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Where to stay in Galicia – a neighborhood guide

TIME : 2016/2/24 9:17:05

From small self-catered cottages to family poolside villas, swanky hotels to luxury spa resorts, Galicia has a bundle of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Enjoy a cultural stay in Santiago de Compostela, retreat to a spa haven in Mondariz or seek out a beach break in Vigo. Whatever you choose, however, you’ll be sure to find yourself soaking up the relaxed flavor of northern Spain. 

Mark AuchinclosMark AuchinclosMy Destination local expert onGaliciaSantiago de Compostela

 

Dotted with picturesque taverns and shady cafés lining its charismatic medieval streets, Santiago de Compostela is one of the most popular spots to stay in Galicia. Praza de Galicia separates the Old Town from the Ensanche (Extension), where you will find more modern commercial shops and residential areas.

 

Hotels in Santiago de Compostela

 

From modestly priced hostels to more costly hotels, Santiago de Compostela has a wide range of accommodation. Rates and visiting figures soar over the summer months, with countless people ambling along the Camino de Santiago to reach the much heralded cathedral. For this reason, if you are looking to stay in this area, advance booking is an absolute must.

 

Vigo

 

Titled the ‘Gateway to the Atlantic’, Vigo is a fascinating city filled with ancient history, sandy beaches and an overall cosmopolitan outlook. Facing the Ria de Vigo, an expansive Galician estuary, and littered with fishing boats all along its bay, the city’s strong ties to its ancient maritime history is ever-present. Head to the narrow cobblestone streets of Vigo’s Old Town to soak up the true essence of the city.

 

Hotels in Vigo

 

From one-star to five-star hotels, Vigo has a huge selection of accommodation on offer. Choose to stay in a glistening modern hotel with all the facilities or for something a little more modest, try a locally run B&B or hostel.

 

A Coruña

 

A bustling port home to the largest expanse of Galician coastline and stretching across a handful of pretty coastal villages, A Coruña is an attractive province. Aside from laying claim to its towering cathedral, two national parks and a scattering of local beaches make this a particularly popular destination for holiday escapes.

 

Hotels in A Coruña

 

Business hotels, five-star resorts and residential apartments; A Coruña has it all in terms of places to stay. Head to the city center for your fill of culture or visit some of the peaceful suburb towns on the outskirts to get a taste of Galicia off the beaten track.

 

Mondariz

 

A tiny spa-town tucked away in the province of Pontevedra, surrounded by verdant valleys, Mondariz is a hidden gem within Galicia’s landscape. Built upon an archeological site of Roman ruins, this ancient city offers one of the most idyllic escapes. Home to the Balneario de Mondariz - Galicia’s oldest spa - fuelled by the healing properties of natural spring water, relaxation is the mantra that echoes throughout Mondariz.

 

Hotels in Mondariz

 

Spa retreats are the predominant type of accommodation found in Mondariz, with hotels offering a plethora of pampering packages. If you are looking for total tranquility, however, you will also find a handful of villas and apartments tucked away in the hills.