Complete Guide to Galicia (2025)

Galicia is located at the northwest tip of Spain. This Atlantic coastal region enjoys a temperate climate and adequate rainfall, making it the greenest region in Spain. The population is mainly concentrated along the coast and in the major port cities of Vigo and A Coruña. Vigo is notable as the largest fishing port in Europe and an industrial hub, known for shipbuilding and car manufacturing.

Outside the urban areas, Galicia features a dramatic rocky coastline, with fjord-like inlets on the western side and a less indented northern coast. Inland, Galicia is a relatively poor agricultural region, characterized by small farms, hilly and rocky terrain, and dense forests in many areas.

Galicia and Asturias, like Brittany, Wales, and Ireland, belong to Europe’s Celtic fringe, sharing cultural traditions such as the use of bagpipes.

Cities of Galicia

Vigo

CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman

Vigo is a city and municipality located along the Atlantic Ocean in the province of Pontevedra, Galicia, northwest Spain. It serves as the capital of the county of Vigo and the Vigo metropolitan area. Vigo is the most populous municipality in Galicia and the 14th largest in Spain, notable for being the most populous Spanish municipality that is not a provincial capital. Covering an area of 109.06 km², Vigo had a population of 292,817 in 2016. According to the National Statistics Institute of Spain, the city itself has 198,537 inhabitants, with the remaining population living in rural and suburban areas within its parishes, making it the Spanish municipality with the highest percentage of rural population.

Situated in the southwest of Galicia, in the southern part of Vigo Bay, the city is located in one of Europe’s rainiest regions. Vigo borders the municipality of Redondela to the northeast, Mos to the east, O Porriño and Gondomar to the south, and Nigrán to the southwest. Across the bay lie the municipalities of Cangas and Moaña, all part of the southern Galician region known as Rías Baixas. Vigo is just north of the Portuguese border, with its nearest major city being Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal and a key urban center in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula.

Vigo and its metropolitan area are significant economic drivers for the region.

View our Vigo Guide

A Coruña

A Coruña is a city and municipality in Galicia, Spain. It is the most populous city and the second most populous municipality in the autonomous community, ranking seventeenth in the country overall. The city serves as the capital of the province of the same name and was the political capital of the Kingdom of Galicia from the 16th to the 19th centuries. It also functioned as the regional administrative center between 1833 and 1982 before being succeeded by Santiago de Compostela.

A Coruña is a bustling port situated on a promontory in the Golfo Ártabro, a large gulf on the Atlantic Ocean. It is the main industrial and financial hub of northern Galicia and is home to the headquarters of the Universidade da Coruña.

View our A Coruña Guide

Ourense

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Victor Hermida Prada

Stretching along the banks of the river Miño is the city of Ourense, which maintains its traditional connection to the river through its iconic Roman bridge. A historic crossroads, the Old City preserves many significant sites, with the Cathedral standing out among them. The Miño River, which flows through the heart of the city, has shaped the provincial capital’s current appearance. Nearly two thousand years ago, the Romans settled in this area, drawn by its thermal springs among other attractions. The best-preserved relic from that era is “a ponte vella” (the Old Bridge), which spans the Miño and has become a symbol of the city. While some ashlar stones at the base are remnants of the original Roman construction, the bridge was restored in the 13th and 17th centuries, resulting in its current form featuring a pointed arch and ramps.

View our Ourense Guide

Santiago de Compostela

For centuries, thousands of pilgrims have journeyed along the Way of Saint James each year, ultimately arriving at the capital of Galicia and entering the iconic Cathedral. Tradition holds that this cathedral houses the relics of James the Apostle, discovered in the 9th century.

However, Santiago de Compostela is not just a city for pilgrims; it offers a wealth of attractions for all travelers. Enjoy the countless restaurants and bars serving Galicia’s delicious seafood, explore the UNESCO World Heritage old town center, and experience daring contemporary art. This city seamlessly blends its rich history with a vibrant, modern atmosphere, offering plenty to see and do.

View our Santiago de Compostela Guide

History of Galicia

Prehistoric Times in Galicia

The Galicia region has a rich prehistoric history, with evidence of early human habitation dating back to the Paleolithic era. The region is known for its ancient megalithic structures, such as the castros (hillforts), which were built by the Celtic people. These fortifications, like the Castro de Baroña, served as both defensive structures and centers of social organization. Throughout the Bronze Age, the Celtic tribes developed a distinct culture, heavily influencing the region’s architecture, language, and customs, which continue to play a role in modern-day Galicia.

The Galicia Region in the Roman Period

The Romans arrived in the Galicia region in the 1st century BCE, incorporating it into the Roman province of Gallaecia. The Romans introduced advanced agricultural techniques, the construction of roads, and the development of cities. Braga (then Bracara Augusta) became a key Roman settlement. While the Romans did not fully conquer the mountainous interior, they established coastal cities and trading posts, such as Tarraco and Lucus Augusti (modern Lugo), and introduced Roman law, infrastructure, and culture.

The Roman legacy in Galicia can still be seen in several ancient roads and cities. The Roman walls of Lugo, which are well-preserved and still visible today, are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Roman influence also introduced wine production and further shaped the region’s cultural and economic development.

The Galicia Region in the Early Middle Ages

After the fall of the Roman Empire, Galicia became part of the Visigothic Kingdom. In the early Middle Ages, it was an important center of Christian monasticism and religious influence. By the 8th century, the Moors had begun their invasion of the Iberian Peninsula, but Galicia remained largely outside of their control, serving as a base for Christian resistance.

In the 9th century, the discovery of the tomb of St. James (Santiago) in Santiago de Compostela led to the establishment of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, which turned the region into one of the most significant centers of Christian pilgrimage in Europe. This marked the beginning of Galicia’s spiritual and cultural renaissance during the Middle Ages.

The Galicia Region in the High Middle Ages

During the High Middle Ages, Galicia became part of the Kingdom of León and later the Kingdom of Castile. The Kingdom of Galicia itself had disintegrated, and the region became politically integrated with the rest of northern Spain. This period saw a flourishing of the Romanesque style in architecture, with many churches, monasteries, and cathedrals built during this time, such as the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.

The Camino de Santiago reached its peak during this era, and Galicia became a vital cultural and religious center. The region also saw economic prosperity through trade and agriculture, with the establishment of many towns and villages, some of which still retain their medieval charm today.

The Galicia Region in the Modern Era

The 16th and 17th centuries saw Galicia facing economic challenges as it struggled to compete with the rapidly growing Spanish economy in other regions. During this period, the region saw a gradual decline in political influence as Galicia became more integrated into the Spanish crown.

In the 18th century, Galicia experienced significant social changes, particularly in agriculture and industry, as new farming methods were introduced. This period also saw the development of the Atlantic trade, with Galicia’s ports playing an important role in shipping goods such as wine and fish.

The Galicia Region in the 19th Century

The 19th century was a time of political and social upheaval for Galicia, marked by the Napoleonic invasions and the Peninsular War. After Spain’s war of independence, Galicia became a key part of the newly unified Spanish state, but the region was often politically marginalized compared to other parts of Spain.

During this time, Galicia began to develop a stronger sense of regional identity, with the resurgence of Galician culture and the language. This period also saw the rise of emigration, with many Galicians leaving for the Americas in search of better economic opportunities.

The Galicia Region in the 20th Century

In the 20th century, Galicia underwent significant social and economic changes. The rise of industrialization brought economic growth to the region, particularly in the shipbuilding and fishing industries, which remain important to this day. However, the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939) left a lasting impact on the region, with many Galicians opposing the Francoist regime.

After Franco’s death, Galicia became an autonomous region in 1981, establishing its own government and institutions. The Galician language was recognized as an official language alongside Spanish, and the region has continued to celebrate its unique cultural identity.

Contemporary Galicia

Today, Galicia is known for its rich cultural heritage, its Celtic influences, and its stunning landscapes, including rugged coastlines, lush green hills, and picturesque villages. The region is also famous for its cuisine, especially seafood, and its vineyards that produce Albariño wine. Santiago de Compostela remains a significant religious and cultural destination, while Galicia continues to thrive as a modern autonomous community within Spain.

Best Time to Visit Galicia

Visiting Galicia in Spring

Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Galicia, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 16°C in March and warming up to 14°C to 20°C by May. Nights are cooler, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 9°C in March and 9°C to 13°C in May. This season offers mild weather and an abundance of greenery as the region comes to life with blooming flowers and lush landscapes, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Visiting Galicia in Summer

Summer (June to August) in Galicia brings warmer weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, particularly along the coast. Inland areas may experience higher temperatures of up to 32°C. Nights are cooler, typically ranging from 14°C to 18°C. Summer is the peak tourist season, especially for beach lovers, as the coast offers beautiful beaches with a mild climate. It’s also the perfect time for festivals like Festa de San Juan in A Coruña.

Visiting Galicia in Autumn

Autumn (September to November) is an excellent time to visit Galicia, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C in September, cooling down to 10°C to 15°C by November. Nights become cooler, ranging from 12°C to 15°C in September and dropping to 5°C to 10°C in November. This season brings fewer tourists, comfortable weather for hiking, and the vibrant colors of fall, making it ideal for exploring the region’s natural beauty and attending harvest festivals like Festa do Marisco.

Visiting Galicia in Winter

Winter (December to February) in Galicia is typically mild compared to much of Europe, with daytime temperatures averaging 8°C to 14°C. Nights can be cold, ranging from 2°C to 6°C, and there may be occasional frost in inland areas. While it’s the low season for tourism, the quiet, crisp weather is ideal for visiting cultural sites, enjoying cozy local cuisine, and exploring the region’s historic cities, like Santiago de Compostela. The winter months are also a great time to experience the region’s Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions.

Annual Weather Overview

January 9°C
February 12°C
March 14°C
April 19°C
May 23°C
June 26°C
July 30°C
August 31°C
September 26°C
October 21°C
November 13°C
December 10°C

How to get to Galicia

Getting to the Galicia Region by Air

The Galicia region is accessible via several airports, with the largest and busiest being Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ), located about 10 km from the city center of Santiago de Compostela. This airport offers both domestic and international flights, particularly from major European cities. It is a convenient entry point for travelers arriving in the region and those planning to explore the Camino de Santiago.

Vigo Airport (VGO), located approximately 9 km from the city of Vigo, is another important airport in Galicia, offering domestic flights as well as some international connections. This airport is ideal for travelers heading to the southern part of the region and the Rías Baixas coastal area.

A Coruña Airport (LCG), about 8 km from A Coruña, also serves the region with domestic flights, mainly to major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. It provides convenient access to the northern parts of Galicia, including the Costa da Morte.

Getting Around the Galicia Region by Train

Galicia has a well-developed rail network, primarily operated by Renfe, which connects major cities and towns across the region. Santiago de Compostela serves as a key hub for the regional train system. Estación de Santiago is the main railway station in Santiago de Compostela, offering connections to cities like Vigo, A Coruña, and Lugo, as well as other major Spanish cities such as Madrid and Barcelona.

From A Coruña, visitors can travel to nearby towns like Ferrol, Santiago de Compostela, and Lugo. The regional train services are comfortable and efficient, offering a scenic way to explore Galicia.

Getting Around the Galicia Region by Bus

The bus network in Galicia is extensive, with services connecting Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Vigo, and other towns in the region. The Estación de Autobuses de Santiago de Compostela serves as a key hub, offering connections to surrounding towns, such as Ribeira, Vigo, and Pontevedra, as well as the Costa da Morte and rural areas.

Vigo and A Coruña also have central bus stations offering regional services. Buses are a convenient and affordable option for travelers looking to visit smaller towns or more remote locations not served by the rail network.

Getting Around the Galicia Region by Car

Renting a car is a great way to explore Galicia at your own pace, particularly if you want to visit more remote towns and natural attractions. The region is well-served by highways, including the AP-9, which connects Vigo to A Coruña and Santiago de Compostela, providing easy access to both coastal areas and inland destinations.

For example, a drive along the Rías Baixas will take you through picturesque coastal towns like Combarro and Sanxenxo, while a trip to the Rías Altas will bring you to charming villages such as Cedeira and Ortigueira. Galicia’s mountainous interior, including O Courel and Os Ancares, is best explored by car, as public transport options can be limited.

Getting Around the Galicia Region by Public Transport

In Galicia, public transport options are generally reliable within the major cities. Santiago de Compostela has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses that serve both the city center and surrounding areas. A Coruña also has an extensive bus network, covering the city and nearby towns.

For traveling to smaller towns or remote villages, buses are the most common form of public transport, especially in rural areas where train services may not be available. The Cercanías commuter train service also operates in A Coruña, offering local connections to towns like Ferrol and Santiago de Compostela.

Festivals in Galicia

Fiesta de la Virgen de la Peregrina
When: August
Where: Pontevedra
A vibrant celebration in Pontevedra honoring the Virgin of the Pilgrim, the patron saint of the town. The event features religious processions, traditional music, and dancing, drawing both locals and visitors to partake in the festivities.

Festa do Marisco
When: October
Where: O Grove
A seafood festival held in O Grove, known for its delicious shellfish dishes. Visitors can sample a wide variety of local seafood while enjoying music, dancing, and cultural performances in the scenic coastal town.

Festa de San Juan
When: June
Where: A Coruña
Celebrating the arrival of summer, Festa de San Juan in A Coruña is marked by bonfires, fireworks, and lively street parties. Locals jump over bonfires for good luck, creating a festive atmosphere along the beaches.

Carnaval de Verín
When: February
Where: Verín
One of the most important carnivals in Galicia, Carnaval de Verín is known for its colorful costumes, parades, and traditional music. The highlight of the event is the “Entrudo,” where participants throw water and flour at each other in a spirited celebration.

Romaría Vikinga de Catoira
When: August
Where: Catoira
A historical reenactment of the Viking invasions, Romaría Vikinga de Catoira in Catoira features impressive costumes, boat processions, and mock battles. The event celebrates the region’s Viking history and its coastal defenses.

Festival Internacional de Jazz de Lugo
When: July
Where: Lugo
A prestigious jazz festival in Lugo attracting international musicians and jazz lovers. The event features concerts by renowned artists, performances in various venues around the city, and a celebration of the jazz music culture.

Festa do Alvariño
When: August
Where: Cambados
This wine festival in Cambados celebrates the Albariño grape, one of Galicia’s most famous wines. The event includes tastings, vineyard tours, and cultural performances, all centered around the region’s winemaking traditions.

Semana Santa
When: April
Where: Santiago de Compostela, Ferrol, A Coruña
Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Galicia is marked by religious processions, particularly in Santiago de Compostela, Ferrol, and A Coruña. The solemn processions are accompanied by traditional music and are an important part of the region’s cultural heritage.

Festa de la Mariña
When: July
Where: Viveiro
A lively festival in Viveiro celebrating the region’s maritime culture with boat races, traditional music, and dance performances. The festival also features seafood feasts, emphasizing Galicia’s strong connection to the sea.

Festival de la Luz
When: September
Where: Boimorto
A unique music festival in Boimorto, dedicated to the celebration of music, arts, and the environment. The event features concerts, workshops, and performances, highlighting sustainable living and the vibrant culture of Galicia.