The sunny country, one of the three most visited, offers a wonderful vacation that can be enjoyed every second. Beautiful beaches, warm sea, delicious dishes and an exciting excursion program - all this will appeal to travelers from different parts of our planet. Possessing a rich culture, it’s not in vain that Spain is a mecca for vacationers.
Vigo, located in the north-west of the state, in the bay of the same name, does not have a large number of historical attractions, but it will delight with interesting architectural works that wonderfully complement its appearance.
Industrial area and tourist center
The large city of Galicia (the least visited region of the country), the first mention of which dates back to the XI century, quickly turned from a small fishing village into a huge seaport, where luxury liners moor. Its name comes from the Latin Vicus, which translates as "winner". Vigo, which has grown rapidly over several centuries, has undergone many changes in layout.
Few foreign travelers knew about it before, but now the situation is changing for the better. The ancient village was appreciated by tourists, who are hospitably welcomed by Spain, admiring its beauty. Vigo, preserving the traditions and customs from centuries, resembles a typical port city. And at the same time, it is the leading industrial zone of Galicia: there are shipbuilding and car factories, and the main employer of the whole region is Peugeot Citroën.
Recently, the tourism business has played an important role in economic well-being: thousands of visitors from other countries visit Vigo annually to spend holidays on luxurious beaches and admire the main attractions. Spread along the coast, it is a delightful sight. The vibrant commercial center, where nature has created ideal conditions for relaxation, offers various leisure options.
Beaches in Vigo (Spain)
The shipping center is surrounded by 45 wonderful beaches, included by The Guardian in the top ten in the world for the perfect quality of water and sand. Unfortunately, they are not very well known to tourists. Quiet and calm will appeal to those who dream of loneliness, and outdoor enthusiasts who come to the city of Vigo (Spain) will choose popular places, such as Samil or Argazada. These are huge beaches with many shops and restaurants, equipped with parking lots and equipment for water sports.
The Islas Cies area, which consists of three islands that block the cold winds of the Atlantic, is a popular holiday destination for Spaniards and tourists. And the shallow-white snow-white beach of the island of Ilya Norte, recognized as the country's national pride, is considered the best in Galicia. This amazing place is ideal for families with children and attracts by its proximity to the national natural park where you can have a wonderful time.
Casco vello
Acquaintance with the city of Vigo (Spain) begins with a tour of the historical part, located next to the harbor. There are luxurious palaces in the Galician style and very modest houses built back in the Middle Ages. For tourists strolling through the labyrinths of cobbled streets and looking at ancient buildings, it seems that time has stopped here. Wandering around the picturesque area, plunging into the distant past, you can see the Cathedral of Santa Maria, made in the neoclassical style. The first temple on this site appeared seven centuries ago, and since then the building has been rebuilt many times, radically changing its appearance.
Korolevskaya Street, which goes down to the first port, is the main one in Casco Vello, and on it are perfectly preserved fishing huts.
Unusual architectural appearance
The colorful Vigo experienced two centuries ago rapid economic growth, which affected its architectural appearance. This is one of the few settlements famous for not only the historical part, but also the “new” Old Town, where mansions in the traditional Galician style were built, which were decorated with beautiful facades. And the most magnificent building - the Garcia Barbon Theater, built in the 20s of the last century, can serve as a vivid example. This is a real palace of arts and an important cultural center.
It is curious that the “new” Old Town does not occupy a specific place on the map of the Spanish pearl, and tourists will not be able to find it. The richly decorated mansions are scattered throughout all the streets, and on each of them there is an architectural masterpiece. And the closer the real historical district, the more they will meet on the way of vacationers.
Center Industrial Center
But the center of the modern city is the Plaza de España, which is of interest to vacationers. In her heart are the works of a famous contemporary sculptor, made in a variety of styles - from abstract to realistic. The monument, depicting wild horses looking at the sky, is considered a symbol of Vigo (Spain), whose sights are few in number, but very curious.
What else to see?
Vigo embankment, turned into an open-air art gallery, will delight tourists with sculptural compositions, and numerous cafes are always waiting for their visitors.
Castro castle rises in the south of the city, which appeared in the 17th century, while Spain fought with Portugal. Vigo was constantly attacked by British sailors, and the need arose to protect him from attacks. Now on the territory of the defensive structure, from the observation deck of which stunning panoramas open, gardens and paths for walks are broken.
Smelling fishy smells, Pedra Market is a true gourmet paradise selling fresh and cooked gourmet delicacies.
A charming city is that real Spain. Vigo, untouched by mass tourism, will surprise with a benevolent atmosphere, amazing landscapes, fishing areas, which makes it an attractive object for vacationers.