In the province of Pontevedra, on the shores of the Atlantic, is the city that have its name to the southernmost of the Rías Baixas: Vigo.
This seafaring city, with a tireless and enterprising spirit, combines vibrant urban life with one of the most beautiful natural landscapes on offer in Galicia. Vigo is perfect for those looking for a wide variety of options: Galician gastronomy, nature, nautical activities, beaches, leisure and the liveliest nightlife.
Already considering a getaway by train? Read on and discover what to see in Vigo with Renfe.
Vigo: what not to miss
- Co-Cathedral of Santa María de Vigo. Its robust construction in the nineteenth century served to replace the old Gothic-style church that was damaged during an explosion. The sound of its bells ringing in the hour are almost hypnotising.
- Museo Quiñones de León. The Municipal Museum of Vigo is located in the Pazo Castrelos, one of the most representative and best preserved manor houses in Galicia. It is home to one of the best permanent collections of Galician paintings, as well as an impressive archaeology section.
- Playa de Samil. This fine white sandy beach is more than 1000 metres long and 15 metres wide, located close to the city, in the parish of Navia. It is no wonder that it is considered the best beach in Vigo.
- Calle del Príncipe. Although Vigo is home to many shopping centres and areas, Calle del Príncipe, named in honour of the son of Isabel II, is city's main high street. It is home to a variety of different types of shops.
- MARCO. The Museum of Contemporary Art is located in the heart of the city and its purpose is to disseminate this type of art. It is located in an imposing nineteenth-century building granted Cultural Interest status, formerly used as the Palace of Justice and prison, contrasting with the avant-garde collection it now houses.
- Monte O Castro. Enjoy the incredible views over the city from Monte O Castro. The park is a unique setting, not only because of the panoramic views it offers, but also because it represents the starting point for the city. It is here that the first archaeological remains in Vigo were found, dating back to the second and third centuries BC.
- Markets and Fish Markets. You can't leave Vigo without visiting its traditional food markets, including O Calvario. Here, where you can buy and sample quality local products, such as fish and seafood or Galician bread. Nor can you miss La Lonja de Vigo, one of the main places for unloading fresh fish in Europe.
- Old Quarter. Popularly known as the "Casco Vello", this is the historic centre of Vigo. An area bursting with life and leisure adapted to all tastes. The most traditional bars and taverns live side by side with the best trendy venues, against a backdrop of cobbled streets and Renaissance architecture. What's more, at night, it becomes one of the liveliest places for nightlife.
- Bouzas neighbourhood. Another place you cannot miss is the seaside neighbourhood of Bouzas. This picturesque neighbourhood is home to cobbled streets and typical two-storey houses. Its streets are home to jewels like the church of San Miguel de Bouzas and some of the best taverns for sampling local products.
- Plaza de la Constitución. Granted Historic Site status by the regional government of Galicia, this beautiful square is surrounded by historic stone buildings and their arcades. Worth particular note are the town hall and a number of bars where you can sample tapas on their terraces.
- Real Club Náutico de Vigo. Located in the centre of the city, the Real Club Náutico de Vigo is the city's best-known marina. This centenary club still marks the social pulse of the city, playing host to cultural, sporting and gastronomic events.
Looking beyond Vigo: the surrounding area
- Cíes Islands. The Cíes Islands form part of the Atlantic Islands Galicia Maritime-Terrestrial National Park and are considered one of the most beautiful places in Galicia. The archipelago, formed by the islands of Norte or Monteagudo, Del Medio or do Faro and Sur or San Martiño, is an authentic natural paradise in the mouth of the River Vigo. Make sure you apply for your authorisation before you go!
- Ons Islands. Slightly less touristy than the Cíes Islands, but with all their charm. They are home to incredible beaches with crystal clear waters. Visitors can travel here from the Port of Vigo. You will not be disappointed!
- Monte O Castro. There is a wonderful viewpoint at the top of this outcrop, offering spectacular views over Vigo, its estuary and the Cíes Islands: the perfect place to immortalise your visit with a photo!
How to travel to Vigo.
Renfe wants to make things easy for you, helping you to travel in the fastest, most comfortable and most sustainable way possible. Discover our Larga Distancia (long distance) trains starting and ending in Lugo and get carried away! Consult all our routes.