Vigo in Winter: Top 8 Festive Things to Do This Season

While it’s true that everyone flocks to Vigo in the summer, winter in Vigo is just as lively. During the winter months Vigo is rainy, cloudy and cold, but don’t let that scare you off from visiting during this festive season. There’s still plenty of things to do in Vigo in the winter and I’m here to help you out with where to go and what to do. 

From a winter wonderland to how to keep warm in the winter, here’s the best things to do in Vigo in the winter, and yes there’s more to do than just see the Christmas lights. 

Thermal baths 

Imagine a cold and rainy winter day soaking yourself in warm Galician hot springs. You don’t need to travel all the way to Budapest to experience hot springs, in Vigo there are plenty at your fingertips. While not technically in Vigo, you only need to travel about 30 minutes to an hour to reach the nearest hot springs. 

Some popular thermal baths include: 

• Caldas de Outariz: A well-known thermal bath complex located in Ourense, Galicia, on the banks of the Miño River. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the area while soaking in the therapeutic waters. It is one of the most popular hot spring sites in the region because of its scenic natural environment and therapeutic waters  
• Hot Springs of Teans-Oleiro: Nestled in Galicia’s picturesque landscape, these natural springs are renowned for their healing mineral waters, which locals and visitors alike come to for relaxation and wellness benefits. Surrounded by lush greenery, the springs provide a serene setting perfect for unwinding, with soothing temperatures that invite you to soak and let your worries drift away. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a refreshing addition to your travel experience, the Hot Springs of Teans-Oleiro are a hidden gem well worth the visit.

Candlelight Orchestra 

If music is your thing, what better way to spend a night out than listening to classical renditions of ColdPlay, Queen, the Beatles, and more surrounded by candles. The Candlelight Concerts are set in unique venues illuminated by countless candles, the concerts feature talented musicians performing beloved compositions, from timeless classics to contemporary pieces reimagined for orchestra. 

Sit back and let the music transport you, making it feel as if the music surrounds and envelopes you. Perfect for a romantic evening, a cultural outing, or simply a fun night out, the Candlelight Orchestra in Vigo offers an unforgettable way to experience live music. One of my favorite performances that I’ve been to was the quartet renditions of Queen. 

Live Jazz music 

Winters in Vigo can be quite damp, cold, and rainy, so If you’re looking for indoor activities, tuck into Vitruvia Café for a live jazz concert. Concerts are held throughout the week, but be sure to arrive early to secure a seat. Vitruvia Café is worth a visit on its own for its stylish and cozy cafe located near the city center. 

Step inside this cafe and enjoy its warm and inviting atmosphere which creates the perfect ambiance for live jazz performance or simply enjoying a warm drink. It’s also conveniently located near the Christmas market so feel free to pop in before or after visiting the market. 

Visit the nativity scene 

Every year Casa de las Artes (Policarpo Sanz, 15) hosts an exhibition about Bethlehem named, “O primeiro Bethlehem.” This nativity scene is made up of almost 200 figures made by the sculptor José Luis Mayo Lebrija, who is one of the most prestigious Belenists (or nativity scene sculpture in Spanish) in Spain. 

Walk inside admiring the belén as it takes you on a journey of more than 2,000 years in time. This exhibition gives a look into the traditional representation of the birth of Jesus. This exhibition runs from early November to early January. 

Take part in a race 

Every year on December 31st, thousands of people participate in the San Silvestre race. It’s about a four kilometer race that begins at Puerto de Sol, making its way through the city before finally finishing at Puerto de Sol. This race is quite the spectacle as everyone dresses up in fun costumes to do the run. 

San Silvestre is perfect for being a spectator or even participating. Registration is free and a great way to get to know the city and have a bit of winter fun, but if you don’t have time to sign up ahead of time, don’t worry! Plenty of people join in along the route. 

Christmas lights 

If Vigo is known for one thing besides its beaches, then the Christmas lights are it. Every year around July the city starts getting ready for the Christmas season by installing Christmas lights, speakers, and decorations. In a nutshell, the center of Vigo becomes a winter wonderland with its very own playlist that you’ll hear while wandering around the center, making seeing Christmas lights an immersive experience. 

The Christmas lights in Vigo even include the tallest Christmas tree in the world (which the mayor lights up by pushing a button during the turning on of the Christmas lights ceremony). From mid-November to mid-January you can visit the infamous Vigo Christmas lights beginning at 6pm every day. 

Pro-tip: 

• If you can help it, don’t come on the day the lights are turned on unless you love crowds. I’d recommend going late at night around 10pm to beat the crowds. 

Visit Vigo’s Christmas Market 

Is Vigo a real winter wonderland if it doesn’t have a Christmas market? Located in Plaza de Compostela you’ll find the Christmas market. 

The market includes: 

• Artisanal shops where you can pick up some locally made art. 
• Local and international food (be sure to pick up a chori pan (chorizo sandwich) and some mulled wine. 
• A ferris wheel (noria in Spanish) which I recommend taking during sunset for some epic views. 
• Other carnival rides that are perfect for some family fun. 

Check out San Blas: Vigo’s festival for wine lovers

One of my favorite Galician festivals happens to be in the middle of winter and shouldn’t be missed if you’re a wine lover or a foodie. From January to the first weekend in February you can visit Vigo’s furanchos (a private home where they sell the year’s homemade wine) at San Blas.

Head over to Bembrive where this festival is held annually and go furancho hopping as traditional Galician music floods the streets.

Wine and traditional snacks like chori pan, grilled meats, and membrillo (quince) served with Galician cheese will only set you back a few euros. My favorite thing to do is grab a cunca (wine served in a white porcelain bowl), a snack, and watch performers playing music in the street. Drinking wine out of a cunca just tastes better.

FAQ

What should I wear in winter in Vigo?

Winter in Vigo is mild and rainy, so you’ll want to plan for both cool temperatures and dampness. 

These are the essentials for visiting Vigo in winter: 

• Layers: Temperatures in Vigo in winter typically range from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). Start with a base layer, like a long-sleeve shirt or a light sweater, then add a heavier sweater or fleece.
• Waterproof outer layer: A waterproof coat or rain jacket is essential. Vigo’s winter is known for rain, and it can be quite consistent, so you’ll appreciate a light rain jacket that keeps you dry. Personally, I use Rains as their jackets are good quality and light. If you’re in a pinch you could also pick up some cheap but good quality ones at Decathlon. 
• Comfortable shoes: Go for waterproof, non-slip shoes or boots. Beware the city has some cobblestone streets, which can get slippery when wet and don’t forget about the hills. I usually use my Dr.Martins and they work perfectly for the hills and wet weather. 
• Accessories: Be sure to include a scarf, gloves, and a hat for extra warmth, especially on windy days. It’s not only practical, but it’s also fashionable and will keep you from looking like a tourist.
• Umbrella: While a rain jacket is great, you might also want to carry a small umbrella for quick protection during sudden downpours. If you find yourself without an umbrella and a rain jacket, there are plenty of vendors walking around selling quality umbrellas. They’ll be your best friend if you’re caught in the rain umbrella-less. 

What to eat in Vigo in the winter 

Eat Churros 

Winter wouldn’t be complete without churros con chocolate. Nothing beats freshly fried churros and a steaming cup of chocolate to dip them in. During the winter eating these are a must in Vigo. 

There are plenty of good churros spots, but my favorite is Vigo Churros because the churros are freshly made to order and the chocolate is delicious. If you’re not that into chocolate you can get them without, but I recommend getting it with a cup of chocolate to get the whole experience. 

Eat Chestnuts 

During fall and winter, Galicia is chestnut obsessed. There’s even an old legend that a magical man, the Apalpador, would go around Galicia handing out chestnuts to poor children. Think Santa Claus but with chestnuts instead of presents. Chestnuts are such a big part of Galician culture that you have to try them while in Vigo. 

If you walk along Calle de Príncipe you’ll find vendors selling freshly roasted chestnuts. Or if you’re feeling adventurous you can find them at the super markets and roast them yourself.  

As you can see there’s plenty of things to do during winter in Vigo. So whether you’re here just to enjoy the Christmas lights or not, there will be plenty to see and do!