atmosphere. Next, head to the Gothic basilica of Santa María la Mayor, a beautifully preserved architectural wonder in the heart of the city. A quick visit to the Museum of Pontevedra offers a deep dive into the local traditions and customs and is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in local culture while on holidays in Galicia. End the day wandering the enchanting streets such as the Calle de la Peregrina which leads you into the iconic Plaza de la Herrería where you can find the Convento de San Francisco - a stunning building full of history. 

If you are looking for an outdoor activity that transcends beyond mere exercise then hiking the Camino de Santiago is an ideal way to enjoy Galicia’s natural surroundings. There are many different routes to choose from and you can decide to hike the entire route or just a part of it. All routes are marked with the iconic scallop shell signs and lead pilgrims through quaint towns, centuries-old churches and across diverse terrains providing a profound connection with the history and traditions of the region. The culmination of the pilgrimage at the majestic Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela adds a spiritual dimension to the sense of accomplishment after finishing the trail. 

The iconic Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is perhaps one of the most famous landmarks in the world and a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site. This majestic Romanesque architectural masterpiece is also known for being the final resting place of Saint James the Great, one of the apostles of Jesus. While here, attend the Pilgrim’s Mass and absorb the spiritual energy that permeates from every corner of this church. 

If you are not partaking in a pilgrimage but still want to explore this grand city, you can visit it in a day thanks to the high-speed train from Vigo. Walk through the city’s stone-cobbled streets cloaked in centuries of history and culture, making sure to stop off at the eclectic mix of shops along the way. Fall under the spell of the vibrant energy of the central Plaza del Obradoiro which is flanked by monumental buildings like the Pazo de Raxoi, adding to the city’s allure. When your stomach starts to rumble, you will be spoilt for choice at the number of tasty places to grab a bite to eat, yet the Mercado de Abastos, a bustling market where Galician flavours come to life, will be an immersive experience in Galician culture.

If you are looking for a destination where you can rest, relax and enjoy the good life, Ourense is for you. Start your trip at the relaxing thermal baths such as the Burga de Abajo, and let the warm, bubbling water soothe tired muscles. Once you are feeling rested and renewed, begin exploring the city with a visit to the Cathedral of Ourense. This Romanesque masterpiece stands as a testament to the city’s rich heritage. Carry on exploring as you take a stroll along the bank of the Miño River where you will see eight picturesque bridges, the most famous being the ancient Puente Romano, a Roman bridge that connects the two banks. As the sun sets, head to Plaza Mayor where the vibrant atmosphere invites you to dine in one of the city’s local restaurants or toast to your holiday with a glass of local albariño wine. 

Back in the day, the Romans thought that they had reached the end of the world. Yet, in reality, they had just discovered Cape Finisterre, a rugged coastline where the sharp, rugged cliffs meet the vast Atlantic Ocean. The iconic lighthouse can be found perched precariously on the cliffs, providing panoramic views and a sense of awe-inspiring isolation. The surrounding landscape is punctuated with ancient spiritual rituals and traditions. One of the most popular, which is currently prohibited today is the burning of pilgrim's clothes to mark the completion of the Camino de Santiago. If you fancy visiting this blustery outcrop while enjoying your holidays in Galicia, it is best to do so with a car as transport here is limited.