Vigo is Galicia's largest city, a working port with a lively historic centre clustered on the hillside above the harbour. The old quarter (Casco Vello) has atmospheric narrow streets, good tapas bars, and the historic stone oyster-sellers' stalls where women have been shucking shellfish in the open air for generations. The Castro fortress above the city offers panoramic views of the ría and the Atlantic.
The MARCO contemporary art museum occupies a converted prison in the city centre and hosts exhibitions of Spanish and international contemporary art. The main fish market near the port is best visited early morning when the day's catch arrives from the fishing fleet. From the cruise terminal and ferry dock, boats run to Cangas on the northern peninsula (20 minutes) and to the Cíes Islands in season.