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Vigo is the largest city in Galicia, a working port on the Atlantic coast of northwest Spain, and it is easy to skip. I did not skip it. I have stayed in Vigo twice, both times in October while walking the Portuguese Coastal route of the Camino de Santiago, and both times I took the ferry to the Cíes Islands. This guide covers what I did and what is worth knowing if you plan a similar stop.
Why Stop in Vigo on the Camino
Vigo sits on the Portuguese Coastal route between Porto and Santiago de Compostela. After days of walking, a city with transport, shops and plenty of places to stay makes a useful base. Walking the Camino does not require you to be on foot every day. I used local transport to step off the trail, then returned to it and continued on foot to Santiago. Our Lisbon to Santiago walking guide covers the wider route.
Where I Stayed
Both times I stayed in local hotels down near the waterfront. That put the port, the ferry and the evening walks close at hand. Prices and availability change by season, so check current options for your dates.
Prices and availability in Vigo change fast. Here’s a live look at what’s available for your dates. Booking.com
The Cíes Islands by Ferry
The Cíes Islands are a small group of islands off the coast of Vigo, protected as part of a national park. Ferries run from the port in Vigo. Both times I went in October and the islands were still receiving visitors. The ferry was not too expensive or crowded. Ferry schedules are seasonal and visitor numbers to the islands are controlled, so check the park authority and the ferry operator for current dates, prices and booking rules before you plan around the trip.
I visited twice, in two different ways. The first time I joined the local guided tour. The second time I explored the island on my own. Both worked. The guided tour gave me background on the island, and going alone let me set my own pace and stop wherever I liked.
What I enjoyed most was the scenery: ocean views, the beaches, the trees and the breaking surf, all of which made good photographs. The island has a restaurant and a small souvenir store, so you can eat and pick up a keepsake without leaving. Still, bring water and wear shoes you can walk in.
Exploring Vigo
Vigo rewards a slow walk. The food was excellent, and I enjoyed walking the streets in the evening. On my first visit, city workers were putting up holiday lights, which added to the atmosphere. These are places worth looking for on a first visit:
- The old fishing quarter near the port. This is the part of the city most tied to the sea.
- The Monte do Castro viewpoint. A hill park above the city with views over the bay and the port.
- The Colegiata de Santa María. Vigo’s main historic church, which is a collegiate church rather than a cathedral. It is also a good place to look for a Camino stamp.
- Seafood. Vigo has a strong reputation for fresh seafood, and the old town is where many visitors go to try it.
I explored the city on foot and by local transport. If you collect credential stamps, ask at tourism offices and churches as you go.
Getting There and Around
Vigo has a train station and bus services. Routes and timetables change, so check the operators for current options from wherever you are starting. I never rented a car on either Camino, and I did not need one in Vigo. Local transport covered what I wanted to do.
Planning Your Vigo Stop
- Allow two to three days if you want the Cíes Islands and a relaxed look at the city.
- Check ferry dates and booking rules first, since the island trip is the part with limits.
- Stay near the waterfront for easy access to the port, the ferry and the evening streets.
- Plan for the weather. Galicia is green for a reason, so pack a small umbrella.
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. Always verify current travel information, visa requirements, entry rules, and health guidance with official government sources and qualified professionals before making travel decisions.
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