The Ultimate Road Trip from Barcelona to Vigo
Nothing beats hitting the open road and exploring a new destination. And when it comes to a road trip, the drive from Barcelona, Catalunya to Vigo, Galicia is a perfect pick. Home to countless picturesque towns, beautiful landscapes, and eye-catching landmarks, the drive is a classic itinerary for any traveler.
Whether you're planning to rent a car or drive your own, this drive offers a chance to see the eclectic beauty of Spain, diverse cultures, and stunning coastal towns. Without further ado, here are the top places to see when driving from Barcelona, Catalunya to Vigo, Galicia.
1. Monserrat
If you are starting your road trip from Barcelona, a must-see in your itinerary is Montserrat. It is known for its majestic mountain peaks and the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, located atop the Montserrat mountain range. Take the A2/A2B highway and drive through the scenic mountain road affording breathtaking views of the Pyrenees and the valley below.
Once you arrive at Montserrat, you can take the ride to the top either by gondola or a train ride and visit the monastery. You can see the world-famous Black Madonna, a religious idol of the Catalan people. The Basilica is also home to a museum that houses works of art from famous artists like Salvador Dali and Picasso.
2. Tarragona
The ancient city of Tarragona is another must-visit destination. Founded back in Roman times, it's best explored by wandering around the old town and marvelling at the Roman architecture, which includes a stunning amphitheatre and the Roman walls.
Tarragona has a beautiful Mediterranean beach and stunning views of the coastline, making it a perfect spot for a quick pit stop to grab ice-cream or soak up the sun. The port of the city is also a perfect spot to enjoy some seafood, relax, and breathe in the salty air.
3. Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela is an enchanting town in the province of A Coruña, Spain. If you are interested in history, you cannot miss this town. It is the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago, which is known for its spiritual and religious significance.
The town's architecture is predominantly medieval and Romanesque, and the most impressive monument is the stunning cathedral. The town is also home to many other landmarks like the Hostal de los Reyes Católicos, Plaza del Obradoiro, and Pazo de Raxoi.
4. La Coruña
As you continue the road trip, La Coruña is another destination worth checking out. It's considered one of the most beautiful cities in Galicia and is home to several attractive features. The Tower of Hercules, an ancient Roman Lighthouse, and the Monument to the Heroes of the Independence War are an excellent spot to stop and take in the history and architecture of the town.
If you want to soak up some sun, Riazor and Orzán beaches are the perfect spot to enjoy the sun and indulge in some local seafood or drinks at the nearby promenade.
5. Vigo
The last stop on the road trip is Vigo, located on the Atlantic coast and known for its ethnic and cultural diversity. The fishing port of the town is the largest in Europe and is home to a large fleet of ships including sardine trawlers, purse seiners, and long-line boats.
Explore the Old Town of Vigo and for some local souvenirs, head over to the Centro Comercial A Laxe. The harbor in Vigo is also another must-visit location, with a lot to see and plenty of restaurants and cafes to try the local Galician cuisine.
Conclusion
Whether you are driving from Barcelona to Vigo for a holiday or just a quick get-out-of-town escape, these destinations are an excellent way to break up the journey, see new places, and create some unforgettable memories. So, plan your itinerary and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful destinations in Spain on your next road trip.