What are the Top 5 things to do in Vigo? This modern city, full of life and with an increasing number of tourists will surprise you! We have already talked about the top 5 cities to visit in Galicia and one of them is Vigo. Let’s find out what you can do and see in this big and modern city, that can also be considered the starting point of the last 100 km of the Portuguese Way. At Galiwonders we would like to show you a bit more about this city. Don’t miss it!
Top 5 things to do in Vigo
There are many things to do in Vigo, the largest city in Galicia and one of the main stops of the Portuguese Coastal Way. Vigo is one of the main cities in Northern Spain, located in the province of Pontevedra (Galicia), very close to the Portuguese boarder. Although industry is the main engine of economic growth, tourism has become quite important in the region. This is the due the presence of the Cies Islands on the estuary (Vigo’s greatest treasure in terms of tourism), and other attractions such as the white sand beaches, cultural and local festivals, etc. Vigo is a town with a wide range of natural attractions (there are 38 beaches and coves in the city), but also a reach history, gastronomy, and many other activities that make it worth a visit at all times of the year.
The Cies Islands
This national park is one of the most beautiful places in Galicia. The Cies Islands are the perfect combination between the most beautiful beaches in Vigo with a natural environment and a unique sea bed. It is perfect to enjoy with your family and loved ones, for a romantic evening or just to go away from the city.
To go there, you need to book in advance because there are limited places and you need a permission before buying your ticket. There are few companies offering this ferry service and Vigo is one of the main starting and ending point to your Cies Islands visit. Once there you can walk different tracks, all with wonderful views and you have a couple of bars to get some food. If you want to pass the night there, you should have a look at the camping website to check their availability.
The street of the oysters
Also called Rua da Pescaderia (Fishmongers Street), this is one of the most visited urban area in Vigo. Here, you will find several places to taste the famous oysters of the Ria de Vigo. The tradition is that the oysters are purchased directly to the OSTRERA (the woman that sells the oysters) and naturally tasted in different places around this location. In the small village of Arcade (20 km far), for example, they celebrate the Oyster Festival in April. Moreover, in many local markets (like in the mercado de Abastos de Santiago de Compostela) you can taste this incredibly fresh product. In the oyster street, you will also be able to try other seafood. Enjoy!
Samil Beach
You are invited to stop a couple of hours in front of the sea and enjoy its white sands, and the silhouette of the Cies Islands in the middle of the Ocean. This image shows us clearly why this destination is different to all. The nature created barriers to protect it, giving Vigo soft winters and warm summers. Samil Beach is the main beach of Vigo, 1.700 meters long and well connected to the city centre. Along its promenade you can find many services such as bars, cafeterias, swimming pools, garden areas and so on.
Porta do Sol
This location is the origin of the city, where are concentrated the foundations, cultural centers and museums of Vigo. This is where we will find one of the symbols of the city: the sculpture of Francisco Leiro The Merman, a symbol of the union of the man with the sea. The Porta do Sol, now closed to the traffic, allows people to walk freely and represents the entrance to the Rúa do Príncipe, the city’s most important commercial street.
The Mount of O Castro
This is where the first settlers in the 2nd and 3rd centuries B.C. arrived. A lot of interesting remains are preserved in the Archaeological Site. Later, the city grew down and up and created a unique terrain that makes it possible to have a mountain in the heart of the city: a luxury nature that offers the best views and the most beautiful sunsets.Furthermore, here you can see the O Castro Castle with its walls and gardens. The most beautiful viewpoint of the city! You can either walk or drive to the the top of the Mount of O Castro. The views make it a real must see.
For more information about Vigo, or the Portuguese Coastal Way, do not hesitate to contact us here.