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The 9 Best Tours in Galicia
Galicia isn’t just about stunning coastlines and historic towns; it’s also a treasure trove of unique experiences you can enjoy through well-curated tours. When you’re in Galicia, you’ll find that local food, drink, and adventure are front and center. For example, a visit to the Estrella Galicia Museum offers a fascinating look into Spain’s first beer museum with a memorable cheese pairing (see more here). Or, if you’re a wine lover, a guided winery tour in Pontevedra covers both the history and tasting of some of Galicia’s best wines (details here).
Galicia’s tours span a range of interests—from tasting beers and wines, exploring stunning beaches like Playa de las Catedrales, to outdoor adventures such as via ferrata climbing. The variety ensures that whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or just seeking a scenic escape, there’s something here for you. Keep reading to explore each of these top experiences and find your perfect match.
The Types of Tours You Can Explore in Galicia
Our list covers a broad spectrum of Galicia’s highlights. You’ll find food and drink experiences like wine tastings and beer museum visits, as well as nature and outdoor adventures such as climbing on the Via ferrata Senda do Santo and visiting the breathtaking Playa de las Catedrales (more info here). There are also cultural and historic tours like Monforte Monumental and scenic beach trips from Lugo.
Below is a detailed look at each tour to help you decide which ones best match your interests and travel style.
1. Guided Visit to the Estrella Galicia Museum with Cheese Pairing
At number 1, this guided tour of the Estrella Galicia Museum offers a sensory journey into Spain’s first beer museum, located right in the active factory in A Coruña. For approximately $50.95, you’ll explore the 8 sections of the museum, learning about the origins of beer, its raw materials, brewing process, packaging, and advertising. The highlight is the cheese pairing experience, where you are taught how to pull the perfect beer foam and then enjoy a table of five Galicia cheeses matched with five local beers.
This tour earns a perfect 5.0-star rating from 202 reviews, with many praising the immersive and interactive nature. Several mention that the cheese and beer pairing is a must-try and that the tour staff makes the experience enjoyable. The duration varies from 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a great half-day activity.
Bottom line: This is perfect for beer lovers and those interested in understanding Galicia’s brewing heritage while sampling local cheeses. It offers excellent value and a genuinely Galician experience.
2. Guided Visit to the Estrella Galicia Museum with Canned Food Pairing
Second on our list, this guided tour also takes you through Spain’s first beer museum at Estrella Galicia, but with a focus on canned food partnerships, paired with Estrella Galicia beers. For about $48.84, you’ll walk through the same 8 sectors of the museum, discovering how beer is made and marketed. The highlight here is the draft and canned food pairing, giving you a taste of local preserves alongside your beers.
Rated 5.0/5 from 66 reviews, visitors appreciate the detailed explanations and the chance to taste Galician beers with local preserves. The tour lasts around 2.5 hours, making it slightly longer than the cheese version.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you’re into food pairings beyond cheese, especially if you enjoy sampling local preserves alongside Galicia’s renowned beers.
3. Playa De Las Catedrales Y Ribadeo Desde Lugo
Number 3 is a full-day trip from Lugo that covers the spectacular Playa de las Catedrales, known for its towering rock formations and natural arches. For $114.64, your entry ticket to the beach is included, along with transportation and guiding services. The tour also features a visit to Ribadeo, a charming port town, and the historic Casas Indianas.
Prebooked access to Playa de las Catedrales is essential due to its popularity. This tour handles all logistics, including permits and timing for the low tide, so you don’t need to worry about securing a reservation yourself. The tour lasts about 6 hours and includes a scenic drive and commentary about the area’s geology and history.
Guests love the convenience of door-to-door pickup and the combination of beach and town sightseeing. The main drawback is the duration—if you’re short on time, this might be a full day commitment.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want to see Galicia’s iconic coastline without the hassle of booking permits—they’ll get maximum scenery and a cultural visit in one trip.
4. Private Climbing Experience Via ferrata Senda do Santo
Next, this via ferrata experience offers an adrenaline rush near San Andrés de Teixido, close to the famous cliffs of Galicia. For just $40.48 per person, you get about two hours of guided climbing on the only via ferrata route in Galicia. No prior experience is required, making it accessible to most active travelers.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of sea and mountain views—climbers will enjoy breathtaking vistas of the coast and rugged landscapes. The guides are praised for their helpfulness, and reviews mention that even those without climbing experience can comfortably participate. The activity is suitable for those who seek adventure but are also mindful of safety.
The route itself is challenging enough to be exciting without being overly technical, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a new experience. It’s a short activity but packed with memorable moments.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers eager to try Galicia’s only via ferrata route and enjoy spectacular scenery with minimal experience required.
5. Surf Lessons in Ribeira
If you’ve ever dreamed of catching your first wave, these surf lessons are a fun way to do it. Costing around $42.14 for two hours, the classes focus on safety, technique, and enjoying the water. Small group sizes ensure personalized feedback, and the instructors are very involved.
The lessons are suitable for all levels, including complete beginners, and cover currents, breakers, and surf etiquette. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the instructors and the fun atmosphere, making this a solid choice for families or solo travelers who want to try something active and different.
The lessons are located in Ribeira, an area with good surf conditions, especially during the right season. It’s a half-day activity, but you’ll leave with new skills and a great story to tell.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting a beginner-friendly introduction to surfing or anyone keen on outdoor water sports in Galicia.
6. Private Transfer from A Coruña Airport to Ciudad A Coruña
Travel logistics matter, and this private transfer service offers a smooth start or end to your trip. For $52.34 per group (up to 3 people), you get a professional driver who will meet you with your name at A Coruña airport and whisk you to your accommodation in about 20 minutes.
It’s a straightforward service, perfect for minimizing hassle after a long journey. The driver speaks both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication. Reviews are limited but positive, with emphasis on punctuality and professionalism.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who prioritize convenience and comfort, especially if arriving late or with heavy luggage.
7. Guided Winery Tour and Wine Tasting in Pontevedra
For around $45.19, this winery tour offers a glimpse into Galicia’s wine culture, which has thrived for over 1,000 years. You’ll visit a local winery, learn about the grape varieties, and taste several wines as you look out over vineyards.
The small-group setting (up to 15 travelers) allows for an intimate experience. The guide shares insights into the winemaking process, making it ideal for foodies and wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of Galicia’s lesser-known wine regions.
Guests rave about the beautiful vineyard views and the quality of the wines tasted. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it manageable even for travelers with a tight schedule.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want to combine cultural learning with wine tasting, especially if you enjoy picturesque landscapes and regional specialties.
8. Monforte Monumental
This Monforte Monumental tour explores one of Lugo’s key cities, famous for its medieval and modern architecture. For just $8.65, you’ll walk through Monforte de Lemos, discovering relevant sites from the 15th to 17th centuries, including its origins and current importance.
Rated 4.0/5 from 7 reviews, it’s a relatively short, affordable tour that offers a good overview of this historic town. The walk starts at the Parador de Monforte de Lemos, making logistics simple. It’s best suited for history or architecture buffs looking for a quick but enriching experience.
Bottom line: Great for budget-conscious travelers interested in Galicia’s architectural heritage without committing to a full-day tour.
9. Córdoba, From Market to Table: A Hands-On Cooking Adventure
Finally, this 3-hour cooking class costs $191 but offers an immersive experience of Andalusian cuisine. You’ll visit a local market, select ingredients, then prepare authentic dishes under expert guidance. The focus is on flavors and traditions, with a chance to taste wines along the way.
Rated 3.7/5 from 3 reviews, this tour suits travelers eager to learn new recipes and enjoy a shared meal. It’s a great way to connect with local culture through food, especially if you love cooking or want a memorable cultural activity.
Bottom line: A premium experience for culinary travelers who want to take home new skills and authentic recipes.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Galicia
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints. If you’re into beer and food pairings, the Estrella Galicia Museum provides a fun and educational half-day. For wine lovers, the Pontevedra winery tour is perfect for tasting regional wines. Outdoor enthusiasts might prefer the via ferrata for adventure, while travelers seeking scenic views will love the Playa de las Catedrales.
Budget travelers will find options like the Monforte Monumental for a quick, affordable city overview, whereas foodies and culture seekers should consider the Córdoba cooking class for an in-depth culinary experience.
Book early, especially for popular sites like Playa de las Catedrales, which require reservations, and for activities with limited availability.
Final Thoughts
Galicia offers a diverse array of tours designed to bring out the best of this region’s natural beauty, culinary richness, and cultural depth. Whether you’re sampling Galicia’s famed beers and wines, exploring dramatic coastlines, or seeking outdoor thrills, there’s a perfect experience waiting.
Two standout choices include the immersive Estrella Galicia Museum tour with cheese pairing for beer aficionados and the scenic Playa de las Catedrales day trip for lovers of jaw-dropping landscapes. For the adventurous, the via ferrata offers a memorable climb with breathtaking views.
Remember, early booking helps secure spots at popular sites, and tailoring your tour choices to your interests ensures a rewarding experience. Galicia’s rich variety of offerings guarantees that your trip will be full of memorable moments.
