#SmilingCities
Vigo

Whether Jules Verne wrote 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea after enjoying a dish of octopus and a couple of Galician empanadas in Vigo is yet to be proven. But the fact is that he visited this city twice. Why, you ask? What a question! Its cuisine alone would be enough of a reason, but without a doubt getting lost in its streets and squares, and admiring the power of the ocean on its beaches would have been very appealing to Monsieur Verne.

Like him, we have gone to Vigo and we cannot wait to return. Come with us and take a walk through this luminous city, which boasts an abundance of Christmas lights, to add to its brightness.

Vigo Google Map
Illustrated map of the city of Vigo

Eat/Drink

Illustration of a plate at The Othilio Bar
Title Othilio Bar

Luis Taboada, 9

A local who receives you with a "Welcome to my house, Your Majesty the customer" makes you want to love him unconditionally. If you add to that a pleasant and cozy atmosphere, a wonderful outdoor terrace, affordable prices, and a kitchen that breathes Galicia, but that opens up to the world, you already have more than enough reasons to visit it. At The Othilio Bar you will find a lot of flavor and Galician dishes, which is why we are in Vigo, of course, but also many options, each one more delicious than the last. Can we recommend a single dish? Impossible, don't ask for miracles.

https://www.instagram.com/theothiliobar/
Image of a table set up at The Othilio Bar
Image of the bar logo on the wall and two mounted tables
Illustration of a plate with a scallop and a vermouth
Title Morrofino

Serafín Avendaño, 4

A tavern with personality, that's how they describe themselves on their website, and for good reason. Beneath its casual appearance, its menu hides great haute cuisine. In it, traditional Galician gastronomy coexists harmoniously with modernity and pleasure, always committed to high-quality produce. So, if you have a fine palate, this is your place, without a doubt.

https://morrofinotaberna.com/
Image of the Morrofino façade
Illustration of the facade of El Mosquito restaurant
Title El Mosquito

Praza da Pedra, 4

Originally, back in 1930, when it was founded, El Mosquito was a seafood tavern where its owner offered homemade food following classic recipes. Today, the new family that owns it is determined to perpetuate that legacy of traditional cuisine based on fresh, local ingredients, and simple preparation. Check out the seafood and fish, which showcase the benefits of being situated very close to the estuary, in the heart of the Casco Vello de Vigo.

http://elmosquitorestaurante.com/
Image of the facade of the restaurant El Mosquito
Image of a table with plates, cutlery and glasses in the Niño Corvo restaurant
Illustration of a plate with food
Title Niño Corvo

Rúa Real, 22

Food without shame, that's what they do in this tavern-restaurant located in the old part of Vigo. Because, here, traditional Galician dishes coexist happily with Japanese and South American cuisine without the universe collapsing. They have a tasting menu and dishes as appetizing as the bream tiradiño, the blow-torched xurel and the clams with pesto and Parmesan. But if you have decided to go and allow yourself to be surprised, its chef, Adrián Albino, will prepare your own personalized menu in no time at all and with the best produce from the market.

https://www.niñocorvo.com/
Title La Mesa de Conus

San Roque, 3

It might seem that this is one of those places where you cook your own meal, but no. To begin with, because the person in charge, Víctor Conus, is the one who goes to buy the local products that he offers in his restaurant every day, who mans the bar and who cooks for you before your eyes. At La Mesa de Conus you will not have to sit too close to your fellow diners since it only serves a few in each service. And if you want one more reason to come, here it is: it is recommended in the Michelin Guide.

https://www.lamesadeconus.com/ Illustration of a table with pictures
Illustration of a plate with food Title La trastienda del cuarto

Pablo Morillo, 4

Eating well implies that the kitchen is top-notch, obviously. But if the place is also cute and pretty, it seems that everything tastes better. Well, La Trastienda del Cuatro boasts these two things. Located between one of the most emblematic parks in Vigo and the marina, this place is a lively wine bar during the day where you can be more relaxed in its dining room or on its covered terrace. Contemporary and market cuisine that takes grandmother's recipes and adds a shot of modernity that makes them even better. And, with live music, it has it all.

https://www.latrastiendadelcuatro.com/
Illustration of a plate with food Title Casa Marco

García Barbón, 123

If you are one of those who seek exquisite customer service, Casa Marco will make you feel like a real VIP. The basis of its cuisine are traditional Galician recipes, but they add a touch of modernity that will make your mouth water. Local meat, fish, and vegetables are the only products that come into this house. Why go further if they have everything here and it is very good? Do you want an example? Take two: wild sea bass rice with king prawns, and Galician veal tail cannelloni braised in the traditional style and Do Cebreiro cheese salad. Are you salivating already or shall we continue?

https://www.restaurantecasamarco.es/
Title Maruja Limón

Montero Ríos, 4

In this restaurant, which tastes like copla, they cook memories. This is how they describe themselves on their website. And they also say that without tradition there is no avant-garde. Here, Galician cuisine is updated and becomes fun, combining flavors and textures to arouse emotions. And, if that doesn't convince you, surely its Michelin star and its two Repsol suns will.

https://www.marujalimon.es/ Illustration of a plate with food
Image of the facade of the restaurant Maruja Limón
Illustration of a scallop
Title Silabario

Príncipe, 44

“My dishes taste of smoke, of oil, of caldeirada,” is how chef Alberto González Prelcic, from Silabario, describes his cuisine. And there, building on the roots and the intense flavor of traditional Galician cuisine, this restaurant, which has a Michelin star, bases its work. Of course, the traditional does not take away the modern and the avant-garde, as evolution is what makes things fun. Among its top dishes, the Norway lobster in conger eel and pea soup, the estuary octopus in crab juice and curly cabbage, and the Bordeaux lamprey.

https://silabario.gal/es
Image of the interior of the Silabario restaurant, with empty tables and a large window
Image of the El Molino counter with an exhibition of sweet products
Illustration of the façade of El Molino
Title El Molino

Policarpo Sanz, 42

After spending a whole day touring the city, you deserve an award. And if it's sweet, all the better. At El Molino you can give yourself a good reward, but without going overboard, because health comes first. This pastry and chocolate shop, with more than 70 years of tradition, is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth: buns, traditional cakes, chocolates, tarts, tea cakes... Shall we go on?

https://elmolinovigo.com/
Illustration of the facade of Café Up
Title Café Uf

Pracer, 19

Coffee, books, music, and culture, a lot of culture. That is what this emblematic venue in Vigo offers, as one of the social and cultural landmarks of this city, which has a story behind it. When its owners, who had opened it in 1983, announced its closure, nine of its regular customers organized themselves into a cooperative and kept it open. Café Uf maintains its essence, although with new features: a menu with breakfasts and snacks, perfect for regaining your strength after walking around the city; a wide range of imported drinks and beers and a small bookstore space, as the brain must also be nourished.

https://www.instagram.com/cafeufnegrasombra/
Image of the interior of the cafeteria, on the wall there are paintings, books and a table with stools
Image of the interior of the cafeteria, with a window, plants and a wall painted with flowers
Image of the interior of the cafeteria, with some armchairs and a floor lamp
Illustration of a piano
Title Vitruvia

Praza de Compostela, 5

Walking around the city is as entertaining as it is tiring, but if you still have the strength to continue enjoying Vigo, be sure to stop by Vitruvia Café. Let's see who can resist listening to a jazz, classical or popular music concert in a place decorated with original furniture from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, with a piano and everything, while enjoying an organic coffee or cold-press juice, an artisan cake, a tosta or a cocktail, if you have already eaten.

https://www.vitruviacafe.com/

Wander

Image of a pair of Pikolinos shoes perched on the wall
Illustration of a monument between two trees Title Plaza Puerta del Sol y estatua del Sireno

You will know that you are in the Puerta del Sol in Vigo when you see the Sireno, the sculpture created by Francisco Leiro, which, since it was installed in 1991, has become the symbol of this city. The figure, half man, half fish, watches over the city from his high pedestal. Nothing escapes him. From there you can watch, for example, those who walk through the central square where it is installed, where Vigo's kilometer 0 is located, and which is dotted with shops and benches where you can rest.

Image of a monument in Vigo in front of a classical building
Illustration of Pazo Quiñones de León and its gardens, a historic building in the shape of a castle Title Jardines del Pazo Quiñones de León

If you plan to visit the Museum of Vigo (100% recommended!), give yourself enough time to wander around the Gardens of the Pazo de Quiñones de León, attached to the building. In total, six gardens, designed at the end of the 19th century but inspired by the French Baroque, full of ornamental and exotic plants. Some of them are centuries old, like the camellia, which, they say, is around two hundred years old. Something possible, without a doubt, thanks to Vigo's privileged Atlantic climate.

https://www.museodevigo.org/q_jardines_es.php
Illustration of an archaeological site on a hill. Title Monte O Castro

It could be said that it all began in Monte O Castro since it was the site chosen by the first settlers of the city of Vigo. And they made the right choice. To this day, the place is a haven of peace in the middle of the city, which both residents and tourists enjoy. Although it is possible to access it by car, it is best to go up on foot and enjoy the walk. On the lower slope, you can also visit an archaeological site. The great reward awaits at the top: the best views of the city over the estuary.

https://www.turismodevigo.org/es/monte-de-o-castro
Illustration of a wooded area with little houses in the middle.
Title Monte de A Guía

Located in the Teis neighborhood, Monte de A Guía was the place where fishermen's wives used to go up to make bonfires so that the smoke would guide their husbands' boats to the port. A beautiful story for a spectacular location, from which it is possible to enjoy views of the estuary, with the Cíes Islands in the background. At the foot of the mountain it is possible to take a dip in the beaches of A Lagoa and A Punta.

https://hoxe.vigo.org/movemonos/np_guia.php?lang=cas#/
Illustration of the co-cathedral of Vigo.
Title Plaza de la Colegiata and Concatedral de Vigo

A walk through the Casco Vello de Vigo is a must. And the Plaza de la Colegiata is one of its main enclaves. There, in addition, we will find the Co-Cathedral of Vigo, which stands out for its robustness and its simple ornamentation. Built in 1811, it is one of the great exponents of Galician neoclassicism. The temple houses the Cristo de la Victoria, the most revered religious image in Vigo.

Image of the facade of a historic building, with classic balconies and a bar.

Experience

Illustration of the façade of the Maraca gallery.
Title Maraca

Doutor Cadaval, 12

Fans of illustration and art that does not usually find a place in conventional galleries have a new home in Vigo. Its name is Galería Maraca and it opened its doors last December at number 13 Calle Cervantes. Leading this initiative is the Vigo studio Chachachá, responsible, among other projects, for the cultural magazine Dot.

http://www.chachachastudio.com/portfolio/maraca/
Image of the gallery wall with an illustration with your logo
Image of some elements that can be seen in the gallery, such as Chinese cats painted in various colors.
Image of some elements that can be seen in the gallery, such as Chinese cats painted in various colors.
Image of a pair of women's Pikolinos sandals on a rock on the beach
Illustration of a beach Title playa de Samil

Is that thing that can be seen in the sky a ray of sunlight? Well, let’s go to Samil beach! It is probably the most popular in the city, as well as the longest, more than one kilometer long. It is also one of the best equipped, since it has swimming pools, tennis courts, basketball courts, a restaurant, and green areas. As if that were not enough, it is next to the city center, so, in addition to taking a dip, it is an ideal place to relax by taking a walk along the seashore.

https://www.turismodevigo.org/es/playa-de-samil
Image of a pair of women's Pikolinos sandals on a rock on the beach
Illustration of a port monument and different marine animals
Title Barrio de Bouzas

Bouzas is the fishing district of Vigo. Its cobbled streets preserve the traditional framework of the Galician coast, ideal for getting lost in them and breathing in the magical atmosphere that the whole area exudes. A good part of the typical architecture is also preserved. From the old town it is possible to reach the promenade, but first it is a good idea to take a break and enjoy an aperitif in one of the many lively terraces that dot the neighborhood.

https://www.turismodevigo.org/es/top10/barrio-de-bouzas
Image of a pair of Pikolinos shoes with a monument in the background Image of a street in Vigo that ends in the sea
Image of a pair of women's Pikolinos sandals on the ground and, in the background, you can see the Mercado de la Piedra.
Title Mercado de la piedra y Calle de las Ostras

If Vigo is practically synonymous with oysters, it is largely because of this street, the quintessential place to enjoy this marine delicacy. They are eaten in the street, at the tables of the local establishments, and, if possible, with a small glass of a DO Rías Baixas. Very close to this place is another emblem of Vigo, the Mercado de la Piedra, perhaps not as crowded as it was years ago, but ideal for soaking up the most authentic Vigo.

Illustration of a plate with seafood and a glass of wine.
Illustration of the facade of the Museum of Contemporary Art of Vigo
Title MARCO

In addition to containing, producing and disseminating the best of the city's contemporary culture, MARCO, the Vigo Museum of Contemporary Art, is also worth visiting for its architecture. The building that houses it is the old city jail, with panoptic architecture, and rehabilitated in 1995 to house the new cultural institution. A must see.

https://www.marcovigo.com/
Image of the entrance of the Art Museum Image of sculptures in the MARCO

Sleep

NC Collection Hotel Illustration
Title NH Collection Vigo

Castaños, 7

Located in the commercial area of the city, and a stone's throw from its historic center, the NH Collection Vigo hotel offers 108 rooms ranging from the most comfortable standard room to the most exclusive suites. The establishment also has six multipurpose rooms for holding any type of event.

https://www.nh-collection.com/es/hotel/nh-collection-vigo
Image of a pair of Pikolinos men's shoes Image of a pair of Pikolinos women's sandals, on a table Image of a pair of Pikolinos men's shoes on a sofa, with a lamp behind
Illustration of the Pazo de los Escudos
Title Pazo Los Escudos Hotel & Spa Resort

Canalejas, 1

Pazo Los Escudos Hotel & Spa Resort is the place to enjoy an authentic Galician house restored with all the luxuries offered by a top establishment. The hotel has rooms and suites of the highest level, as well as direct access to the beach. And of course, it has all kinds of services and amenities to make our stay in Vigo even dreamier, if such a thing is possible.

https://pazolosescudos.com/
Title AC Hotel by Marriott Palacio Universal

Miguel Soler, 22

This is the ideal establishment if you want to be in the heart of the city, very close to the center, the port, and the beach, and at the same time, enjoy all kinds of amenities. The building that houses the hotel was built at the end of the 19th century and, at the time, was the meeting point for the cultural elite and the bourgeoisie.

https://www.marriott.com/es/hotels/vgopa-ac-hotel-palacio-universal/overview/
Illustration of the Universal Palace