Vigo, a lively port city in Galicia, is a fantastic place for exploring through guided tours. Its compact historic center, vibrant waterfront, and nearby scenic towns make it perfect for walking and sightseeing. Whether you’re interested in uncovering its maritime past, catching a Celta Vigo game virtually, or venturing out to Santiago de Compostela, Vigo offers options suited to many tastes. We’ve especially enjoyed the Vigo: Historic Walking Tour and Highlights for its engaging stroll through the Old Town, and the Vigo: Shore Excursion to Baiona and Vigo for a half-day adventure combining city and coastal scenery. These tours give you a real sense of Vigo’s character—from its lively plazas to its fascinating history.
Vigo’s unique position as a port city means many tours blend cultural, historic, and scenic experiences, making it a versatile destination for travelers. Whether you’re seeking a brief introduction or an in-depth exploration, you’ll find a tour that fits your schedule and interests.
1. Vigo: Historic Walking Tour and Highlights
At number 1, this 1.5-hour historic walking tour offers an excellent introduction to Vigo’s core. Starting at the Concatedral – Basílica de Santa María de Vigo, you’ll wander through the Old Town, soaking in its lively streets and colorful buildings. The tour covers significant landmarks like the Praza da Pedra and Praza de Almeida, where you’ll stop for photos and learn about local history. The guided walk includes passing by Rúa Cesteiros, famous for its artisan shops, and the El Sireno sculpture, an iconic symbol of Vigo.
One of the highlights is visiting the Castelo de San Sebastián, which provides sweeping views of the city and port. The tour concludes at the Monumento a Jules Verne, celebrating Vigo’s maritime and literary connections. The guide’s lively commentary makes history feel alive, and at just $32, the tour offers excellent value for a personalized experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a quick, engaging overview of Vigo’s historic core.
2. Excursion from Vigo to Santiago de Compostela – Cruise-ship passengers only
For around 8 hours, this full-day trip to Santiago de Compostela takes you from Vigo’s port to one of Spain’s most revered pilgrimage sites. The journey begins with a comfortable coach ride to Santiago’s UNESCO- listed historic center. Here, a guided walking tour introduces you to the Majestic Cathedral, which is the heart of the city and the final destination of the Camino de Santiago.
You’ll have free time to explore the charming streets, sample local Galician cuisine, or visit the Museo da Catedral for more insights into its history. The tour emphasizes comfort and reliability, with transportation included and a guaranteed return to your cruise ship. Many travelers find this trip a perfect way to combine spirituality, history, and gastronomy in one day.
Key highlights include the guided interior visit of the cathedral and ample free time to soak in the city’s lively atmosphere. The reviews are stellar, with a 4.9/5 rating from 7 reviews, and the experience is especially suited for those interested in culture and architecture.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for cruise passengers who want a well-organized visit to a stunning, historic city with plenty of photo and shopping opportunities.
3. Celta Vigo Abanca Balaídos Stadium Tour
At number 3, this stadium tour with VR technology offers a fresh take on sports sightseeing. Priced at $26 for 1.5 hours, it’s a must for football fans and tech enthusiasts alike. You’ll explore the Abanca Balaídos Stadium, home of the Celta Vigo football club, but with a twist: the tour uses augmented and virtual reality to unlock areas normally closed off to the public.
Guides share stories about the club’s history, memorable matches, and legendary players, making this more than just a walk through a stadium. The VR component creates an immersive experience, especially during moments when you “visit” the players’ tunnel or the VIP box. With a 4.4/5 rating based on 37 reviews, visitors appreciate the mix of technology and tradition.
This tour strikes a great balance between sports passion and innovative storytelling, making it especially appealing for families and younger travelers. However, those not interested in football might find it less engaging.
Bottom line: A fun, interactive way to learn about Vigo’s football heritage with a modern twist.
4. Monumental Morning Walking Tour in Pontevedra
Number 4 on our list is this 2-hour tour of Pontevedra, which extends Vigo’s sightseeing horizons. Known as the most awarded city in Europe for its urban reform, Pontevedra offers a pedestrian-friendly experience full of legends and character. The tour kicks off at the Iglesia de la Virgen Peregrina, dedicated to Galicia’s patron saint, and continues through Plaza de la Herreria with its elegant palaces.
You’ll visit the Plaza de la Lena to see the provincial museum and explore the historic streets, including La Verdura and Méndez Núñez squares. The tour also includes a review of Roman legacy, the Camino de Santiago, and the Cruceiro at Praza das Cinco Rúas. The guide’s lively narration is ideal for families and history lovers, and the tour runs comfortably for just over two hours at $21.36, making it an affordable day trip from Vigo.
Guests appreciate the relaxed pace and local insights, with one noting, “It felt like walking around with a knowledgeable friend sharing stories about the city.”
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a relaxed, in-depth experience of Pontevedra’s unique character.
5. Guided Walking Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers
This 2-hour walk is designed for cruise visitors eager to get a quick yet meaningful glimpse of Vigo. Starting at the Man With Briefcase, the tour covers key sights like the Co-Cathedral of Santa María and the bustling Praza Porta do Sol. Passing by landmarks such as Castelo de San Sebastián and El Olivo, the tour offers a compact exploration of the city’s core.
The guide shares stories about Vigo’s maritime past, local culture, and the city’s role as a port hub. The tour’s flexibility and focus on highlights make it ideal for travelers with limited time. While specific price details aren’t listed, reviews give it a 4.7/5 rating, indicating high satisfaction.
Best suited for cruise passengers who want a straightforward, engaging introduction without a long commitment.
Bottom line: An efficient way to see Vigo’s essential sights in a short time.
6. Vigo: Shore Excursion to Baiona and Vigo with Guide
Number 6 takes you on a 5-hour combined tour that explores both Vigo’s historic center and the medieval town of Baiona. The journey begins with a 40-minute bus ride to Baiona, famous for its Port of Baiona and the Monte Boi fortress. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour, walking through its narrow streets and soaking in views of the bay.
Afterward, the tour continues back in Vigo for more sightseeing, including the El Castro hilltop fortress with panoramic views of the bay. The tour is ideal for travelers wanting a taste of both the city and coastal scenery in one trip, with a focus on regional history and picturesque landscapes.
Rated with a 4.1/5, this tour is best for those who want a rundown without missing out on the region’s natural beauty. The mix of guided city walking and leisurely exploration makes it good value for a half-day.
Bottom line: Great for travelers with a day to spare who want a balanced experience of Vigo and Baiona.
7. Vigo: Thematic Tour Selfie Experience Gallery Vigo-Galicia
For a fun break from traditional sightseeing, this Selfie Gallery Tour offers a one-day adventure through 16 immersive rooms themed around ART, POP, and the 80s-2000s. Interacting with the rooms, you can take selfies in surreal settings, making it a hit with younger travelers and selfie enthusiasts.
This interactive experience is designed for all ages, with no prior knowledge needed. It’s perfect for those who want to combine a bit of art with social media fun or families looking for something playful. The live surreal experiences and photo opportunities are ideal for creating memorable digital keepsakes.
Rated 4.6/5, this tour isn’t about history but about having a good time and sharing it. It’s a different way to see Vigo’s creative side, especially if you’re into modern art and interactive experiences.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a lighthearted, visually stimulating activity with plenty of photo ops.
8. Vigo: Santiago de Compostela Guided Tour with Cathedral
Finally, the 7-hour guided tour to Santiago de Compostela offers a comprehensive experience. Departing from Vigo, it includes a roughly 45-minute visit to the city’s famous cathedral, and a guided walk through the historic streets. You’ll explore the city’s pilgrimage routes and enjoy free time to shop or dine in the lively squares.
The tour emphasizes cultural and architectural highlights, with insights into Galicia’s traditions. The route is designed for comfort, with transportation included. The price is $83 per person, reflecting its longer duration and detailed itinerary, making it great value for a full-day experience.
Reviewers appreciate the mix of guided narration and free exploration, often mentioning the spiritual atmosphere of Santiago’s cathedral. It’s best suited for those who want an in-depth cultural day trip and don’t mind a longer tour.
Bottom line: Ideal for history, architecture, and culture enthusiasts who want an immersive day outside Vigo.
How to Choose Your Perfect Vigo Tour
When selecting a tour, think about your interests and schedule. If history intrigues you, the Vigo: Historic Walking Tour and Highlights offers a quick but thorough intro. Looking to combine sightseeing with a bit of sports fun? The Stadium VR Tour provides an engaging, tech-driven experience. For a taste of regional culture, the Baiona and Vigo Shore Excursion balances city and coast.
If you’re more into art and playful photo opportunities, the Selfie Gallery is perfect. Budget travelers or those with limited time will appreciate the shorter options like the Cruise Ship Walking Tour, while those wanting a deep cultural dive will enjoy the Santiago de Compostela day trip.
Booking early is always wise, especially during peak cruise season or local festivals. Consider your fitness level—most walking tours are moderate, but some involve steep hills or long periods of standing.
Final Thoughts
Vigo offers a diverse lineup of tours suited for different tastes and schedules. For a brief yet rich introduction, the Vigo Historic Walking Tour is hard to beat. Those with more time or a keen interest in regional culture might prefer the full-day trip to Santiago de Compostela. Football fans will find the Stadium VR Tour especially entertaining, while families or selfie lovers will enjoy the Selfie Gallery.
Whatever your interest, Vigo’s combination of history, scenery, and lively street life makes it a rewarding place to explore. Early booking, good planning, and choosing a tour that matches your pace will ensure you get the most out of your visit.