2026 Galicia Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

[Pontedeume during the festival🤹] Have you heard of Pontedeume? It's located in the province of La Coruña, in the autonomous community of Galicia, Spain! When I visited, a festival was taking place in the main street, selling handicrafts made by local artisans :)🧸🎎 And since it's a local festival, food was a must! You'll find buskers, delicious snacks, and cozy bars all over the streets. And that means there are tons of people :) For reference, I visited in mid-July! If you want to experience a fun festival in the hot summer, come visit!🔥 #SpainTravel #Spain #TravelDestinationOfLife #2019Travel #VacationTravel #SafeTravel #CityTravel

#mediterraneanvibes Perched in the scenic landscapes of Galicia, Spain, the Miradoiro de A Peneda is a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the rugged Atlantic coastline. From here, visitors are rewarded with sweeping vistas of cliffs, rolling hills, and the endless ocean horizon. It’s a peaceful escape that captures the raw beauty of northern Spain. The spot is perfect for photography, quiet reflection, or simply enjoying the changing colors of the sea and sky. Its unspoiled setting makes it a favorite among nature lovers seeking less crowded destinations 📍 Location: Galicia, Spain 🕒 Best Time to Visit: Sunset for dramatic skies and golden reflections on the water 💡 Tips: • Bring a camera — the panorama is unforgettable. • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. • Combine your visit with nearby coastal villages for a full Galician experience. #Galicia #SpainTravel #HiddenGems #AtlanticViews #NatureEscape#localguides #travel #historicallandmarks

#holidayitinerary Vigo is a lively coastal city that effortlessly combines urban energy with seaside beauty. The bustling port and marina are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby Cíes Islands. The old town is full of character, with narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant squares where locals gather to enjoy tapas and lively conversation. Vigo’s culinary scene is a true highlight, especially its fresh seafood and traditional Galician dishes that are both flavorful and authentic. Parks and promenades along the coastline provide relaxing spots to soak in the sea breeze or watch the sunset. For nature lovers, nearby beaches and scenic viewpoints make it easy to escape the city without traveling far. Whether exploring cultural sites, enjoying local flavors, or taking in stunning coastal views, Vigo in Galicia offers a delightful mix of relaxation and urban charm.

#holidayitinerary Ferrol is a fascinating city in Galicia that offers a mix of maritime history, charming streets, and scenic coastal views. Walking through the city, you’ll notice impressive naval architecture, historic buildings, and wide avenues that reflect its rich past as an important naval port. The harbor area is lively, with boats and ships providing a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely stroll. Exploring the old town reveals quaint squares, local cafes, and artisan shops where you can sample traditional Galician snacks and enjoy the friendly atmosphere. Nearby parks and promenades offer peaceful spots to relax and take in the sea breeze. Ferrol’s mix of history, culture, and natural beauty makes casual exploration rewarding, with each corner offering a glimpse into the city’s unique character. From scenic waterfronts to historic streets, Ferrol provides a relaxed yet engaging experience in the heart of Galicia.

#holidayitinerary Lugo is a captivating city in Galicia that effortlessly blends history with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Walking around the city, the most striking feature is the intact Roman walls that completely encircle the old town. Strolling along the top of the walls gives a unique perspective of the city and its charming streets filled with cafes, shops, and historic buildings. The old town is perfect for a casual exploration, with narrow lanes opening onto quaint squares and beautiful churches that showcase Lugo’s rich heritage. The local gastronomy is another highlight, with traditional Galician dishes and fresh tapas available in cozy eateries. Parks and riverside paths provide peaceful spots to rest and enjoy the surroundings. Lugo’s combination of ancient history, vibrant culture, and relaxed pace makes it a delightful destination for visitors looking to explore Galicia in a casual and memorable way.

#summervacay Muros is one of those sleepy little Galician towns that totally sneaks up on you with its charm. It’s all narrow stone streets, old-timey buildings with wooden balconies, and a chill marina that feels straight out of a painting. You can just wander around aimlessly and somehow every corner looks cuter than the last. There’s a super relaxed vibe here, locals having coffee in tiny plazas, seagulls doing their thing, and seafood smells floating out of family run restaurants. If you’re into fresh pulpo or razor clams, this is your kind of place. The waterfront’s perfect for an easy walk, and you might even catch some fishermen doing their thing with zero rush. It’s not flashy or packed with stuff to “do,” but that’s kind of the magic. Just slow down, breathe in the salty air, and enjoy the simple things. Perfect for a mellow day by the sea. Bring comfy shoes, a camera, and a good appetite, you’re gonna want to eat everything.

#summervacay Garita de Herbeira is one of those spots where you roll up, step out of the car, and instantly go “okay, wow.” It’s way up high on the cliffs of A Coruña, and the views are just next level. You’re standing on one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, and the drop is no joke. It’s dramatic, wild, and super peaceful all at once. There’s this cute little stone lookout building, nothing fancy, but it’s got vibes. The wind up there can be intense (like, hat snatching intense), but that just makes it feel even more raw and real. You’ll see endless green hills behind you and crazy ocean cliffs in front of you. Absolute dream for anyone who loves big open landscapes. Not many people around, which is awesome. No shops or anything, just you, the wind, and the view. Perfect place to breathe, take a hundred photos, or just sit and zone out. Bring a jacket and prepare to be impressed.

#summervacay Faro de Cabo Ortegal is one of those “whoa” spots where you just wanna park yourself and stare at the ocean for way too long. Sitting at the tip of northern Galicia, this lighthouse is perched right on the edge of some seriously dramatic cliffs, with waves crashing below and nothing but sea ahead. It honestly feels like the end of the world, but in a peaceful, epic kind of way. The drive up is gorgeous, super green and twisty, and then suddenly there’s the lighthouse, just chilling like it’s guarding the whole coast. The wind up there is no joke, so bring a jacket unless you wanna become a kite. But man, the views are wild. You can see massive rock formations, endless ocean, and even the meeting point of the Atlantic and the Cantabrian Sea. Not much to “do” there except take it all in, and that’s kinda the whole point. Totally worth the trip for some serious nature awe.

#summervacay Punta de Sarridal is one of those quiet little coastal spots that totally surprise you. Tucked away near Cedeira, this place is all about dramatic cliffs, chill walking trails, and that salty Atlantic breeze that just clears your head. There’s not a lot of crowds, which makes it feel even more special, like you just stumbled onto a secret part of Galicia. The walk there is easy and super peaceful, with grassy paths and views that go on forever. If you’re into ancient stuff, there are some ruins and an old castro (Celtic hillfort) that give the area some cool history vibes too. Plus, the cliffs and ocean below are just wow. Bring a snack and chill out on a rock while watching the waves crash, seriously, it’s so relaxing. Great for a quick nature fix, quiet thinking time, or just soaking in that wild Galician beauty. Punta de Sarridal may be low-key, but it definitely leaves a mark.

#summervacay Walking the Camino a San Andrés de Teixido is part chill nature hike, part spiritual little adventure. This path leads you through lush green hills, misty forest patches, and amazing views of the rugged Galician coast. It’s not super hard, but you’ll definitely want comfy shoes because it’s a bit of a climb in spots. Locals say “who doesn’t go while alive will go dead” which sounds spooky, but it adds a fun bit of myth to the journey. San Andrés de Teixido is this tiny whitewashed village tucked into the cliffs, with a super cute old chapel and a peaceful vibe that totally makes the walk feel worth it. Along the way, you’ll spot wildflowers, roaming horses, and a whole lot of sky and sea. It’s peaceful, kinda magical, and has just the right touch of mystery. If you’re near Cedeira, taking this path to San Andrés is a refreshing escape into nature and legend.

#summervacay Garita de Herbeira feels like the edge of the world. It’s one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, and when you’re standing there, with the wind in your face and the Atlantic stretching out forever, it’s seriously wild. The old stone lookout building gives it a cool historic vibe, but the real star here is the view. You’ve got green hills rolling behind you and a sheer drop down to crashing waves below. On a clear day, it feels endless. On a foggy one, it’s moody and dramatic in the best way. It’s the kind of place where you just stand still for a while and let the scenery sink in. It’s a bit of a drive to get up there, with winding roads through beautiful countryside, but totally worth it. There’s not much else around, so bring snacks, water, and maybe a hoodie, it's windy up there! If you’re anywhere near A Coruña, Garita de Herbeira is a must for big nature energy.

#summervacay Mirador de Monteferro in Nigrán is one of those spots that makes you stop and say “whoa” without even thinking about it. The views from the top are just insane, you get a full on panoramic look at the ocean, the Cíes Islands in the distance, and endless green hills rolling down to the coast. It’s the kind of place where everything feels calm and wide open. The walk up is pretty easy, with trails that wind through pine trees and open fields. Super peaceful, and the smell of the sea in the air just adds to the chill vibes. Once you reach the top, there’s a big monument and tons of space to just sit, snack, or lay back and watch the clouds go by. It’s not super crowded, so you can actually enjoy the silence and nature. Definitely bring a camera or at least your phone because the views are unreal. If you’re in Pontevedra and want a laid back nature escape, Monteferro totally delivers.

#summervacay Monte Muralla is one of those spots that’s super easy to miss but totally worth checking out if you’re into quiet hikes and big views. The trail is pretty mellow, just enough uphill to get your legs moving without killing your vibe. Along the way, it’s all green hills, scattered rocks, and that fresh Galician air that just makes you feel good. Once you hit the top, amazing views in every direction. You’ve got the coastline on one side and endless countryside on the other. It’s the kind of place where you just wanna sit down, snack on something, and stare into the distance for a while. There’s also some old ruins and stone walls scattered around, giving it a bit of that ancient mystery feel. Not many people around either, which makes it feel like your own little secret mountaintop. No shops or anything up there, so bring water and snacks. If you’re near A Coruña and want a peaceful nature break, Monte Muralla is a win.

#summervacay The natural pools in A Pobra do Caramiñal are such a hidden little paradise. Tucked away in the middle of nature, these crystal-clear rock pools are fed by a mountain stream, and the water is super fresh (like, really cold but in a good way). It’s the perfect spot to cool off on a hot day and just vibe out with the sound of water flowing all around you. There’s a short and super chill walk through the forest to get there, with wooden bridges and shaded trails that make it feel like you’re in a fairytale. Once you reach the pools, you can dip your toes in, take a refreshing plunge, or just hang out on the rocks and soak up the sun. It’s not crowded, not fancy, just pure nature and calm energy. Bring snacks, a towel, and maybe a pair of water shoes if you’re not into slippery rocks. If you’re around A Coruña and want a cool off-the-radar experience, this place is perfect.

#summervacay Castro de Baroña is seriously one of the coolest places to explore if you're into history with a view. It's this ancient Celtic settlement right on the edge of the sea, like literally built into the rocks above the water. You walk out along a dirt trail, and suddenly you're in the middle of these old stone circles and walls that have been chilling there for over 2,000 years. The views are unreal, waves crashing, cliffs all around, and the Atlantic just doing its thing in the background. It’s super easy to imagine how wild it must’ve been to live there back in the day. The whole spot has this peaceful, slightly mysterious vibe. No entrance fee, no fences, just pure open-air history. There’s not much nearby in terms of food or drinks, so definitely bring water and maybe a snack if you’re planning to hang out a bit. It’s raw, scenic, and a perfect mix of old and epic. Total hidden gem in A Coruña.

#summervacay Playa das Furnas is one of those beaches that feels wild and totally free. You’ve got this long stretch of soft sand, big Atlantic waves rolling in, and this awesome untamed vibe that makes you wanna just breathe deeper and forget your phone exists. It’s not your typical packed beach scene, more like a peaceful slice of coast where nature does all the showing off. The best part? It’s got these little rocky spots and tide pools that are fun to explore when the water’s low. You might even spot a surfer or two riding the waves, because yep, this spot is kind of a local favorite for that. It’s super open and breezy, with pine trees lining the back and no big buildings in sight. Bring your own stuff, snacks, water, towel, because it’s more about the natural vibe than beach bars and umbrellas. If you’re into wild beauty, salty air, and space to just be, Playa das Furnas totally hits the spot.

#summervacay Monte Tahume is one of those low-key hikes that totally delivers on the views without making you suffer too much. It’s not a super intense climb, but once you get to the top, you’re hit with these wide open panoramas of the Ría de Arousa, the Atlantic, and tons of green rolling hills. Total wow moment. The path is pretty chill and easy to follow, winding through pine trees and quiet trails. It smells like nature in the best way and the breeze up there feels amazing, especially on a hot day. There’s even a lookout platform near the top where you can just stop, breathe, and soak it all in. Not a super touristy spot either, which makes it feel kind of special, like your own little nature escape. No cafés or shops nearby, so pack water and maybe a snack. Whether you’re into hiking or just want a peaceful spot with killer views, Monte Tahume is totally worth checking out.

#summervacay Praia do Vilar near Riveira is one of those beaches that feels like a secret, even though it’s not that hard to get to. It’s tucked inside a natural park, so you’ve got wild dunes, pine forests, and zero buildings messing up the view. Just sand, sea, and sky for days. The beach is long and super clean, with soft golden sand and a chill vibe that makes it perfect for slow walks or just laying out with a book. The waves are usually gentle, but you still get that refreshing Atlantic breeze. If you wander a bit, you’ll find smaller hidden coves nearby too. There’s not much in the way of shops or restaurants right on the beach, which honestly adds to the peaceful feeling. Bring your own snacks, water, and maybe a towel, and you’re set. It’s all about switching off and soaking up the natural beauty. Praia do Vilar is simple, quiet, and totally dreamy.

#summervacay Praia de Boca do Río in Carnota is the kind of beach that makes you forget what time it is. It’s wide, open, and totally peaceful with soft sand that just seems to go on forever. There’s this cool little river mouth (hence the name) that flows into the sea, and it makes the whole place feel super unique, perfect mix of beach and nature. You can take a slow stroll along the shore, splash around in the shallow water, or just lay out and listen to the waves. The mountains in the background give it that extra wow factor, and if you go in the late afternoon, the light is unreal. There’s not much nearby in terms of cafés or shops, so bring your own snacks and drinks if you plan on staying a while. It’s calm, not crowded, and has that untouched, wild Galician feel. If you’re into quiet beaches with a ton of space and amazing views, this one’s a winner.

#summervacay Punta da Frouxeira in Valdoviño is all about raw nature and seriously dramatic ocean vibes. The cliffs are steep, rugged, and just plain awesome. Waves crash like crazy against the rocks, and the sound alone is enough to clear your head. There’s a lighthouse standing tall out there too, looking cool and kind of mysterious against all the wild surroundings. The walk out to the point is easy, and the views get better with every step. It’s super windy up there, so bring a jacket even if it’s sunny. But wow, the combo of sea, sky, and cliffs is just next level. Great place for photos, or just to sit and zone out while the Atlantic does its thing. Not much around in terms of shops or cafés, so pack water or snacks if you wanna hang out for a while. It’s peaceful, powerful, and totally worth the visit if you’re road tripping around A Coruña. Pure Galician coast magic.

#mediterranean 📍 Costa Atlântica, Western Seaboard of Continental Portugal — stretching from the northern Minho coast to the wild cliffs of the Alentejo and beyond The Atlantic Coast of Portugal is not just a line between land and sea — it’s a place of elemental beauty, where winds sculpt dunes, waves carve cliffs, and small towns cling to the shoreline with quiet strength. From the pine-scented beaches of Esposende to the golden sands of Comporta, every stop holds its own rhythm. This coast is less about glamour and more about depth — fishing villages, stone fortresses, weathered lighthouses, and stretches of untouched beach where time slows down. You’ll hear the Atlantic before you see it, feel its salt in the air, and carry its presence with you long after you leave. 🧭 Tips for Visitors: • Spring and late summer offer warm light, fewer crowds, and soft winds • Ideal for surfers, nature seekers, and soulful wanderers • Don’t miss Arrifana, Zambujeira do Mar, Figueira da Foz, or the wild Vicentine Coast • Eat fresh-caught seafood by the shore — grilled sardines, octopus, or caldeirada • Travel slowly — the coast is meant to be felt, not rushed #CostaAtlantica #WildPortugal #AtlanticSoul #WhereLandEnds #PortugueseCoastline #HiddenBeachesPortugal #OceanAndStone #SlowTravelPortugal#localguides #familytrip #海岛游 #trip

#summervacay Wandering around Pontevedra in Galicia is like flipping through an old storybook… but with coffee shops. The architecture here? Total eye candy. Think cute stone buildings, charming balconies, and those little archways you just wanna walk through 50 times for no reason. The old town is where it’s at, super walkable, no cars zooming past, just cobbled streets and historic buildings doing their thing. You’ve got baroque churches, medieval vibes, and even some modern touches that somehow don’t feel out of place. One minute you're staring at the iconic Church of La Peregrina with its cool scallop shell shape, and the next you're in a sunny plaza sipping café con leche surrounded by gorgeous façades. It’s low-key magical. The whole city feels like it was made for slow strolls and random photo stops. Pontevedra doesn’t scream “look at me!”, it’s more like a quiet flex. Architecture fans and wanderers alike will be obsessed.

#summervacay Okay, let’s talk about Parque Natural Monte Aloia, just outside Tui in Pontevedra, Galicia. This place is like a big green hug from nature. You roll up the hill and suddenly, you’re surrounded by pine trees, fresh mountain air, and these lookout points that’ll make your jaw drop. The hiking trails are super chill, some easy loops, some a bit more uphill if you wanna get your steps in. And the views? You can see the Miño River and even across the border into Portugal. Not too shabby, right? There’s this cute little chapel up there too, and ruins from an old settlement if you're into that ancient vibe. Pack a picnic because there are spots that are just begging for a snack break with a view. It’s not packed with tourists, which makes it even better. Just peace, trees, and those “wow” views. If you’re in southern Galicia and need a nature fix, Monte Aloia is the move.

#summervacay Vigo, baby! This coastal gem in Galicia’s Pontevedra province totally surprised me, in the best way. It’s got that perfect mix of city buzz and seaside chill. One second you’re walking past modern shops and cute cafés, the next you’re staring at the Atlantic with fresh seafood in your hand. The old town (Casco Vello) is super charming, with narrow streets and cozy vibes. I legit got lost in the best way possible. Oh, and the seafood? Insane. Oysters straight from the market, grilled octopus, the whole deal. If you’re into beaches, Samil Beach is a short ride away and it’s got everything, views, soft sand, and even a few beach bars if you’re feeling fancy. Plus, there are ferries to the Cíes Islands, which are actual paradise. Honestly, Vigo isn’t super flashy, but it’s real, relaxed, and totally underrated. Perfect spot for wandering, snacking, and just soaking up that Galician coast energy.

#summervacay Tucked away in the heart of Galicia’s Lugo province, A Devesa da Rogueira feels like something out of a fantasy movie. I’m talking mossy trees, bubbling springs, waterfalls, and trails that twist through thick, enchanted forest. It's part of the O Courel mountains, and honestly, the moment you step in, it’s like the air gets cleaner and time slows down. The best part? It’s not super touristy. You might bump into a few hikers, but for the most part, it’s peaceful and quiet, just you and nature doing its thing. The trails can get a bit steep, but the views? Absolutely worth it. And the biodiversity here is wild. Trees you’ve never heard of, birds singing like they’re in a choir, and maybe even a fox or two if you're lucky. Bring water, comfy shoes, and a snack, because once you’re in, you’ll want to stay for hours. Nature lovers, this one’s a gem. Total forest fairytale.

#summervacay Lugo is one of those underrated towns that totally sneaks up on you. Like, you come for the Roman walls (which are super cool, btw) and end up staying for the vibes. The whole town is wrapped in this ancient stone wall you can actually walk on, full 360º views of the city and super peaceful, especially at sunset. Inside the walls, the old town is all narrow lanes, cute cafés, and a mix of chill locals and students doing their thing. It’s not super touristy, which makes it feel really authentic. Plus, tapas are often free when you order a drink (bless Galicia). There’s also a gorgeous cathedral, leafy parks, and some Roman ruins if you're feeling a bit history-nerdy. But mostly, Lugo is about slowing down, wandering aimlessly, and soaking up the relaxed small-town energy. It’s not flashy, but it’s got charm for days. If you’re into quiet corners, stone streets, and good vibes, Lugo totally delivers. 🧱🍷🌿

#summervacay Santiago de Compostela is one of those towns that just feels special the second you arrive. It’s got that cozy, lived-in energy, like it’s been quietly watching the world go by for centuries. The old town is all cobblestone streets, arched alleyways, and buildings with mossy walls that somehow make everything feel extra magical. You don’t need a map here, just wander. Every turn has a cute café, a tiny plaza with a fountain, or some street performer playing mellow tunes. And the weather? Moody in the best way. Drizzly, cloudy, sometimes sunny, but it totally fits the vibe. Locals are super chill, and the mix of students, pilgrims, and travelers makes it feel really alive without being chaotic. You’ve got cozy tapas bars, little shops with handmade stuff, and that calm, quiet energy that makes you wanna slow down. It’s not just a stop, it’s a place that kinda hugs your soul. Total comfort town.

#summervacay Okay, so everyone talks about the big cathedral in Santiago de Compostela (and yeah, it’s epic), but this little city’s got more than one holy hangout. Wander just a bit and you’ll stumble into lesser-known churches and mini-cathedrals that are honestly super cool in their own quiet way. Places like Igrexa de San Fiz or the Monastery of San Martín Pinario feel like secret gems. Fewer crowds, more space to soak it all in. They’ve got that old stone, candle-lit, mysterious vibe, and some seriously beautiful altars and ceilings if you bother to look up (you should). The best part? These spots are peaceful. No big tours, no loud cameras clicking, just soft footsteps and old wood creaking under your shoes. It’s like stepping into the past without the chaos. So yeah, don’t just stop at the main cathedral. Santiago’s full of low-key spiritual corners waiting to be discovered. Slow down, take a peek, and enjoy the quiet magic.