Casco Vello (Old Town)

In stark contrast to the modern part of the city and its industrial port area, the Casco Vello enchants with 19th-century architecture, narrow streets and charming squares of the old town. Casco Vello is an easy uphill hike from the port. Note that some businesses close on Sundays.

• Address:

  Casco Vello, Vigo

Castelo de San Sebastián

The crumblings ruins of what was once Vigo's strongest fortification date from 1656. Take in wonderful views of Vigo city, the bay, and Ceis islands from this unique vantage point.

• Address:

  Subida Barranco, 16, 36202 Vigo, PO, Spain

Castro Fortress

Vigo's Castro (Celtic era) archaeological site grants visitors a glimpse into what the Galician settlement of today once was (between roughly 2 BC and 3 AD). Guided tours of the Castro are organized Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-2pm & 4-6pm. Hike up the mountainside to take in the ancient city from afar.

• Address:

  Parque do Castro, Vigo

Castro Park

Make your way uphill to Parque do Castro via Camelias Street - although the climb is somewhat steep, the views over the Vigo estuary from here are simply unbeatable. The Castro de Vigo (dating back to the 3rd century BC) and Castello the Castro can both be visited en route.

• Address:

  Parque do Castro, Vigo

Cíes Islands

The Cíes Islands, just off the coast of Vigo, are home to one of the world's finest beaches (Rodas Beach), and are easily accessible by sea. Only 2,200 visitors per day are allowed on the islands, so do reserve your spot in advance if traveling during high season or at the weekends.

• Web:

  www.turismodevigo.org/en/cies-islands

Los Caballos Monument (The Horses)

Juan José Oliveira's 1991 creation will quite probably strike you as one unlike any other you've ever seen - the ensemble of horses ascending to the skies up a waterfall was partially inspired by the wild horses historically inhabiting the region.

• Address:

  Plaza de Esapana, Vigo