Destinations > Spain > Galicia

Galicia

Spain's rugged north-western coast and the Galician language (similar to Portuguese) are two features associated with Galicia. However the region's main drawcard is one of the country's most beautiful cities - Santiago de Compostella - which attracts thousands of travellers from around the world.

Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is the highlight of any trip to Spain and worth to the trip to Galicia. The cathedral is the main attraction however the is plenty more to see and just wandering among the narrow streets of the old town is enough to make the trip worthwhile.

The city is centred around the boroque Cathedral del Apóstol which dates from the 11th century and is situated on Praza do Obradoiro in the old town.

Religion has played an important role in the city's development and most of the other major attractions have a religious theme including several impressive monasteries and convents. However most travellers will prefer just hanging out at many of Santiago de Compostella's fine squares and plazas.

Practical Information

Santiago de Compostella Tourist Information Centre

Praza de Galicia, Santiago de Compostela

Tel (981) 573990

American Express/Ultratur

Avenida Figueroa, Santiago de Compostela

Tel (981) 58 70 00

Accommodation

Albergue Monte do Gozo

Rúa do Gozo 18, 15891 Santiago de Compostela
Tel 981 558 942

Meiga Backpackers

Rúa Fuente de San Antonio 25, Santiago de Compostela
Tel 981 57 08 46

Vigo

Galicia's largest city doesn't have much to offer the traveller, although many people come here to change trains enroute between Santiago de Compostella and destinations in Portugal.

Despite many travellers shooting through and seeing no more than the train station, Vigo does have a pleasant old town situated about a kilometre west of the train station as well as a castle which overlooks the city from Parque do Castro.

Practical Information

Vigo Tourist Information Centre

Muelle de Trasatlábticos, Estación Marítima, Vigo

Tel (986) 43 05 77

Praza de España, Vigo

Tel (986) 43 05 77

Praza da Estación, Vigo

Tel (986) 43 05 77

American Express/Ultratur

Calle Cánovas del Castillo 5

Tel (986) 43 44 05

Accommodation

Albergue Residencia Juvenil Altamar

Rúa de Cesáreo González 4, 36210 Vigo
Tel 986 290 808