Flights to Vigo, Spain, arrive at Vigo Peinador International Airport (VGO). Direct flights to Vigo are available from a small number of European cities including London, Madrid, and Barcelona. Cheap flights to Vigo are available on low-cost airlines Ryanair and Vueling, both of which operate regular flights to Vigo from Barcelona and London. The small airport handles about 550,000 passengers each year.
Travelers who want to fly to Vigo from outside of Europe, such as New York City (JFK) to Vigo, must first fly to London, Madrid, or Barcelona. There are no direct flights to Vigo from North American or Asian cities, though multiple or connecting flights through some of the carriers mentioned above make it easy to travel there.
Tourists who fly to Vigo often take time to see some of the city’s historic sites. These include the Fortress of El Castro, a 17th-century stone fort located near the waterfront; Casco Vello, the historic city center, which is home to many cafes and shops; and the Co-cathedral of Santa Maria, an enormous stone church built in the 16th century. Casco Vello is a must-see destination for tourists, as it offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Back when Vigo was nothing more than a medieval fishing village, it surrounded itself with fortified walls to fend off invaders. Some of these walls remain, protecting the inner heart of a city that has far outgrown that original, smaller fishing village.
For tourists who fly to Vigo, Casco Vello stands in contrast to the more modern structures in Vigo’s port and outermost areas. The streets are cobblestone, and the buildings vary in style from medieval and Gothic styles to more modern renovations. Former palatial residences for wealthy members of Vigo’s past still remain, though these days, their houses may serve as the entryway to delicious tapas restaurants, cafes, shops, or more. The Cathedral of Santa Maria, one of Vigo’s famous monuments, can be located within Casco Vello and is one of several awe-inspiring sights. For travelers looking for adventure, this area can be fun to explore on your own or part of a private tour group, of which there are several available.
Vigo is also home to several museums, which include MARCO, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Galician Center of Photography. Housed in a former courthouse, the MARCO offers art pieces from both nationally and internationally renowned artists with a focus on more contemporary or avant-garde works.
Tourists also fly to Vigo to visit its beaches. The region surrounding the city is home to nearly 50 beaches that are open to the public. The Cies Islands are particularly noteworthy and can be visited by way of a ferry. Some of the best beaches in the world are on one of the three main islands in this archipelago. Because the Cies Islands are very popular with tourists, during high season authorization and advance tickets are required.
Notable people from Vigo include crime novelist Domingo Villar; landscape painter Serafin Avendano; and classical composer Ramon Souto.
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