Vigo is a beautiful port city in northern Spain’s Galica region that is often overlooked by tourists. While many of Spain’s beach holiday destinations are centered in Andalusia and the Balearic Islands, Vigo is the hidden gem of the country for beach, culture, and a cool, non-scorching climate. For first-timers visiting, here are the 10 things to do and see in Vigo.

1.) Take a ferry to Cíes Islands

A trip to the Islas Cíes is first on the list because it cannot be missed on any trip to Galicia. A quick ferry ride from the Vigo port will bring you to a luscious green and turquoise paradise that rivals any island in Europe. There’s a reason Playa de Roda, the main beach of Cíes, was voted the “Best Beach in the World”.

2.) Grab a drink at the Casco Vello

Vigo’s old town, Casco Vello, is one of the liveliest spots in the city to eat and drink the evening away. Luckily Casco Vello is in the city center, meaning it’s easy and quick to find. Like every city center in Spain, prices are inflated (even in Galicia); however it is still an authentic place to drink like the locals.

3.) Hike the O Castro

The Fortress of O Castro, built-in 1665, was a fortress used to guard the city against Portuguese and British invaders. Today is a lovely (and hilly) park to take a walk, have a picnic, and overlook the Ría de Vigo. There are many ancient remains throughout the fortress, a reminder of Galicia’s Celtic roots.

4.) Visit the beaches of Samil

The beaches of Samil, a neighborhood 20 minutes outside of Vigo by bus, are the most accessible from the city. Starting with the largest beach, Praia de Samil, and ending with Praia de Vao, beachgoers are sure to find the perfect spot on this very long and very beautiful shoreline.

5.) Try the seafood

No trip to Galicia is complete without trying its famously fresh seafood. Pulpo á Feira, the staple dish of Galicia, consists of boiled octopus and potatoes sprinkled with paprika and olive oil. If you’d like to cook your own meal, Rua da Pescaderia, or ‘Oyster Street’ is a popular street to buy fresh and local seafood.

6.) See the Cathedral of Vigo

Vigo’s cathedral, the Church of Santa María, is located in Vigo’s Old Town. Surprisingly, Vigo does not have any grand cathedrals like many Spanish cities, so architecture enthusiasts may be interested in checking the church out.

7.) Go shopping on Calle de Principe

Calle de Principe is a long street of clothing shops. Though most of the stores are typical of Spain, such as Zara and Caldezona, makeup, shoes, and other specialty products can be found here without venturing outside of the city center. There is also an indoor shopping mall nearby, Comercio de Principe.

8.) Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art

The Museo de Contemporary Arte is a small art museum located in the center of Vigo. Admission is free, and every two weeks the exhibits change.

9.) Relax at Alameda da Praza de Compostela

This park is located in the “expensive” part of Vigo, so you’re guaranteed a comfortable and pleasant view of pretty fountains and flowers. Though small, it is never too packed despite being in the center, making it a nice place to relax after sightseeing. 

10.) Drink Licor Café

Embrace Spain’s late and long nightlife by trying the Licor Café– a combination of orujo, the region’s liquor made of the remaining grape skins of wine, coffee beans, and flavored syrup. It is typically sipped through a shot-sized glass, but can also come in a larger class with ice.