3 Must Dos in A Coruna
A Coruña sits on Galicia’s windswept Atlantic coast, mixing Roman history with buzzing modern life. Locals call it “the glass city,” thanks to its shimmering seafront balconies. Yet beyond the views, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
Instead of overwhelming you with a long list, we’ve picked three genuine must-dos. Each one is iconic, specific, and easy to plan around. Let’s get started.
Tower of Hercules
First up, you can’t visit A Coruña without seeing the Tower of Hercules. This ancient Roman lighthouse still guides ships today, nearly 2,000 years after it was built. It’s the oldest working lighthouse in the world.
Climb its 234 steps for sweeping views across the Atlantic and the city below. Afterwards, wander the surrounding sculpture park, dotted with striking modern artworks. Legends about Hercules and a defeated giant swirl around this coastal landmark, adding extra intrigue.
Because it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the tower draws crowds throughout the year. So it’s worth buying your Tower of Hercules tickets online ahead of your visit. Doing so guarantees you a fixed time slot, avoiding long queues at the entrance.
Combine your visit with a stroll along the nearby coastal path. It’s one of the most memorable ways to experience A Coruña’s dramatic Atlantic setting. Get directions.
Aquarium Finisterrae
Next, head along the seafront promenade to the Aquarium Finisterrae. Locals affectionately call it “Casa de los Peces,” or the House of the Fish. It sits right between the Tower of Hercules and the Domus science museum.
Inside, more than 300 species swim through themed exhibition halls. The standout is the Nautilus room, a moody, submarine-style space filled with sharks and rays. Meanwhile, outdoor pools let you watch seals being fed at set times each day.
Tickets are mostly sold at the reception desk rather than online, so no advance booking is needed. Still, arriving early helps you beat the busiest midday crowds. Families especially love the interactive, hands-on exhibits here.
Since it sits so close to the tower, pairing both visits into one coastal day works brilliantly. Together, they capture A Coruña’s deep connection to the sea. Get directions.
Pulpo á Feira at Pulpeira de Melide
Finally, no trip to Galicia is complete without trying pulpo á feira, the region’s signature octopus dish. For the best version in the city, head to Pulpeira de Melide. Four generations of the same family have perfected this recipe.
The octopus arrives tender, sliced onto a wooden plate, and dusted with paprika and coarse salt. A drizzle of olive oil finishes it off perfectly. Locals rate it among the best pulperías in all of Galicia, not just A Coruña.
Set right on Plaza de España, this spot buzzes with energy most evenings. Reservations aren’t essential, though arriving early avoids the busiest dinner rush. Pair your octopus with a glass of crisp Galician Albariño for the full experience.
Eating here isn’t just about the food. It’s a genuine taste of Galician culture, passed down through generations. Get directions.
A Coruña rewards visitors with history, sea air, and unforgettable food, all within easy walking distance of each other. Between the ancient tower, the fascinating aquarium, and a plate of proper pulpo, you’ll leave with a real feel for this Galician gem. Plan around these three, then let the city surprise you with everything else.