A week in Galicia is a chance to discover more than one side of this Atlantic region: medieval streets, sheltered estuaries, fishing towns and the deep river valleys of Ribeira Sacra. The secret is not to drive everywhere, but to choose a few places and give them time.
This seven-day route starts and ends in Santiago de Compostela. It is a flexible self-drive itinerary rather than a race around the entire region. Allow extra time for mountain roads, weather changes and spontaneous stops.
Map of the 7-day Galicia road trip
The map shows the route area; use the directions link beneath it for the ordered stops and turn-by-turn navigation. Check the route before departure, as road conditions and travel times change.
Suggested overnight bases: Santiago (2 nights), Rías Baixas (2 nights) and Ribeira Sacra (2 nights). Adjust the final night to your departure arrangements.
Best suited to: Travellers with a car who enjoy a mix of towns, scenery and unhurried local food.
Find accommodation along the route: Santiago de Compostela hotels · Cambados accommodation (Rías Baixas) · Monforte de Lemos accommodation (Ribeira Sacra).
Day 1 — Arrive in Santiago de Compostela
Begin in the old town, where stone arcades, small squares and narrow lanes lead towards the cathedral. Walk around Praza do Obradoiro, take time to explore beyond the main square and settle in for a relaxed dinner. If you arrive late, save the sightseeing for the following morning.
Day 2 — Santiago and the journey towards the coast
Enjoy a slower morning in Santiago, perhaps visiting the market or walking through the historic streets before heading west or south towards the Rías Baixas. Keep the afternoon flexible. An early evening by the water makes a lovely contrast to the city.
Day 3 — Pontevedra and Combarro
Pontevedra is a rewarding place to explore on foot, with compact plazas and a welcoming historic centre. Continue to Combarro, known for its traditional granaries beside the estuary. The waterfront is especially atmospheric when you can wander without watching the clock.
Day 4 — The Rías Baixas at your own pace
Spend a second day exploring the coast. Cambados makes a good stop for its wine traditions and historic streets, while nearby beaches and estuary views invite a slower afternoon. In summer, an island excursion may be possible, but check permits, boats and weather well ahead of time.
Day 5 — Drive inland to Ribeira Sacra
Leave the coast behind and travel towards Monforte de Lemos and the Sil valley. The scenery changes gradually from coastal towns to wooded hills and inland vineyards. Resist the temptation to squeeze in every viewpoint today; choose one gentle stop and enjoy the journey.
Day 6 — Sil Canyon viewpoints and monasteries
Set aside a full day for Ribeira Sacra. Visit a small selection of viewpoints, such as Miradoiro de Cabezoás or Balcones de Madrid, and consider a monastery visit or a boat trip if services are operating. The roads are narrow in places, and the most rewarding day is often the one with fewer stops.
For ideas, read our Ribeira Sacra Travel Guide, best things to do and most beautiful places.
Day 7 — Ourense and the return journey
If your departure time allows, stop in Ourense to see the historic centre and its river bridges. The city is known for thermal traditions, though access arrangements vary. Continue to Santiago with plenty of time for your flight or train. If you have an early departure, travel back the previous evening instead.
Practical advice for this route
Book accommodation in two or three bases rather than moving every night. Confirm parking before booking city hotels and check whether rural accommodation requires driving on narrow roads. Fuel or charge before longer rural stretches, and keep a waterproof layer in the car even during summer.
For trip planning, see our complete Galicia guide, car rental advice and places to visit in Ourense Province.
Comparing different bases for your trip? Explore our Where to Stay in Galicia guide for accommodation maps across five regions.