Group Tour Operator for Holidays to Spain
Galician Explorer – Santiago, A Coruña & Pontevedra – by Air
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Quintana Square Cathedral ©Turismo de Santiago, www.santiagoturismo.com
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Cathedral and Alameda Park ©Turismo de Santiago, www.santiagoturismo.com
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Camino de Santiago ©Turismo de Santiago, www.santiagoturismo.com
When you think of Spain, often us Brits think of Catalonia, Andalusia and Murcia however, here at Greatdays we think your next Spanish destination has be the beautiful region of Galicia. On the Galician Explorer, visit the Holy city of Santiago de Compostela, the Celtic city of A Coruña and the magnificent Pontevedra. All of these cities offer their own unique twist on a Galician theme of history, culture and incredible Gastronomy. Throughout this tour, you’ll see the impact these cities have had on the history of Spain and all Europe as well as boasting some fine Maritime and city-scape scenery.
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Santiago de Compostela
This beautiful city has arisen around the grave of St James the Apostle which was famously discovered by a farmer named Pelayo in a field in 813AD. Whilst here, discover the historic centre which is home to an abundance of tiny cobbled streets, pretty squares, monasteries, mansions, typical Galician houses and a historic university. With its Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings, the Old Town of Santiago is one of the world’s most beautiful urban areas.
A Coruña
A Coruña began as a Celtic settlement, and took on greater historical importance in Roman times, when the port became a key location in navigation routes. This period is attested by the Tower of Hercules, the only working Roman lighthouse in the world, and the symbol of the city. Now an official National Monument, it was built in the early 2nd century, during the rule of Emperor Trajan. The port has long been the scene of important historical events, such as the defeat in 1589 of the English privateer Francis Drake thanks to the resistance of the citizens, led by the heroic María Pita. The layout of the medieval town was limited to the peninsula. Its lively streets are lined with fine examples of Romanesque architecture. One of the most beautiful is the church of Santiago. Built in the 12th century, it is the oldest church in the city, with later additions from the 14th and 15th centuries. Inside, the nave is wide, with pointed arches, and a polychromed statue of St. James the Apostle which dates from the 13th century. Thanks to its architectural interest it is an official Historic and Artistic Monument.
Pontevedra
Pontevedra, a city with a long maritime and trading tradition, boasts one of the largest and most elegant historic quarters in the whole of Galicia. Situated on the edge of the estuary of the same name, the old town extends in a network of streets and squares and contains major civic and religious buildings.
Dates
Dates throughout 2025
Suggested itinerary by air
Day 1
Travel to Spain
Upon arrival at your chosen airport, transfer from the airport to Santiago de Compostela. Check-in at the hotel Lux Santiago*** in the city centre.
Day 2
Santiago de Compostela
This morning, enjoy a guided tour of Santiago de Compostela. The most special place in Santiago is the Plaza del Obradoiro. City life revolves around this point, the site of the Cathedral, Raxoi Palace and the luxurious Hostal de los Reyes Católicos, said to be the world’s oldest hotel. On this square you’re likely to see pilgrims with their inevitable walking sticks and scallop shells. Around the Cathedral, every step is a discovery, with other charming squares such as Praterías (with the best view of the belltower, La Berenguela) or Quintana with its pretty stairs, and other monuments like the imposing Monastery of San Martiño Pinario. It’s curious that even the far outskirts of the city seem as if they were designed for admiring the Cathedral. Enjoy a free afternoon. In the evening there’s a chance to enjoy an optional excursion: “Tapas tour by night” (19:30 – 22:30).
Day 3
A Coruña
After enjoying a hearty Breakfast at the hotel, transfer from Santiago de Compostela to A Coruña to check-in at the hotel Eurostars Atlántico**** in the city centre. Then you will have a chance to take in the sights of with a guided tour of A Coruña.
Day 4
Finisterre & Muxia
Today we will discover the most impressive landscape of the “Costa da Morte” (Coast of Death), visiting the sites of Finisterre, Muxía. Finisterre literally means the end of the world, a place where the pilgrims who come to Compostela meet the immensity of the ocean. Stop by the lighthouse, the most important of the Costa da Morte, which light has guided the ships in this dangerous coast. Stop at the town of Finisterre for lunch (included, from 13:30 – 15:00). After lunch we continue to Muxia. Muxía, by the Sanctuary of “Nosa Señora da Barca”, is beautifully located on
the seafront. It is the place where, according to tradition, our Lady appeared to the apostle St. James. Great scenery in front of the rough Atlantic sea.
Day 5
Pontevedra
After breakfast at the hotel, check-out and transfer from A Coruña to Pontevedra to check-in at the hotel Galicia Palace**** in the city centre.
Here, enjoy a guided tour of Pontevedra in the afternoon. In the evening perhaps enjoy a visit to a Winery in Cambados for some wine tasting.
Day 6
Return to the UK
It is time to say goodbye to Galicia, transfer to your preferred airport and travel back to the UK.
Greatdays offer a selection of excellent 3 and 4 star hotels
| Departure date | 6 days / 5 nights |
| 2025 | Prices on request |
