A former Kingdom of Galicia capital, A Coruña is a seaside city home to the world’s oldest-operating Roman lighthouse. It boasts a cutting-edge human museum, as well as beautiful beaches and promenades where you can soak up the coastal views.

Things to do

Visit the UNESCO-listed Tower of Hercules, the second-tallest lighthouse in Spain, which rises atop a peninsula to the north of A Coruña. Originally built in the 2nd century, it boasts magnificent coastal views from its balcony while being surrounded by a sculpture garden where works by Pablo Serrano and Francisco Leiro are displayed.

Travelling with kids? Explore the interactive exhibits of Museo Domus, which is set within a sail-shaped building designed by Japanese architect Arata Isozaki. It’s the first museum in the world dedicated to human physiology and perception, with hands-on exhibits that invite you to learn and reflect on our unique characteristics.

Admire the combination of Romanesque and Gothic architecture at the Church of Santiago, a 12th-century monument in A Coruña’s Old Town. Take note of the exterior brackets on the facade that are carved with grotesque figures, then step inside to see the church’s rose window and sculptures of the Virgin Mary.

Stroll along the seafront promenade of Paseo Marítimo, which starts from La Marina and extends all the way to O Portiño on the slopes of Monte de San Pedro. Swim or relax on the sands of Orzán and learn to surf in the waves of Riazor Beach.

Getting around

A Coruña Airport is a 20-minute drive south of the city centre or the larger Santiago de Compostela Airport is 50 minutes away. Most of A Coruña’s attractions can be accessed on foot, although buses are also available.