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Vigo Travel Guide, Spain

Vigo Travel Guide – Geography and Demographics

This Vigo travel guide will give you an insight into the large but tranquil city located in northwestern Spain, in the province of Galicia. Nicknamed “The Olive City”, it has the peculiarity of being the largest city in Spain (295.000) that is not the capital of a province. The metropolitan area has 468.000 inhabitants, which puts Vigo on the 14th place in Spain as far as urban agglomeration is concerned. Its population has constantly been rising and the city has also seen a larger and larger number of immigrants coming to work and settle in Vigo. Geographically, Vigo is somewhat privileged among other towns in Galicia, as it has a milder climate with an average of 15 degrees a year and softer winters, as it is surrounded by mountains and protected by the Cies Islands. Its distance from the capital city of Madrid is 467 kilometers, but a larger city you can find at a smaller distance is Bilbao.

Vigo Travel Guide – The Fishing Industry

The main characteristic by which the city is known in all Vigo travel guides is its fishing industry. Its generous exit to the Atlantic Ocean made the area surrounding Vigo the most prosperous one in Galicia, with international reputation because of the fishing industry. Vigo is the largest fishing port in Europe and the largest fishing company in the world, Pescanova, is located there. The European Fisheries Agency also has its main offices in Vigo. Another important economical support for the city is given by the car factories and shipyards. PSA Peugeot Citroen produces an average of 550.000 cars a year, most of which are sold out of the country, and is known as the biggest employer in Galicia.

Vigo Travel Guide – Sailing in the City

Vigo is the sight of the University of Vigo, an architectural wonder situated in the mountainous area outside the city. The main research object of the University is related to ocean-based industries which keep the city going. Another activity which is specific for the area is connected to all kinds of water sports, especially sailing. The Real Club Nautico de Vigo promotes all kinds of sailing events and competitions and has been doing so since 1906. Liceo Maritimo de Bouzas is another organization that promotes sailing and recreational fishing, organizing yearly events of cephalopod fishing and maintaining a live enthusiasm for all water sports and sailing related activities.