La Coruna, Spain: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

Visiting A Coruña is a refreshing experience, offering the perfect blend of urban energy and Atlantic coastal charm. Located in the autonomous region of Galicia in northwestern Spain, this seaside city is known for its vibrant street life, long promenade, and panoramic ocean views. The atmosphere here is relaxed yet lively, with locals gathering in open plazas, families strolling by the beach, and visitors drawn in by the city’s walkability and friendly vibe.
One of the city’s biggest draws is its unique setting on a narrow peninsula, meaning the sea is always nearby. From almost any point in the city, you’re only a short walk from the coastline, whether it’s the sandy stretch of Orzán Beach, the cliffs near the Tower of Hercules, or the bustling marina. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, making it ideal for a walking tour that loops through the old town, commercial streets, and wide open oceanfront spaces without the need for transport.
Beyond the coast, A Coruña has a distinctly local character that sets it apart from more tourist-heavy destinations in Spain. It offers great shopping, excellent seafood, and a laid-back nightlife scene, with everything from traditional taverns to stylish bars tucked into its stone buildings. Its Galician identity is proudly displayed in its language, cuisine, and culture, giving you a sense of place that’s authentic and welcoming. Whether you’re here for a short break or as part of a longer journey through northern Spain, A Coruña is a city that invites you to slow down, explore, and enjoy.
Table of Contents
- History of La Coruna
- 24 Best places to See in La Coruna
- Marineda City
- Casa das Ciencias y Planetario
- Casa Museo Picasso
- Rúa do Orzán
- Praia de Riazor
- Cruise Terminal
- Rúa Real
- Coruña’s Paseo Marítimo
- Casa De Paredes
- Avenida da Mariña
- Castelo de Santo Antón
- Teatro Rosalía de Castro
- Museo Nacional de Ciencia e Tecnología
- Colexiata de Santa María do Campo
- Mercado de San Agustín
- Museo Histórico Militar
- Ruins of the Convent of Saint Francis
- Church of St. George
- Praza de María Pita
- Coruña City Hall
- Surfers Fountain
- Domus
- Monte de San Pedro
- Aquarium Finisterrae
- 6 Best Day Trips from La Coruna
- Where to Stay in La Coruna
- Best Time to Visit La Coruna
- How to get to La Coruna
History of La Coruna
A Coruña, located in the Galicia region of northwest Spain, has a rich and varied history that stretches back thousands of years. Here is an overview of its historical development:
Pre-Roman and Roman Period
The history of A Coruña can be traced back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human settlement in the area. The region was originally inhabited by Celtic tribes known as the Artabri. The strategic coastal location made it an important site for early maritime trade.
With the arrival of the Romans in the 2nd century BCE, the settlement became more significant. The Romans built the Tower of Hercules, a lighthouse that still stands today and is the oldest Roman lighthouse still in use. A Coruña (known as Brigantium during Roman times) became an important port and trading hub in the Roman Empire.
Medieval Period
After the fall of the Roman Empire, A Coruña saw various invasions by the Suebi, Visigoths, and Moors. In the 8th century, the area came under the control of the Kingdom of Asturias and later the Kingdom of Galicia. During this time, A Coruña began to develop as a medieval town, with its port continuing to be a vital part of its economy.
In the 12th century, A Coruña was granted its first municipal charter by King Alfonso IX of León, which helped to formalize its status as a town. The medieval period also saw the construction of significant religious buildings, including the Church of Santiago and the Church of Santa María.
Early Modern Period
The 16th century marked a period of growth and prosperity for A Coruña. The city played a crucial role in Spain’s maritime endeavors, serving as the departure point for the Spanish Armada in 1588. However, this period also brought conflict; A Coruña was attacked by English forces under Sir Francis Drake in 1589, but the city successfully repelled the invasion.
In the same century, A Coruña became the political capital of the Kingdom of Galicia, a status it retained until the 19th century. The city was a center of administration and trade, contributing to its growth and development.
19th Century
The 19th century was a time of significant change for A Coruña. The city played a role in the Peninsular War against Napoleon’s forces. In 1809, the Battle of Corunna (or Battle of Elviña) took place near the city, with British forces fighting against the French. Despite the French victory, the British managed a successful evacuation.
Later in the century, A Coruña underwent modernization, with improvements in infrastructure, including the expansion of the port and the construction of new roads and railways. The city’s importance as a commercial and industrial hub in northern Spain grew during this period.
20th Century to Present
The 20th century brought both challenges and progress to A Coruña. The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) and the subsequent Franco dictatorship had significant impacts on the city. However, the latter half of the century saw economic recovery and modernization. The establishment of the Universidade da Coruña in 1989 further cemented the city’s status as a center of education and culture.

Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
Visiting La Coruna for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in La Coruna on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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24 Best places to See in La Coruna
This complete guide to La Coruna not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in La Coruna and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Marineda City

Location: Est. Baños de Arteixo, 43, 15008 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00–22:00. Sunday: 12:00–00:00. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Casa das Ciencias y Planetario

Location: Parque de Santa Margarita s/n, 15005 A Coruña, La Coruña, Spain | Hours: (Winter) January – February; Monday – Friday: 10:00–18:00; Saturday – Sunday: 11:00–19:00. (Spring) March – June; Daily: 10:00–19:00. (Summer) July – August; Daily: 10:00–20:00. (Autumn) September – December; Daily: 10:00–19:00. | Price: General: €2; Planetarium supplement: €2; Reduced: €1; Reduced planetarium supplement: €1. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Casa Museo Picasso

Location: Rúa Payo Gómez, 14, 15004 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00–13:00 & 17:00–20:00. Closed on Sunday, Monday. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Rúa do Orzán

Location: Av. de Pedro Barrié de la Maza, 26, 15003 A Coruña, La Coruña, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 126.0km
Praia de Riazor (A Coruña)

Location: Praia de Riazor (A Coruña), Spain | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Cruise Terminal

Location: Mlle. de Trasatlánticos, s/n, A Coruña, La Coruña, Spain | Hours: Daily: 08:00–18:00. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Rúa Real

Location: Rúa Real, A Coruña, 15003 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 126.0km
Coruña’s Paseo Marítimo

Location: P.º Marítimo, A Coruña, 15002 La Coruña, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 126.0km
Casa De Paredes

Location: Avenida Marina, 17, 15003 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: Monday – Sunday: Open 24 hours. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Avenida da Mariña

Location: Avenida da Mariña, Sada, A Coruña, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 126.0km
Castelo de Santo Antón

Location: P.º Marítimo Alcalde Francisco Vázquez, 2, 15001 A Coruña, La Coruña, Spain | Hours: (Summer) July – August: Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00–21:00; Sunday & public holidays: 10:00–15:00. Closed on Monday. (Winter) September – June: Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00–19:30; Sunday & public holidays: 10:00–14:30. Closed on Monday. | Price: General admission: €2.06; Reduced: €1.03. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Teatro Rosalía de Castro

Location: R. Riego de Agua, 37, 15001 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: Monday – Sunday: 16:00–20:00 (performance days only; box office only). | Price: Prices vary by show. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Museo Nacional de Ciencia e Tecnología

Location: Praza do Museo Nacional de Ciencia, 1, 15011 A Coruña, La Coruña, Spain | Hours: (Summer) July 1 – August 31; Tuesday – Saturday: 11:00–19:00. Sunday: 11:00–15:00. (Winter) September 1 – June 30; Tuesday – Friday: 10:00–17:00. Saturday: 11:00–19:00. Sunday: 11:00–15:00. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Colexiata de Santa María do Campo

Location: Rúa Damas, 24, 15001 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00–13:00. Saturday: Closed. Sunday: Closed. | Price: Free; donations appreciated. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Mercado de San Agustín

Location: Praza San Agustín, 1, 15001 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: Monday – Saturday: 08:00–15:30. Sunday: Closed. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Museo Histórico Militar

Location: Praza de Carlos I, s/n, 15001 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00–14:00 & 17:00–19:30. Sunday: 10:00–14:00. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Ruins of the Convent of Saint Francis

Location: Ánimas, 10, 15001 A Coruña, La Coruña, Spain | Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00–13:00 & 17:00–21:00. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Church of St. George

Location: R. Pío XII, 19, 15001 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00–13:00 & 18:00–20:30. | Price: Free; donations appreciated. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Praza de María Pita

Location: Pr. de María Pita, A Coruña, 15001 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Coruña City Hall

Location: 15001 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: Daily: 12:00–14:00 & 18:00–21:00. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Surfers Fountain

Location: Rúa Matadero, 15003 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 126.0km
Domus

Location: R. Ángel Rebollo, 91, 15002 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: (Winter) January 1 – February 28; Monday – Friday: 10:00–18:00; Saturday – Sunday: 11:00–19:00. (Spring) March 1 – June 30; Daily: 10:00–19:00. (Summer) July 1 – August 31; Daily: 10:00–20:00. (Autumn) September 1 – December 31; Daily: 10:00–19:00. | Price: Adults: €2.06; Concessions: €1.03. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Monte de San Pedro

Location: Estrada Os Fortes, 7, 15011 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: (Summer) April 1 – September 30; Daily: 11:00–22:00. (Winter) October 1 – March 31; Monday – Thursday: 11:00–20:00. Friday – Saturday: 11:00–22:00. Sunday: 11:00–20:00. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Aquarium Finisterrae

Location: P.º Marítimo Alcalde Francisco Vázquez, 34, 15002 A Coruña, La Coruña, Spain | Hours: (Winter) January 1 – February 28; Monday – Friday: 10:00–18:00; Saturday – Sunday: 11:00–19:00. (Summer) March 1 – December 31; Daily: 10:00–19:00; July 1 – August 31: 10:00–20:00. | Price: General: €10; Reduced: €4. | Website | Distance: 126.0km
Best Day Trips from La Coruna
A day trip from La Coruna offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around La Coruna provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Torre de Hércules

Location: Av. Navarra, s/n, 15002 A Coruña, Spain | Hours: (Summer) June 16 – September 15; Daily: 10:00–21:00. (Winter) September 16 – June 15; Daily: 10:00–17:00. | Price: Adults: €3.09; Reduced: €1.55. | Website | Distance: 6.3km
Visiting Torre de Hércules
Parque Escultórico da Torre de Hércules

Location: Paseo dos Menhires, 15002 A Coruña, La Coruña, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 6.5km
Visiting Parque Escultórico da Torre de Hércules
Menhirs for Peace

Location: Paseo dos Menhires, 15002 A Coruña, La Coruña, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 6.5km
Visiting Menhirs for Peace
Santiago de Compostela

Visiting Santiago de Compostela
Ourense

Visiting Ourense
Vigo

Visiting Vigo
Where to Stay in La Coruna
To make the most of staying in Coruña, it helps to stay near the centre — you’ll be close to plazas, cafés, historic streets, the seafront, and attractions like the old town and beaches. Here are some of the best places to stay, broken down by area, and a few hotel suggestions to suit different styles:
In the Old Town / Historic Centre near María Pita Square, Paseo del Parrote and the port: this is ideal if you want to be immersed in history and have very short walks to most sights. NH Collection A Coruña Finisterre is a top luxury option with sea views and excellent central location. Another great choice is Hesperia Finisterre, elegant, with classic touches and directly overlooking the port area.
Towards the Orzán / Beachfront area: this gives you easy access to sand, promenade walks, cafés by the sea, and still not far from the historic parts. A standout here is DoubleTree by Hilton A Coruna, which offers modern comforts, a spa, and is right by Orzán Beach.
In the Cuatro Caminos / Shopping & Transport Hub area: good for people who prioritise transit links, shopping, and maybe more budget-friendly or mid‑range stays. Hotel Plaza is well positioned here, balancing proximity to shopping, restaurants, and walkable distance to the historic centre.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in La Coruna. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
La Coruna Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit La Coruna
Spring (March to May): Spring in A Coruña brings mild temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F). This season is characterized by blooming flowers and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city’s parks and gardens come to life with vibrant colors, providing a beautiful backdrop for exploring historical landmarks and enjoying leisurely walks. Although there can still be some rainy days, particularly in March, the overall atmosphere is refreshing and rejuvenating, perfect for experiencing the city’s charm without the peak season crowds.
Summer (June to August): Summer in A Coruña offers warm and inviting weather, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 25°C (61°F to 77°F), occasionally peaking above 30°C (86°F). This is the perfect season for beach activities and enjoying the coastal scenery. The city buzzes with energy as festivals and events fill the calendar, offering plenty of entertainment options. The warm evenings are ideal for dining al fresco and exploring the lively nightlife. However, the city can become quite crowded with tourists, especially in August, and accommodation prices tend to rise during this peak season.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn in A Coruña sees temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), providing a comfortable climate for visitors. This season is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed and less crowded experience. The weather remains pleasant, particularly in September and early October, allowing for enjoyable outdoor activities and exploration of the city’s rich cultural heritage. As the season progresses, the likelihood of rain increases, but the changing colors of the foliage add a unique beauty to the cityscape. Autumn also brings a variety of cultural events and local festivals, offering a deeper insight into the region’s traditions.
Winter (December to February): Winter in A Coruña brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 7°C to 14°C (45°F to 57°F). This season is the least crowded, offering visitors a chance to experience the local culture without the hustle and bustle of tourists. The city takes on a cozy atmosphere, with opportunities to explore indoor attractions such as museums and historical sites. The weather can be quite wet and windy, which may limit some outdoor activities, but the charm of A Coruña persists through its warm hospitality and vibrant culinary scene. Winter is also a great time to experience traditional Galician cuisine in the comfort of its many inviting restaurants and cafes.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 12°C 57°F
- February 13°C 58°F
- March 14°C 62°F
- April 17°C 65°F
- May 18°C 68°F
- June 20°C 72°F
- July 23°C 77°F
- August 22°C 75°F
- September 22°C 74°F
- October 19°C 70°F
- November 15°C 62°F
- December 13°C 59°F
How to get to La Coruna
Getting to Coruña by air
The main airport serving Coruña is A Coruña Airport (LCG), located about 8 kilometers from the city center. It offers regular domestic flights to and from Madrid and Barcelona, as well as seasonal international connections. From the airport, you can reach the city easily by taxi, bus, or rental car within 15 to 20 minutes. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to La Coruna on Booking.com.
Getting to Coruña by train
Coruña is well-connected by rail, situated on the major northwestern railway line of Spain. Trains run frequently from key cities such as Madrid, Santiago de Compostela, and Vigo to Coruña's main station, A Coruña-San Cristóbal. High-speed and regional trains provide comfortable and efficient travel, making train travel a convenient option for visiting the city. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Getting to Coruña by Car
Driving to Coruña is straightforward, with the city accessible via the AP-9 motorway that connects it to other major cities in Galicia and northern Spain. Well-maintained highways make road travel comfortable, and parking options are available near the city center, though driving in the narrow historic streets can be challenging. Renting a car is a good choice if you want to explore the surrounding region at your own pace. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Travelling around Coruña
Getting around Coruña is easy thanks to its compact size. The city is walkable, especially around the historic center and waterfront areas. For longer distances, the local bus network covers most neighborhoods and nearby suburbs efficiently. Taxis are also widely available, and bike rentals offer a great way to explore the scenic coastline and parks.


