Free walking tours in Vigo and what to see

Must-sees

Vigo is Galicia's most populous city and opens onto one of its most beautiful estuaries. The Casco Vello, in the lower town, has stone streets, the co-cathedral of Santa María and Plaza de la Constitución. Close by is Calle de la Pescadería, where you can have oysters at outdoor tables. The pedestrianised shopping street Calle del Príncipe links the centre and is home to the MARCO museum.

To get a feel for the city, climb Monte do Castro, a park with the remains of a fortress and views of the estuary, the port and the Cíes Islands. To the south, Castrelos park surrounds the Quiñones de León manor, which houses a museum with gardens. Samil beach, with its promenade, is the busiest. And the Cíes Islands, part of the Atlantic Islands National Park, are the big excursion from Vigo.

Free tours and guided visits

Tip-based free tours in Vigo usually cover the Casco Vello, the port area and the centre, explaining the city's seafaring history, the 1809 Reconquest and its industrial growth. Among paid excursions, the most sought after is the boat to the Cíes Islands, which in high season requires prior authorisation to enter the park. There are also guided trips to Baiona, Tui and the Portuguese coast.

How long to spend

One well-used day is enough to see the centre, the Casco Vello and climb Monte do Castro. If you want to go to the Cíes Islands, add another full day, as it is worth spending several hours there and swimming at Rodas beach. With three or four days you can use Vigo as a base to visit Baiona, Tui, Pontevedra or even northern Portugal.

Where to stay

The centre, around Calle del Príncipe and the port area, is the best base for getting around on foot, eating well and easily reaching the ferry terminal for the boats to the Cíes. The Casco Vello is livelier at night and has streets with character. If you are travelling in summer and want the beach, the Samil and Alcabre area is quieter, although far from the centre.