4 Days of Bliss in Ourense, Spain

Discover the hidden beauty of Ourense, where history and natural wonders meet.

22 April 2023

Ourense, located in the northwestern Spanish region of Galicia, offers both natural and cultural attractions for visitors. The city is known for its hot springs, with the Burgas Thermal Springs being a popular destination for relaxation. The old town, with its Roman bridge and medieval cathedral, provides a glimpse into the area's rich history and architecture.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploring the City

  • Check-in at Hotel Francisco II, a stylish yet affordable option in the heart of Ourense.
  • Start your day with a traditional Galician breakfast at Cervecería Madrid, known for their "tostas" (toasted bread with various toppings).
  • Visit the Praza Maior, the main square in Ourense, and admire the beautiful buildings surrounding it.
  • Take a stroll along the charming Rúa do Paseo, full of boutique shops and cafes.
  • Relax at the hot springs of As Burgas, which have been used since Roman times for their healing properties.
  • End your day with a dinner at Alameda, a restaurant featuring modern Galician cuisine.
Day 2

Monastery and Vineyard Visit

  • Head to the Monastery of San Estevo de Ribas de Sil, a stunning 12th-century monastery nestled in the Ribeira Sacra wine region.
  • Take a guided tour of the monastery and learn about its history and architecture.
  • Visit a local vineyard and enjoy a wine tasting of the region's famous Mencia and Godello wines.
  • Enjoy a traditional lunch at Cantina Carrasqueira, a rustic restaurant using local ingredients.
  • Take a boat tour on the Sil River to admire the dramatic landscapes and vineyards along the riverbanks.
Day 3

Hiking and Street Art

  • Hike to the top of Montealegre, which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
  • Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MARCO) to admire the impressive collection of Spanish and international art.
  • Take a guided tour of the city's street art, showcasing colorful and vibrant murals by local and international artists.
  • Enjoy a late lunch of tapas and wine at Taberna a Capela, a cozy spot with a great atmosphere.
  • Visit the historic Cathedral of Ourense, featuring a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
Day 4

Market and Historical Exploration

  • Check out the local market, Mercado de Abastos, where you can find a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
  • Visit the Roman Bridge, a well-preserved bridge dating back to the 2nd century.
  • Explore the historical Paseo del Miño, a walkway along the Miño River that features several sculptures and monuments.
  • Visit the Church of Santa Eufemia and its adjoining cloister, featuring beautiful Romanesque architecture.
  • End your stay with a dinner at Restaurante Sabina, known for its inventive and delicious Galician cuisine.
  • With its historical landmarks, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Ourense is the perfect destination for a memorable Spanish getaway.

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.

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