GALICIA
Galicia is a land of misty green hills, dramatic Atlantic coastlines, and a rich Celtic heritage distinct from the rest of Spain. This guide helps you explore Galicia’s ancient pilgrim routes, discover its legendary seafood, and experience its unique, verdant soul.
Why Visit Galicia?
The Camino de Santiago: Walk one of the world’s most famous pilgrim routes to the grand cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a journey of cultural and personal discovery.
Wild Coastlines & Islands: Discover a rugged coastline of deep estuaries and stunning beaches, from the dramatic cliffs of the Costa da Morte to the pristine Cíes Islands.
A Seafood Paradise: Indulge in some of the finest seafood in Europe, perfectly paired with the crisp, local Albariño white wines.
Smart Travel
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): This is the ideal time for the Camino de Santiago, offering comfortable walking temperatures and fewer crowds. The weather is a mix of sun and rain.
Deep Off-Season (November-March): You will find the best value and quietest experience. However, be prepared for colder, wet weather, and note that some rural or coastal services may be closed.
Peak Season (June-August): The weather is at its warmest and driest, but the Camino and major coastal towns will be very crowded with tourists and pilgrims.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
Santiago de Compostela & The Camino
The spiritual and cultural heart of Galicia, Santiago de Compostela is the end point of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. The city’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, centered around its magnificent cathedral and bustling with pilgrims and students.
Your Smart Tip: To experience the magic of the city with fewer crowds and lower costs, visit in the shoulder season. The atmosphere is still vibrant, and the lines for attractions are much shorter.
Rías Baixas & The Atlantic Coast
The “Lower Estuaries” region in southern Galicia is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, calm waters, and charming coastal towns like Vigo and Pontevedra. This area is the hub of Galicia’s famous seafood and is home to the renowned Albariño wine.
Your Smart Tip: The off-season is a great time for food and wine lovers. Many restaurants and wineries are still open, offering a more personal experience and better value.
The Costa da Morte & Northern Galicia
The “Coast of Death” is a dramatic, windswept coastline in the north known for its rugged cliffs, lighthouses, and a history of shipwrecks. This area offers a wilder, more remote feel than the southern estuaries, with authentic fishing villages and spectacular scenery.
Your Smart Tip: A car is essential for exploring this region. Visit in the shoulder season to enjoy the natural beauty without the summer crowds, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Inland Galicia & Ribeira Sacra
The interior of Galicia is a world of its own, with lush forests, rolling hills, and deep river canyons. The Ribeira Sacra region is a highlight, with vineyards carved into steep slopes along the Sil and Miño rivers.
Your Smart Tip: The deep off-season offers a truly peaceful and authentic experience. The fall foliage in the canyons is spectacular, making it a perfect time for a quiet retreat.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
The climate varies. The coast has a Mediterranean climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Inland areas have hotter summers and colder, sometimes snowy, winters. Spring and autumn are generally pleasant with occasional rain.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Greetings: Galicians are generally more reserved than people in the south of Spain. A firm handshake is a common greeting for new acquaintances.
Language: While Spanish is the official language, many people speak Galician, a language similar to Portuguese. Attempting a few phrases is a respectful gesture.
Dining: Seafood is the star of the show. It is common to eattapas standing at the bar, and many meals are communal affairs shared with friends and family.
Political Discussions: While not as sensitive as in other regions, it is best to avoid engaging in political conversations unless you know your audience well.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels ($20–$38), mid-range hotels ($70–$120), luxury ($150+).
Food: Tapas ($3–$6), fixed-price lunch menu ($12–$18), fine dining ($55+).
Transport: Car rental ($30/day), train tickets (regional), buses (local).
Activities: Santiago de Compostela Cathedral (free to enter), various hiking and walking tours (free).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $50–$80 (hostels, small plate food, buses).
- Mid-range: $90–$150 (hotels, restaurants, attractions).
- Luxury: $180+ (boutique hotels, gourmet meals, private tours).
Getting Around
By Air: The main airports are in Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, and Vigo.
By Train: A good rail network connects the major cities. The high-speed AVE line connects to Madrid.
By Car: A car is the most flexible way to explore the rugged coastlines and rural villages that are not well-served by public transport.
By Foot: The Camino de Santiago is a major way to travel this region, with a network of trails and hostels for pilgrims and hikers.
Must-Try Food
Pulpo a la Gallega: Galician-style octopus, boiled and seasoned with olive oil, paprika, and sea salt.
Marisco: Seafood is a staple, from clams and mussels to percebes (goose barnacles).
Empanada Gallega: A large, savory pastry filled with meat, tuna, or vegetables.
Caldo Gallego: A hearty soup made with white beans, potatoes, collard greens, and pork.
Pimientos de Padrón: Small green peppers fried in olive oil and sprinkled with salt. Some are hot, but most are mild.
Lacón con Grelos: A dish of pork shoulder with turnip greens, chorizo, and potatoes.
Tortilla de Betanzos: A very runny omelet from the town of Betanzos, famous for its texture.
Queso Tetilla: A soft, cow’s milk cheese shaped like a woman’s breast.
Tarta de Santiago: A simple but delicious almond cake, often decorated with the cross of Saint James.
Filloas: Thin crepes, often served as a dessert.
Must-Try Drinks
Albariño: A crisp, aromatic white wine from the Rías Baixas region, perfect with seafood.
Ribeiro Wine: A lighter, more acidic white wine from the Ribeiro region.
Mencía Wine: A full-bodied red wine from the Ribeira Sacra and Valdeorras regions.
Licor Café: A strong coffee-flavored liqueur, a popular digestif.
Orujo: A clear spirit similar to grappa, often homemade and served as a shot after a meal.
Queimada: A traditional alcoholic punch made with a type of brandy, fruit, and sugar, set alight while a Celtic chant is recited.