Find out where to go, where to eat and what to do in this Vigo Cruise Port Guide. One of Spains busiest fishing ports is a delight to visit by cruise ship. Vigo is a city and municipality in the province of Pontevedra in Spain. Cruise ships often dock here so let’s find out the best places to explore this port of a call in Spain
Everything you need to know about exploring Vigo one of Spains busy fishing ports in this Vigo Cruise Port Guide
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Where to cruise ships dock in Vigo?
When coming into port in Vigo ships will dock at Muelle de Trasatlanticos. Vigo is Spain’s buzzing port that is well geared up for cruise ships. It has a shopping centre directly opposite the terminal building and is also Spain’s busiest fishing port and a hive of activity. Find out in this Vigo Cruise Port Guide what to do in the port of Vigo for the day and where to visit.
What is in the Port at Vigo ?
There is free WiFi in the terminal building At Muelle de Trasatlanticos. This opens out onto the most wonderful welcome with shops and cafés overlooking a harbour full of pretty boats.
There is also a toy shop which sells useful pool toys such as arm bands and swimming goggles. Apart from that Vigo is a fantastic fishing village and the perfect place to explore from your cruise ship.
Can you get into town on foot from Vigo port?
Can you walk from the cruise port into Vigo? Yes, it is possible to walk from the cruise port into Vigo, although the distance may depend on which terminal your ship docks at. The cruise port of Vigo has several terminals. The most central and closest one to the city is the Estación MarÃtima de RÃa.
The town is a 10 to 20 minute walk away depending on the terminal. There is a bit of an incline up to the town but it is worth the walk through the pretty streets. As you arrive at a great shopping area (Casco Vello)) with lots of boutique and international shops and also coolest sweet shop.
From this terminal, it is approximately a 20-minute walk to the city center, where you can find attractions such as the Old Town, the Cathedral of Santa Maria, and the Castro Fortress. The walk is generally safe and straightforward, with a well-marked pedestrian route and sidewalks for most of the way.
However, if you prefer not to walk, there are other transportation options available, such as taxis and buses. There is also a tourist train that operates from the cruise terminal to the city centre, offering a scenic tour of Vigo’s highlights.
If you love shopping head to PrÃncipe Street. If you prefer browsing around markets then head to the Bouzas neighbourhood on Sundays and the Coia neighbourhood on Wednesdays. Both are reasonably close to the centre of Vigo but you might want to take a taxi.
Where do cruise ships dock in Vigo?
Cruise ships typically dock at the Port of Vigo, which is located on the western coast of Spain, in the province of Pontevedra. The port has several terminals that are equipped to handle cruise ships of various sizes.
The most central and closest terminal to the city centre is the Estación MarÃtima de RÃa, which is located on the Avenida de Beiramar. This terminal is also within walking distance to many of Vigo’s attractions. These include the Old Town, the Cathedral of Santa Maria, and the Castro Fortress.
There are also other terminals within the Port of Vigo. The Terminal de Guixar and the Terminal de Transatlánticos, which are located slightly further away from the city centre. Transportation options such as taxis, buses, and tourist trains are available from these terminals.
Is Vigo worth visiting?
It depends on what you are interested in seeing and experiencing but Vigo is a city located in the northwest of Spain, in the province of Pontevedra. It is known for its beaches, seafood, and historic landmarks.
The city also has a rich history, and there are several landmarks worth visiting, such as the Castle of San Sebastian. Another popular attraction is the Castro Fortress, which is an ancient fortification that dates back to the Iron Age.
If you are interested in seafood, Vigo is known for its delicious seafood dishes, which are a must-try for foodies. The city also has a vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars and nightclubs.
Overall, Vigo can be a worthwhile destination for those interested in exploring a historic city. It has beautiful beaches and a delicious seafood scene. However, like any destination, it ultimately depends on your personal interests and preferences.
Things to do in Vigo cruise port
There are several things to do in Vigo cruise port and its surroundings, including:
- Visiting the Old Town: Explore the charming narrow streets and alleys of Vigo’s historic quarter. You will discover its many interesting buildings, churches, and squares as you walk through.
- See the Castro Fortress: Located on a hill overlooking the city, this fortress offers great views of Vigo. It is also home to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MARCO).
- Enjoy the beaches: Vigo is known for its beautiful beaches. Samil Beach and Rodas Beach are both popular with locals and visitors alike.
- Trying the seafood: Vigo is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly shellfish. You can sample some of the local delicacies at one of the many restaurants and bars in the city.
- Visit the Cies Islands: These islands are a protected natural park and are located just off the coast of Vigo. They offer beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and stunning views.
- Take a city tour: You can take a guided tour of Vigo to learn more about its history and culture, and see some of its most famous landmarks.
- Go shopping: Vigo has a wide variety of shops. choose from local markets and artisanal crafts to high-end fashion and designer brands.
- Relax in the parks: Vigo has several parks and gardens where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty. Parks such as the Parque de Castrelos and also Jardines de la Alameda.
Fortress of O Castro
The Fortress of O Castro is a historic fortification located on a hill overlooking the city of Vigo in Spain. It was built in the 17th century as part of the city’s defensive system, and was later used as a prison and military barracks. Today, the fortress is a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area.
Visitors can explore the fortress and its ramparts, which are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into Vigo’s past. The fortress also houses the Museum of Contemporary Art (MARCO), which features a collection of modern and contemporary art from Galicia.
The Fortress of O Castro is easily accessible from the city center and is a great place to visit. If you are a history or an art enthusiast as well as anyone looking for panoramic views of Vigo and its surroundings.
CÃes Islands
The Cies Islands (Islas CÃes in Spanish) are a group of three small islands located off the coast of Vigo in Galicia, northwest Spain. They are part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. The is a protected area that includes the CÃes Islands, along with the islands of Ons, Sálvora, and Cortegada.
The Cies Islands are known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters. You will also notice its abundant marine life, making them a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The islands are also home to several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding sea.
Visitors can reach the Cies Islands by ferry from Vigo or the nearby town of Baiona. However, due to their status as a protected area, the number of visitors allowed on the islands is limited, and it is necessary to obtain a permit in advance.
Castrelos Park
Castrelos Park is a large public park located in Vigo, Spain. It is situated in the city center, and covers an area of around 24 hectares. The park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. You will enjoy its green spaces, walking trails, and historic features.
One of the main attractions in the park is the Castrelos Palace, a beautiful building that was constructed in the 17th century. The palace now serves as a museum, and houses a collection of art and artifacts from the region’s history.
Another highlight of the park is the botanical garden, which features a wide variety of plant species from around the world. There are also several ponds you can explore and fountains throughout the park.
In addition to its natural beauty, Castrelos Park is also known for its cultural events and activities, including concerts, theater performances, and outdoor exhibitions. The park is a great place to spend a day exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Vigo.
Casco Velo
Casco Vello is the old town area of Vigo, Spain, located at the foot of the Monte de Castro hill, near the port. It is known for its charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and traditional Galician atmosphere. The area is filled with small shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants, offering visitors a taste of local cuisine and culture. The streets are lined with colorful buildings, many of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The highlight of the area is the Plaza de la Constitución, a beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings. You can try visiting one of the outdoor cafes that line the streets and it this busy part of the town. The Casco Vello is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and is a great place to explore the history and culture of Vigo.
Calle de las ostras
Calle de las Ostras is a famous street in the old town of Vigo. It is well known for its lively atmosphere and seafood restaurants serving fresh oysters. The street is lined with traditional seafood restaurants, and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The restaurants serve a variety of seafood, including oysters, clams, mussels, and octopus, sardines, as well as traditional Spanish dishes such as paella, tapas and tortilla.
In addition to the seafood, the street is also known for its lively bars and cafes. It is a great place to enjoy a drink or a coffee while people-watching. The street is particularly popular in the evenings, when it comes alive with live music and street performers.
Museo Quiñones de León museum
The Museo Quiñones de León is a museum located in the city of Vigo. It is housed in a beautiful palace known as Pazo de Castrelos, which dates back to the 17th century and was renovated in the 20th century.
The museum has a vast collection of art and artifacts that showcase the history and culture of the region. Visitors can explore the different rooms of the palace, each one dedicated to a different aspect of Galician culture.
One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of ceramics. These include traditional Galician pottery and also pieces from other regions of Spain. The museum also has a collection of paintings, sculpture, and other works of art from different periods of history.
Another interesting section of the museum is dedicated to the history of the Pazo de Castrelos itself. Visitors can also learn about the different families who lived in the palace and the changes that were made to the building over time.
The Museo Quiñones de León is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, history, and culture. The combination of the beautiful palace and its fascinating collection of exhibits makes for a unique and enriching experience.
Cathedral Santiago de Compostela
The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is a stunning Roman Catholic cathedral in the city of Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain. It is the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. The Cathedral attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
The cathedral was built between the 11th and 13th centuries in a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. It has a beautiful façade with intricate carvings and sculptures. It also has a grand entrance known as the Portico of Glory. This features an impressive collection of religious figures and motifs.
Inside the cathedral, visitors can admire the impressive nave, the ornate choir stalls, and the beautiful altar. One of the highlights of the cathedral is the Botafumeiro, a giant incense burner that is swung from the ceiling during special services. It weighs over 50kg and takes several men to operate.
The cathedral also houses the crypt of Saint James, where the remains of the apostle Saint James are believed to be buried. Visitors can pay their respects and marvel at the ornate decorations and religious artwork in the crypt.
Mercado da pedra vigo
Mercado da Pedra is a traditional market located in the heart of Vigo, Spain. The market is housed in a historic building and has been a popular destination for locals and visitors alike for over 100 years. Inside, you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and other local delicacies.
The market is particularly known for its fresh seafood, including fish, squid, octopus, and shellfish. These are obviously fresh as they are all caught locally in the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can also find a range of meats and cheeses, as well as fruits and vegetables from local farms.
In addition to the food, Mercado da Pedra also has a number of stalls selling souvenirs, crafts, and other items. It’s a great place to shop for unique gifts or pick up some traditional Spanish products to take home with you.
The market is open daily, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in Vigo and looking to experience some of the local culture and cuisine.
Vigo zoo
Vigo has a zoo called “Zoo de Vigo” which is located about 10km from the city center. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from all around the world. You can expect to see lions, tigers, bears, elephants, giraffes, monkeys, reptiles, and also birds. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the zoo and observe the animals in their natural habitats, or attend one of the daily animal shows and demonstrations.
In addition to the animals, the zoo also has a playground for children, a picnic area, and a cafeteria where visitors can grab a snack or a meal. The zoo is open year-round and is a popular destination for families with children or animal lovers visiting Vigo.
Beaches in Vigo
Vigo is known for its beautiful beaches, some of which are located within the city limits and others that are located just outside of the city. Here are some of the most popular beaches in Vigo:
- Samil Beach: Located just a few kilometers from the city center, Samil Beach is the most popular beach in Vigo. It boasts a long stretch of golden sand, crystal-clear waters. It also has plenty of amenities such as showers, toilets, and beach bars.
- Vao Beach: Located about 9 kilometers northwest of the city center, Vao Beach is another popular beach in Vigo. It has a long stretch of golden sand and offers a variety of water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking.
- Canido Beach: Located in the parish of Lavadores, Canido Beach is a smaller beach that is popular with locals. It offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to escape the crowds.
- O Vao Beach: Located in the town of Nigran, just south of Vigo is O Vao Beach. It is a beautiful, secluded beach that is known for its clear waters and stunning views.
- Rhodes Beach: Located on the Cies Islands, just off the coast of Vigo is Rhodes Beach. This beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It boasts crystal-clear waters, white sand, and stunning natural scenery.
Playa del Vao Beach
Playa del Vao is a beautiful beach located in the municipality of Vigo, in the province of Pontevedra. It is situated about 9 kilometers northwest of the city center of Vigo and can be easily accessed by car or public transport.
The beach is known for its long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. This makes it a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as surfing and windsurfing. Playa del Vao is also well-equipped with facilities such as showers, toilets, changing rooms. There are a variety of restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to spend the day with family and friends.
In addition to its beautiful beach, Playa del Vao also offers stunning views of the Cies Islands. The views of the Atlantic Ocean make it a picturesque spot to watch the sunset.
Playa Samuel
Playa Samuel is a beautiful beach located in the Galician town of Baiona, which is approximately 25 kilometers south of Vigo. The beach is known for its clear waters, golden sand, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Playa Samuel is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and it is a great place to relax and soak up the sun. The beach is also well-equipped with facilities such as showers, toilets, and a lifeguard service, making it a safe and enjoyable place to spend the day.
Nearby Vigo
There are several places near Vigo that are worth visiting, including:
Cies Islands: Located just off the coast of Vigo, the Cies Islands are a beautiful and unspoiled natural paradise. The islands are home to stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of flora and fauna.
Baiona: This charming coastal town is just a short drive from Vigo and is known for its historic castle, beautiful beaches, and lively marina.
Santiago de Compostela: This city is the capital of Galicia and is famous for its stunning cathedral, which is the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
Rias Baixas: This region of Galicia is known for its beautiful coastline, picturesque villages, and world-class wineries, which produce some of Spain’s finest white wines.
Tui: This small town is located on the border with Portugal and is known for its well-preserved medieval old town and imposing cathedral.
Pontevedra
Pontevedra is a historic city located in the province of Pontevedra in the northwest of Spain, in the region of Galicia. The city is known for its well-preserved old town, which features narrow streets, beautiful squares, and historic buildings dating back to the medieval period.
One of the main attractions in Pontevedra is the Basilica of Santa Maria, a beautiful church that dates back to the 16th century. Other notable landmarks include the Church of St. Francis, the Convent of San Francisco, and the ruins of the Castle of Pontevedra.
Pontevedra is also known for its gastronomy, with many restaurants and bars offering traditional Galician cuisine such as fresh seafood, empanadas, and octopus. The city hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the International Jazz Festival and the Feast of Corpus Christi, which features colorful floral carpets lining the streets of the old town.
Wine Tasting at Bodegas in vigo
Vigo is located in the RÃas Baixas wine region of Spain, which is known for its delicious and unique Albariño white wines. There are several bodegas, or wineries, in and around Vigo that offer wine tastings and tours for visitors.
One of the most popular bodegas in the area is Pazo Baión, which is located just outside of Vigo in the town of Vilanova de Arousa. The winery is set in a beautiful estate with vineyards, gardens, and a historic manor house. Visitors can take a tour of the winery, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy a tasting of Pazo Baión’s award-winning wines.
Another option is Bodegas MartÃn Códax, which is located in the town of Cambados, about 30 minutes from Vigo. This winery is known for its Albariño wines and offers tours and tastings in its modern and stylish tasting room.
Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just looking to experience the local culture and flavors, a wine tasting at a bodega in Vigo is a great way to spend an afternoon.
Other useful information when visiting Vigo
There are plenty of supermarkets in Vigo should you need to stock up on supplies, ie suncream, nappies etc.
Here is a link to a map of all of the supermarkets but the Spar on Rúa Carral, 8, 36202 is the closest to the port.
What is the weather in Vigo? Click for an up-to-date weather report for Vigo.
Or check out the average monthly weather for Vigo here.
Vigo Cuisine
If you love food then Vigo has the cuisine for you. Being a fishing village it has top quality fish and seafood in its restaurants and bars. You can find plenty of amazing Spanish wines such as Albariño. Vigo is perfect for food and wine lovers with Albariño Wine Tours and excursion too. You will experience a real taste of Galician cuisine as you explore the many tapas bars of the old town.
What shore excursions can I do from Vigo?
If you are looking for a family friendly day and want to do an independent excursion in Vigo head to the beach.
When you leave the cruise terminal the tourist information centre is just on your left as you approach the main road. From here you can book a taxi to take you to some of the sights close by or, one of our kids’ favourite things to do, visit the beach.
Simel Beach is just 15 minutes away by taxi which will cost about 15 Euros each way. Simel is a breathtaking beach that is packed out with locals and holiday makers during the peak season. And with powdery sands and beach front eateries it’s not hard to understand why.
For a little history in Vigo head up the winding streets to the Citadel, know as O Castro for spectacular views of Vigo and the port. There is not much there now but ruins however it is worth the walk up for the uninterrupted view. You can get escalators on the way up on some of the winding streets, but not going back down.
Which cruise lines cruise from Vigo?
The following cruise lines cruise out of the port of Vigo;
- AIDA
- Azamara
- Celebrity
- Costa
- Disney
- Fred Olsen
- Holland and America
- MSC
- NCL
- P&O
- Princess
- Royal Caribbean
- Saga
- SeaDream
- Silversea
Find out what a day with kids is like in Vigo port
See what we got up to in Vigo on the Celebrity Silhouette Bravo Cruise on. Day 5, Vigo, Spain
Here is our day on Navigator of the Seas in Vigo, Spain
Click here for more suggestions of what to do when visiting Vigo.
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