Escape to Ourense: A Romantic Weekend Guide

Fall in love all over again in the enchanting city of Ourense, Spain.

22 April 2023

Ourense, Spain is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm. While here, couples can soak in the renowned thermal hot springs or explore the medieval streets and winding alleyways of the old town. With its stunning scenery, rich culture, and peaceful ambiance, Ourense is truly an idyllic location for a romantic vacation.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Hot springs and hidden gems

  • Check into Hotel Carris Cardenal Quevedo, an elegant and cozy spot in the heart of the city
  • Visit As Burgas, a stunning hot springs complex with thermal pools, steam rooms and fountains that date back to Roman times
  • Discover the charming Casco Historico, a neighborhood full of narrow streets, ancient buildings and hidden squares
  • Explore the breathtaking Cathedral of San Martiño de Ourense, a Gothic masterpiece with intricate stone carvings and stunning stained glass windows
  • Have dinner at Restaurante Aqua, a stylish and inventive spot that serves delicious Galician seafood and wines
Day 2

Wine, food and art

  • Drive to Ribeira Sacra, a breathtaking region of steep valleys, rivers and terraced vineyards that produce some of Spain's finest wines
  • Visit Adega Algueira, a family-owned winery that offers guided tours, tastings and stunning views of the Mino River
  • Enjoy a traditional lunch at O Caneiro, a rustic and cozy spot that serves homestyle dishes made with fresh and local ingredients
  • Visit the Centro Cultural Marcos Valcarcel, a contemporary art center that showcases works by Spanish and international artists
  • Take a stroll along the riverside, watching the sunset and reflecting on the beauty of this hidden gem in the heart of Galicia.

How to get there

Plane

You can fly to Ourense by landing at Vigo-Peinador Airport, which is approximately 88 km away from the city center. From the airport, you can take a train, bus, or taxi to Ourense.

Car

You can drive to Ourense from Santiago de Compostela, which takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Madrid, it takes approximately 5 hours to reach Ourense by car.

Train

You can take a train from Madrid to Ourense, which takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. The train station in Ourense is called Estación de Ourense-Empalme.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Ourense. However, you can take a ferry from the UK to Spain and then travel by car, bus or train to Ourense.

Bus

You can take a bus from Santiago de Compostela to Ourense, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The bus station in Ourense is called Estación de Autobuses de Ourense.

More travel plans

3 Days of Fun: Family-Friendly Ourense Adventure

Ourense, Spain offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its mix of nature, history, and relaxation. Start the adventure by exploring the stunning landscapes of O Invernadeiro Natural Park, where kids can enjoy hiking trails and spotting wildlife. Delve into the city's history by visiting the Roman Bridge and Thermal Baths, before winding down in the rejuvenating natural hot springs of Outariz and Chavasqueira.

Hot Springs & Culture: 5 Day Ourense Adventure

Explore the historic city of Ourense and enjoy its thermal hot springs on a limited budget trip. Visit the Ourense Cathedral and the Alameda park for free, and experience local cuisine at affordable prices. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations, and take advantage of public transportation to get around the city.

Ourense Uncovered: The Ultimate Budget Day Trip

Ourense, located in Northwestern Spain, offers a rich cultural and historical experience for travelers on a budget. The city boasts stunning Romanesque architecture, natural hot springs, and extensive vineyards, all of which can be explored for minimal cost. With affordable accommodation and food options, Ourense is the ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers seeking a unique and authentic Spanish experience.

3-Day Ourense Escape: Culture, Nature, Food

As a tourist, visiting Ourense in Spain presents an opportunity to explore the city's rich history and culture. You can take a tour of the historic town centre, visit the city's thermal pools and spas, and sample the local cuisine. Ourense also offers access to beautiful natural landscapes such as the nearby Ribeira Sacra wine region, perfect for a day trip.