5 Days of Hot Springs, Food & Culture in Ourense

Discover the thermal paradise of Spain in Ourense.

22 April 2023

Ourense is a charming city in northwest Spain, famous for its hot springs and beautiful buildings. Visitors can explore the Roman Bridge, admire the Gothic-style cathedral, and take a relaxing soak in one of the city's thermal spas. With delicious food, picturesque scenery, and a rich cultural heritage, Ourense is a must-see destination for any traveler.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Relaxation

  • Check into Hotel Francisco II, located in the heart of Ourense with easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions
  • Take a stroll through the Parque de San Lázaro, a tranquil green space with a stunning stone water fountain
  • Visit the nearby thermal spa, Termas de Outariz, and indulge in a relaxing soak in the hot springs
  • Treat yourself to a traditional Galician dinner at the nearby Casa Solla restaurant
  • Sip on a refreshing glass of local wine, Albariño, at the hotel's bar, La Vinoteca
Day 2

Discovering the Old Town

  • Start your morning with a delicious bakery treat at La Tarta de Ermita
  • Explore the winding streets and charming plazas of Ourense's Old Town, including the Plaza Mayor and Praza do Ferro
  • Take a guided tour of the city's impressive Cathedral of San Martino
  • Wander through the Mercado de Abastos, a bustling market with fresh local produce and artisan goods
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the historic Restaurante Alameda, known for its exquisite Galician cuisine
Day 3

Exploring the Outdoors

  • Take a scenic hike through the nearby Parque Natural de la Baixa Limia-Serra do Xurés, a natural park filled with breathtaking landscapes and wildlife
  • Visit the impressive Castro de San Cibrán, an ancient Celtic settlement with stunning views of the surrounding countryside
  • Stop by the picturesque village of Allariz, known for its beautiful gardens and charming streets
  • Unwind with a peaceful picnic in one of Ourense's many green spaces
  • Savor a dinner of fresh seafood and traditional tapas at the lively O Recuncho do Peregrino
Day 4

Day Tripping

  • Take a day trip to the historic city of Santiago de Compostela, home to the famous Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
  • Visit the nearby coastal town of A Coruña, known for its gorgeous beaches and stunning lighthouse
  • Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at the acclaimed restaurant La Taberna Cervantes
  • Stop by the Museo de Belas Artes de A Coruña, a museum filled with impressive works of art
  • Return to Ourense for a late-night glass of local brew, Estrella Galicia, at the trendy pub, La Bombilla
Day 5

Cultural Immersion

  • Learn about the history of Galicia and Ourense at the fascinating Museo Arqueolóxico
  • Visit the charming village of Ribadavia, known for its medieval castle and excellent wineries
  • Attend a traditional Galician music and dance performance at the Centro Cultural Marcos Valcárcel
  • Experience a taste of local nightlife at the vibrant Marbella Club
  • Say goodbye to Ourense with a final dinner at the highly-rated Restaurante Nova
  • (Note: The above activities and establishments are current as of October 2021 but are subject to possible closures or changes. Please check availability and hours before planning your travel.)

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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Ourense, Spain is a hidden gem for tourists with its breathtaking scenery, rich history and culture, and delicious gastronomy. The city is filled with ancient monuments, bridges, and thermal springs perfect for sightseeing and relaxation. Visitors can also explore the charming old town, shop for souvenirs, and indulge in the local cuisine with Ourense's various restaurants and cafes.

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