Things to Do in Vigo: Complete Guide + Perfect Camino Stop
Vigo, located in the autonomous region of Galicia in northwestern Spain, is a vibrant port city with surprisingly diverse things to do. For hikers walking the Camino Portugués (coastal route), Vigo is a welcome rest stop, while regular tourists will discover the best things to do in Vigo range from historic castles to beautiful beaches. This authentic Galician city perfectly combines historic charm with modern amenities, offering rich maritime history with breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views.
This authentic Galician town perfectly combines historic charm with modern amenities, offering a rich maritime history with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Historic Center – Casco Vello
The beating heart of Vigo lies in the historic center, known as Casco Vello. This charming neighborhood with its narrow streets and traditional Galician architecture invites you to wander for a while. You’ll eventually come across Plaza de la Constitución, which forms the central point in Vigo. The square is surrounded by cozy tapas bars and restaurants where you can taste local specialties, such as fresh seafood and the famous Galician octopus.
Centrum Vigo met beeld “El Sireno” gemaakt door Francisco Leiro
Vigo city center with statue “El Sireno” created by Francisco Leiro
Walk along Rúa do Príncipe, the city’s main shopping street, where modern shops harmoniously blend with historic buildings. This lively street is wonderful to stroll through and offers an excellent opportunity to observe the daily life of Vigo’s residents. I love that!
Castelo do Castro – A Historic Lookout Point
On the Monte do Castro hill stands the imposing Castelo do Castro, a 17th-century fort that once protected the city against pirates and enemy attacks. Although only ruins remain of the original castle, this hill offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views over Vigo and the Ría de Vigo.
Castelo de Castro
The park surrounding the castle is a green oasis in the city, perfect for a picnic or a moment of tranquillity. The walk to the top is rewarded with breathtaking photos, especially at sunset when the city and the sea are bathed in golden light.
Halfway up the hill to the castle, you’ll also find a fascinating archaeological museum showcasing the ancient Castro culture of Galicia. Here you can admire reconstructions of the traditional round stone houses (pallozas) in which the pre-Roman inhabitants of this region lived. This exhibition provides unique insight into daily life thousands of years ago and forms a perfect complement to Vigo’s historical story.
Parque de Castrelos – Nature and Culture United
Just outside the city center lies the extensive Parque de Castrelos, a 47-hectare park considered Vigo’s green lung. The park houses the Quiñones de León Museum, located in a beautiful 17th-century mansion. This museum displays an impressive collection of Galician artworks and archaeological finds.
The park’s gardens are breathtakingly beautiful, with their mix of formal French gardens, English landscape architecture, and native Galician flora. It’s an ideal spot for families, with playgrounds for children and spacious open areas for sports and recreation.
Best Things to Do in Vigo: From Castle to Beach
The best things to do in Vigo are spread throughout the city, but most historic highlights are within walking distance of each other. The historic center forms the heart, while the beaches and natural areas are perfect for relaxation after a day of sightseeing.
The Maritime Tradition – Harbor and Museums
As one of Europe’s most important fishing ports, a visit to Vigo’s harbor is a must. The lively fish market in the early morning hours offers an authentic glimpse into the daily life of fishermen. The Museo do Mar de Galicia tells the story of the region’s rich maritime tradition through interactive exhibitions and historical artifacts.
Statue of Jules Verne on the boulevard in Vigo
For a unique experience, you can take a boat tour through the Ría de Vigo, where you’ll not only admire the beautiful landscape but also learn more about the mussel farms characteristic of these waters.
Camino Route Through Vigo: The official route passes through the historic centre, past the Mercado da Pedra and up to the Castelo do Castro. Many pilgrims take a day off to explore the city before heading towards Redondela.
Mercado da Pedra – Culinary Discoveries
No visit to Vigo is complete without a stop at the Mercado da Pedra, the traditional covered market from 1920. This lively market is a feast for the senses, with fresh seafood, local vegetables, Galician cheeses, and traditional pastries. It’s the perfect place to buy ingredients for a picnic or simply to experience the authenticity of local life.
Vigo also offers access to beautiful beaches. Playa de Samil, just a few kilometers from the center, is a popular beach with fine sand and excellent facilities. For a more natural experience, you can make trips to the nearby Cíes Islands, a nature reserve often compared to the Caribbean due to its crystal-clear water and white beaches. These islands are definitely on my wish list for next time when I have more time to spend in and around Vigo.
Practical Tips For Visitors
Best Time to Visit:
April-June: Ideal weather (15-22°C), less crowded, perfect Camino period
July-August: Warmest (25-28°C), busiest period, book accommodation in advance
September-October: Autumn sun (18-24°C), fewer tourists, excellent for city trips
For Camino Walkers: Vigo is strategically located on the Camino Portugués route with excellent pilgrim facilities. Among the many things to do in Vigo, taking a rest day here allows hikers and pilgrims to find everything needed: laundromats, outdoor shops, medical care, and fellow pilgrims to share experiences with.
Communication: English is increasingly spoken, especially in tourist areas and Camino accommodations. Card payments are generally accepted.
Monument for singers, poets and troubadours
Vigo Budget: Realistic Costs For Travelers
Daily Budget Vigo (per person):
Budget travel: €35-50 per day (hostels, local food, public transport)
Comfort travel: €70-100 per day (3-star hotels, restaurants, taxis)
Luxury travel: €120+ per day (4-star hotels, fine dining, private transport)
Vigo as Perfect Camino Stop
For pilgrims walking the Camino Portugués, Vigo is an ideal rest day destination. The city is strategically located just under 100 kilometers before Santiago de Compostela, perfect for gathering strength for the final stages.
Why Vigo Is Perfect For Camino Walkers:
Rest day facilities: Excellent Camino hostels in the center
Laundromats and equipment: Everything you need for the journey
Medical facilities: Hospitals and physiotherapists for injuries
Easy stop: Camino route runs right through the center
Camino Hostels in Vigo:
R4 Hostel: €25 – In the city center, right along the Camino
Hotel Nautico: €30, central location, meet pilgrims (dormitory only available on mobile)
Vigo surprised me with a perfect combination of history, culture, natural beauty, and gastronomy. For tourists, the city offers an authentic Spanish experience with excellent value for money, away from the crowds of major tourist centers. During my Camino, I found here an ideal resting point with all the necessary facilities I needed.
Whether you want to explore all the things to do in Vigo in one day during a Camino journey, plan a weekend getaway, or stay longer, this Galician port city will surely enchant you with its unique charm, friendly inhabitants, and surprising diversity. Vigo shows the real Spain: authentic, affordable, and full of surprises.
