The “Crystal City” Sparkles on La Coruna Shore Excursions

When your Mediterranean cruise ship docks at the port that’s known as the gateway to Galicia, La Coruna shore excursions are well positioned to offer you exciting tours of this small, elegant city built on a hilltop overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at the northwest tip of the Iberian Peninsula.

Whether you book La Coruna shore excursions to explore the city on foot, from the seat of a bicycle, or the comfort of a motor coach, you’ll be enthralled with the city’s medieval history, beautiful landmarks, and UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the seafront promenade that runs the length of the city, you’ll see multiple buildings lining Marina Avenue, all with glass-fronted galerias (balconies) that catch the changing light and give the city its nickname, “the crystal city”.

As you tour the old city on La Coruna shore excursions, the Mendez Nunez Gardens command your attention, as do the San Carlos Gardens, where Sir John Moore is buried. Medieval architecture is all around you, including the 12th century Church of Santiago, the Romanesque Church of Santa Maria del Campo, and the convent of Santo Domingo in Santa Barbara Square. Pass Maria Pita Square, where the Palacio Municipal is located, then stop for a coffee and a slice of tarta de Santiago, an almond sponge cake that’s a Galician specialty and a must-try while stopped on your cruise to La Coruna.

Continue on to see the San Anton Archeological Museum, then stop at the breathtaking Tower of Hercules, an ancient Roman lighthouse that sits on a peninsula at the entrance to La Coruna harbor. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009 and is likely the only Roman lighthouse still in use.  Pass by the Estadio Municipal de Riazor (sports complex) on the way to see the Millennium Tower, a towering blue and green glass obelisk that depicts scenes of La Courna’s history.

Travel to the walled medieval town of Santiago de Compostela on a popular La Coruna cruise excursion for a comprehensive tour of the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. Since its consecration in 1211, it has been and continues to be a popular Christian pilgrimage site, as it houses the tomb of St. James the Apostle. After the tour, wander the quiet medieval streets of Old Town, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and view the mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque buildings. Browse through several bookstores, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy Galician cuisine, especially seafood, at a local cafe.

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