Exploring Vigo, Spain: A Traveler’s Guide
Life and history in Vigo, located in the Rias Baixas region of Galicia’s Southwest Atlantic coast, are dominated by the sea. Oyster banks provide the famous La Piedra with the freshest oysters, cruise ships dock, container ships load and unload, and elegant leisure craft sway in Vigo’s giant port, alongside a modern bridge spanning the bay. In the 17th century, Castro Fortress attempted to guard (unsuccessfully) the entrance from the Atlantic against pirates and invading nations including England, France, and even the Turks. The narrow streets and houses of Casco Vello preserve the lifestyle of fishermen and sailors, while the pristine Islas Cies are just an hour’s boat ride away in the Atlantic. All this is being watched over by a towering statue of the Virgin Mary, Maria de las Afueras, who carries a tall ship in one hand and a sextant in the other.
Stroll Around Casco Vello
Address
Casco Vello, Vigo, 36202 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
Casco Vello, or “Old Town,” consists of one- or two-story stone houses, often leaning at precarious angles towards each other. These structures are interspersed with narrow streets sloping down the hill to the old port. However, elegant townhouses also exist, creating an interesting mix of architecture. Many houses have transformed into art and craft shops, showcasing their wares attached to the exterior walls. Casco Vello has developed into a vibrant quarter, perfect for starting a night out, due to the increasing number of bars and restaurants. Locals often gather on the steps of the 19th-century church of Santa Maria.
Discover History in the Castro Fortress
Address
Paseo Cronista Xosé M. Álvarez Blázquez, 16, Freixeiro, 36203 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
Phone: +34 986 81 01 00
The fortress, built in 1665 to defend against attacks from the English Navy and Portugal, sits atop the now-disappeared ancient city walls. Frequently under siege, it was finally reclaimed by the citizens of Vigo in 1809. Climbing up to the castle offers splendid views of the city, the port, and even the distant Islas Cies. Within the castle complex, lovely gardens adorned with Galicia’s national flower, the camellia, bloom in various colors.
Sail Off to Islas Cíes
Islas Cíes is an uninhabited archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, situated opposite the Vigo estuary. This stunning destination boasts a rugged cliff landscape in the west and serene, long white beaches in the east. Playa de Rodas, one of these beaches, is often hailed as one of the best in the world. Importantly, no cars are permitted on the islands, and environmental conservation is prioritized. This makes it an ideal day trip, departing by ferry from the terminal in Vigo. Clearly marked and color-coded hiking paths lead along the cliffs to a lighthouse at the farthest point, offering both challenging and easy routes. It’s also a fantastic spot for families seeking a swim or sunbathing. There are no hotels available, but a small coffee shop near the pier caters to visitors, along with a campsite that rents tents and sleeping bags for those who wish to stay overnight.
Visit the Museum of the Sea
Address
Av. da Atlántida, 160, 36208 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
Phone: +34 986 24 77 50
Vigo’s Museum of the Sea is located in a repurposed canned food factory, showcasing a striking modern design. The museum focuses on fishery and all activities related to the sea, particularly the ecosystem of the Rias Baixas. An aquarium and numerous explanatory videos enhance the experience. The museum is currently involved in underwater heritage research, aiming to eventually house all recovered shipwrecks of Galicia, particularly those lost along the notorious Coast of Death.
Slurp Oysters at La Piedra
Address
Praza da Pedra, 36202 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
Phone: +34 650 53 18 39
With a multitude of oyster beds at its doorstep, it’s no surprise that oysters are Vigo’s signature dish. The most enjoyable way to sample these delicacies is at the vibrant stalls in La Piedra, part of the port. You can grab a plate, visit various stalls to make your selection, and sit down at rustic chairs and tables to enjoy your feast. Squeeze some lemon juice over them and slurp away! For those who prefer cooked oysters, several cozy restaurants behind the stalls offer such options.
Understand Modern Art in MARCO
Address
Museo de Arte Contemporánea de Vigo, Rúa do Príncipe, 54, Santiago de Vigo, 36202 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
Phone: +34 986 11 39 00
MARCO, short for Museum of Contemporary Art, deserves a visit for two primary reasons: it resides in a former courthouse and prison located at the city’s heart, and it does not maintain a permanent exhibition. Innovation and flexibility are prioritized, which allows the museum to present diverse shows, cultural events, workshops, and temporary exhibits. The glass roofs create a striking contrast with the building’s austere façade.
Samil’s Beach
Samil’s Beach is among Galicia’s longest and most popular, boasting over 5,000 feet of ocean frontage. Known for its beautiful sandy shores, it provides ample leisure facilities as well as a promenade that offers magnificent views of the city and the distant Islas Cies. The region experiences substantial rainfall contributing to its lush vegetation; however, there are delightfully warm summer days perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Marvel at Ensanche
Address
Tr.º Santiago de Vigo, 1, Santiago de Vigo, 36201 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
Ensanche represents the most elegant district in Vigo. During the 19th century, wealth stemming from the canning industry allowed affluent entrepreneurs to construct fabulous Belle Époque townhouses that line the pedestrian streets of Ensanche and the leafy Alameda Park.
Take a Harbor Tour Around Vigo Bay
If time does not permit a trip to Islas Cíes, a harbor tour offers an excellent opportunity to experience the Atlantic, view the bustling port, enjoy the Vigo skyline, and admire the monumental bridge. This excursion is shorter than the ferry ride to Islas Cies but still provides wonderful photo opportunities.
Watch Over the Sailors with Maria de las Afueras
A few miles further south, near the border with Portugal, lies the small seaside resort of Baiona. A medieval structure known as Castelo de Montereal stands on a peninsula, currently serving as a scenic parador with enchanting gardens. On the mountainside, a colossal statue of the Virgin Mary, Maria de las Afueras, serves as the patron and protector of all sailors and fishermen. She gracefully holds a tall ship in her extended hand, accessible for visitors to climb.
Moreover, a replica of the Pinta, one of the three caravels in which Columbus embarked on his voyage in 1493, can be found in the small port. Visiting this site provides an engaging glimpse into the life aboard such a modest ship, showcasing the experiences of valiant explorers.
