What is there to see and do in Galicia?

What is there to see and do in Galicia? Let's take a look at the best things and attractions this region in northern Spain has to offer.

Galicia is a very different from the rest of Spain. It has its own language and culture which has shaped the way people in Galicia feel and live. The weather is also very differrent from the south, soft temperatures and frequent rain make Galicia green all year round.

In Galicia you can find anything you like: sightseeing, mountains, beaches, fantastic food, art, architecture and friendly people. Let's take a closer look at some of these things.

What is there to see and do in Galicia? The places

In the region of Galicia there's no shortage of amazing places to visit. Gorgeous mountain villages and trails, beautiful cities, lovely beaches, quaint coastal towns and much more.

Cambados is a coastal town that doesn't need a beach to be worth visting. The old town houses great examples of Galician architecture. You can find numerous "pazos" in Cambados. A pazo is a type of Galician traditional house similar to a manor house. Pazos are usually located in the countryside, as former residences royalty and nobility. Last but not least, if you are a wine enthusiast Cambados is the place for you. Cambados is the place where albariño, Galicia's most famous white wine, was born. Be sure to book some wine tours while you are there.

Combarro is considered Galicia's most beautiful coastal town. The main attraction are the horreos at the beach. Horreos are one of Galicia's most emblematic structures. These "long-legged houses" were used as a place to store grain. They were built in wood or stone and raised from the ground by pillars to prevent access by rodents. You can find them mainly in Galicia, but also in Asturias and Northern Portugal. Wander the streets of Combarro to find one of a kind details on the old fishing houses "casas marineras".

The beautiful Island of La Toja is connected to the mainland by an 18th-century bridge. Following the discovery in the 19th century of its thermal mud and medicinal waters a spectacular spa was built, which brought with it an amazing increase in tourism. Today, you can find thermal baths, old soap and cosmetics factories, luxury hotels and a marina among other facilities. Despite the changes and years gone by the place still preserves that belle epoque feeling. 

In La Toja you can find a unique place: the only church covered in shells in the whole world. Pretty amazing, right?

Illa de Arousa is another island in the area. It's got a lovely marina and a vantage point with breathtaking views of the area. Walk to trail to the lighthouse before sunset. The lighthouse is now a restaurant/bar so you can sip a glass of albariño while enjoying the lovely view. 

Pontevedra is the main city in the area known as Rias Baixas. The heritage in the old town is impressive. Walking through its historic center you will discover the history, culture and character of this city.

La Ruta da Auga e da Pedra: water and stone hiking trail. This stunning route runs along the Armenteira river. The most characteristic part of the path are the mills (muíños in Galician) and there are many of them. This place is very charming and it is nice to spend some time here.

The coastal town of Sanxenxo. Come summertime, Sanxenxo is bustling with activity. If you love beach vacations this is the place for you in the north of Spain. Playa de Silgar is an excellent beach, notable for the nearby promenade and multitude of cafés, ice cream parlours and restaurants.

Cies Islands are known for white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters and are just a ferry ride away from Vigo. With spectacular scenery, beaches and hiking trails for all levels, the Cíes Islands are a must if you are in the area. In order to preserve the islands, only a limited number of visitors are allowed every day. Before your trip you need to get a free permit which will allow you to buy the ferry ticket. More information here.

Find more stunning places in Galicia on these blog posts

What is there to see and do in Galicia? Emblematic structures

As we've seen before horreos and pazos are among Galicia's most emblematic structures. Now we are going to talk about cruceiros. Cruceiros are stone crosses that often appear in crossroads. You can see small sculptures of Christ on the cross on one side and a Madonna and Child on the other. Although many are plain and simple, quite a few are ornately decorated and several date back to medieval times.

What is there to see and do in Galicia? Traditional food

What better way to explore Spain than with your tastebuds? In Galicia you will find the most delicious seafood and fish dishes. Meat is not bad either so there's something for everyone! Other traditional foods include empanada gallega -baked pastry turnover filled with savory ingredients-, lacon -a type of ham- and queso tetilla -a regional cow's-milk cheese with the shape of a small breast, hence the name-. I'll let the images speak for themselves...

What is there to see and do in Galicia? Paradores

Some of the most beautiful Paradores that you can find in Spain are in Galicia. Some are castles, others are pazos, all of them breath history through their walls. Apart from the unique experience of staying one of them, I also recommend trying their restaurants. They offer the best selection of Galician dishes. The set menu is great value, it includes a starter (an assortment of Galician tapas), a main course (fish or meat) and dessert. The price of the set menu varies from 20-30€ depending on the Parador. If you choose dishes separately it will be more expensive: between 60-80€ per person).

These are my favorite Parador hotels in Galicia:

Parador de Cambados

Parador de Pontevedra

Parador de Monterrei

Parador de Santiago de Compostela

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I hope you enjoyed this post. If you are planning a trip to Galicia and need some tips, don't hesitate to leave a comment below with your questions.

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