ROL Cruise recommends...
1. Travel back in time to the Old Town
Not far from the busy port, you’ll find the Old Town, or Casco Vello, of Vigo. Time has stood still in this part of Vigo and the Old City houses a multitude of historic buildings and winding streets, which are ideal for exploring on foot. Visitors will discover a variety of boutique shops and delicious eateries, specialising in freshly caught seafood. For a great view of the city and the bay, walk up to the hilltop to where the seventeenth century Castro Fortress sits and explore these historic ruins and beautiful gardens.
2. Eat oysters on Rúe Pescadería
For seafood lovers Vigo is a must visit, as the city is well known for its fish restaurants. Rúe Pescadería is the place to go for fresh seafood; the short street, which is situated in the lower part of the Old Town, is crowded with restaurants offering an array of seafood caught fresh from the bay. The street is best known for its oysters and on most days, from 10am to 3.30pm, Rúe Pescadería is lined with ostreiras (oyster shuckers) serving fresh oysters to passers-by.
3. Soak up the culture at the Museum of Contemporary Art
Though steeped in history, the city of Vigo is also known for its modern art and several modern sculptures are visible on the city streets. However, the best place for art lovers is the Museum of Contemporary Art, known as MARCO. The domineering building is a former prison, but now holds a variety of exhibits by talented artists.
4. Admire the Church of Santa Maria
Known as La Colegiata, the Church of Santa Maria is a formidable structure in the centre of Vigo’s Old Town. The cathedral is the most popular place of worship in the city and dates from the sixteenth century, though it was rebuilt in 1836 and is now an example of neoclassical architecture. It is an oasis of calm in the busy city of Vigo.
5. Picnic on the Cíes Islands
A 45 minute ferry journey will take you far from the busy city and onto the cool sandy beaches of the Cíes Islands, situated in Vigo Bay. These three islands - Monteagudo, Do Faro and San Martiño - are part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, available activities include hiking, camping and scuba diving. The beautiful beaches are also ideal for relaxing; enjoying a picnic or taking a dip in the crystal blue water.
