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If you have done the things to do in Spain, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in A Coruna.
Jewel of the Galician coast, A Coruna offers a concoction of flavors, history, and culture to those who seek an amalgamation of traditional Spanish charm with contemporary urban vibes.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in A Coruna:
1. Tower of Hercules
The Tower of Hercules is an ancient Roman lighthouse located in A Coruna, Spain. It is the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world and holds UNESCO World Heritage status.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the lighthouse and the role it played in ancient navigation. Climb to the top for panoramic views of A Coruna and the coastline.
Explore the surrounding gardens and picnic areas.
Don’t miss: Admire the impressive structure of the Tower, measuring over 55 meters in height. Marvel at the 4-tiered construction built between the 1st and 2nd centuries AD from Roman architectural style.
Visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the evolution of lighthouse technology over the centuries.
Insider travel tips: – The Tower can get crowded, so book your tickets in advance to skip the lines.
2. Beach of Riazor
Riazor Beach is one of the most popular urban beaches in A Coruna, Spain. It is located in the heart of the city and offers a beautiful stretch of golden sand and clear waters.
What to see or do: Riazor Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the sand. The beach is also a popular spot for water sports like surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.
You can also take a stroll along the promenade or enjoy a drink at one of the seafront bars or cafes.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean from Riazor Beach. They are truly spectacular and a memorable experience.
Insider travel tips: – The beach tends to get quite crowded during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning to secure a good spot.
3. Beach of Orzán
A popular urban beach located in the city of A Coruna, Spain, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
What to see or do: Enjoy the sun and sea on this wide sandy beach, popular for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Stroll along the promenade or take a dip in the ocean.
The beach has a playground, volleyball courts, and is equipped with showers and toilets.
Don’t miss: Climb to the top of the Mirador de San Pedro for panoramic views of the beach and the city. Visit the nearby Tower of Hercules, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world.
Insider travel tips: The beach can get crowded in the summer, so arrive early to secure a good spot. Bring an umbrella and plenty of water as the sun can be strong.
Parking can be a challenge, consider taking public transportation instead.
4. Castle of San Antón
Castle of San Antón is a 16th-century fortress located in A Coruña, Galicia, Spain.
What to see or do: Explore the castle and admire its unique architecture, which served as a defense against pirates and privateers.
You can also check out the museum inside the castle that displays Galician art and culture, as well as temporary exhibitions.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking view of the city and the sea from the top of the castle. The castle also offers a spectacular view of the Tower of Hercules, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Insider travel tips: Visit the castle during sunset to enjoy a picturesque view and take some amazing photos. You can also enjoy a leisurely stroll around the castle and take a walk by the scenic promenade.
5. Maria Pita Square
Maria Pita Square is the main square in the historic center of A Coruna, Spain.
What to see or do: The square is surrounded by vibrant color buildings, including the City Hall, with its ornate Baroque façade. Visitors can stroll around the square, admire the architecture, and enjoy some people-watching.
Don’t miss: The statue of Maria Pita, a local heroine who led the defense of the city against English forces in the 16th century, stands at the center of the square.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to visit the square at night when the illuminated buildings create a truly magical atmosphere.
6. Aquarium Finisterrae
Aquarium Finisterrae is a modern aquarium located in the city of A Coruna in Spain. It has a unique design that represents the world’s five oceans.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the aquarium’s 12 thematic tanks that showcase marine life from Galicia’s coast and from around the world. You can also watch different species of seals and penguins being fed and trained.
The aquarium is committed to environmental education, so you can learn about the ocean’s ecosystem and conservation.
Don’t miss: The viewing tunnel is a highlight of Aquarium Finisterrae, where you can walk through a transparent tunnel in the shipwreck’s view.
The interactive feature in the aquarium is a must-see as you can touch and feel sea urchins, starfish, and other invertebrates.
The Atlantic Shark exhibition and the Oceanario are also some exceptionally exciting things you don’t want to miss.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the week to avoid crowds or arrive in the early morning before the tour buses arrive. Plan to spend a minimum of two hours at the aquarium to see everything.
Ticket prices can be discounted for students, so bring your student ID card if possible. For better planning, you can purchase your tickets online in advance.
7. Santa María del Campo Collegiate Church
The Santa María del Campo Collegiate Church is a historical church situated in the heart of A Coruna city, Spain.
What to see or do: The church is renowned for its stunning Gothic-style architecture, exquisite stained-glass windows and beautiful facade. It is also the final resting place of renowned Galician writer, Eduardo Pondal.
Don’t miss: Make sure to explore the striking interior of the church, including the altarpiece crafted by Abelardo de la Peña and the impressive baptismal font.
Also, take a stroll around the peaceful courtyard and gardens.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the church in the early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a serene atmosphere.
8. Military Museum of A Coruña
The Military Museum of A Coruña is a fascinating museum dedicated to the military history of the Galician region and Spain as a whole.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a range of fascinating exhibits, including weapons from different historical periods, uniforms, flags, and military vehicles.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is a life-size replica of a medieval fortress, which offers an immersive experience and a glimpse into the construction of these impressive structures.
Insider travel tips: – The museum offers guided tours in English, so be sure to check the schedule and book ahead if this is something that interests you.
9. San Carlos Gardens
San Carlos Gardens is a beautiful park located in the heart of A Coruna city center.
What to see or do: The gardens are filled with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and stunning sculptures. Take a peaceful stroll or enjoy a picnic among the tree-lined paths.
You can also check out the ancient Roman walls and their watchtowers located on the edge of the gardens.
Don’t miss: The iconic Torre de Hercules, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world, is located within the San Carlos Gardens.
Make sure to stop and take a look.
Insider travel tips: The park is a popular spot for locals to relax, so be sure to visit during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and water, as the park can get quite hot during the summer months.
10. Casa de las Ciencias – House of Sciences
A museum dedicated to science and technology located in the city of La Coruña, Spain.
What to see or do: Explore exhibits featuring astronomy, geology, biology, chemistry, and physics. The museum also has a planetarium, interactive displays, and hands-on activities.
Don’t miss: Visiting the planetarium and watching one of the many educational shows that are available. Also, check out the Foucault pendulum that demonstrates the Earth’s rotation.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays.
11. Rosalía de Castro museum-house
Rosalía de Castro museum-house is a literary museum dedicated to the life and works of Rosalía de Castro, a renowned Galician writer considered one of the most important figures of Galician literature.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the house where Rosalía de Castro was born and learn about her life and literary career through a series of exhibitions and interactive displays.
The museum-house also has a beautiful garden and hosts various cultural events, concerts, and workshops throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to see the original manuscripts and personal letters of Rosalía de Castro, as well as the chance to enjoy a cup of tea in the museum’s charming tea room.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s schedule for upcoming events and workshops.
12. Museum of Emigration
The Museum of Emigration is a museum dedicated to telling the stories of the millions of Galicians who emigrated around the world during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
What to see or do: The museum features a range of exhibits, including photographs, personal letters and diaries, and original objects brought back by emigrants from places like Cuba, Argentina, and Mexico.
Visitors can learn about the different waves of emigration, the reasons why people left their homes, and the challenges they faced along the way.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the interactive audiovisual installation, which allows visitors to “travel” on a virtual ship across the Atlantic and experience what it was like to emigrate to a new land.
The museum also has a genealogy service for those who want to trace their ancestry back to Galicia.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in a historic building in the heart of A Coruna’s old town, so it’s a great place to combine with a walking tour of the area.
13. Archaeological Museum of A Coruña
The Archaeological Museum of A Coruña is a museum that showcases the archaeological findings of the region from the prehistoric era to the Middle Ages.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits that include artifacts like jewelry, pottery, and tools. The museum also has displays that explain important historical events that took place in the region.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Torre de Hércules exhibit which showcases artifacts related to the ancient lighthouse that still stands in A Coruña today.
Also, don’t miss the exhibit that showcases the Roman occupation of the region.
Insider travel tips: The museum is conveniently located in the city center and is easily accessible by public transportation. For those interested in history, this is a must-visit spot in A Coruña.
If possible, try to visit during the weekdays when the museum is less crowded.
14. Paseo Marítimo – Seafront Promenade
Paseo Marítimo is a seafront promenade stretching over 10km alongside the Bay of Palma in Mallorca, Spain.
What to see or do: – Admire stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and Palma Cathedral.
Don’t miss: – The impressive Bellver Castle, a Gothic-style fortress from the 14th century set on a hill overlooking the bay.
Insider travel tips: – Visit off-season to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the promenade.