A Coruña is a coastal city located on a rocky peninsula in northwest Spain, in the autonomous community of Galicia. The city boasts a lively local culture, history, nature, and irresistible food. The city centre sits on an isthmus straddled by the harbor on its southeast side and beaches open to the ocean on the northwest.
At 13Km, the seaside promenade (Paseo Marítimo) – one of the longest in Europe – is a wonderful walkway and bike path. It borders the limits of the city and passes through several of the city’s landmarks including the ‘Torre de Hércules’, the world’s only still fully functioning Roman age lighthouse. It was built between the 1st and 2nd century AD and was enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009. The Promenade also borders the Orzán and Riazor beaches, located in the central part of the city. These two locations are popular among tourists and surfers and, on Mid-Summer’s night, they host bonfire celebrations on the sand. The Castle of San Antón is a 16th century fortress situated along the Promenade. Its original purpose was to protect the bay against naval attacks and nowadays it hosts the Archaeological Museum.
The main square in A Coruña (Plaza de María Pita) is the beating heart of the city and one of the most important landmarks you should not miss. Here you can find the city’s Town Hall, a modernist building erected in the early 20th century. However, the highlight of the square is the statue of María Pita, a local heroine who leaded the resistance against the raids of the English armada led by Francis Drake in the 16th century. Walking along the Avenida de la Marina you will find the well known galleries, reflecting the sunlight in a unique way. These iconic glass structures left such an impression to seamen arriving in the harbour that earned A Coruña the nickname ‘the City of Glass’. These galleries, which make one of the largest groups of glass structures in the world, are one of the most iconic images of the city.
The well-preserved A Coruña old quarters (Ciudad Vieja) includes buildings and constructions predating the 19th century. The stillness of these stone streets makes the area a perfect place to go for a walk and stop along the way for a tapa in a little traditional tavern.
To catch the best scenery and panoramic views of the city and surroundings, visitors should not avoid a visit to the top of the Monte de San Pedro. This former military base is a beautiful park at present with playgrounds, outdoor picnic and a reputed restaurant.
We suggest visiting A Coruña’s and Galicia’s official tourism websites to get tips on what to see and what do, where to eat and drink, the best updated events and how to get around.