10 Best Things to Do in Lugo & Why It’s One of My Favorite Cities in Galicia Spain
Lugo is a historical landlocked city tucked away in the heart of Galicia Spain. It is famous for having one of the best-preserved Roman Walls of the Western Empire. While the Wall is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Town inside the walls is worth a visit.
One of the best things to do in Lugo is to wander the Old Town and visit the cathedral. Within the walls lie many historical sites and rich museums. Lugo is also known for its delicious culinary scene that boasts generous portions of tapas.
Lugo is the capital of the autonomous region of Galicia of the same name. It makes for a great base to explore the nearby natural treasures and noteworthy pueblos. Lugo is also a popular stopping point on the Camino Primitivo.
Visitors can plan on staying at least days in Lugo. This is ample time to experience the main attractions of the historic quarter and quite literally get a taste of the city. It also provides a day or two to explore highlights from the north shores of Cathedral Beach or head south to the Ribeira Sacra.
Here are some of the best things to do in Lugo, one of the most underrated cities in Galicia Spain.
Table of Contents
- How to Get to Lugo Spain
- How Long Should You Stay in Lugo?
- The 10 Best Things to Do in Lugo Spain
- Where to Stay in Lugo Spain
- Awesome Places to See Near Lugo in Galicia
- Is Lugo Worth Visiting?
- Conclusion | The Best Things to Do in Lugo & What to See
How to Get to Lugo Spain
Lugo is one of the major cities found in the incredible Galicia region in Spain. The city is landlocked and is the capital of the Lugo Province.
Lugo is quite isolated from most major cities and does require some planning.
Lugo Train Station
The Estación de Tren de Lugo is located a little outside of the city center. It is less than a 10-minute walk to the Roman Walls
Train tickets are sold by Renfe and connect to all major destinations in Spain.. There are long-distance trains and local trains. There are some direct trains from Madrid, while others require a transfer in Ourense. Be mindful when purchasing tickets to see if there is a layover.
Lugo Bus Station
The Lugo Bus Station is located much closer to the Historic City Center. It is located next to the Praza da Constitución. The Bus Station offers numerous bus companies and bus routes. Alsa Bus Company connects Lugo to major destination in Spain. There are also many local bus companies that also utilize the Lugo Bus Station.
By Car
We visited Lugo as a family trip by car. This was convenient for us as we planned on day tripping to some nearby spots. We slept in the historic city center and utilized one of the many underground parking garages.
As there were four of us splitting the cost, this was the easiest and safest option for our rental car.
➤ Renting a Car in Spain? Don’t forget to get your International Driving Permit
By Foot Via the Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage
The Camino de Santiago is one of Europe’s most beloved pilgrimage routes. Pilgrims follow the yellow shell markers from France, Spain, Portugal, and beyond to stand before the impressive Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
Lugo is found on the Camino Primitivo, which is said to be the first Camino de Santiago route ever. The route leaves Oviedo, twists through the mountains, and arrives in Lugo.
Lugo is also a popular starting point for the Camino de Santiago, as it is 100 KM to Santiago de Compostela. Eventually, the Camino Primitivo merges with the Camino Frances at Melide.
If feeling inspired to walk the Camino de Santiago, make sure to pack light and follow the shell trail markers. There are numerous Camino routes, and here are some of my best tips after walking over 12 different routes.
How Many Days to Spend in Lugo Spain?
The Old Town in Lugo is fairly compact and easy to explore on foot. A majority of the main attractions are found in the historic center, surrounded by the Roman Walls, which is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site.
Technically, you could explore a majority of the sites in a busy one-day itinerary. For us, we spaced our time in Lugo over two days. This allowed us to wander the old town, walk the walls, visit some of the museums (although not all), and spend a Saturday afternoonto soak in the Vermu culture.
Two days in Lugo allow for a good taste of the city. If short on time, the main highlights of Lugo could be explored aggressively in a full day.
Of course, there are also some enticing day trips from the city that are worth slowing down even more. We spent three nights in Lugo and visited nearby villages and the stunning north coastline.
The Best Things to Do in Lugo Spain
These are some of the best things to do in Lugo. These highlights focus on a mixture of museums, attractions, food experiences, markets, and cultural things to do.
Almost all of these sites could be explored casually over 2 days in Lugo, Galicia.
1 | Walk the Historic Roman Wall of Lugo
Lugo is most famous for its intact Roman Wall that surrounds its Old Town. It was completed in the late 3rd century and wraps a length of over 1.3 miles (2117 m). While there has been some renovation work, the Lugo wall still consists of its original layout and showcases its defensive purpose. The Lugo Roman Wall boasts 85 external towers and 5 original gates to the Old Town. There are an additional 5 gates that were added after the Roman rule.
Today, walking the Roman Wall of Lugo is a fantastic way to get another glimpse of the city. We took the staircase near the main Cathedral and looped around the entire wall. We walked casually with my dog the entire loop of the wall in about an hour.
There are 3 other staircases where you can exit the wall. Along the way appreciate views of the Old Town, artistic murals, and the surrounding Galician countryside.
The Roman Walls are always accessible so can be enjoyed at your leisure day or night.
2 | Indulge in the Tapas Scene
After the Roman Walls, Lugos is most famous for its bustling tapas scene. Each drink you order comes with a generously sized tapa. Most tapas are displayed on chalkboards outside each bar, so check in with what sounds good.
Most waitors will also be willing to tell you their daily specials, although be mindful English is not spoken widely in Lugo.
A good place to start for tapas is Paza do Campo. This is the heart of the “wine zone” and branches out to streets like Rua Nova and Rua da Cruz.
3 | Twist Through the Streets of Old Town
Lugo’s Old Town is condensed within the city walls and can easily be explored on foot.
The cobblestone streets surrounding the cathedral are a joy to wander and are lined with local shops, cafes and restaurants, garden plazas, and more.
A highlight of Lugo is the iconic Catedral de Lugo. This cathedral was built in the early 12th century, but was built on top of a much older structure. Within the walls, you’ll find a mixture of Roman sites from ancient Roman pools to ruins of walls and temples.
In addition, there are many religious sites like the Convento de San Domingos and the Convento de San Francisco, which is surrounded by its quaint gardens.
There are old Pazos (palaces), and open plazas filled with tapas bars and artisan shops.
We loved walking the streets during afternoon vermu and late at night to see a different side of the city.
➜ Alternatively, this Guided Tour of the Old Town is highly rated, just make sure to verify in English.
4 | See the Lugo Cathedral
The Lugo Cathedral is a gem found in the heart ot the Old Town. It was built in the 12th century primarily in Romanesque style. Like most churches in Spain, there is a mixture of Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassicist architectural styles.
The Lugo Cathedral allows a visit to the main cathedral. A highlight is the beautifully painted ceiling above the main chapel. In the Gothic-style Girola, find the famous Nuestra Señora de los Ojos Grandes, or Our Lady of the Big Eyes, sculpture made of stone and wood.
The museum is small but has tons of relics and religious pieces. One of the highlights is heading upstairs to get a bird’s eye view of the Cathedral. What’s interesting is that there are also some old archaeological finds from the time of the Celts. There’s also a beautiful room showcasing one of the oldest preserved styles of music.
There are no photos allowed inside the Lugo Cathedral. The entrance includes a useful audio guide (Englihs available).
Cathedral Santa Maria de Lugo | Find it here: Praza Santa María | Hours (High Season): Daily: 9:00 – 19:30, Sundays 10:00 – 18:30 | Cost: 8 Euros, discount for Pilgrims walking the Camino
5 | Visit the Roman Museums & Sites Around Town
Lugo was a bustling city during the Roman Empire known as Lucus Augusti. The city was invaded by the Romans around 15 BC. Before that, it was home to Celtic inhabitants, many of whom lived in Castros, which can be seen in the nearby countryside.
Roman history is well preserved in Lugo, and there are plenty of museums that highlight the Roman influence. There are over 15 Roman sites and museums, but there are three of the most popular to visit in Lugo.
✔ A Domus do Mitreo
An archaeological site turned museum where it’s possible to see an old temple (Mithraeum), the remains of a Domus (residence of upper-class Romans), and parts of a Roman Wall. Inside the museum are pieces that have been excavated from the site.
A Domus do Mitreo | Find it here: Across from the Cathedral Pr. Pío XII | Summer Hours: Tue-Sat: 11:00 – 14:00 / 16:00 – 20:00 / Sun: & Holidays: 11:00 – 14:00, Closed Mondays | General Admission: €3.30 / Guided Tour: €4.40 | Official Website
✔ Casa dos Mosaicos
A lovely remain of an old domus from the 3rd and 4th century. There is an informative video (in English) and a chance to observe the mosaic flooring and some of the wall bases.
Casa dos Mosaicos | Find it here: Rúa Doutor Castro, 20, 22 | Hours: Daily: 10:00 – 14:00 / 16:30 – 20:30 | Free Admission
✔ Sala Porta Miñá
The Porta Miñá Exhibition Hall is located just outside the Roman Walls of Lugo and showcases the Roman past and the evolution of Lugo.
Sala Porta Miñá | Find it here: R. do Carme, 3 | Hours: Daily: 10:00 – 14:00 / 16:30 – 20:30 | Free Admission | Museum Information
Again, there are numerous sites scattered throughout the city from Roman baths to burial sites. Many of the Roman sites are free to visit and can be seen while walking throughout town.
6 | Stroll Through the Mercado de Abastos
While the building of the Mercado de Abastos in Lugo isn’t the most appealing, I think one of the best ways to dabble with the unique culinary scene. There are plenty of stalls selling local delicacies from meats, eggs, honey, and cheese.
Across the street from the Mercado de Abastos is another local market with a few cafes and places to eat. The area around the Mercado de Abastos can be explored at your leisure.
7 | Take in the Ambiance of Praza Maior
One of the best things to do in Lugo is to walk through the city’s “living room” of the Praza Maior. The main plaza is filled with sculptures, gardens, and is filled in the evening with locals out enjoying the space.
The Main Plaza is surrounded by cafes and restaurants. Oftentimes, musicians and concerts take place in the central square.
8 | Walk Across the Old Roman Bridge (Ponte Vella de Lugo)
The Ponte Vella de Lugo stretches across the Miño River and is Roman in origin. The bridge is part of the Camino de Santiago route and has been rebuilt numerous times. It originally was part of a route that connected Braga in Portugal.
Today, the Ponte Vella de Lugo is a pedestrian-only foot bridge.
Those looking to walk outside the city walls can enjoy the Paseo Fluvial do Miño.
9 | Visit the Museo Provincial de Lugo
The Provincial Museum of Lugo is an incredible museum filled with art, history, and culture. Part of the museum is built into an old convent.
We visited the museum and spent a few hours wandering the many exhibits. In reality, we could have spent an entire afternoon inside the museum.
The Museum of Lugo is one of the best things to do in Lugo and showcases Roman history, Galician culture, and so much more.
Museo Provincial de Lugo | Find it here: Plaza de la Soledad | Hours: Tues-Sat: 10:00 – 13:30 / 16:00 – 20:30, Sun: 10:00 – 15:00, Closed Mondays | Free Admission
10 | Appreciate Lugo at Night
At night, Lugo is fairly quiet. Many of the day trippers have left the city, and the locals come out to the streets to enjoy the many tapas bars. I highly recommend staying in Lugo for at least one night to see a different side of the city.
Those who sleep in Lugo can also see some of the nearby sites and gems of Galicia.
Where to Stay in Lugo Spain
I think it’s best to stay in the heart of the Old Town of Lugo, inside the Roman Walls.
➜ Hostal Alba Lugo offers simple and clean private rooms next to the Roman Walls.
➜ Hostel Porton has everything for travelers and pilgrims alike. This hostel is steps away from the Roman wall, offers shared dorm-style rooms and private rooms. Onsite, find washing machines, helpful staff, a shared kitchen, and a bar!
➜ Apartamentos Armanyá offers spacious apartments in the heart of Lugo. My family and I stayed here for the weekend and loved the easy check-in process, location, modern appeal, and that they are dog-friendly!
➜ Browse all the Best Places to Stay in Lugo Spain
Noteworthy Places to See Near Lugo
Those who sleep in Lugo can explore these incredible nearby sites in Galicia as day trips. I recommend a car, as there are very few guided tours from Lugo.
✔ Cathedral Beach
Praia das Catedrais is one of Galicia’s most iconic beaches, highlighting its stunning stone archways.
Cathedrals Beach is close to Ribadeo, and during the summer months and popular holidays, a reservation is required. To walk along the sandy beaches of Cathedral Beach, you must visit at low tide.
🚗 Cathedral Beach is a little over an hour from Lugo by car.
✔ Mondoñedo
Mondoñedo is one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. Tucked in the mountains, this pueblo is home to an impressive cathedral, walking paths, religious sites, and artisan shops.
🚗 Mondoñedo pueblo is a little over an hour from Lugo by car and can easily be combined with a visit to Cathedral Beach.
✔ Ribeira Sacra
The Ribeira Sacra is one of my favorite places in Galicia. The unofficial capital of the Ribeira Sacra is said to be Monforte de Lemos, which is less than an hour from Lugo. Those who want to see one of Galicia’s most untouched areas will want to leave Lugo and spend a few days exploring the Ribeira Sacra.
✔ Castro de Viladonga
A hilltop castro that was inhabited by the Celtic tribes between the 2nd and 5th centuries. Castro de Viladonga also has a museum onsite with artifacts that have been in the nearby castro.
Castro de Viladona is only 30 minutes from Lugo and is free to visit.
➜ This is tour of Castro de Viladonga for those who don’t have a car.
Is Lugo Worth Visiting?
Yes, Lugo is worth visiting! Whether you are a pilgrim walking the Santiago de Compostela or you are visiting as a tourist, there is an almost untouched charm to this historical city. With an incredible Old Town, delicious tapas, and a fascinating Roman history, there is something for everyone in Lugo.
I loved my time in Lugo and believe it is one of the most underrated cities in Galicia.
When is the Best Time to Visit Lugo?
The peak busy season in Lugo is during the summer months of June to September, when thousands of pilgrims pass through the city via the Camino Primitivo.
The streets and plazas can be really busy during the summer months, but it’s also one of the most lively times with musicians, concerts, and performers taking to the streets. During the summer months, rooms can be more expensive and harder to find.
One of Lugo’s biggest festivals happens in June, Arde Lucus. This festival highlights and recreates the founding of the city of Lugo by the Romans. Arde Lucus usually coincides around the Summer Solstice.
Another popular festival in Lugo is San Froilán. This is the city’s patron saint, and everything from folklore, markets, and traditional cuisine can be seen throughout the city. San Froilán Festival is celebrated over two weeks, typically the first two weeks in October. Many people in Galicia visit Lugo during this yearly celebration in October.
The shoulder months of April, May, and November are great to avoid crowds and still have nice days to enjoy outdoor activities. We visited at the end of February and the beginning of March during carnival and had fabulous weather with a celebratory flair.
No matter when you visit, make sure to pack in layers. The weather in Galicia is notorious for changing in an instant from heavy rain showers to the sun shining all within minutes.
Is Lugo Expensive?
Spain, in general, is a budget-friendly country. There are plenty of ways to keep costs low, from using public transportation, staying at hostels or pensions, eating menu del día, or cooking your meals.
As Lugo is a little more isolated in the heart of Galicia, I find the city much more affordable than other regions in the north of Spain, like the Basque Country. Of course, it all depends on how you travel, but the city is well connected to the Camino de Santiago, which equates to numerous budget-friendly accommodation options and restaurants.
Many of the sites in Lugo are free to enter and explore. The famous Roman Walls are free to walk on, and many visible Roman sites are free. Many of the city’s museums are also free to visit.
Lugo is known for its hearty tapas, and they are included with the purchase of a drink. I found Lugo relatively cheaper than larger cities like Vigo and A Coruña.
Conclusion | The Best Things to See in Lugo
In short, this is a detailed guide for the historical city of Lugo in Galicia Spain. This guide includes how to get to Lugo, the best things to do in Lugo, and helpful tips for visiting this underrated city in Galicia.
To get a feel of the city, it’s best to spend 2 days in Lugo. It’s easy to slowly appreciate the historical Old Town, visit museums, see the numerous Roman sights, and delve into the rich tapas scene.
Lugo can feel a little isolated, tucked into the mountains of Galicia. In a way, that’s part of its charm, as many visitors are deterred from making the effort to visit. Do go! Lugo is one of my favorite cities in Galicia.
Have you visited Lugo? What was your favorite part about the city? Is there something missing from this “best things to do in Lugo” list? Let me know in the comments below!
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