Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Santiago de Compostela
You land in Santiago de Compostela, and we’ll drive you to a cozy hotel in the old town—think stone walls and warm lights. Tonight’s a tasty start with a welcome dinner at a local tavern, serving up pulpo a la gallega (octopus with paprika) and a glass of Albariño. Your guide goes over the week’s plan over some tarta de Santiago (almond cake). Wander the nearby plaza or rest up for the days ahead.
Day 2: Santiago’s Celtic and Culinary Heart
Morning’s for a guided tour of Santiago’s old town, where Celtic and Christian history mix. Visit the cathedral, a pilgrim magnet, and hear about Galicia’s Celtic roots from your guide. Pop into a market to see fresh seafood galore. Lunch is at a local spot—think caldo gallego (Galician soup) and crusty bread. Afternoon’s for the Galician Culture Museum, diving into ancient traditions. Evening brings a private Albariño tasting with cheeses at a cozy bar. Dinner’s on your own; we’ll point you to a spot for empanadas.
Day 3: Rías Baixas and Fishing Villages
After breakfast, we drive to Rías Baixas, about an hour away, to explore fishing villages like Combarro. Wander cobbled streets lined with stone granaries (hórreos) and fishing nets—your guide shares tales of Celtic sea gods. Lunch is at a seaside eatery, maybe with fresh mussels and Ribeiro wine. Afternoon’s for O Grove, another village, where you’ll see shellfish farmers at work. Check into a boutique hotel in the area. Dinner’s included, with dishes like grilled hake or lacón con grelos (pork with greens).
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Day 4: Private Boat Tour
Today’s a highlight: a private boat tour along the Rías Baixas coast. Sail past mussel platforms and tiny islands, with your guide pointing out local wildlife—maybe a dolphin if you’re lucky. Stop for a swim in a quiet cove, with snacks on board. Lunch is at a coastal restaurant, think seafood platter piled high with clams and prawns. Afternoon’s for relaxing or a short guided walk in a nearby village. Dinner’s on your own; we’ll suggest a spot for zamburiñas (scallops). Overnight in Rías Baixas.
Day 5: Celtic Castros and Pontevedra
Morning drive to a nearby Celtic castro, like Santa Trega, an ancient hillfort with stone houses and epic views. Your guide unravels its 2,000-year-old Celtic history. Lunch is at a rustic tavern—maybe lamprea (eel stew) if you’re adventurous. Afternoon’s for Pontevedra, a charming town with a medieval vibe. Stroll its plazas and visit a small museum with Celtic artifacts. Check into a hotel here; dinner’s included, with Galician classics like octopus or beef raxo.
Day 6: Vigo and Coastal Vibes
Head to Vigo, about 30 minutes away, for a guided tour of its port and old quarter. Your guide shares stories of Celtic trade routes and Viking raids. Lunch is at a harborside spot—think fresh cod and Albariño. Afternoon’s free to wander Vigo’s markets or relax by the sea. Evening brings another Celtic touch with a visit to a local cultural center, maybe catching a bagpipe performance. Dinner’s on your own; we’ll recommend a place for percebes (goose barnacles) or something tamer.
Day 7: Back to Santiago and Farewell
Return to Santiago (1-hour drive) and check into your original hotel. Morning’s free to revisit the cathedral or shop for souvenirs like jet stone jewelry. Lunch is at a local eatery, maybe with some pimientos de Padrón. Afternoon’s for a guided visit to a nearby castro, like Castrolandín, for more Celtic history. Tonight’s a big farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Santiago, with a spread of Galician seafood—think crab, shrimp, and more octopus—paired with plenty of wine.
Day 8: Departure
After a slow breakfast—grab some filloas (Galician crepes) if you can—we’ll get you to Santiago’s airport. If there’s time, sneak in a coffee at a plaza café. You’re leaving with a taste of Galicia and maybe a bottle of Albariño tucked in your bag.
What’s Included
7 nights in boutique hotels (3-4 star, double occupancy)
Daily breakfast, 4 lunches, 3 dinners (including seafood feasts and wine tasting)
Guided tours of Santiago, Rías Baixas villages, Pontevedra, Vigo, and Celtic castros
Private boat tour in Rías Baixas
Private transfers (comfortable van)
Local bilingual guides
Customization options (e.g., add a cooking class, hike, or visit to Finisterre)
