Spain’s westernmost region, Galicia is a verdant land studded with gorgeous historic towns and cities, giving way to expansive golden beaches and craggy cliffs facing the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The regional capital, splendid Santiago de Compostela, is also one of the world’s great pilgrimage sites. Peppered with terrific accommodation options ranging from restored townhouses to pretty converted farmhouses and slick seaside hotels, there’s something for everyone in Galicia. Check out our list of the best places to stay in Galicia as you start planning your trip!

Pilgrims have been winding their way along the Camino de Santiago’s many routes for centuries, striving to reach Santiago de Compostela’s striking cathedral, where the remains of St James are reputedly buried. Whether you’ve walked across Spain yourself or are simply in the city for the weekend, the cathedral is not to be missed. The city is brimming with galleries, museums, heritage residences and superb restaurants. Galicia’s wonderfully rich and varied cuisine is the stuff of legend.

Keen beachgoers should make for buzzy Vigo — the region’s largest city — or the smaller coastal hubs of A Coruña and A Guarda, all of which have excellent beaches and seafood. If it’s ancient culture and a dose of hiking, cycling and horse riding that you’re after, look inland to beautiful Ourense or Allariz instead. Expect warm, sunny summers, and the best places to stay in Galicia to fill up fast during the school holidays. Travel outside these times for a more laid-back experience.

The Best Places to Stay in Galicia

For Boutique Chic

• Hotel Miguel is a gorgeous little hotel on one of the most secluded squares in Santiago's pedestrianised Old Town. Pick this place for the appealing interior fusion of old and new, as well as the charming manicured garden and delightful regional restaurant. A chic boutique base for couples
• Rectoral de Cobres has just eight rustic-chic rooms with mahogany furniture and large French windows opening onto sun-drenched balconies. The outdoor pool, stone courtyard and ivy-clad terrace create a sense of timeless charm, offset by the slick Spanish restaurant. A rural delight.
• Pazo de Altamira is a trendy boutique bolthole on Plaza de Abastos Square in Santiago de Compostela. White-on-white interiors feel fresh and contemporary, with clean, crisp lines. Shared spaces showcase modern art, and the bohemian restaurant is a popular favourite.
• Torre do Rio promises an intimate hideaway for couples in Galicia's verdant countryside. The 10 individually decorated rooms are elegant and comfortable, with garden-facing balconies and a crisp, clean feel. The restaurant's regional specialities are superb.

For Families

• A Casa Da Torra Branca is a beautifully renovated 17th century farmhouse in a tranquil village. Sink into cosy beds after days of hiking and cycling, or discovering the little villages of rural Galicia. The restaurant serves authentic regional cuisine paired with Spanish wines. Wonderful for couples, friends or families.
• OS Lambrans, a converted farm house south-west of Santiago de Compostela, is a family favourite. The apartment sleeps up to six guests, and little ones will adore playing in the gardens after family games of tennis. A fantastic rural hideaway with a strong eco ethos.
• Hotel A Miranda, set by the seaside in Cariño, is a striking modern construction designed by Jorge Cao Abad. Larger guestrooms and the suite offer space for extra beds and cots for little ones, who will adore swimming, cycling and horse riding in the area. An exceptional boutique spot promising a warm welcome and a real sense of seclusion for the whole family.
• Casa Lourán is a pretty country house, which can be booked on a room-by-room or full house basis for families and friends. Exposed stone walls, large open fireplaces and beamed ceilings create a real sense of timeless character. The grounds are brilliant for little ones to play and cycle, and delicious regional cuisine using farm-fresh produce will delight guests of all ages.
• Casa Perfeuto María is a family-run rural property with family suites and easy access to hiking and cycling trails. Traditional stone walls and open fires are paired with glass windows and open-plan spaces, creating a comfortable, home-from-home feel. Great for outdoorsy families.

For Heritage Charm by the Seaside

• Parador de Baiona is a palatial clifftop hotel promising dazzling sea views from opulent guest rooms and suites near Nigrán. Restored period interiors feature four-poster beds, hardwood floors and classic textiles, whilst shared spaces have chandeliers and fireplaces. The restaurants, swimming pools and spa add to the appeal.
• Convento de San Benito is a beautifully restored historic monastery with striking sea views in A Guarda. Expect period features — such as exposed stone walls and arches — in lovely, individually decorated rooms with parquet flooring, warm lighting and soothing sage tones. Communal spaces have crackling fireplaces and the restaurant is excellent. Utterly charming.

For Rural Luxury

• Palacio de Bentraces, a converted Spanish nobleman's residence south-west of Ourense, has just four luxurious guest rooms. Spaces are bedecked with art and antiques, and there's a real sense of romance to the house. Unwind in beautiful gardens and take refreshing dips in the pool before tucking in to traditional Galician fare, arranged upon request.
• Pazo la Buzaca is a beautiful Galician manor house set amongst the rolling hills of Pontevedra, with an acclaimed Michelin starred restaurant. The 13 rooms are appealingly restful and romantic. The real draw is undoubtedly the sublime cuisine, which keeps foodies returning again and again.
• A Quinta de Auga is a gorgeous little spa hotel just outside Santiago de Compostela. A romantic rural escape, the hotel has luxurious guestrooms set within lovely gardens. The gourmet restaurant and superb spa — complete with indoor pool — are particular highlights. Very restful.
• Parador de Santo Estevo is a glorious hillside hotel housed in a restored former monastery. Expect pared-back modern interiors, allowing the striking historic setting to really shine. A restful getaway, with expansive views and easy access to hiking and biking trails.

For Coastal Cool

• Hesperia Finisterre offers spectacular sea views from its A Coruña port-side setting. An upsacle choice for couples, friends or families, the hotel has contemporary interiors, three swimming pools and a gourmet restaurant specialising in seafood. For well-heeled travellers.
• Gran Hotel Nagari Boutique & Spa in Vigo overlooks the ocean from its rooftop pool and bar. Interiors are swish and contemporary, with big beds, bathtubs and funky design pieces. The wellness centre is seriously impressive, with a superb spa, indoor hot tub and massages. Still well located for exploring the Old Town, yet offering five-star style.
• Noa Boutique Hotel is a gorgeous boutique pad overlooking Santa Cruz Castle and the sea in A Coruña. Chic interiors feature beds topped with crisp white linens, pale wooden furnishings and expansive ocean views from floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooftop pool and hot tub are a real treat. Romantic luxury.
• Pazo Los Escudos is tucked within an elegant stone building close to Alcobra and Santa Baia beaches in Vigo. Brilliant for those seeking to combine the magic of the beach with a rejuvenating spa holiday, this five-star hotel has excellent amenities and beautiful bay views. The outdoor pool, landscaped gardens and gourmet eateries are a real treat.

For Great Value

• Quinta de san Amaro in Pontevedra offers fourteen bedrooms with a pool for the summer — though the beaches of the Rias Baixas are just ten minutes away — and a cosy library for the winter. Surrounded by fragrant fruit trees, it's a quiet, chic and gourmet escape — great value too!
• Hotel Lois, just a few minutes from the beach in central A Coruña, has simple modern rooms at affordable rates. Some of the larger guest rooms have private balconies. The Galician restaurant is excellent. A compact, well-priced city base.
• Hotel Puerto Gamboa is an affordable, family-run townhouse hotel in Vigo. Classic rooms have private balconies, pretty chintz textiles and great bathrooms. The restaurant specialisies in Galician delicacies and is not to be missed. An Old Town favourite for on-foot explorers.
• O Portelo is a simple, traditional B&B in the heart of Allariz. Inviting guest rooms have wooden beams, exposed stone walls and carved wooden beds. A friendly, owner-run property in a restored townhouse. Perfectly placed for ambling around town as well as discovering this part of southern Galicia.
• Costa Vella is a simple, affordable choice with 14 charming rooms boasting huge windows, some of which overlook a central coutryard garden filled with magnolias. Right by the cathedral, this is an ideal B&B for on foot explorers to Santiago de Compostela.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly into one of Galicia's three international airports: Santiago de Compostela Airport, Vigo–Peinador Airport or A Coruña Airport. Many hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• Galicia is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car. Alternatively, catch a train from another Spanish city to one of Galicia's larger hubs.
• Unlike much of the rest of Spain, Galicia experiences four seasons, and the winter months are typically rainier than elsewhere in the country. Summers, however, are warm, with temperatures averaging at around 22°C - 30°C between April and September. You'll find fewer crowds outside the school holidays in April, May or September.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Santiago de Compostela.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in neigbouring Asturias.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.