スペイン・ガリシア旅行ガイド:ガリシアでやるべき18のベストアクティビティ
So you want to know the best
things to do in Galicia, Spain? Great, you’re in the right place.
In this video we’re gonna discuss the top things to do in Galicia.
Number 18: Santiago de Compostela There is no better place to start your trip
in Galicia than Santiago de Compostela, the region’s lively capital.
The city is centered around the Cathedral of Santiago, which is said to hold the
remains of Saint James the Apostle and marks the end of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.
You can attend a mass to see the giant Botafumeiro swing across the cathedral.
From there, wander the narrow streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
filled with historic buildings and small plazas. For local flavors, visit Mercado
de Abastos to try fresh seafood. You can also enjoy tapas along Rúa do
Franco or relax in Parque da Alameda with its green spaces and city views.
Number 17: Camino de Santiago Also known as the Way of St. James, the
Camino de Santiago is a famous pilgrimage that ends in Santiago de Compostela.
The route is marked with yellow arrows and scallop shells, guiding you through forests,
trails, and charming villages across Galicia. To receive the Compostela certificate, you must
walk at least 62 miles (100 km), collecting stamps in your pilgrim passport along the way.
Popular routes include the Camino Francés from France, the Camino Portugués from Porto,
and the Camino del Norte along Spain’s coast. You can walk, cycle, or ride
a horse, stay in albergues, and experience the spirit of the Camino.
Praza do Obradoiro marks the journey’s end. Number 16: Costa da Morte
Costa da Morte, or the Death Coast, is a rugged stretch of coastline between Malpica
and Finisterre with strong waves and currents. The area has charming fishing
villages, white sandy beaches, sacred churches, and several lighthouses.
In Muxía, you can follow a walking trail to Os Muiños Beach and enjoy turquoise waters.
Laxe Beach and Carnota Beach are other stunning spots along the coast.
Finisterre, once thought by Romans to be the “end of the world,” has the historic Faro
de Fisterra lighthouse with views of the Atlantic. Many pilgrims walk from Santiago de
Compostela to reach this symbolic point. You can also walk the Camino dos Faros, a coastal
trail that passes seaside villages, beaches, and lighthouses along the Death Coast.
Number 15: Tower of Hercules Located in A Coruña, one of the main cities
of Galicia in northwestern Spain, the Tower of Hercules is the oldest working Roman lighthouse
in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built at the end of the 1st century AD, it
guided ships along the rugged Galician coast. Legends say Hercules defeated the giant Geryon
here and built the lighthouse to mark his victory. A spiral staircase takes you to the top, where
you will see A Coruña and the Atlantic Ocean. Around the lighthouse, a sculpture park
and the coastline offer a pleasant walk. You can also stroll along the seafront promenade
or visit Méndez Núñez Gardens and María Pita Square with outdoor cafés.
Number 14: Vigo This is Galicia’s largest city, with nearly
300,000 people and a busy industrial port. You can start at Monte do Castro, a
hill with a castle, archaeological remains, and views of the city and sea.
For modern art, visit MARCO, the Contemporary Art Museum, and Sede Afundación, an exhibition centre
with indoor gardens, including Naturnova for kids. To see historic buildings and enjoy local life,
take a stroll through the Old Town, Casco Vello. Another landmark is the
Co-Cathedral of Santa María. You can also walk through the Ensanche district
and the Real Club Marina, or spend time at Playa de Samil and Playa del Vao.
Number 13: Ézaro Waterfall A visit to Ézaro Waterfall takes you to where the
Xallas River falls more than 98 feet (30 m) into the Atlantic Ocean, making it the only
river in Europe that ends in a waterfall. You can walk on a wooden boardwalk above the rocks
and river to stand close to the base of the falls. The water crashes over granite walls at the
foot of Mount Pindo, creating strong currents. In summer, the waterfall is
lit by a lighthouse at night. From the Ézaro viewpoint,
you can see Cape Finisterre, Mount Pindo, and the small Lobeiras Islands.
You can also swim at Ézaro Beach or enjoy a drink at a seaside café.
Number 12: Roman Walls of Lugo (Muralla Romana de Lugo)
Built in the 3rd century, the Roman walls of Lugo completely encircle
the Old Town, covering about 1 mile. These walls are the only fully preserved
Roman city walls in the world and were part of a defensive system with a moat and towers.
You can walk along the wide elevated path, stopping at 85 towers for views over the town.
The walls have 10 gates and a mix of circular and rectangular sections, with heights
between 26 and 39 feet (8 and 12 m) and an average thickness of 14 feet (4 m).
Walking on them shows the scale of Roman engineering and offers a unique
view of the historic center. Number 11: Castro de Baroña At Castro de Baroña, you will see the remains of a
Celtic settlement on a rocky peninsula in Galicia. The site has circular stone structures
that were once homes and workspaces for metalworking and textiles.
A stone wall surrounds the settlement, and small footpaths lead to views of the
Atlantic Ocean and nearby white sand beaches. The site sits on a hill, and reaching it involves
a steep half-mile walk down a rocky trail. Sunsets here create colorful skies, and
you might spot dolphins in the water below. You will also notice ancient petroglyphs on the
surrounding hillsides and patterns in the stones that suggest ceremonial or spiritual significance.
Number 10: Ourense Located in southern Galicia, Ourense
is famous for its hot springs, including the Ash Burgas fountains in the city
center with water reaching 140–153°F (60–67°C). You will find narrow streets, charming squares,
and historic buildings in the old town, including the 12th-century Cathedral of San Martiño with
its Romanesque-Gothic doors and detailed interior. The Roman Bridge over the Miño River
offers striking views of the city. The city has palaces like Oca-Valladares
and churches such as Santa Eufemia and San Francisco, featuring cloisters, baroque
façades, and intricate decorations. You can also enjoy local dishes
like octopus, roast meat, eel pie, and chestnut desserts, paired with wines from
Ribeiro, Valdeorras, Ribeira Sacra, and Monterrei. By the way, check the links in the
description for the ultimate guide on saving money while traveling, plus
recommended tour operators in Galicia. Number 9: Ribeira Sacra
For wine lovers and those seeking calm, Ribeira Sacra offers steep
vineyards along the Miño and Sil rivers. You will see terraces that date back to
Roman times, with stone walls holding red Mencía and white Godello grapes.
The area is full of old monasteries, churches, and tiny villages.
Monforte de Lemos, in the heart of the region, has historical sites like the San Vicente del
Pino monastery, a preserved Jewish Quarter, and the Colegio Nuestra Señora de la Antigua.
You can take wine tastings, tour vineyards, or hike trails that run through forests, cliffs,
and deep river canyons, enjoying scenic views at observation points.
Number 8: Pontevedra Pontevedra, on Galicia’s west coast, has
a historic center that is mostly car-free, making it easy and safe to walk through
its narrow streets and lively squares. The town is full of energy, with busy tapas bars
spilling into the plazas and street performers playing traditional Galician instruments.
For art and history, head to the Museo de Pontevedra, which has a large collection
from prehistory to modern times. Another highlight is the Santuario de la
Peregrina, a church shaped like a seashell. If you visit at the right time, you
can witness festivals held in the town, including the Fiesta de la Peregrina
with music, dancing, and processions. The town is also famous for its seafood,
served in local restaurants and bars. Number 7: Maritime-Terrestrial National
Park of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia This is Galicia’s only national park, made
up of the islands of Cíes, Ons, Sálvora, and Cortegada off the west coast. On the Cíes Islands, you can visit Praia
das Rodas, a white sand beach with clear water, and follow hiking trails to
viewpoints like O Alto do Príncipe. Ons offers beaches, dunes, and sea
caves such as O Buraco do Inferno. On Cortegada, you will find laurel and Pyrenean
oak forests, sandy areas good for clams, and the remains of an old village.
You can also visit Sálvora to see dunes, granite rocks, and hear legends about mermaids.
For more activities, you can join workshops, guided tours, and learning programs
at the visitor centers on the islands. Number 6: El Banco más bonito del mundo
Often described as “the most beautiful bench in the world,” El Banco más bonito del mundo
sits on the northern coast of Galicia, near Loiba. The bench itself is simple but overlooks the
Atlantic Ocean and cliffs that rise between 160 and 650 feet (50 and 200 m), giving you a
clear view of the green and blue waters below. The spot became famous from an English
inscription and a photo by Dani Caxete, a finalist in The World At Night competition.
You will feel the sea breeze and enjoy the starry sky here, especially at night.
You can also follow nearby hiking trails to reach other stunning viewpoints.
Number 5: Cabo Ortegal You will enjoy visiting Cabo Ortegal for its
dramatic coastal scenery and high sea cliffs, some over 2000 feet (600 m) above the ocean.
The rocks here are almost 400 million years old, giving the area a fascinating
geological character. The drive along the cape ends at a lighthouse,
offering a striking viewpoint over the ocean. You can stop at several viewpoints, including
Miradoiro Chao do Monte, Miradoiro Dos Carrís, and Miradoiro do Cruceiro, to take in the scenery.
Another highlight is Garita de Herbeira, the highest point at 2,133 feet (650
m), offering wider views of the coast. Also, along the roads, you may spot goats,
horses, and cows moving freely, as well as quiet beaches and walking trails.
Number 4: Santo André de Teixido Although a small village, San Andrés
de Teixido is known for its church perched on cliffs above the sea.
Legend says those who do not visit it in life will do so after death.
The church features a Gothic Sailor style with Baroque renovations, a 15th-century
triumphal arch, a Baroque chapel, and a detailed altarpiece showing the twelve apostles.
Visitors will notice the image-reliquary of Saint Andrew and colorful votive offerings
called sanandreses, handmade by locals in shapes like hands, fish, boats, saints, and
staircases, each carrying a special meaning. The surrounding cliffs rise 2,000 feet (612 m)
above the sea, offering stunning views from the Atalaia of Herbeira.
Number 3: Combarro Combarro is a small seaside village near
Pontevedra, known for its cobblestone streets and fresh seafood restaurants along the shore.
The village is famous for its numerous hórreos—raised granaries from the
18th and 19th centuries—many of which are built on the coastline.
You can also see the stone crosses, or cruceiros, in plazas, where the Virgin
typically faces the sea to protect fishermen, while Christ faces inland.
In the old quarter, you will find narrow streets lined with traditional “casas
marineras” featuring stone or wooden balconies. You can also join some of the village’s lively
festivals, like the Virgen del Carmen on July 16 and the Mussel Festival on August 15.
Number 2: Monte Boi You will find this scenic path in the medieval
village of Baiona on the Vigo Estuary. The walk circles the Monterreal Castle and takes
about 30 minutes over a 1 mile level route. The route starts near the Tourist Office and
passes sandy beaches, the Tower of Tenza, and a small shrine to the Virgin in a cave.
You will see the standing towers and ruins of the old fortress as you walk by the Parador Hotel.
The path crosses a stone bridge to Frades beach, winds through pine trees, and passes a horreo
and sculptures of the Carabela La Pinta. Along the way, you will enjoy wide
views of the Atlantic, the Cíes Islands, and the Estela Islands.
Number 1: Tui Tui is one of Galicia’s oldest and
most interesting medieval villages, sitting on a hill above the Minho
River that separates it from Portugal. You can enjoy your first view of the
village by crossing the river from Portugal. Its cobblestone streets lead to the 12th-century
cathedral, which looks like a fortress from the outside and has the oldest cloister in Galicia.
Tui also has other historic churches, including San Bartolomé and San Telmo, showing
Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. The mountain of Aloia nearby gives clear
views of the Vigo estuary and Louro valley. Many pilgrims start their Camino
Portuguese journey from Tui, spending the night here before leaving.
Click here to watch this video.
This Galicia travel guide shares the best things to do in Galicia.
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How to travel more and visit your dream destinations without breaking the bank: https://travelmorepayless.com
Recommended Tours in Galicia:
From Santiago: Finisterre Muxia Costa da Morte, 7 Stops Tour: https://www.getyourguide.com/santiago-de-compostela-l153/from-santiago-finisterre-muxia-costa-da-morte-7-stops-tour-t254852/?partner_id=QE3VGN2&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=yttj-Galicia
Ría de Arousa: Daytime or Sunset Sailboat Cruise with drinks: https://www.getyourguide.com/a-coruna-l1634/ria-de-arousa-daytime-or-sunset-sailboat-cruise-with-drinks-t914778/?partner_id=QE3VGN2&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=yttj-Galicia
A Coruña: Local Market Shopping and Cooking Workshop: https://www.getyourguide.com/a-coruna-l1634/a-coruna-local-market-shopping-and-cooking-workshop-t718846/?partner_id=QE3VGN2&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=yttj-Galicia
Santiago de Compostela: Old Town Private Tour: https://www.getyourguide.com/santiago-de-compostela-l153/santiago-cathedral-and-downtown-tour-with-local-guide-t159047/?partner_id=QE3VGN2&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=yttj-Galicia
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Welcome to Galicia, Spain, a region in the country’s northwest known for its green landscapes, rugged coastline, and deep cultural roots. Unlike the drier parts of Spain, Galicia, Spain offers misty forests, medieval villages, and a slower pace of life shaped by the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a place where history, nature, and tradition come together beautifully.
Start your visit in Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia, Spain and the final stop of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. The city’s centerpiece is the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most important religious landmarks. Wandering through the old town’s narrow stone streets, filled with cafés and local shops, gives you a sense of Galicia’s spiritual and cultural heart.
From there, explore the Galician coast, known for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and fishing villages. The Rías Baixas, in the southwest of Galicia, Spain, feature calm estuaries, sandy beaches, and seaside towns like Sanxenxo, O Grove, and Combarro. These areas are famous for seafood and Albariño wine, a crisp white wine that pairs perfectly with local dishes.
On the northern coast, the Rías Altas are wilder and more rugged. The beaches near Ferrol and Ortigueira offer excellent surf spots, while the Costa da Morte (“Coast of Death”) is known for its dramatic scenery and historic lighthouses. Cape Finisterre, once believed to be the “end of the world,” is a must-visit for its sweeping ocean views and sunsets.
A Coruña and Vigo are the two largest cities in Galicia, Spain, each with its own character. A Coruña combines a historic old town with a modern seafront and the ancient Tower of Hercules, the oldest working lighthouse in the world. Vigo, further south, is a lively port city with great seafood and easy access to the Cíes Islands — part of the Atlantic Islands National Park and home to some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches.
Inland Galicia, Spain is just as captivating. The Ribeira Sacra region features terraced vineyards along steep river valleys, producing excellent red wines. You can take a boat ride along the Sil River or visit ancient monasteries tucked into the hillsides. The region’s rural villages and stone farmhouses reflect a way of life that has remained unchanged for generations.
Food is a highlight everywhere in Galicia, Spain. The region is known for its fresh seafood — octopus (pulpo a la gallega), scallops, clams, and mussels are local favorites. Rustic dishes like empanada gallega (savory pie) and caldo gallego (hearty soup) are also staples. Pair your meal with a glass of Albariño or Ribeiro wine for the full experience.
With its mix of coast, countryside, and culture, Galicia, Spain offers a quieter, more authentic side of the country. Whether you’re walking the streets of Santiago, tasting wine by the rivers, or watching waves crash against the cliffs, Galicia leaves a lasting impression of beauty and tradition.
Keep watching to see the top things to do in Galicia, top attractions in Galicia, places to visit in Galicia and Spain travel guides.
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How to travel more and visit your dream destinations without breaking the bank: https://travelmorepayless.com // Recommended Tours in Galicia:
From Santiago: Finisterre Muxia Costa da Morte, 7 Stops Tour: https://www.getyourguide.com/santiago-de-compostela-l153/from-santiago-finisterre-muxia-costa-da-morte-7-stops-tour-t254852/?partner_id=QE3VGN2&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=yttj-Galicia
Ría de Arousa: Daytime or Sunset Sailboat Cruise with drinks: https://www.getyourguide.com/a-coruna-l1634/ria-de-arousa-daytime-or-sunset-sailboat-cruise-with-drinks-t914778/?partner_id=QE3VGN2&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=yttj-Galicia
A Coruña: Local Market Shopping and Cooking Workshop: https://www.getyourguide.com/a-coruna-l1634/a-coruna-local-market-shopping-and-cooking-workshop-t718846/?partner_id=QE3VGN2&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=yttj-Galicia
Santiago de Compostela: Old Town Private Tour: https://www.getyourguide.com/santiago-de-compostela-l153/santiago-cathedral-and-downtown-tour-with-local-guide-t159047/?partner_id=QE3VGN2&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=yttj-Galicia