Things to do and see in Galicia Spain

Known for its historic cities, stunning coastline full of cliffs and lighthouses, as well as the typical Galician cuisine, Galicia and its unique culture is a region you cannot miss. From the famous Camino de Santiago, to the cliffs of Cape Finisterre that the Romans considered the end of the known world. Galicia has the best of Spain’s nature and gastronomy. We’ve put together a list of some of the most beautiful and uncrowded places to enjoy the beauty, food and tranquillity of Galicia, Spain.

10 must-see places in Galicia Spain?

1. Cíes Islands

The Cíes Islands are an archipelago located in the outer part of the Vigo estuary. They are part of the Galician Atlantic Islands National Park. These islands are one of Galicia’s best-kept treasures due to their paradisiacal beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Thanks to their richness, both in terms of wildlife, vegetation, and the spectacular landscapes, these islands constitute an important cultural and natural heritage for Galicia Spain. In the Cíes Islands you can go hiking. In addition, you will find unique and isolated corners where you will feel as if no one has ever been there before.

You can also spend a weekend camping in the Cíes Islands. It is a special place where you can live in a wild and unique way, fully immersed in the surrounding nature.

2. Finisterre

The Romans thought that this was the westernmost point of the earth. And, therefore, the world ended here. It was the “finis terrae”, so it was considered for centuries the limit of the known lands. The frontier of the beyond, the End of the World. Since the beginning of time, Fisterra has evoked a deep mystery in the soul of the pilgrims. There are many who feel the place is magical and has a special aura.

Cape Fisterra hides the true secret of the Costa da Morte, as it is home to wild landscapes and breathtaking beaches. But it also offers the most moving sight of all. The most impressive sunset in Spain, over the immensity of the ocean, the sea at the end of the world.

It marks the end point of the Camino de Santiago. But it is also the perfect reward for the pilgrim who travels to the last stage. It is one of the most spectacular and captivating stages of the Camino. This cape is the ideal finale for those who finish their journey. There are many who drop the stones they have been carrying all along the way, both symbolically and literally, and make a wish.

Organize your travel itinerary with Passporter totally free, easy and functional. Get inspired by the experiences of other travelers and choose the places that interest you the most, adding them to the route map.

3. Fragas do Eume Natural Park, Galicia Spain

This is one of the best preserved Atlantic riverside forests in Europe and a must-see on your itinerary through Galicia. In this forest where there are thousands of shades of green and mysterious mist floating as if by magic, you understand where the legends and traditions of witches in Galicia came from. It covers approximately 9,000 hectares and is full of charming secret corners. Following the route along the river Eume, you will find waterfalls, and hanging bridges. Also, the dense thicket that hides all kinds of secrets as well as medieval Benedictine monasteries. A true forest of dreams!

4. Fervenza do Ézaro Viewpoint

Fervenza is Galician for waterfall, and this waterfall is one that you cannot miss in Galicia Spain. In addition, the Fervenza do Ézaro is of special interest because it flows directly into the sea. It is a spectacle for all who go to admire it. This unique waterfall of the river Jallas is very popular with photographers. There are footbridges in front of it, or you can climb up to the viewing platforms to get the full view over it. Moreover, the drop of the last stretch of the Jallas River is 155 metres. For the more adventurous, it is also possible to approach by kayak to watch the water rushing 40 metres high.

5. See Vilán Lighthouse in Galicia, Spain

Standing atop the jagged rock, the warm tones of the Vilán Lighthouse contrast with the deep blue of the sea. It is one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Galicia. The tower is 25 metres high but rises 130 metres above sea level. It was the first electric lighthouse in Spain and has been in operation for over 100 years. You can visit the lighthouse which also has the Shipwreck Information Centre. Also, from the lighthouse you can follow the Shipwreck Route, which gave the Costa da Morte its name. Moreover, the Shipwreck Route leads you to unspoilt beaches and impressive cliffs.

6. Monte Muralla viewpoint in Galicia, Spain

This 674-metre-high wooden footbridge is a wonderful viewpoint offering jaw-dropping views. You can see the Rías Baixas, the estuary of Muros and Noia, the Vigo estuary, the town of Padrón, and if it’s clear enough, the towers of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral are visible. Here you will feel like you are on top of the world. The sunsets from this viewpoint are unique and incredible; enjoy nature and the colours of the sky and breathe in the total tranquillity.

7. Catoira Riverside Walk

This beautiful riverside promenade is located in Catoira and you can visit several points of interest along the way. There are some Viking boats where they do an annual recreation of the Vikings landing in this village. It also has the Torres de Oeste, which are two towers from the 12th century. In addition, it is one of the most important archaeological sites in Galicia Spain. They were built to defend the enclave from attacks by invaders.

8. Town of Cambados

Cambados is a beautiful fishing village in the province of Pontevedra, in the region of Salnés, in the Rías Baixas. Capital of Albariño wine, D.O. Rías Baixas, it forms part of the Ruta do Viño Rías Baixas (Rías Baixas Wine Route). This takes in wineries in both Cambados and neighbouring municipalities. In addition, it is the birthplace of the writer Ramón Cabanillas, born in 1876. It also has great historical heritage.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

Cities to see in Galicia

1. A Coruña

Capital of the province of the same name, A Coruña is a beautiful Galician city made for walking, while enjoying its streets, urban beaches, modernist buildings and traditional recipes. With a seafaring tradition, this city has a great atmosphere and incredible vibrancy.

You cannot leave La Coruña without visiting the Tower of Hercules, certainly one of the great symbols of A Coruña. With a history full of myths and legends, it is the oldest Roman lighthouse in the world and the only one from that period still in operation today. The Rosa Dos Ventos is another of the city’s must-sees. Located just below the Tower of Hercules, it is an enormous mosaic depicting the nautical compass.

Find out what else you can see in A Coruña by reading our post: Things to do in A Coruña.

2. Santiago de Compostela

Capital of Galicia, Santiago de Compostela is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its monumental beauty makes visiting this city a reward in itself. Santiago de Compostela is extraordinarily well preserved and is a city you must visit in Galicia. Between its Galician cuisine and cobbled streets, and visiting the famous Cathedral of Santiago, you can truly get to know the soul of the city.

The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is the most outstanding work of Romanesque art in Spain and for many people it is the main reason for visiting the city. It is also the final destination on the Camino de Santiago, which attracts pilgrims to the tomb of the apostle St. James.

Galicia travel map

Register with Passporter and use this Galicia itinerary to organise your trip quickly and easily. You can also add important documents such as travel tickets, hotel reservations and even invite your friends to be part of the itinerary organisation. 

Using Passporter is free of charge and will help you travel in a more organised way. You can register on the website or download the app to keep everything centralised and in your pocket 🙂

Where to eat in Galicia Spain?

A visit to Galicia is not complete without trying the local cuisine. Here are a few restaurants where you can easily stop at along your journey.

• Río Covés Canteen: To taste a piece of history and traditional flavours with typical products of the area. This restaurant has a rustic decor and a good selection of local wines. Also, it’s a good place to have a drink on the terrace. Its star dish is the Costrada, which consists of layers of dough, meat, fish and seafood. We recommend booking in advance.
• A Pousada da Galiza Imaxinaria: With modern and traditional Galician cuisine, very good prices and also excellent presentation of the dishes. The service is very familiar and the place is really cosy. The portions are plentiful and nothing will leave you disappointed.
• Casa dos Druidas: This picturesque restaurant has original decor, with Celtic style as well as incredible value for money. They specialise in traditional tapas, with generous portions, excellent service and a very pleasant outdoor area. Their homemade corn empanadas are delicious.
• Coto del Aguila: With exceptional views of the Vigo estuary, this restaurant has an extensive menu and excellent quality dishes. Typical Galician cuisine with fresh seafood from the estuary and traditional decor. It has a wine cellar/taperia if you fancy a glass of wine with some ham, the main dining room with spectacular views, as well as rooms that you can book for events.

How do you plan your itinerary of places to see in Galicia Spain?

Download the passporter app so you can plan your trip in the most organised way and according to the days and places you want to see in Galicia.

With the app you can:

• Be inspired by the experiences of other travellers.
• Create your own itinerary and add the app’s suggestions to it.
• Add the stops that interest you the most, as well as the restaurants and bars where you want to eat (you can use the points of interest that we indicate in this post as a reference).
• Organise your itinerary by days of the route according to its location on the map (you can be inspired by the routes we present in the post).
• Check the travel budget that the app calculates according to your travel stops, restaurants and leisure activities.
• Make the modifications you need and you’ll be all set for your trip.
• Finally, share your experience. Upload photos of each of the places you have visited on your trip to the app to inspire other users.

Frequently Asked Questions about a trip to Galicia Spain