Best places to stay in Galicia? Our favourite cities and towns in Galicia

Galicia is a stunning region of Spain that is often overlooked by tourists. It is a land of rugged beauty, with two regions that are a must-visit for travellers seeking an authentic rural experience. The Rias Baixas, in the south, and the Rias Altas, in the north, offer visitors the chance to explore stunning coastal landscapes, charming fishing villages, and a beautiful countryside.

The Rias Baixas region is known for its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and delicious seafood. One of the top attractions in the area is the town of Cambados, known for its charming historic centre and Albariño wine. Visitors can take a day trip and explore the Islas Cíes, a beautiful archipelago located off the coast, which is home to unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views.

In addition to the Islas Cíes, the Rias Baixas region boasts another beautiful island that is well worth a visit for a day trip. The Islas Ons, located in the Ría de Pontevedra, offer visitors the chance to explore beautiful beaches, hike along scenic trails, and enjoy fresh seafood in a peaceful, rural setting.

Moving north, the Rias Altas region offers visitors a different kind of beauty, with rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and charming fishing villages. A top place to visit in the area is the town of Finisterre, located on the westernmost point of the Spanish peninsula. You can explore the dramatic cliffs, visit the lighthouse, and watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.

Another attraction in the Rias Altas region is the Playa de las Catedrales, a stunning beach that is famous for its natural rock formations and arches making it an ideal day trip for someone who is staying in our handpicked boutique hotels in the province of A Coruña. Visitors can walk along the beach at low tide, exploring the intricate rock formations and enjoying the stunning views of the ocean.

Whether you are exploring the Rias Baixas or the Rias Altas, Galicia is full of hidden gems and natural wonders. With its beautiful islands, charming villages, and rugged coastlines, this region is an ideal destination for travellers seeking an authentic rural experience.

The Ruta del Agua y la Piedra (Water and Stone Route) is one of the most fascinating and beautiful routes in Galicia, Spain. The route winds its way through the stunning landscapes of the Ribeira Sacra region, offering visitors breath-taking views of towering cliffs, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls.

The Ruta del Agua y la Piedra is so named because it follows the path of the region's rivers and passes by some of its most remarkable geological formations, including impressive rock formations, natural caves, and ancient bridges.

One of the highlights of the route is the chance to visit some of the region's most charming and historic villages, each with its own unique character and culture. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and ancient buildings of these picturesque towns, learning about the rich history and traditions of the Ribeira Sacra region.

Another highlight of the Ruta del Agua y la Piedra is the chance to explore some of the region's most stunning natural wonders, including deep canyons, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers. The route is ideal for hiking, cycling, or simply relaxing and taking in the breath-taking scenery.

Along the way, visitors can also indulge in the region's famous cuisine, which includes delicious local wines, cheeses, and meats. The Ribeira Sacra region is famous for its traditional gastronomy, and visitors can enjoy a wide range of local dishes at restaurants and cafes along the route.

Overall, the Ruta del Agua y la Piedra is a truly unforgettable experience, offering visitors a unique combination of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're an avid hiker, a food lover, or simply looking for a new adventure, this beautiful route is not to be missed. It begins in Ribadumia in the province of Pontevedra, the Rias Baixas area, where offer beautiful country houses and boutique hotels in Pontevedra province. 

Galician cuisine is a celebration of local ingredients and traditional recipes, and each dish is a reflection of the region's unique cultural heritage. Whether you're a seafood lover or a meat eater, there is something for everyone. Being a gastronomic paradise, you cannot leave without trying some of the region's most authentic and savoury dishes. Here are some must-try Galician foods

Only The Best Galician Food

Caldo a la gallega: This is a hearty soup made with Galician-style broth, potatoes, turnips, cabbage, and chorizo. It's perfect for warming up on a cold day in Galicia. You can find it in most restaurants and taverns throughout the region.

Pulpo a feira: This is Galicia's most famous dish, and it's a must-try for anyone visiting the region. It's made with boiled octopus that is sliced and served on a wooden plate, sprinkled with paprika, sea salt, and olive oil. You can find it in most markets and restaurants throughout Galicia.

Lacon con grelos: This is a classic Galician dish made with pork shoulder, turnip greens, and potatoes. It's a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a chilly evening. You can find it in most traditional Galician restaurants.

Empanadas gallegas: These are savoury pies filled with meat, fish, or vegetables. They are a popular snack in Galicia and are perfect for a quick lunch or snack. You can find them in most bakeries and cafes throughout the region.

Marisco: Galicia is known for its seafood, and you cannot leave without trying some of the local specialties, such as necora (crab), centollos (spider crab), vieira (scallop), percebes (gooseneck barnacles), cigalas (langoustines), almejas (clams), navajas (razor clams), and a variety of fish. You can find seafood in most restaurants throughout the region, but for the freshest and most authentic experience, head to the coastal towns and fishing villages.

Zamburiñas: These are small scallops that are often served in their shells with garlic, parsley, and breadcrumbs. They are a popular tapa (appetizer) in Galicia and are often served in seafood restaurants.

Ternera gallega: This is Galicia's famous beef, which is known for its tenderness and flavor. It's often served grilled or as part of a stew or casserole. You can find it in most traditional Galician restaurants.

Pimientos de padron: These are small green peppers that are fried and served with sea salt. They are a popular tapa in Galicia and are often served in bars and cafes.

Orella de cerdo: This is a traditional Galician dish made with pig's ears that are boiled and then fried with garlic and paprika. It's a unique and flavourful dish that is worth trying if you're feeling adventurous.

Xoubas: These are small sardines that are often fried and served as a tapa. They are a popular snack in Galicia and are often served in bars and taverns.

Quesos gallegos: Galicia is also known for its delicious cheeses, such as tetilla, which is a soft, creamy cheese made from cow's milk. It's often served with honey or quince jelly and is perfect for a cheese board or snack.

Raxo Gallego: is a traditional Galician pork dish that is a must-try for meat lovers. The dish is made from marinated pork that is then sautéed with garlic, paprika, and other spices until it is tender and juicy. It is typically served with potatoes or fries, and a green salad on the side. The dish is a favourite among locals and is often enjoyed as a tapa, or small dish, in bars and restaurants throughout the region. 

Caldeirada de Raya: is a delicious and flavourful fish stew that is a specialty of Galicia. The dish is made with skate, a type of flatfish that is abundant in the waters off the Galician coast. The fish is cooked in a fragrant broth with potatoes, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and peppers until it is tender and flavourful. The dish is often finished with a sprinkling of parsley and is typically served with crusty bread on the side. Caldeirada de Raya is a perfect representation of Galician cuisine, as it showcases the region's abundant seafood and fresh, local ingredients.

Cigalas, camarones, santiaguiños, and bogavantes are all types of shellfish that are commonly found in Galicia. Cigalas, or langoustines, are a type of prawn that is sweet and delicate in flavour. Camarones, or shrimp, are small, succulent, and often served with the head still on for added flavour. Santiaguiños, or scampi, are a type of large shrimp that is often grilled or fried. Bogavantes, or lobsters, are a luxury shellfish that are typically boiled or grilled and served with butter or aioli. All of these shellfish are typically caught along the Galician coast, particularly in the Rias Baixas region.

Nécoras, centollos, and bueyes are all types of crab that are popular in Galicia. Nécoras, or velvet crabs, are small but flavourful crabs that are typically boiled and served with mayonnaise or aioli. Centollos, or spider crabs, are large and meaty crabs that are often boiled. Bueyes, or brown crabs, are another large type of crab that is typically boiled. These crabs are typically caught in the Galician Rias, particularly in the Rias Altas region.

Almejas, berberechos, vieiras, zamburiñas, and mejillones are all types of molluscs that are commonly found in Galicia. Almejas, or clams, are typically served steamed or in a clam-based soup. Berberechos, or cockles, are small but flavourful molluscs that are often served on their own or in a salad. Vieiras, or scallops, are a premium mollusc that is often grilled or baked with a breadcrumb topping. Zamburiñas, or small scallops, are often served with garlic butter or tomato sauce. Mejillones, or mussels, are typically steamed or cooked in a tomato-based sauce. All of these molluscs are typically harvested in the Rias Baixas region.

Galicia´s rich culinary tradition also includes a variety of delicious sweets and desserts. Here are some of the most popular Galician sweets:

Tarta de Santiago: This is a traditional almond cake that originated in the city of Santiago de Compostela. The cake is made with ground almonds, sugar, eggs, and lemon zest, and it is often decorated with the image of the Cross of Santiago. The Tarta de Santiago is a popular dessert during the holidays and is also commonly served to the ones who complete the Camino de Santiago.

Bica: This is a soft, fluffy cake that is made with butter, eggs, sugar, and flour. Bica is a popular dessert throughout Galicia and is often served with coffee or tea.

Melindres: These are small, lightly sweetened cakes that are similar to donuts. They are made with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, and are often flavoured with aniseed liquor. Melindres are a popular treat throughout Galicia and are often enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate.

Galician “furanchos” are a unique and authentic experience that you simply must try. Furanchos are traditional wine cellars or taverns, often located in rural areas, that serve homemade wine and a selection of local dishes made with fresh and authentic ingredients. They are family-run businesses that have been passed down from generation to generation, and they are known for their warm and welcoming atmosphere.

When you visit a furancho, you can expect to be greeted by friendly locals who are passionate about their food, wine, and culture. You'll be treated to an unforgettable culinary experience that showcases the best of Galicia's rich gastronomy, from fresh seafood to hearty stews and savory empanadas.

One of the most appealing things about furanchos is their authenticity. These rustic establishments are often tucked away in the countryside, far from the tourist crowds, and they offer a glimpse into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. When you visit a furancho, you'll feel like you're stepping back in time to a simpler era, where the pace of life is slower and the food is made with love and care.

So, if you're looking for a truly authentic Galician experience, look no further than the furanchos. With their delicious food, homemade wine, and warm hospitality, they are the perfect place to discover the heart and soul of this beautiful region.

Local Furancho you must try

Most furanchos are located in Meaño, in the provine of Pontevedra. We have the best hotel near Meaño where you will be close to most of the best furanchos!

One of the most popular furanchos is Furancho A de Juan, located in Meaño. Here, you'll find an intimate and cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying delicious tapas and homemade wine. The owners take pride in their traditional recipes and use only the freshest ingredients to create their dishes. Visitors loved the zamburiñas (scallops) and torilla de patata (Spanish potato omelette) claiming it’s a must try, however they also say that all the plates are must trys! This place is known for excellent service and the food portions are quite big, as they should be in furanchos.

Be sure to also visit Furancho Lar Do Vila in Meaño. This rustic tavern is a local favourite especially since its definitely not a tourist trap. It is known to have a lot of space to sit and enjoy your meals while enjoying the atmosphere with beautiful views of the estuary (la ria). The Albariño vino there is a must have. Beautiful place, great food, and amazing views.

Another great option is Furancho Angel, located also in Meaño. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the waiters really make you feel at home. Great food quality and prices! It’s known to be an ideal place to eat or dine with a big group. You should try the alpargata and their albariño wine, along with more exquisite plates they offer from their small menu.

A Casa Pequena is a charming furancho located in the town of Lores in Meaño. This cozy tavern with most of tables in the garden makes it truly stand out, especially at night having beautiful decoration and lights. Locals love the raxo, la zorza, pimientos de padron, and the croquetas from their small but delicious menu. Apparently, the homemade desserts are also amazing! The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot to relax with a glass of wine and some delicious food. You should reserve though. 

Finally, A Reboraina is a must-visit furancho located in Redondela. This cozy tavern is ideal for families or friends. It seems like a beautiful and large country house with tables outside for you to enjoy your meal under the magnolias, or in better words, your meals since you will find yourself trying a bunch of different plates! They don’t do reservations.