✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
If you have done the things to do in Spain, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Lugo.
Lugo is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, nestled in the heart of Galicia like a secret garden waiting to be explored.
From ancient Roman walls to enchanting cathedrals, there is so much to see and experience in Lugo, making it an ideal destination for adventurous travelers seeking the perfect balance of culture and relaxation.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Lugo:
1. Roman Walls of Lugo
The Roman Walls of Lugo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the city of Lugo, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk along the top of the walls which encircle the old town of Lugo. The walls are 2 kilometers long and have 71 towers and 10 gates.
Along the way, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
Don’t miss: The interactive museum located within the walls offers an in-depth look at the history and construction of the walls, as well as the culture and daily life of the Roman empire.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, try to visit the walls early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the top of the walls.
Additionally, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the fascinating history of the walls and the city.
2. Catedral de Lugo
Catedral de Lugo is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the Spanish city of Lugo. It is one of the most important religious and architectural landmarks of the region.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the cathedral’s impressive Romanesque and Gothic architecture, including the ornate portal and intricately carved choir stalls. The cathedral also houses several precious art objects and religious artifacts.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a close look at the Portico of Glory, which is considered one of the finest examples of Romanesque art in Spain.
The cloister is also worth a visit, with its striking arches and beautiful garden courtyard.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the city’s annual Fiestas de San Froilán in October, when the cathedral is illuminated at night.
3. Praza Maior
A large public square located in the heart of the historic city of Lugo in Galicia, Spain.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the square, admire the architecture and soak up the atmosphere.
Visit the City Hall, which dates back to the 18th century, or the Palace of the Provincial Council, which now houses a tourist office, library, and exhibition hall.
Don’t miss: The stunning arcaded buildings surrounding the square, particularly the Porticos of San Antonio, which is one of the most beautiful examples of Baroque architecture in Galicia.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the evening when the square is lit up, and the street performers come out. Avoid visiting during the annual medieval fair in October, which can be very crowded.
Instead, plan your visit during the Easter Week celebrations when the square is decorated with colourful flower arrangements.
4. Museo Provincial de Lugo
Museo Provincial de Lugo is a provincial museum located in the city of Lugo, Galicia, Spain.
What to see or do: This museum houses an impressive collection of archaeological, ethnographic and artistic pieces. Visitors can see artifacts from the pre-Roman period to the modern times.
Don’t miss: The most popular exhibit in the museum is the Roman Walls Room, which showcases the Roman wall surrounding the city of Lugo, built in the 3rd century AD.
Insider travel tips: Guided tours are available in English, Spanish, and Galician language.
5. Iglesia de San Pedro
A historic church located in the heart of Lugo, Spain.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture of the church, which dates back to the 12th century. Take a walk around the interior to appreciate the intricate carvings and artwork adorning the walls.
Don’t miss: The imposing bell tower, which stands tall at 71 meters, offering fantastic views of the surrounding area.
You also won’t want to miss the beautiful stained glass windows that filter the light, casting colorful reflections throughout the church.
Insider travel tips: Visit during one of the church’s public masses to experience the serene atmosphere and hear the hauntingly beautiful choir. Keep an eye out for special cultural events that are held within the church throughout the year.
6. Paseo do Miño
Paseo do Miño is a scenic pedestrian walkway located along the Miño river, in the historic city of Lugo, Spain.
What to see or do: Stroll along the promenade and take in the beautiful views of the river, gardens, bridges and historic city walls. You can also rent a bike or a boat to explore further.
Along the way, you’ll encounter several sculptures, monuments and outdoor art installations.
Don’t miss: The stunning Roman bridge, known as Ponte Romana, which dates back to the first century AD. Also, keep an eye out for the interactive sound sculptures which add an extra dimension to the experience.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the evening when the lighting adds enchantment to the already picturesque views. Stop at one of the nearby cafes or restaurants for a drink or a snack and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
7. Parque Rosalía de Castro
A public park located in the city of Lugo, Spain.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the park’s gardens, relax on the benches, and enjoy the views of the surrounding cityscape. Visit the monument dedicated to the famous Galician writer Rosalía de Castro, for whom the park is named after.
Don’t miss: The ornate bandstand and the water fountain, both beautiful examples of the park’s early 20th-century architecture.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months to attend some of the many outdoor concerts and cultural events that take place in the park.
The park is also a popular spot for wedding photography, so be sure to keep an eye out for couples taking their wedding photos.
8. Convento de San Francisco de Lugo
A historic convent in the city of Lugo, Spain, originally built in the 13th century and now open to visitors.
What to see or do: Explore the beautiful architecture of the convent, including its cloisters, church, and other buildings. Learn about the history of the convent and the role it played in the city over the centuries.
Don’t miss: The impressive frescoes inside the church, which were painted in the 17th and 18th centuries and depict scenes from the life of St.
Francis of Assisi. Also, be sure to take a walk around the peaceful cloisters and gardens.
Insider travel tips: The convent can get busy during peak tourist season, so it’s best to visit in the morning or during the week when there are fewer crowds.
Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history and significance of the convent.
9. Puente Romano de Lugo
The Puente Romano de Lugo or the Roman Bridge of Lugo is a historic bridge located in the city of Lugo, Galicia, Spain.
What to see or do: The bridge is a perfect spot for history buffs to explore and admire Roman architecture. Visitors can take a leisurely walk over the bridge and enjoy the serene views of the beautiful Minho river.
This bridge is also a popular spot for photography and scenic walks.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the breathtaking views of the sunset over the river from the bridge during the evening.
Also, check out the historical monuments and structures surrounding the bridge.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk, visit the bridge early in the morning. The nearby restaurants and cafes offer some great regional Spanish food, so take some time to explore them as well.
10. Iglesia de San Francisco
The Church of San Francisco in Lugo is a Baroque-style church built in the 18th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the intricate façade of the church which is adorned with decorative statues and carvings. Inside, there are several chapels and altarpieces, as well as beautiful frescoes and paintings.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the sacristy, which is considered one of the most valuable artistic treasures of the city. It features an impressive collection of religious art, including paintings, sculptures, goldsmiths, and textiles.
Insider travel tips: The church is open to visitors daily, but it may be closed during religious services or events. Check the schedule before you go.
Also, take note that photography is not allowed inside the church.
11. Casa de los Mosaicos
Casa de los Mosaicos is a historic mansion in Lugo, Spain that features stunning mosaic artwork.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the intricate mosaics that adorn the walls, ceilings, and floors throughout the mansion. In addition to the beautiful artwork, the mansion also features a collection of ancient Roman artifacts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the incredible attention to detail in the mosaics, which date back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning artwork. Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history of the mansion and the mosaics.
12. Estatua de Franco en Lugo
The statue of General Franco located in Lugo, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the controversial statue of the former dictator Franco, which was erected back in 1964. The statue depicts Franco on horseback, and despite its divisive history, remains in its place in the city center.
Don’t miss: Whether you agree with the statue’s presence or not, it is an important part of Spanish history and provokes mixed emotions and reactions from those who see it, making it worth a visit.
Insider travel tips: It’s important to keep in mind the sensitivity of Franco’s legacy in Spain. Visitors should be respectful of this and avoid any behavior or comments that could be construed as insensitive or offensive.
Additionally, it’s wise to read up on the history of Franco and his role in modern Spanish politics before visiting to gain a deeper understanding of the statue’s significance.
13. Galerías Plaza de España
A modern shopping center located in the city center of Lugo, Spain.
What to see or do: Shop at over 50 stores featuring fashion, accessories, electronics, and home goods.
Catch a movie at the cinema, grab a bite to eat at one of the many dining options, or enjoy a drink at the rooftop terrace bar.
Don’t miss: The impressive views of the city from the rooftop terrace bar.
Insider travel tips: Visit Galerías Plaza de España on Tuesdays for special discounts and deals. Parking can be difficult in the city center, so consider taking public transportation or walking if possible.