Vigo, set in wonderful surroundings – the green forest ridges on one side and the blue ocean on the other, is the Gateway to the Atlantic. Its surroundings are influenced by its landscapes, atmosphere and water reforms. This amazing city is located around the Ria de Vigo and exploring it is like walking around in a bit of a wonderland. It is located on the shores of the Atlantic, with Mos on the east, Orion and Gondola on the south, and the Cuddy Olivia and the Peninsula do Mora on the southern and northern riverside, respectively.
Monte de la Guia and Monte del Castro are at the center of the city, across the estuary. It is one of the largest cities of Spain and it is an interesting combination of ancient history, modern outlook and beautiful beaches.
As the city stretches from the sea up to the hills, there is little variation in the weather, but generally the summers are dry and hot, and the winters are mild.
A Little Bit of History
The city got its name from the Latin word Vicus. During the Middle Ages, it was a part of the territory of Tui and was attacked by the Viking many times.
From the 1st century AD the Romans ruled the city for nearly 600 years, and there were some important human settlements like the Roman Vicus.
El Sireno Monument, Vigo, Spain
It was constantly attacked during the 16th and 17th centuries by the pirates, Francis Drake, who burnt many buildings, and the Turks.
Philip IV built the walls around the city to protect it from looting in 1656 and it was during this time the San Sebastian Castle, Laxe bastion and San Sebastian Chapel were built.
In spite of the several attacks, Vigo developed its commerce and won several privileges from the kings of Spain. It was temporarily under the English and French rule, but due to the popular resistance the French were driven out.
This port city was the first city of Galicia to become independent from the French rule and the Independence Day is celebrated as the Reconquista on 28th March.
The city used its independence and grew in the 19th and 20th centuries, increasing its relations with America.
Many factories of salted meat and other sea products opened during this time and it became the main port of seafood in the world.
The city built new roads and important stone buildings, and today it has become a famous tourist destination.
The local people are very serious about their customs and traditions, and celebrate marvelous festivals that are a great entertainment for the visitors.
Festival Aereo Vigo, the Reconquista, Voices of Vigo, Vigofolcelta Fiesta, Semana Grande, International Jazz Festival and Are More Classical Music Festival are some of the famous festivals and celebrations here.
Where is Vigo?
- 99.4 miles/160 km from A Coruna, Spain
- 95.6 miles/ 154 km from Oporto, Portugal
- 285.8 miles/ 460 km from Lisbon, Portugal
- 8.3 miles/ 13.4 km from Vigo-Peinador Airport, Spain
- 282.1 miles/ 454 km from Lisbon Airport, Portugal
- 95 miles/ 153 km from A Coruna Airport, Spain
Things to See
- Islas Cies
- Museo de Arte Contemporanea
- Museo del Mar de Galicia
- Castro Fortress
- Santa Maria Collegiate Church
- Parquet del Castro
Beaches
- Samil Beach
- Argazada Beach
- Areino
- O Vao
- Os Muinos
- Rodas
Excursions
- National Park of the Atlantic Islands
- Panoramic Path of Vigo
Vigo is a busy port on the Atlantic Coast that dates back to the Roman times.
Some of the most beautiful coastlines can be enjoyed here. There are very few cities that have a magnificent setting like this place – very much worth a visit!
We wish you a fantastic Mediterranean cruise!
