Overview
Ferrol is a working naval port and ship-building centre in northwest Galicia, not a typical tourist destination. Its appeal is twofold: as the Atlantic anchor of Spain's historic naval fleet, and as the practical starting point of the Camino Inglés — the English Way of the Camino de Santiago, 110 km of walking to earn your pilgrim certificate.
Architecture · Culture · History
Before you go
History
Franco was born in Ferrol in 1892; his ancestors were involved in the navy and shipbuilding. The city has 1,000 years of ship-building history documented in the Museo da Construción Naval.
Pilgrimage
Camino Inglés is 110 km from Ferrol to Santiago. Minimum 100 km required for a pilgrimage certificate. The route passes through Narón, Pontedeume, Betanzos and Ordes.
Tourist offices
Two tourist offices: one on Paseo Marina at the start of the Camino (Su–Th 09:00–14:00, F Sa 09:00–14:00 and 16:30–18:30) for pilgrim passports, and another on Praza de España 100 m south of the bus and railway stations with the same hours.
Transport
Five trains daily from A Coruña (1 hr 20 min). Long-distance bus from Algeciras to Ferrol. Bus station empty with only a ticket kiosk. Local bus flat fare €1.55.