Every year the Cies Islands in Galicia are visited by thousands of tourists from around the world. The islands are a small archipelago on Spain’s northwest coast and the pride of the local Galician people. Many of the islands are protected for conservation reasons, and there are strict rules to observe when you visit.
As most of us have been living in lockdown for several months, the urge to get out and explore the world burns more brightly than ever before. If you’re planning to visit Galicia, this guide will help you get from one of the three closest airports to the maritime station where you can board the ferry and experience the paradise of the Cies Islands.
There are three airports reasonably close to Cies. So let’s look at your travel options.
Santiago Airport to the Cies Islands
Santiago Airport is just under 50 miles / 31 km away from the city of Vigo where most of the ferry companies reside. To drive takes you just over an hour when driving direct. Travelling by bus takes around two and a half hours.
There are essentially four travel options:
- Bus
- Taxi
- Drive
- Towncar
In terms of pricing, the bus costs between £7-£12 per person. A taxi will cost you upwards of £100.
From Vigo, there is a fast and inexpensive bus that can take you to the maritime station.
Vigo Airport to the Cies Islands
Vigo Airport is nice and close to the maritime station and is located about 17 miles / 28 km outside of the city. Vigo operates a bus service that connects directly to the maritime station with journey times taking just over an hour. Taxi and towncar services are available, and a shuttle can take you to Vigo bus station in 40 minutes.
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A Coruna Airport to the Cies Islands
Of the three airports that serve the Cies Islands, A Coruna Airport is the furthest way. It is around 75 miles / 122 km from Vigo and as such journey times to the city are longer. The airport, which was formerly known as Alvedro Airport, offers four services to get you to the city of Vigo. They are:
- Train – This takes around two and a half hours and costs between £13-£16 a ticket per person.
- Bus – There are two bus routes, both taking around three and a half hours and costing around £13 a ticket per person.
- Towncar – Journey time takes approximately 90 minutes.
- Hire Car – Costs vary, journey time takes about 90 minutes.
Once in Vigo, you will need to arrange alternate travel arrangements to the maritime station. Like most cities, it is well served by taxi and bus routes.
Book your Ferry in Advance
Due to limited visitor numbers, it is essential you book your crossing to the islands in advance. Visitor numbers are restricted, and it is a first come first serve basis when booking the tickets. The more in advance you can book the more chances of securing a ticket.
The islands have both a rugged beauty and an exquisite charm and many that visit wants to return. There is no other place like it on earth, and you should book your place at the earliest opportunity.
Travel Safely, travel with Mar de Ons
At Naviera Mar de Ons, we have established a number of safety measures that should be kept while travelling on our boats. This is to make sure that our passengers and our equipment receive the highest standard of safety and comfort. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult us before travelling and we are happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Let’s all collaborate to enjoy this summer responsibly!
Once again, we want to thank everyone for following all the COVID – 19 recommendations and travelling with a mask. We also carry them!
Hope to see you soon on board!
