Welcome to Ferrol, a historic naval city and a hidden gem on Spain's rugged Galician coast. As an emerging port of call for lines like Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn, Ferrol offers a refreshing alternative to more crowded Mediterranean destinations.
Passengers are drawn to its authentic atmosphere, magnificent 18th-century architecture, and its strategic position as the gateway to the sacred city of Santiago de Compostela. Discover a city where maritime history comes alive around every corner.
The star attraction within Ferrol is the Barrio de la Magdalena, an immaculately preserved 18th-century neighborhood designed during the Enlightenment. Its grid-like streets, beautiful balconied buildings, and lively plazas are perfect for a stroll right from the ship.
Delve into the city's identity at the Museo Naval (Naval Museum), which showcases centuries of shipbuilding and maritime history. For panoramic views of the estuary, take a short taxi ride to the impressive Castillo de San Felipe, a historic fortress that once guarded the city from sea attacks.
Don't miss a walk along the harbor to see the imposing walls of the Arsenal Militar (Military Shipyard), the foundation upon which modern Ferrol was built.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
The most popular day trip from Ferrol is to the world-famous pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela. Located about an hour's drive south, this UNESCO World Heritage city and its magnificent cathedral are a must-see for many visitors to Galicia.
Another excellent option is the vibrant coastal city of A Coruña, approximately 45 minutes away by car, which boasts the ancient Roman lighthouse, the Tower of Hercules. For nature lovers, the enchanting Fragas do Eume Natural Park, one of Europe's best-preserved Atlantic forests, is just a 30-minute drive from the port.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
The Ferrol cruise port enjoys a prime location, with its modern cruise terminal, the Curuxeiras Pier, situated directly on the edge of the city center. Passengers can walk off the ship and be in the heart of the historic Barrio de la Magdalena in just 5 to 10 minutes.
No shuttles are necessary to explore the main downtown area. The immediate port area is pleasant, with waterfront promenades, cafes, and restaurants nearby. Ships dock directly at the pier, so tendering is not required.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
The official currency in Ferrol, as in the rest of Spain, is the Euro (€). While some tourist-focused shops in major cities might accept US dollars, it is not common practice in Ferrol, so you should plan on using Euros.
ATMs (cajeros automáticos) are widely available throughout the city center, just a short walk from the port, and offer the best exchange rates. Credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Ferrol is known to be a very safe and welcoming city with a low crime rate. Cruise passengers can feel comfortable exploring the city center and main tourist sites independently on foot. The general atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.
As in any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your personal belongings like wallets and cameras, but specific tourist-targeted crime is not a significant concern here. There are no particular areas that tourists need to avoid.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Ferrol has a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild, often wet winters and pleasantly warm summers. During the main cruise season from spring to autumn, you can expect comfortable temperatures, but rainfall is possible year-round.
Summer temperatures (June to September) typically range from 18°C to 24°C (65°F to 75°F), perfect for sightseeing. Spring and autumn are slightly cooler and have a higher chance of rain. It is always advisable to pack in layers, including a light jacket and an umbrella or waterproof coat, as the Atlantic weather can change quickly.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Ferrol's compact city center is best explored on foot, as most key sights are within easy walking distance of the cruise pier. Taxis are readily available at a stand near the port for trips to outlying attractions like the Castillo de San Felipe or nearby beaches.
Local public buses serve the wider area, but for day trips to destinations like Santiago de Compostela or A Coruña, the most convenient options are organized shore excursions offered by your cruise line or pre-booked private tours.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
The best shopping in Ferrol is concentrated in the pedestrian-friendly streets of the Barrio de la Magdalena, especially along Calle Real. Here you'll find a mix of well-known Spanish brands, independent boutiques, and traditional shops.
Look for local Galician specialties such as high-quality leather goods, artisan ceramics from Sargadelos, and gourmet food items like local cheeses, preserves, and Albariño wine. Prices are generally fixed, so haggling is not customary. Naval and maritime-themed souvenirs are also popular mementos of your visit.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Explore Ferrol's monumental 18th-century Naval Arsenal, a cornerstone of Spanish maritime history. This vast complex showcases impressive shipbuilding heritage and the engrossing Naval Museum.
Discover the unique Meninas de Canido, an open-air art gallery reinterpreting Velázquez's masterpiece on neighborhood walls. Local guide Juanjo leads this fascinating tour, sharing the stories behind the ever-evolving urban art.
Stroll through the Magdalena district, a perfect example of Enlightenment urban planning with its grid layout and modernist architecture. On our walking tour, you'll discover charming squares, traditional tapas bars, and unique shops.
If you are looking for an authentic taste of Galicia, visit the bustling Mercado de la Magdalena. It is a sensory and experiential delight where you can see, smell, and sample fresh local produce, seafood, and regional cheeses.
Explore the Sculpture Park surrounding the Tower of Hercules, a UNESCO World Heritage site, on a fun Segway tour. Suitable for all ages from 6 to 92, this tour is offered by a company with over 15 years of experience. No experience is necessary, as specialized instructors provide full training to make you a confident driver in minutes.
Join a local foodie for a shopping trip at the vibrant Plaza de Lugo food market, followed by a hands-on cooking class in a cozy kitchen. You will learn to prepare a full Galician menu, including mussels, scallops, paella, and Santiago cake. Finally, you will sit down to enjoy everything you have prepared, paired with a glass of local wine.
Discover A Coruña's seafaring essence on a walking tour through its charming old town and historic corners. Your guide will lead you from the elegant Marina galleries to the bustling Maria Pita Square. This walk is perfect for those looking for an authentic experience full of unforgettable scenery and rich cultural legacy.
Explore A Coruña at a relaxed pace on a private, all-electric tuk-tuk tour for up to four people with a local driver. This comfortable tour visits 19 iconic monuments, complete with an audio guide in Spanish, English, or German, and includes four photo stops at the most emblematic corners. Thanks to transparent protectors and heating, this sustainable experience can be enjoyed in any weather.
Enjoy a private tour of A Coruña in a luxury vehicle with your own official guide and chauffeur, starting with a convenient pickup from your cruise port. You will visit iconic sights like the Tower of Hercules, the Riazor and Orzán beaches, and the Plaza de María Pita. Your private guide and vehicle are at your full disposal throughout the tour, which concludes with a drop-off back at your ship or a location of your choice.
Discover the highlights of A Coruña in just 60 minutes on a private, all-electric tuk-tuk tour for up to four people. This efficient tour visits 14 iconic monuments with a photo stop, all narrated by an audio guide in Spanish, English, or German. Your local driver shares anecdotes along the way, and the vehicle is equipped with transparent protectors and heating for comfort in any weather.
Embark on a unique tour designed to avoid crowds and queues by visiting special places during off-peak hours. This stress-free experience takes you to carefully selected wineries and an authentic local restaurant not frequented by tourists. Your guide specializes in taking you to destinations that other tours don't typically reach or simply overlook.
Join your guide, Juanjo, for an exclusive and adaptable tour through Galicia's main wine regions for an off-the-beaten-track experience. You will enjoy local wines, taste typical meals, and explore city monuments as well as hidden corners. This tour can also be adapted to include rest in top hotels, monasteries, old castles, or manor houses.
Take a pleasant walking and driving tour of La Coruña conducted entirely in German, with a flexible itinerary that you can arrange to your preference. You will see sights like the lighthouse and town hall square, learn about local history, and see part of the English pilgrimage route to Santiago. As a unique souvenir, your guide will send you a small photo album after the tour.
Journey from Santiago de Compostela for a personalized private tour of La Coruña in a luxury vehicle with a professional chauffeur. Your knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary as you visit iconic landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage Tower of Hercules and the ancient San Anton Castle. The entire itinerary is customized based on your personal interests to ensure you get the most out of your day.
Take a walking tour through A Coruña’s charming old town to feel the pulse of this vibrant seaside city. Your guide will lead you from the elegant Marina galleries to the bustling Maria Pita Square, sharing the city’s rich cultural legacy. To complete the experience, the tour concludes at a local bar for a glass of wine or beer accompanied by a delicious Galician appetizer.
Rent a private boat for up to six people and explore the beautiful Galician coast on your own. Before you depart, a team provides a complete briefing on the boat's operation, safety, and navigation rules. This unique experience allows you to access coastal restaurants from the water and enjoy snorkeling or swimming away from crowded beaches.
Arrange for a private transfer with a professional company that has operated since 2001. Your transfer will be handled by a bilingual Spanish and English-speaking driver. For your health and safety, all cars are disinfected after each transfer and receive a daily ozone treatment.
Visit Spain's first beer museum, located inside the active Estrella Galicia factory, for a guided sensory tour in Spanish. You will learn the entire beer-making process, be taught how to pour the perfect draft, and enjoy a tasting of five different beers. At the end, you will receive a Welcome Pack gift that includes a special glass, a tote bag, and more.
Awaken your creativity in a fun and relaxing Jewelry Initiation Workshop where you can design and create your own unique pieces. No prior experience is required, as expert instructors will guide you step-by-step through the artistic process. This is a perfect opportunity to make a meaningful, handmade gift or simply discover a new and enjoyable hobby.
Experience a guided tour in Spanish of the Estrella Galicia beer museum, located inside the active factory. After a journey through the beer-making process, you will learn to pour the perfect beer and enjoy a special tasting. The highlight is a pairing of five different Estrella Galicia beers with five delicious Galician cheeses, and you will receive a Welcome Pack gift to take home.
Explore A Coruña's most interesting places on a two-hour electric bicycle tour guided by specialized monitors. You will visit iconic landmarks including the Tower of Hercules, a World Heritage Site, and the historic Plaza de Maria Pita. This tour also features a ride along the longest seaside promenade on the entire Iberian peninsula.
Join a two-hour group walking tour to discover the main streets and sights of A Coruña. The tour covers the historic Old Town, including Maria Pita Square, as well as the most important places in the city's new part. You will see the famous Riazor beach and learn about important local figures like Maria Pita and Pablo Picasso.
Embark on a comprehensive, full-day private tour of the Costa da Morte (Death Coast) in a rugged 4x4 vehicle. Led by a professional English and German-speaking guide, you will visit emblematic areas like Finisterre, Muxía, and Cabo Vilán. This customizable tour offers many opportunities to photograph the wild nature and enjoy the region's excellent gastronomy.
Embark on a journey through La Coruña's historic streets and picturesque coastline, starting in the vibrant María Pita Square. The tour then visits the Casa Museo Picasso, offering a rare glimpse into the early life and influences of the legendary artist. Your exploration will also reveal other city attractions, from serene gardens to bustling beaches.
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Prices are roughly equal throughout the year. On average Ferrol is fairly inexpensive as a port of call. See the chart below for the monthly average cost per day.
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