The autonomous region of Galicia sits in the northwestern corner of Spain on the border with Portugal. This area was on the furthest eastern edge of the Celtic world, and it still has a solid connection to its heritage. One of the highlights in Galicia is Santiago de Compostela, an attractive medieval city with cobblestone streets and well-preserved buildings. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Santiago has an eclectic mix of Romanesque, Baroque, and Gothic structures, including a 13th-century cathedral. It is also the final stop on the famed Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route that begins in France just south of Lyon.

From a visit to Cape Finisterre, believed by the Romans to be the end of the known world, to a day of swimming at one of the beaches of the Cíes Islands, there are countless ways to spend your time in Galicia.

June through August generally has the best weather and the most daylight hours, which is great if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors. This is also the busiest time to visit, with Santiago being a popular summer destination. If you’re visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, you’ll find pleasant weather and cooler temperatures that are more comfortable for nature hikes or exploring museums and art galleries. Winter is the quietest time of the year for visitors, and it gets dark early. That gives you more time to check out Galicia’s traditional cuisine, which includes amazingly fresh local seafood and a glass of delicious Albariño white wine to wash it down with.

Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela

The Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela is the final stop for many pilgrims on the world-renowned Camino de Santiago. Construction on the UNESCO World Heritage Site began in the 11th century, and the cathedral has a mixture of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque design elements. Legend has it that St. James was buried here.

As Catedrais Beach

Approximately six miles west of Ribadeo, As Catedrais Beach (Beach of the Cathedrals) is one of the region’s most spectacular beaches. You can wander among rock formations that resemble spires, and stunning natural arches that rise dramatically from the sand. There are hidden caves you can visit at low tide. This beach is good for swimming, too, but the water can be quite chilly even during the summer.

Tower of Hercules

The lighthouse tower stands 187 feet tall above A Coruña harbor on the Atlantic coast. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the oldest working lighthouse in the world, built by the Romans in the first century and restored and extended in the 18th century. You can climb its 234 steps for panoramic views of the area.