Baiona A Picturesque Medieval Village on the Vigo Estuary & What to See
Baiona is a medieval port town found at the opening of the Ría de Vigo, the southernmost lower estuary of the Rías Baixas in Spain. This seaside village boasts a historical castle and sandy beaches. During the summer months, the port is an access point for the incredible Cíes Islands.
With so much history, there are plenty of things to do in Baiona. The charming town is a popular tourist destination and a stopping point for pilgrims walking to Santiago de Compostela. The city of Baiona is found on the Camino Portugués Coastal Route to Santiago de Compostela.
Although fairly small, Baiona is worth visiting and the main highlights can be enjoyed casually over a few hours. With more time, spend the night and relax the next day at the beaches. The town also makes a great base to explore all that the province of Pontevedra in Galicia offers.
This quick guide includes the best ways to get to Baiona, what to see in this medieval city, and tips on where to eat and sleep.
Baiona is a must-stop destination while exploring the Vigo Estuary.
Table of Contents
- Where is Baiona & The Best Ways to Reach the Seaside Town
- A Brief History of Baiona Spain
- Things to Do in Baiona
- Places to See Near Baiona
- Where to Eat in Baiona
- Where to Sleep in Baiona
- Conclusion | The Best Things to See and Do in Baiona in One Day
Where is Baiona Spain?
Baiona (also Bayona in Spanish) is a seaside town located in the Pontevedra Province of the autonomous region of Galicia Spain. The town has a population of around 12,000 people. However, in the sunny summer months, when domestic tourism booms, the typically quiet seaside city can triple in size.
Baiona sits at the southern mouth of the Vigo Estuary and is around 30 minutes from Vigo.
Vigo is the most populous city in Galicia and is how most visitors will access Bayona. Vigo is also a cruise port city so there are a few private excursions to Baiona and nearby villages like this one.
Baiona has a ferry port that provides summer shuttles to the incredible Cíes Islands resulting in visitors sleeping here and day-tripping to the islands. With so many things to see and do, Baiona can stand on its own two feet as a beautiful destination in Spain.
There is no airport in Baiona, but the Vigo Airport is the closest airport to the seaside village. Vigo is also connected to places like Santiago de Compostela by regional Renfe trains.
👉 Psst… It’s worth noting the city of Bayonne in the French Basque Country (near the Spanish Border) is spelled Baiona in the Basque language. This can be confusing if planning an extensive trip in Spain or when booking tours. Always double-check!
Car to Baiona
It’s super easy to reach Baiona by car. I included Baiona on a stop of a coastal Galicia road trip. There are many neat places to see nearby, so having a car is super convenient.
I picked up my car from the Santiago de Compostela Airport after arriving as a pilgrim in Santiago de Compostela. On this short road trip, I explored the Celtic ruins at Castro de Santa Trega, hiked a beautiful route around some of Galicia’s iconic stone mills, and spent time in charming Cambados village and the overlooked Island of Arousa.
There is free street parking in Baiona along the main road. Additionally, I utilized the convenient parking ramp for an hourly fee, A Palma in the Port of Baiona. Some hotel options may also provide free or paid parking.
Bus to Baiona
The best way to reach Baiona via public transportation is to take the bus from Vigo. The Vigo Bus Station has frequent buses to Baiona. The local bus XG883 runs between Vigo Intermodal Station and Baiona. Buses drop in Baiona across from the Public Health Center of Baiona.
🚌 Bus Vigo to Baiona | Departure Location: Vigo Intermodal | Bus: XG883 | Average One-Way Bus Fare: €2.30 | Duration: +/- 30 minutes | Check the current bus schedule
Baiona & The Camino da Costa (Portugués)
Baiona is found on the Camino Portuguese Coastal route. Most pilgrims start the Camino Portugués from Porto, where they can opt to walk either the Camino da Costa or the Central Camino Portuguese. Baiona is slowly becoming a popular place to start the Camino Coastal route.
Whatever Camino de Santiago route you choose, all roads lead pilgrims to the incredible city of Santiago de Compostela to stand in front of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the supposed resting place of the Saint James relics.
Baiona has a fantastic medieval quarter, the lovely Monterreal Castle, and the walkway around Monte Boi. This makes Bayona an ideal place for pilgrims to sleep and rest. It also has two popular Albergues, Hostel Albergue Baionamar and Albergue Estela do Mar.
A Brief History of Baiona Spain
Baiona’s history is much like the rest of Galicia’s. The area was originally settled by Celtic tribes who were later incorporated into the Roman Empire. The Romans moved west to the sea in their search for gold.
The small bay is sheltered by the surrounding islands and was always an important port city. With that being said, Baiona is said to be the first village in Europe to know of the discovery of the “New World.” The La Pinta (the fastest boat in Columbus’ fleet) arrived at the Baiona port on March 1, 1493, where the news of an intriguing far-off land would spread quickly.
Today, Baiona is a popular place to stop and rest on the Camino Portuguese for pilgrims walking the Coastal route to Santiago de Compostela. The bustling port still celebrates the arrival of La Pinta and many travelers base here to visit the Cíes Islands during the summer months.
Best Things to Do in Baiona
There are plenty of things to do in Baiona. Although small, the town has enough attractions to keep visitors busy for a full day. However, with limited time or simply passing through, Baiona could be explored aggressively in a few hours.
Keep in mind there are a few noteworthy places to see near Baiona.
If looking to relax at the beaches on the outskirts of the city or island hopping to the Cíes Islands, it’s best to spend two days in Baiona.
Here are some of the best Bayona highlights to see in one day.
Monte Boi & Castelo de Monterreal
Monte Boi is the small hillside that is part of the peninsula that houses the Monterreal Castle. Walking the path around Monte Boi is one of the best things to do in Baiona. Since it’s a loop, I preferred walking it counterclockwise to end with the vast sea views.
The Castle of Monterreal was built during the 12th Century and has always played a role in patrolling marine activities. After the arrival of the La Pinta, Baiona would reap the benefits of international trade treaties resulting in the castle and the fortress walls expanding.
In 1966, the Parador Hotel opened the Baiona Parador in the Monterreal Castle making it one of the most desired places to stay in Baiona. While guests enjoy the true charm of the castle, it’s still possible to walk the path around the fortress walls. There are also two restaurants within the castle walls.
The Paseo de Monte Boi pathway is around 2 Km long and loops around the fortress. The scenic trail passes by sandy beaches, through an old gate, and showcases remnants of the old fortress. The statue of Encontro Entre Dous Mundos, or “where two worlds meet,” shows the first meeting of Native Americans and Europeans.
As the trail twists around the Monterreal Castle appreciate the standing towers and some ruins left behind near the sea and along the path. There are five sandy beaches found on the shores of Monte Boi. Gazing out into the distance, spot the three small Estela Islands with the larger Cíes Islands in the distance.
While none of the original castros of the Celts are left, there are stones placed in circles that represent how Monte Boi looked like before the castle was erected.
The walk around Monte Boi is spectacular, especially on a sunny day.
Wander Through the Parque da Palma
The park that sits in front of Castelo de Monterreal is Parque da Palma. This green space has a playground and a few interesting sculptures. It’s also a great place to catch a glimpse of the historic horreo of Monte Boi.
This is also where to find the helpful Baiona Tourist Information Center which sits above the car park of La Palma.
Virgen de la Roca (Virxe da Rocha)
To the west of Monte Boi is the Virgen de la Roca statue. This towering limestone and granite statue of the Virgin Mary is nearly 50 feet tall (15 m) and doubles as an observation deck. Climb the internal spiral staircase to stand on the boat that the Virgin Mary has in her hand. Be mindful that to access the observation deck you must pay €2.
The views from Virxe da Rocha provide incredible vistas of Monte Boi and the fortress. On a clear day, appreciate the beautiful views of the estuary and islands.
Bayona Medieval Quarter
Do wander the small medieval quarter in Baiona. The area is filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. Being a port city, many restaurants serve a menu del dia focused on the local seafood.
The Old Town is also home to the Baiona Navigation House for those interested in the history of La Pinta and the important role Bayona played as a port city for hundreds of years.
Stroll Along the Baiona Port Promenade
The Paseo Marítimo de Baiona follows along the sea and next to the harbor. There are lovely views of Monterreal Castle to see how impressive the fortress is. For something different, visit the replica of the Carabela A Pinta, a museum that shows what daily life was like at sea during the early 15th century.
It’s possible to follow the Promenade all the way to Ladeira Beach, the longest beach near Baiona.
Relax at Ladeira Beach
A little way outside of historic Baiona, Ladeira Beach is a fantastic beach to enjoy. This is one of the city’s longest beaches.
There are numerous walking paths surrounding the beach that offer views of the nearby Miñor River. This is a protected area with lots of ducks and different species of birds, so it makes for a great place to birdwatch.
The Ladeira Beach is surrounded by sand dunes and is a lovely beach to slow down and relax.
Places to See Near Baiona
Baiona is a great base to see these highlights nearby.
Cíes Islands
The Cíes Islands are one of the main draws to Baiona. In the summer months, ferries connect Baiona to the Cíes islands.
The Cíes Islands were named the Islands of the Gods by the Romans. It’s no wonder that Rodas Beach, a white sand beach on one of the islands was awarded one of the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches.
The Cíes Islands are a protected natural landscape and to prevent over tourism, a daily permit is required. It’s best to work directly with a tour company to arrange ferries and permits.
The islands have no accommodation options, but it is possible to camp on the main island. Across the Cíes islands find numerous hiking trails, lighthouses, and white sand beaches that feel reminiscent of the Caribbean. The Cíes Islands are one of the best places to see in Galicia.
Oia
To the south of Baiona is the tiny village of Oia. Most people come here to see the incredible seaside Royal Monastery of Santa María de Oia. The monastery was built in 1195 and is currently closed. The church next door was constructed during the 18th century and can be visited.
Oia is a small pueblo and there are only a few roads. My favorite place in the village is on the stone ledge in front of Bar Puerto. This little convenience store sells snacks and beverages and offers one of the best views of Oia.
Where to Eat in Bayona
There are tons of great restaurants in the medieval quarter of Baiona. As the town is a port and seaside city found on an estuary, there are tons of great seafood restaurants.
I had a fabulous menu del dia at Recuncho Mariñeiro. Even in winter, I enjoyed the sun from an outdoor table with super friendly service. However, there are numerous restaurants found along Rúa Ventura Misa that all offer outdoor seating.
Where to Sleep in Baiona
There are numerous accommodation options for those visiting Baiona, including a highly rated Parador Hotel.
Places to Stay in Baiona for Pilgrims
As the city is found on the Coastal Camino route, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options for pilgrims.
- Hostel Albergue Baionamar
- Albergue Estela do Mar
- Hotel Tres Carabelas (Budget-Friendly Private Room)
More Places to Stay in Baiona
By far one of the most popular places to stay in Baiona is the Parador de Baiona, located inside the Monterreal Castle. However, these are more popular accommodation options in the seaside town.
- Piso Céntrico Baiona
- Hotel Rompeolas
- Hotel Vasco Da Gama (Outside of the town and closer to the Ladeira Beach in Sabaris)
There are lots of private apartment options in Baiona as it’s such a popular summer destination.
➜ Browse all the best places to sleep in Baiona Spain
Conclusion | The Best Things to Do in Baiona Spain
In short, this is a quick guide to the historical city of Baiona Spain, a beautiful seaside town in Galicia Spain. This port town offers a variety of things to do from exploring the trail around Monte Boi, strolling through the medieval quarter, or relaxing at one of the inviting sandy beaches.
Baiona is on the famous Camino de Santiago route of the Coastal Camino Portuguese. Many pilgrims walk this incredible path to reach the historical city of Santiago de Compostela.
Baiona is found in the Rías Baixas, a special region in Galicia known for its rich estuaries and wine. Many people visit Baiona to see the spectacular Cíes Islands.
Baiona is small enough that most of the highlights and attractions can be explored in a few hours. If looking to spend time at the beaches or explore the Cíes Islands, it’s best to spend two nights in Baiona.
I fell in love with the charm of Baiona and hope to spend more time here the next time I visit Galicia.
Have you visited Baiona Spain or any of the nearby towns and cities? What did you think of this charming seaside town? Is there anything that needs updating in this quick city guide? Let me know in the comments below!
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