Overview
Tui is a fortified hilltop town on the Spanish-Portuguese border with a remarkably intact medieval core dating to the 11th and 12th centuries. Its main appeal lies as a starting point for the Camino pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela—107 km by foot—and as a pleasant base for exploring the Miño valley on either side of the border.
Day Trips
Before you go
Culture
Tui is in Galicia where Galician is the official language alongside Castilian Spanish. Portuguese is spoken across the river in Valença. The town has strong pilgrim traditions as a Camino start point.
Language
Galician and Spanish are both used. In tourist areas, some English may be spoken but learning basic Galician phrases is appreciated.
Money
Spain uses euros. ATMs available near banks on the main streets. Credit cards accepted at hotels and larger restaurants but bring cash for markets and smaller establishments.
Safety
Tui is generally safe with low crime. Standard precautions apply in tourist areas. The medieval streets can be uneven; watch your step in low light.
Transport
Buses from Vigo run every hour or so, taking 30 minutes. Trains no longer stop at Tui station but Guillarei halt 3 km away has twice-daily trains to Vigo and Ourense. Crossing to Portugal is continuous with no border checks.
Weather
Atlantic climate with regular rain year-round. Summers are warm (20-25°C) but can be humid. Winters are mild but grey. Best for walking in spring and autumn.