My latest adventure took me to the lesser-explored Spanish region of Galicia, where I spent 7 days discovering the area’s highlights. Top of my list to see in Galicia was Vigo, a gorgeous fishing port city rich in culture and highly affordable. Armed with the knowledge that Vigo offers a city break and beach holiday in one, my boyfriend and I jumped feet first into this little-known Spanish city.
I’ve put together this tried and tested city-break guide to Vigo for anyone planning a trip or in search of inspiration.
INTRODUCING VIGO
Life, so they say, is all about balance. I discovered in Vigo the balance mantra can also be applied to honing the perfect city break. This modern city boasts a charming old town, museums and galleries on the one hand, and beaches, water sports activities and lively tapas bars on the other. A stay in Vigo provides the best of both worlds satisfying both your cultural and relaxing-beach-to-kickback-on needs.
Known as the gateway to the Atlantic, this amazing city is a mere 45-minute boat ride away from the Cies islands, a 3 island archipelago fondly referred to as the ‘Galician Caribbean’ by locals which casually topped a Guardian round up of the world’s best beaches.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN VIGO
These things should be top of the list for anyone visiting Vigo or planning a city break there.
Get lost in the Casco Vello
The city has an incredible history, and a stroll around the picturesque Casco Vello (old town) feels like a step back in time. The narrow cobbled streets are flanked by beautiful architecture, some dating back to the 15th century, in sharp contrast to the rest of modern Vigo. Here you’ll find Cesterios street, home to artisan shops and basket makers selling their wares, a lively bar scene and great tapas restaurants. Set aside some time to wander aimlessly on foot through this charming historic centre.
Eat oysters on Rúa Pestatería
In the lower part of the Casco Vello is the famous Rúa Pestatería. Many claim that Vigo boasts the best seafood in Spain, making this street a must for your itinerary. Check out one of the numerous seafood eateries that line the street, or do as the locals do, and buy fresh oysters from the stalls and enjoy your fishy purchase with lemon and a glass of albariño white wine in one of the restaurants.
Marvel at the Church of Santa María
Be sure to check out the Church of Santa María, also known as La Colegiata. It was built in 1811 over the remains of a previous church and is a great example of fine religious architecture and Galician neoclassicism in the Casco Vello.
Climb atop Castro fortress
Towering over Vigo in the heart of the city is Castro fortress. Originally built in 1665 to defend this major port city from the British Navy, the fortress is now a key tourist attraction. Take the steps there up Vigo’s highest hill and you’ll be rewarded with stunning, panoramic views of the city and estuary. The summit also yields a beautifully maintained fortress complex, ruins, a botanical garden and fountains. Bring a picnic and sit on the grass, admire the views of the Cies and enjoy your tranquil surroundings.
Admire the El Sireno statue
In a place were maritime traditions are strong, it’s no surprise the Merman statue, El Sireno, is the unofficial emblem of the city. The half man half fish statue located in Porta do Sol was made by Galician artist Francisco Leiro, and is a unique work of art elevated high above the city on a tall pedestal.
Set sail to the Cies Islands
Across Vigo bay around 45-minutes by boat from the city is the Cies islands. Previously a pirates’ haunt and hippie sanctuary, this idyllic paradise is now a protected nature reserve encompassing perfect white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, hiking trails, camping and a great seafood restaurant. Only 2,200 visitors are allowed on Cies per day so advanced booking of ferry tickets is advised. A return adult ticket costs around £15.
Spend your day listening to waves lapping at the shore on the blissful Praia de Nosa Señora, or relax on the main beach, Las Rodas. Keen walkers can head for the well sign posted Monte Faro trail hike up to the highest point of the islands. This takes around 2 hours 30 minutes and offers breath-taking views over the cliffs and Atlantic.
Kick-back on Samil beach
Vigo itself also has fabulous beaches to offer. We checked out Samil beach, Vigo’s most popular, and loved the long stretch of white sand, crustacean filled rock pools and stunning views of the Cies.
WHERE TO EAT
La Centrale (Praza da Constitución, 36202 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain)
La Centrale is a modern gastro restaurant in the heart of the old town serving great variations on traditional Spanish food. It’s situated on the main square in Casco Vello, Praza da Constitución, which is lined with outdoor cafes, restaurants and antique buildings and is the perfect spot to while away an evening with a drink. We dined here during our trip to Vigo and thought the food and ambience was fantastic. Great for an al fresco dinner option, or sit inside and enjoy La Centrale’s forest inspired interior and quirky neon signs.
A Mordiscos (Rúa Real, 22, 36202 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain)
Hidden away down the narrow streets of the old town is ‘new’ tapas restaurant A Mordiscos. The lively space is colourful and contemporary and feels very on trend with its industrial details and pot plants. The menu offers a creative take on Galician fare in the form of large and small plates. We loved the grilled goats cheese with apple compote and the smoked cod tomato tartar with caramelised peppers. A Mordiscos offers friendly service, amazing food and affordable prices.
Casa Vella (Bajo Derecha, Rúa Pescadería, 1, 36202 Vigo, PO, Spain)
If you visit Vigo you must try the seafood. Casa Vella on Rúa Pescadería serves incredibly fresh local seafood including Galicia’s signature dish: pulpo a la gallega (boiled octopus with paprika and olive oil). Here we also sampled delicious scallops in garlic and olive oil and grilled sardines, both the freshest I have ever eaten. You can also try pimientos de padrón, incredibly moreish, blistered green chilli peppers that originate from Galicia. Roughly one in ten of the small peppers are wildly hot, whilst the rest are as mild as a bell pepper.
Delicatessen Martinez (Rúa Carral, 15, 36202 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain)
This welcoming Delicatessen Martinez is a great place to grab breakfast or a sweet treat. They serve good coffee, as well as empanadas and savouries and the most amazing croissants to have in or takeaway.
WHERE TO DRINK
Nós (Rúa Palma, 3, 36202 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain)
The hip microbrewery, Nós, is a relatively new addition to Vigo’s bar scene. Centrally located, with a wide selection of beers and a welcoming buzzy vibe, it makes for a great spot for pre-dinner drinks.
GETTING AROUND
Vigo is a large city with a great public bus system for getting around. The Casco Vello is relatively compact and easy to explore on foot. For a more flexible option, taxis also operate at reasonable rates allowing you to move about quickly.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
May to October is the best time to visit Vigo, the warmest months are July, August and September on average. Weather in Galicia can be unpredictable all year round so take a jacket to keep wind or rain off just in case.
Save this post for later on Pinterest:
