Ferrol is a historic city with a proud seafaring legacy. Once a bustling naval port, Ferrol has transformed into a vibrant coastal city with an appreciation for art, culture and cuisine. Explore the charming old town, visit the maritime museum and savour authentic Galician fare.
Things to do in Ferrol
Wander around the atmospheric historic district, where centuries-old buildings frame narrow streets. Palm-lined Plaza de Amboage is a perfect place to sip coffee and immerse yourself in local life. Make your way to Magdalena, a pedestrianised neighbourhood filled with beautiful 18th-century townhouses. They were built for wealthy shipping merchants and feature elegant white facades and ornate balconies.
Visit the National Naval Museum and take a deep dive into Ferrol's maritime history. The museum is housed in a historic naval base and showcases a remarkable collection of nautical artefacts, instruments and model ships. Don’t miss the collection of historic anchors, some salvaged from centuries-old shipwrecks.
Bask in the sunshine on Playa de Doniños, a beautiful beach a short drive from the city centre. Relax on the golden sand and cool off in the Atlantic Ocean. Trails skirt the nearby cliffs of Punta de La Frouxeira and provide magnificent vistas of the rugged Galician coastline.
Galician cuisine steals the spotlight in Ferrol. Dine at local restaurants and try ocean-fresh dishes like “pulpo a la gallega” Galician-style octopus seasoned with smoked paprika and cooked in a copper pot. Crisp local white wines like Albariño pair perfectly with seafood. For a hearty meal, try traditional Galician stews like “caldo gallego” soup.
Getting around Ferrol
Ferrol is compact and easy to get around on foot. Local buses and taxis are a fast and affordable way to cover longer distances or rent a car to explore Galicia at your own pace. A Coruña Airport is a 40-minute drive away.