Pontevedra Itinerary The Best Things to Do in 2 Days
One of Galicia’s best preserved historical city centers is lovely Pontevedra.
Besides its super charming Old Town, Pontevedra boasts interesting museums, lively tapas bars, and a bustling market. My first time visiting, the city surprised me in the best possible of ways.
Pontevedra is conveniently located in the heart of the stunning Rias Baixas. Within a short drive, you’ll find cute fishing villages, ancient monasteries, and iconic hiking trails.
This Pontevedra itinerary focuses on how to make the most of one day in Pontevedra. With an extra day, go exploring! I’ve included some of my favorite places to see close to Pontevedra.
Here’s how to spend two days in Pontevedra Spain.
Table of Contents
- How to Get to Pontevedra
- How Many Days in Pontevedra?
- 2 Days in Pontevedra Itinerary
- Ideas for Day Trips from Pontevedra
- Where to Stay in Pontevedra
- Visiting Pontevedra Tips
- Conclusion⎥The Best Things to Do in Pontevedra in 2 Days
How to Get to Pontevedra Spain
Pontevedra is the capital of the Pontevedra province of Galicia, Spain. As it is such an important city in Galicia, it is well connected with plenty of public transportation options.
By Car
Pontevedra has received national recognition for its urban planning. The entire Old Town is car-free and has won national recognition for its urban planning.
Those travelers who are adding Pontevedra to their Galicia road trip will have to find a parking lot outside the center. There are a few free parking lots, but many are paid.
My best advice is to skip the car if only visiting Pontevedra for one day.
By Bus
Pontevedra has a bus terminal that offers connections through Spain and Portugal. Popular bus companies like Alsa connect Pontevedra with Porto Portugal and to the east of Spain from Oviedo to Bilbao.
Monbus provides frequent bus services between Vigo, Santiago de Compostela, and beyond.
Here’s where to find the Pontevedra Bus Terminal on Google Maps.
The ride-sharing app BlaBlaCar is also a helpful travel resource. Often, shared rides on BlaBlaCar are cheaper and faster than a bus ticket.
By Train
Across the street from the Bus Station is the Pontevedra Train Station. The Train Station is also next to a shopping center and has multiple rental car offices.
Regional trains connect Pontevedra to Vigo, A Coruña, and Santiago de Compostela. There is a long-distance train that connects with Madrid.
Camino de Santiago
Pontevedra is a historical city found on the second most popular Camino route, the Camino Portuguese. While pilgrims pass through the city, it definitely hasn’t lost its charm.
Most pilgrims start in Porto, Portugal, and can decide between the Litoral, Coastal, or Central route. Pilgrims arrive in Santiago de Compostela after a life-changing journey where they can choose to continue walking to the “End of the World.”
The Camino de Santiago is one of Europe’s most popular pilgrimage routes. Pilgrims follow the yellow shell markers from France, Spain, and Portugal to the stunning Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
If considering walking the Camino de Santiago, make sure to pack light and check out these game-changing tips for first-time pilgrims. Here are some frequently asked questions about the Camino when preparing to walk this life-changing journey.
How Many Days in Pontevedra?
Pontevedra is an incredible place to visit in Galicia and is the centrally located heart of the Rias Baixas (Lower Estuaries).
In my opinion, try to spend at least 2 days in Pontevedra. On the first day, explore the pedestrian-friendly Old Town, walk along the Lerez River, and visit the museum. Two days in Pontevedra would allow enough time to explore nearby fishing villages, interesting monasteries, and more nature-based activities.
Those pilgrims walking the Camino Portuguese may decide to take a rest day in Pontevedra.
Alternatively, the main sights could be casually visited over a few hours. Pontevedra is a great place to soak in the ambiance of the city’s many plazas, indulge in the tapas scene, or simply relax.
2 Days in Pontevedra Itinerary Ideas
There are tons of awesome things to do in Pontevedra. From markets to museums, and nearby hidden gems, this Pontevedra itinerary has a little bit of everything.
Skip to | Day 2
Pontevedra Itinerary Day 1
Here’s how to spend one day in Pontevedra, Spain. Keep in mind a lot of the attractions shut down mid-day for a lunch break. Plan accordingly.
Optional Walking Tour
As Pontevedra isn’t as popular as other cities in Galicia, like Santiago de Compostela or A Coruña, there are currently no free tour options in English. Those who love tours may want to book a two-hour guided tour of Pontevedra. We Galicia has great reviews on Facebook and cater to English Speakers
Ruínas de San Domingos
The Santo Domingos ruins are small but a good place to start your exploration of Pontevedra. Don’t expect an elaborate church, but all that remains of the Santo Domingo Convent. The Dominicans built this church in the 13th century in the Gothic style.
The church is free to visit and is part of the Pontevedra Museum. Inside are a few important tombs. Even if the old convent is closed, it’s still neat to walk past.
San Domingos Ruins | Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 – 14:00 / 16:00 – 19:30, Sunday 10:00 – 14:00, closed Monday | Find it here: Avenida de Montero Rios
Stop by Igrexa da Virxe Peregrina & Convento de San Francisco
Next, head towards the Praza de Peregrina to see one of the more unique churches on the Camino Portuguese, the Pilgrim Virgin Church. This church is special due to its shape, which is said to mimic the famous scalloped shell of the Way. Those who are interested can climb to the top of the tower for 2€.
After a quick visit to the church, head to the Praza de Ourense. Here, you can see the iconic Pontevedra city signboard and stroll through the Casto Sampedro gardens.
The gardens lead to the Convent of San Francisco. The convent was built in gothic style during the 13th and 14th centuries and boasts stained glass windows and medieval tombs.
Enjoy the Many Plazas of Pontevedra
There are numerous plazas in Pontevedra’s old town filled with tapa bars and restaurants.
As you move through the historical center, keep an out for all the bustling plazas. If leaving the Praza da Ferraría you’ll run into the Praza da Estrela and Praza da Leña. Leña translates to wood, so this was probably the medieval square to purchase firewood.
I love Praza de Verduras, with its centerpiece fountain surrounded by tapas bars. On a sunny afternoon, locals and tourists alike spill out into the plaza to enjoy the afternoon sun.
Praza da Pedreira is a quiet plaza that’s worth a quick stop.
Another one of my favorite plazas in Pontevedra is Praza do Teucro. This large plaza sits above a water fountain and is surrounded by cafes, bars, and restaurants.
Stroll the Mercado de Abastos
Another fantastic thing to do in Pontevedra is stroll through the Mercado de Abastos. On the first floor, find local vendors selling everything from fresh flowers, seafood, produce, and typical products of Galicia.
The second floor boasts a few different small restaurants with places to sit and enjoy each other.
The Pontevedra market is a must-see attraction that still maintains its local flair.
Mercado de Abastos Pontevedra | Hours: Monday – Saturday: 8:00 – 15:00, closed Sunday | Find it here: Rúa Serra, 5
Grab a Menu Lunch or Nibble on Tapas
Grab a bite at the market or head to one of the numerous plazas to nibble on tapas. I loved wandering along Rúa Real Street and stopping in at numerous tapas bars. I particularly loved Barbol. Those looking to wander farther may enjoy an outdoor table at Bar Pitillo.
Additionally, there are lots of places that serve hearty menu del dias. I had a cheap and delicious meal at O Camiño, but it’s a little outside the city center. Lola & Lía is well known to have a daily menu, too.
Visit the Museum of Pontevedra
One of the best things to do in Pontevedra is visit the Provincial Museum of Pontevedra. There is a lot of different art exhibits showcasing local Galician and Spanish artists. In addition, they have an interesting history museum focusing on the Celtic tribes who lived here before the Romans.
The Museum also has rotating exhibits. On my last visit, the museum had on display antique toys.
The Pontevedra Museum is free and is well worth a visit. I spent around 2 hours casually exploring the different sections of the museum. The museum is open all day so it’s ideal thing to do during the afternoon when many of the other attractions are shut down.
Pontevedra Provincial Museum | Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 – 21:00, Sunday: 11:00 – 14:00, closed Monday | Find it here: Rúa Padre Amoedo Carballo, 3 | General Admission: Free | Official Website
Appreciate the Church of Santa María la Mayor
The Basilica of Santa Maria was built during the 16th century in Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. For a small fee, it’s possible to climb up the bell tower to get stellar views of the city and Lerez River.
Stroll Along the Lerez River
Finally, take a stroll along the Lerez River. You could cross the bridge via the Ponte do Burgo or follow the River to the Illa das Esculturas. This is a popular thing to do before dinner. Don’t forget that dinner starts late, typically around nine pm!
2 Days in Pontevedra
With 2 days in Pontevedra, explore deeper the villages surrounding Ria de Pontevedra.
It’s best to have a car, although you could find out local bus times. I like to use this website for public transportation in Galicia. Remember, there are lots of car rental places near the Pontevedra Train Station.
Revisit Your Favorite Plaza to Grab Breakfast
On day 2 of this Pontevedra itinerary, start in the city. Head back to one of your favorite plazas, or explore and find a new one. Grab a coffee and enjoy some breakfast.
Mosteiro de San Xoán de Poio
Cross the Lerez River and stop by the Monastery of San Juan de Poio. The Monastery is famous for its mosaic mural of the Camino Frances route. It also boasts one of the larger horreos (grain storage) in Galicia. There is also an option to sleep at the Monastery.
Monastery of San Juan de Poio | Find it here: Rúa Convento, 36995 Poio | Hours: Monday – Saturday, 10:00 – 13:00 & 16:30 – 19:30, Sunday open in the afternoon | Admission Fee: €2.50
Appreciate the Village of Combarro
Combarro is a magical fishing village located on a beautiful section of the Ría de Pontevedra.
Combarro is famous for being home to over 30 hórreos. What makes Combarro so unique is that many of the horreos are located directly on the seashore. During high tide, it can appear as if the horreos are floating above the sea. The village is also home to numerous cruceiros, double-sided stone crosses typically found throughout Galicia and northern Portugal.
Combarro has lovely small plazas, delightful cobblestone streets, and plenty of restaurants and tapas bars offering the freshest Galician seafood. Make sure to wander through the old fishing quarter and visit the many storefronts selling miegas (witches).
Some people may prefer to sleep in the village of Combarro to explore the Rias Baixas.
➜ Browse the Best Places to Sleep in Combarro
Hike Along the Ruta da Pedra e da Auga
Those who want to appreciate time in nature can hike the Ruta da Pedra e da Auga, the Stone and Water Route. This point-to-point hiking trail runs between the villages of Armenteira and Ribadumia. I prefer parking near Ribadumia as this section of the route is more flat.
The trail is officially marked as the PR-G 170 and is 6.5 KM (4 miles). Along the scenic trail, discover 33 stone mills dotting the picturesque Armenteira River. The trail boasts waterfalls, mossy stones, and green forests. There is a unique stone sculpture park towards the trail section of Ribadumia.
The Ruta de Pedra y Agua is one of the most scenic hiking trails in Galicia and is part of the Camino Spiritual Variante. Those not following the way to Santiago de Compostela will have to walk or arrange a taxi to your starting point.
The Os Castaños Hotel Barrantes (Ribadumia) has a great little bar with outdoor seating.
Wander the Streets of Pontevedra at Night
Arrive back in Pontevedra after exploring the best of the Pontevedra Ria. Wander the streets and see the plazas in a completely different way.
More Places to See Near Pontevedra (Day Trips)
There are tons of fantastic day trips from Pontevedra, from villages, wineries, islands, and quaint villages.
Yes, I know Santiago de Compostela is less than an hour away by car, but these places are for those looking to get off the beaten path in the Rias Baixas.
✔ Cambados is a picture-perfect village and the capital of the spectacular Albariño wine region. The seaside hamlet has a port, impressive palaces, and numerous churches. Those who love wine should not skip visiting Cambados to sample Albariño wine. It’s also possible to head out to the nearby countryside to visit the numerous vineyards.
🍷 Those interested in Wine Tasting can book this private Albariño Wine Tour
✔ Illa de Arousa is a lovely island connected to the mainland by a bridge. It’s home to port towns, Carreirón Natural Park, beaches, viewpoints. In the summer, it’s possible to rent a kayak and visit the tiny island of Illa do Arioso to see ancient Dolmens.
✔O Grove is a peninsula blessed with stretches of sandy beaches and dotted with thermal spas. Travelers visit O Grove as a culinary destination as well. The peninsula is also surrounded by a few smaller islands like Isla de La Toja.
✔ Pazo de Lourizán is a fabulous palace surrounded by beautiful gardens. While it’s not possible to visit the renovated palace, the gardens are free to enter. The onsite botanical gardens boast over 850 different species of plants.
✔ Bueu is a cute little seaside village known for its many seafood restaurants. There are beaches, hiking trails, and a local market on Thursdays.
Where to Stay in Pontevedra Spain
Those looking to sleep on a budget near the historic center can check out these hostels
- Acola Hostel (I stayed here and loved the location)
- Slow City Hostel
- Turoqua Hostel
- Hostel Charino
Pensions and Private Rooms in Pontevedra
Those looking for a treat can book a night at the Parador de Pontevedra.
➜ Browse all the Best Places to Stay in Pontevedra Spain
Visiting Pontevedra Tips
Here are some helpful tips for planning a Pontevedra itinerary.
When is the Best Time to Visit Pontevedra?
The high season for Pontevedra is June to September, when many domestic tourists from the south of Spain come to Galicia to enjoy more moderate temperatures. The nearby beaches will also attract tourists.
The winter months can bring plenty of rain from the middle of November to mid-March. However, Pontevedra is a coastal city, so temperates can stay more temperate around mid-50°F. The shoulder season is a fabulous time to visit Pontevedra (April, May, and October).
I live near Pontevedra, and the best thing to keep in mind is to dress in layers. For that heavy rain, you’ll need an umbrella and rain boots, a sturdy rainjacket, and some kind of quick-drying shoes. I prefer quick dry shoes over waterproof, but that’s just me.
Is Pontevedra Worth Visiting?
Yes, Pontevedra is worth visiting! With a preserved old town, pedestrian-friendly streets, and tons of cultural draws, Pontevedra is an overlooked gem in Spain.
Pontevedra is located conveniently in the center of the Rias Baixas. This makes it easy to enjoy sandy beaches, adorable fishing villages, and vineyards. Staying in Pontevedra, you’ll have access to some of Galicia’s most beautiful natural wonders.
Pontevedra is a fabulous destination in Spain, with plenty of activities in the city and yet enough for nature lovers. The Camino de Santiago cuts through the heart of the city, adding to the unique atmosphere of the city.
Pontevedra is worth visiting on a trip to Spain.
Conclusion | What to See in Pontevedra in 1 or 2 Days
In short, this Pontevedra itinerary highlights all the incredible things to see and do in this historical city. This Pontevedra itinerary showcases how to spend one day in the city. It also includes nearby places to see if you have two days in Pontevedra.
This quick guide includes how to get to Pontevedra, where to stay, some of my favorite places to eat, and useful tips for visiting.
Pontevedra is one of the more overlooked historical cities in Galicia Spain. I love returning to this city and each time finding something new I fall in love with.
Have you visited Pontevedra? Is there something missing from this Pontevedra itinerary that you loved and I haven’t included? Anything in this guide that needs updating? Let me know in the comments below!
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