Things To Do
in A Coruña
A Coruña is a maritime city on Galicia's northwest coast known for its Atlantic ambience and seafood culture. Its iconic Torre de Hércules lighthouse overlooks a wide, windswept seafront and a lively old town. The city pairs a walkable center with broad beaches, a thriving tapas scene, and a laid-back Galician charm.
With easy access to nearby green landscapes and the sea, it’s ideal for slow-paced exploration and coastal photography.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the beautiful Plaza de María Pita, surrounded by stunning architecture and the impressive Town Hall. Enjoy a traditional Galician breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Take your time to explore the nearby streets filled with quaint shops and vibrant street art.
After lunch at a local seafood restaurant, visit the iconic Tower of Hercules, the oldest Roman lighthouse still in use. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. Spend the afternoon wandering through the nearby gardens and marveling at the landscape.
As the sun sets, head to the picturesque Riazor Beach to enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore. Choose one of the beachside restaurants for dinner, indulging in local seafood dishes and regional wines. End the night with a cocktail at a beachfront bar, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Start your day at the Museo de Bellas Artes, where you can admire a collection of Spanish and Galician artworks. Don’t miss the opportunity to view the stunning contemporary art exhibits at the Centro Ágora. After soaking in the culture, enjoy brunch at a nearby café, sampling traditional Galician cheese.
Visit the Casa de las Ciencias, where interactive exhibits will engage both young and old. Spend some time in the nearby Parque de la Torre, a perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon stroll. Delight in the beautiful sculptures and gardens that surround the area.
For dinner, choose a restaurant in the city center that highlights traditional Galician cuisine. After your meal, consider attending a performance at the Teatro Colón, where you can enjoy local music or theatre. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, enjoying the vibrant night atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚌One-way ticket (local transport) | $1.5-3 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range, per night) | $70-130 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Atlantic coastline and beaches
- Excellent seafood and Galician cuisine
- Very walkable city center with historic charm
- Iconic Torre de Hércules and coastal viewpoints
- Good access to beaches and parks nearby
- Can be rainy and windy, especially in autumn and winter
- Tourist crowds in peak summer months
- Parking can be challenging in the historic center
- Some restaurant prices are higher in tourist zones
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Dónde está la Torre de Hércules?" - Where is the Tower of Hercules?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Ola, onde está a Torre de Hércules?" - Hello, where is the Tower of Hercules? (Galician)
Places to Visit in A Coruña
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Roman lighthouse and UNESCO World Heritage site; dramatic seaBackdrops and sweeping cityscapes, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Historic square framed by colorful buildings and fountains; great for street photography and people-watching.
Long seaside promenade with endless ocean views and dramatic light during golden hours.
Harbor-side fortress with maritime history; offers interesting angles and coastal silhouettes.
Contemporary architecture and art spaces; modern lines contrast with the Atlantic backdrop for creative shots.
Food in A Coruña
A Coruña Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Boiled octopus seasoned with coarse salt, paprika, olive oil, and potatoes; a Galicia staple found in many seafood houses.
Must-Try!
Pork shoulder with turnip greens and potatoes; a hearty, traditional Galician dish often enjoyed in tavern settings.
Savory pie filled with tuna, meat, or vegetables; a common grab-and-go option at markets and bakeries.
Fresh clams, mussels, razor clams, and percebes (gooseneck barnacles) prepared simply to highlight freshness.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market near the old town offering fresh seafood, fish, meats, and produce; a great place to taste pulpo, percebes, and regional cheeses.
Around the Cantón area and harbor, small bars and stalls offer empanadas, grilled sardines, and regional pintxos perfect for a casual bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting in Spanish or Galician is appreciated; handshakes are common for first meetings. Keep voices moderate in public spaces and restaurants.
Galician is widely spoken, especially in rural areas. Making an effort with basic phrases is appreciated, but Spanish is universally understood.
Safety
Tipping in A Coruña
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In bars or casual eateries, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common. In mid-to-high-end restaurants, a 5–10% tip is appreciated if service was excellent.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. ATMs are plentiful, and cash is still useful in markets and small bars.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny days with sea breezes; beaches will be lively, water temperatures refreshing, and evenings mild. Pack sun protection, a light jacket for coastal winds, and be prepared for occasional showers.
Cooler days with comfortable sightseeing; rain becomes more frequent, so bring a compact umbrella. Seafood markets and cultural events peak as tourists thin out.
Mild compared with inland Spain but rainy and windy; city sights are quieter and prices drop slightly. Great time for indoor attractions, museums, and cozy tapas bars.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming gardens; excellent for long walks along the coast and city parks; showers are possible but generally brief.
A Coruña at Night
Hiking in A Coruña
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Elevated park with city views and accessible trails suitable for a relaxed hike.
Long, flat coastal path offering sea views and photo opportunities along the shore.
Airports
How to reach A Coruña by plane.
Located about 8–12 km from the city center; serves domestic and some international routes; access by taxi or bus.
Approximately 60–70 miles from A Coruña; larger international and domestic connections with rail or bus service to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding cultural roots, strong culinary and festival traditions.
University presence and developing cultural scenes bring energy to the city.
Year-round visitors seeking seafood, coastal scenery, and easy access to other Galicia destinations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Deep-rooted local sports culture; Galician teams and youth leagues contribute to a vibrant football scene.
Atlantic swells at Orzán and nearby beaches attract surfers of all levels.
Active harbor and marina scene support rowing and other water activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting A Coruña.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy vegetable tapas, empanadas with cheese and vegetables, grilled mushrooms, and seafood-free dishes; ask for tomato/cheese empanadas and vegetable risottos; many places will adapt menus, and markets offer fresh produce and dairy-based options.