Galicia: Spain's Undiscovered Caribbean with £18 Flights and World-Class Beaches
If you have partied in Ibiza, savored tapas in Marbella, and basked in the sun of the Canary Islands, you know these Spanish hotspots are beloved for good reason. However, they are increasingly grappling with the pressures of overtourism. In Palma, guided walking tours are now limited to just 20 participants. Gran Canaria has enforced strict bans on certain beach items, with fines reaching up to £2,500. Meanwhile, Malaga has imposed restrictions on short-term rentals across 43 districts. For travelers seeking a fresh and less crowded destination, look no further than Galicia, a stunning region in northwestern Spain that remains largely off the radar for international tourists.
A Rising Star for British Travelers
During the recent Easter period, only 18% of visitors to Galicia were from abroad, primarily hailing from Portugal, Germany, and France. British tourists are gradually discovering this unique region, with The Times praising it as a brilliant holiday spot. Recent tourism data reveals a significant 44% increase in UK travelers to Galicia in the first half of 2025. While Santiago de Compostela draws Christian pilgrims as the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago, Galicia offers far more beyond its capital city.
Cíes Islands: A Caribbean Paradise in Europe
Nestled along Galicia's picturesque Rías Baixas coast, the Cíes Islands are a truly magical trio often compared to the Caribbean for their deep-blue seas and pristine beaches. Part of the UNESCO-listed Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, these islands were revered by the Romans as the islands of the Gods. To preserve their natural beauty, the regional government implemented a strict daily visitor cap in 2017. From May 15 to September 15, only 1,800 people are allowed per day, dropping to 450 outside this peak season.
Camping is permitted from Semana Santa (Holy Easter week) through September at the official campsite. A major highlight is Rodas Beach, ranked among the best 50 beaches globally. Described as a Caribbean-like paradise hidden in Europe, it boasts white sands and crystal-clear, calm waters. The beach is surrounded by lush pine forests and impressive sand dunes, bathed by the cool Atlantic. For more secluded options, consider Praia das Figueiras or Praia das Margaritas, both enveloped by trees. Activities include beach hopping, diving, canoeing, and visiting the Faro de Cíes lighthouse for breathtaking coastal views.
Pontevedra: A Step Back in Time
With its Renaissance and Baroque architecture, Pontevedra offers a journey into the past. Since 1999, the entire 300,000 square meter medieval center has been pedestrianized, eliminating car access and creating a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. Travel expert Rachel White from Vintage Travel highlights the Old Town as a must-visit, describing it as one of the most beautiful and best preserved in Galicia, filled with heritage buildings like the Convent of San Domingos and the Basilica of Santa María la Mayor.
Rachel recommends enjoying tapas in the Plaza de la Leña, home to both casual and fine-dining restaurants. For seafood lovers, Trasmallo Restaurante is a top choice. A short 20-minute drive leads to Combarro, a charming fishing village on the Ria de Pontevedra, where colorful fishermen's cottages and Caribbean-like beaches await.
A Coruña: Coastal Cool and Historical Charm
The coastal city of A Coruña is praised by travelers as mellow and one of the coolest places in Spain during summer. It is home to the Tower of Hercules, the world's oldest functioning Roman lighthouse dating back to 1AD, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can climb its 234 steps for panoramic Atlantic views at a cost of €3 (£2.61). Beer enthusiasts should sample the local Estrella Galicia, with museum tours available for £29.
Beach lovers are spoiled with six urban beaches and several coves. Praia de Riazor is the most popular, featuring a lively promenade with beach bars and tapas spots. Nearby, Artabria restaurant, featured in the Michelin Guide, offers traditional dishes like rice with red shrimp and homemade seafood croquettes.
Affordable Travel Options
Aer Lingus is launching summer flights from Cork to Santiago de Compostela starting June 1, with fares averaging around £67 for a 1-hour 55-minute direct route. For those near London, Vueling offers flights from Gatwick to Santiago de Compostela on May 31 for just £18, making Galicia an accessible and budget-friendly escape from overtouristed destinations.
