Vigo
- Address:Vigo, Spain
- Admission:Free
Vigo, at around 300,000 people, is the most populous city in Galicia, and the 14th-most populous city in Spain. Its colorful history dates back to Roman times, and its bay has been the theater for a number of historic naval battles.
In modern times, however, Vigo is a bustling center of Galician culture. While it has its share of historical sites and several 12th-century churches, Vigo is also home to the Museum of Contemporary Art, and a number of important movements in Spanish music and film. Following the fall of Francisco Franco, a burgeoning punk and pop music scene sprang up in Galicia, and live music is still a popular part of Vigo's nightlife.
As a port city, Vigo's culture has a certain maritime flavor, and city events often center on the sea. The Lower Rias (estuaries) foster competitive nautical sports, and regatas are popular draws.
Also of note are Castelos Park and the gardens of the Palace of Quinones of Leon Leon. Vigo is not as well known for historic monuments as other Galician municipalities, but in addition to the aforementioned palace, the city is also framed by fortress walls.
Latest Reviews All Vigo Reviews »
Well timed,excellent guide. I will recommend to my friends.The only minor thing is that pick up in Compostela hotel is not available as advertised. Continue Reading »
The tour was well organized and the tour guide was very knowledgeable and pleasant. Everything was well planned out. I wish we had more time at each stop but it's understandable since there is so much to see in the allotted time. Very happy my family and I went on this tour. Continue Reading »
This was a splendid day out, and included (not mentioned in itinerary) a visit to a hilltop Celtic village and Mount Tecla, spectacularly overlooking the mouth of the River Minho. It is a long day, so make sure you have a relaxing morning to follow. Lunch was taken in Portugal and very good, consisting of soup, a baked cod dish topped with beautiful crisp potatoes, a dessert, coffee, water and plenty of wine. There is a little bit of walking to do, and some hilly bits and steps, so may not suite a person of lesser mobility. Scenery was magnificent on the perfectly sunny day I was lucky to have. I was the only English speaking individual on a bus full of Spanish speaking people, who were nice polite folk. One or two had some words of English, so I enjoyed their company at the table for lunch. Continue Reading »
Practical Info
Off the coast of Vigo are the Cies Islands, an archipelago of 3 islands through which the branches of a ria (estuary) wind. These islands are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, as it is a nature preserve as well as home to Rodas, The Guardian's 2007 choice for most beautiful beach in the world.
Ferries to the Cies Islands run from Vigo, and camping permits are available.
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