What to See in Ourense: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Ourense, sometimes called Orense, is known as the thermal capital of Galicia. Ancient hot springs run through the historic center, and you can enjoy free thermal pools just as the Romans did 2,000 years ago. The well-known As Burgas springs reach over 60°C as they come out of granite rock, giving you a special thermal experience in Spain. In addition to the hot springs, Ourense Cathedral features the impressive Pórtico del Paraíso, a 13th-century masterpiece that stands alongside Santiago de Compostela’s famous portico. The historic center is organized around Plaza Mayor, which connects the Cathedral, medieval streets, and the well-known Ponte Vella (Old Bridge) over the Miño River. Whether you visit the Cathedral, relax in riverside pools, stroll through Old Town squares, or explore the Sil Canyon’s wine terraces, Ourense offers authentic Galician culture, relaxing waters, and beautiful architecture without the crowds.
Must-see sights: As Burgas thermal springs and pool, Ourense Cathedral (Pórtico del Paraíso), Plaza Mayor, Ponte Vella (Roman Bridge), Mercado de Abastos, Plaza do Ferro, Riverside thermal pools
Typical daily budget: €35–55 (excluding accommodation)
Best time to visit: May–June or September–October for pleasant weather; thermal pools are enjoyable year-round
Famous for: Ancient thermal springs (As Burgas), free outdoor thermal pools, Cathedral's Pórtico del Paraíso, Roman heritage, Ribeira Sacra wine region, Sil Canyon, pulpo (octopus) cuisine
Top tours: Free Tour Ourense, Discover the Majesty of Ourense Cathedral, Free Tour through the Mysteries and Legends Ourense
Start your visit to Ourense at As Burgas, the ancient thermal springs in the historic center that have flowed for over 2,000 years. These famous hot springs are central to Ourense’s identity, which is why it’s called the "City of As Burgas." The thermal complex has three fountains where mineral-rich water comes out at 64°C to 68°C (147-154°F), bubbling straight from granite rock. The water is similar to the famous springs in Carlsbad, and locals often collect it for its supposed health benefits.
The Romans saw the healing benefits of these springs and built bathhouses here. You can still visit their remains under the modern facilities. The current thermal pool complex, designed by Galician architect César Portela and opened in 2010, has almost 200 square meters of outdoor thermal baths, which is rare in Spain. The naturally hot water is cooled to a comfortable 38-40°C (100-104°F) for bathing, so visitors can enjoy the same waters the Romans did long ago. The complex also has a wet sauna and a terrace.
As Burgas is located in the lovely Old Town, so you can easily enjoy a thermal bath and explore the historic streets in one visit.
Practical Info: As the Burgas thermal complex is located in historic center; free admission; water extremely hot at source (test before touching); thermal pool temperature 38-40°C; bring swimsuit and towel; outdoor facility open year-round (check current status as occasionally closed for maintenance); allow 1-2 hours; explore Old Town before or after bathing.
From As Burgas, walk to Ourense Cathedral, the city’s main church dedicated to San Martiño (St. Martin). The cathedral shows a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its highlight is the Pórtico del Paraíso, a beautiful 13th-century entrance made by students of Master Mateo, who also worked on Santiago de Compostela’s famous portico. The Pórtico del Paraíso has three arches on slender columns, decorated with colorful figures of apostles, angels, and saints. St. James (Santiago) is shown holding a sword to remember the legendary Battle of Clavijo.
Inside, the cathedral preserves remarkable chapels, including the Chapel of San Juan Bautista (1468), created by the Conde de Benavente, and the baroque Chapel of the Santo Cristo (Holy Christ). Local legend asks: Does the Santo Cristo's hair actually grow?. The late Gothic dome features a flamboyant style with a stunning high altar as a backdrop. The Cathedral Museum displays unique relics found nowhere else in the world. The antique cloisters date to 1204, built by Bishop Ederonio.
The North Door (Portada Norte) combines Romanesque design with Gothic additions, featuring a tympanum crowned by a cross on which Mary receives Christ's body, as well as depictions of St. Martin tearing his cloak and St. James.
Practical Info: Cathedral located at Plaza del Trigo; guided tour available from €15 per person (2 hours, Spanish language); meeting at South Door (Puerta Sur) with white umbrella; tour includes exterior facades, interior with all chapels, Museum of Relics, Pórtico del Paraíso, Gothic dome, Santo Cristo chapel; optional bell tower climb after tour; suitable for reduced mobility, pet-friendly; advance booking recommended; allow 1.5-2 hours for visit.
From the Cathedral, explore Plaza Mayor and the surrounding Old Town squares that reveal centuries of urban life. Plaza Mayor serves as the social heart, surrounded by the Town Hall (Ayuntamiento) and Episcopal Palace—the main monuments that define the square's character. The plaza connects to smaller squares whose names reveal Ourense's historical activities: Plaza del Trigo (Wheat Square), once home to grain markets. The medieval street layout preserves the Old Town's intimate scale, with arcaded walkways, traditional shops, and local bars.
Plaza do Ferro is at the heart of the city’s wine district, surrounded by bars and taverns where locals enjoy Galician wines from the nearby Ribeira Sacra region. In the evenings, this lively square fills with people sharing glasses of Mencía reds and Godello whites along with tapas.
The Mercado de Abastos (food market) occupies a beautiful covered structure where fresh Galician products fill stalls—seafood from the Galician coast, local vegetables, cheeses, and charcuterie showcase the region's culinary wealth. The market operates in the mornings and offers authentic glimpses of daily Galician life. The nearby Alameda offers shaded park space for relaxing.
Practical Info: Plaza Mayor and Old Town are free to explore; Mercado de Abastos is open mornings Mon-Sat; Plaza do Ferro bars open afternoons/evenings; allow 1-2 hours to wander the squares and market; combine with a Cathedral visit.
Walk to the Ponte Vella (Old Bridge), Ourense’s famous Roman bridge over the Miño River. Also known as the Puente Romano, this old stone bridge has linked both sides of the river for centuries and is a key city landmark. Its medieval arches make for great photos of the river and historic center. The riverside walkway along the Miño is perfect for a stroll and leads to more thermal pools.
Practical Info: Free access 24/7; photogenic sunset views; 10-minute walk from Plaza Mayor; combine with riverside thermal pools; allow 30 minutes.
Besides Burgas, Ourense has free thermal pools along the Miño River, each offering a different experience. These modern pools use the area’s natural geothermal waters and have outdoor baths with temperatures from 36-42°C in beautiful riverside spots. They’re open all year and feel especially magical in cooler months when steam rises from the water. Some pools have changing rooms, showers, and places to relax.
Practical Info: Free admission; bring swimsuit, towel, and waterproof sandals; several locations along the river (Chavasqueira, Outariz, Muíño da Veiga, among others); open 24/7 in most locations; can get crowded on weekends and holidays; allow 1-2 hours; combine with the Ponte Vella walk.
Ourense’s cuisine is rooted in Galician traditions, with a focus on fresh seafood, high-quality beef, and local produce. The local specialty is pulpo á feira (Galician-style octopus), which is boiled, sliced, and topped with olive oil, paprika, and coarse salt, usually served on wooden plates. Empanadas (savory pastries) are filled with things like cod, tuna, pork, or mushrooms. Caldo gallego (Galician broth) is a hearty soup made with white beans, greens, potatoes, and pork. Local beef from Galician cattle (vaca gallega) is served grilled or in stews. Fresh river fish and eels from the Miño River are also common on menus.
The Ribeira Sacra wine region surrounds Ourense, with vineyards growing on the steep slopes of the Sil Canyon. Mencía red wines taste of fresh red fruits, while Godello whites are known for their mineral and citrus flavors. In Galicia, wine is enjoyed with meals throughout the day.
Ourense's markets and traditional taverns serve authentic regional cooking at reasonable prices. The area around Plaza do Ferro is home to wine bars and traditional restaurants. Expect main courses €10-18, tapas €3-6, menú del día (lunch special) €12-15, local wine glass €2.50-4.
Free Tour Ourense: Duration: 2 hours | Starting at As Burgas thermal springs (look for a white umbrella at 11:00 AM). Discover Ourense's Roman past at Las Burgas ancient hot springs, where Romans bathed, and locals still gather today. Enter the Old Town to reach Plaza Mayor with the Town Hall and Episcopal Palace. Continue through historic squares whose names reveal past activities, such as Plaza del Trigo (Wheat Square). Visit the beautiful Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral whose Pórtico del Paraíso rivals Santiago's famous Pórtico de la Gloria. Walk to the Alameda and the stunning Mercado de Abastos, displaying fresh Galician products. Arrive at Plaza do Ferro in the wine district. Finish at mysterious places that surprise visitors. Spanish language. Includes As Burgas, Praza do Ferro, the principal Old Town streets, a group photo, and visits to the main monuments. Suitable for reduced mobility, families with children, and pet-friendly. No minimum attendees, no additional cost.
Discover the Majesty of Ourense Cathedral: Duration: 2 hours | Starting at the Cathedral's South Door, Plaza del Trigo (white umbrella at 1:30 PM). Walk around the Cathedral, admiring its different facades, including the head, which showcases all architectural styles. Take one of the most beautiful tour pictures from this perspective. Enter to explore details, legends, and curiosities. Visit the Museum of Relics with unique pieces. Admire the beautiful Pórtico del Paraíso, inspired by the portico of Santiago de Compostela. Marvel at the late Gothic dome with the flamboyant-style High Altar. Visit the baroque chapel of the famous Santo Cristo—does his hair really grow? The tour ends inside, with an optional bell tower climb. Spanish language. Includes Cathedral and the official Galicia guide. Suitable for reduced mobility, pet-friendly. From €15 per person.
Free Tour through the Mysteries and Legends Ourense: Duration: 2 hours | Evening tour at 8:30 PM. Uncover Ourense's mysterious side through enigmas, stories, and legends hidden in the historic center. Explore supernatural tales and historical mysteries associated with convents, palaces, and churches. Discover local folklore while walking atmospheric evening streets. Spanish language. Suitable for reduced mobility, families with children, and pet-friendly. No minimum attendees, no additional cost.
Explore more free tours in Ourense.
Ourense has an oceanic climate with warm summers and mild, rainy winters. Spring (March-May) sees temperatures rise from 12-17°C (54-63°F) in March to 15-22°C (59-72°F) in May, with moderate rainfall but pleasant conditions for sightseeing. Summer (June-August) brings warm weather averaging 20-28°C (68-82°F), occasionally reaching 30-35°C (86-95°F). July-August are the driest months. Autumn (September-October) offers comfortable temperatures of 17-24°C (63-75°F) in September, cooling to 13-19°C (55-66°F) in October, with increasing rainfall. Winter (November-February) is mild, with temperatures of 8-13°C (46-55°F) and frequent rain. January averages 6°C (43°F) lows, 12°C (54°F) highs.
Best visiting periods: May-June and September-October for 18-24°C (64-75°F) and comfortable exploring; thermal pools are enjoyable year-round, especially atmospheric in cooler months; avoid December-January for wettest weather.
The Romans founded a settlement here called Aquae Aurimense (Golden Waters), recognizing the value of the therapeutic hot springs. Roman baths, bridges, and infrastructure established Ourense as an important provincial center. The hot springs continued to attract people through medieval times, when the Cathedral was built and the city became a regional religious center. Ourense served as a stopping point on interior routes to Santiago de Compostela.
The medieval period brought prosperity through trade, agriculture, and the springs' reputation. The Cathedral's construction spanned centuries, incorporating Romanesque foundations with Gothic additions, including the magnificent Pórtico del Paraíso. The city developed around Plaza Mayor as the civic and commercial heart.
Ourense maintained regional importance through modern times while preserving its historic character. The late 20th and early 21st centuries brought renewed investment in thermal tourism, creating modern pool facilities that complement the ancient As Burgas springs. Today, Ourense balances thermal tourism, wine region commerce, and authentic Galician culture, attracting visitors seeking therapeutic waters, architectural heritage, and natural beauty beyond Spain's coastal destinations.
What can you see in Ourense in one day?
Visit As Burgas thermal springs and soak in the free thermal pool, explore Ourense Cathedral with the Pórtico del Paraíso, wander Plaza Mayor and Old Town squares, visit Mercado de Abastos, see Ponte Vella Roman Bridge, relax at riverside thermal pools, and enjoy pulpo á feira at a traditional restaurant.
What are the best things to do in Ourense?
Bathe in As Burgas ancient thermal pool, tour the Cathedral's Pórtico del Paraíso and Santo Cristo chapel, explore Old Town historic squares, visit Mercado de Abastos for fresh Galician products, walk Ponte Vella bridge, enjoy riverside thermal pools, take free walking tours, day-trip to dramatic Sil Canyon and Ribeira Sacra wineries.
When is the best time to visit Ourense?
May-June offers 18-24°C (64-75°F) with comfortable sightseeing; September-October provides 17-24°C (63-75°F) after summer crowds; thermal pools are enjoyable year-round, especially atmospheric in cooler months when steam rises; avoid December-January, the wettest period.
What should you eat in Ourense?
Try pulpo á feira (Galician-style octopus with paprika and olive oil), empanadas with various fillings, caldo gallego (Galician broth), fresh river fish and eels, and local Galician beef, paired with Ribeira Sacra Mencía reds or Godello whites from nearby wine terraces.
Are the thermal pools really free?
Yes. The Burgas thermal pool in the city center and riverside thermal pools along the Miño River offer free admission. The naturally hot spring water (60-68°C at source) is cooled to a comfortable bathing temperature (38-42°C). Bring your own swimsuit and towel.
Is Ourense Cathedral worth visiting?
Absolutely. The Cathedral houses the magnificent Pórtico del Paraíso, a 13th-century masterpiece by students of Master Mateo that rivals Santiago's famous portico. The baroque Santo Cristo chapel, Gothic dome, Museum of Relics, and multiple architectural styles make it one of Galicia's most important religious buildings.
How far is the Sil Canyon from Ourense?
The Sil Canyon is 30-50 km from Ourense, depending on which viewpoint you visit. Car recommended for flexibility to explore multiple miradores (viewpoints), wineries, and monastery sites. Allow a full day to experience canyon views, wine tasting, and an optional catamaran river cruise.
Which tours are available in Ourense?
Freetour.com offers Free Tour Ourense (2h covering As Burgas, Cathedral, Plaza Mayor, Old Town, Plaza do Ferro, Spanish, tip-based from €0, rated 9.6), Discover the Majesty of Ourense Cathedral (2h guided tour, Spanish, from €15), and Free Tour through Mysteries and Legends (2h evening tour, Spanish, tip-based from €0).
Quick Takeaway
Must-see sights: As Burgas thermal springs and pool, Ourense Cathedral (Pórtico del Paraíso), Plaza Mayor, Ponte Vella (Roman Bridge), Mercado de Abastos, Plaza do Ferro, Riverside thermal pools
Typical daily budget: €35–55 (excluding accommodation)
Best time to visit: May–June or September–October for pleasant weather; thermal pools are enjoyable year-round
Famous for: Ancient thermal springs (As Burgas), free outdoor thermal pools, Cathedral's Pórtico del Paraíso, Roman heritage, Ribeira Sacra wine region, Sil Canyon, pulpo (octopus) cuisine
Top tours: Free Tour Ourense, Discover the Majesty of Ourense Cathedral, Free Tour through the Mysteries and Legends Ourense
As Burgas Thermal Springs
Start your visit to Ourense at As Burgas, the ancient thermal springs in the historic center that have flowed for over 2,000 years. These famous hot springs are central to Ourense’s identity, which is why it’s called the "City of As Burgas." The thermal complex has three fountains where mineral-rich water comes out at 64°C to 68°C (147-154°F), bubbling straight from granite rock. The water is similar to the famous springs in Carlsbad, and locals often collect it for its supposed health benefits.
The Romans saw the healing benefits of these springs and built bathhouses here. You can still visit their remains under the modern facilities. The current thermal pool complex, designed by Galician architect César Portela and opened in 2010, has almost 200 square meters of outdoor thermal baths, which is rare in Spain. The naturally hot water is cooled to a comfortable 38-40°C (100-104°F) for bathing, so visitors can enjoy the same waters the Romans did long ago. The complex also has a wet sauna and a terrace.
As Burgas is located in the lovely Old Town, so you can easily enjoy a thermal bath and explore the historic streets in one visit.
Practical Info: As the Burgas thermal complex is located in historic center; free admission; water extremely hot at source (test before touching); thermal pool temperature 38-40°C; bring swimsuit and towel; outdoor facility open year-round (check current status as occasionally closed for maintenance); allow 1-2 hours; explore Old Town before or after bathing.
Ourense Cathedral (San Martiño)
From As Burgas, walk to Ourense Cathedral, the city’s main church dedicated to San Martiño (St. Martin). The cathedral shows a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its highlight is the Pórtico del Paraíso, a beautiful 13th-century entrance made by students of Master Mateo, who also worked on Santiago de Compostela’s famous portico. The Pórtico del Paraíso has three arches on slender columns, decorated with colorful figures of apostles, angels, and saints. St. James (Santiago) is shown holding a sword to remember the legendary Battle of Clavijo.
Inside, the cathedral preserves remarkable chapels, including the Chapel of San Juan Bautista (1468), created by the Conde de Benavente, and the baroque Chapel of the Santo Cristo (Holy Christ). Local legend asks: Does the Santo Cristo's hair actually grow?. The late Gothic dome features a flamboyant style with a stunning high altar as a backdrop. The Cathedral Museum displays unique relics found nowhere else in the world. The antique cloisters date to 1204, built by Bishop Ederonio.
The North Door (Portada Norte) combines Romanesque design with Gothic additions, featuring a tympanum crowned by a cross on which Mary receives Christ's body, as well as depictions of St. Martin tearing his cloak and St. James.
Practical Info: Cathedral located at Plaza del Trigo; guided tour available from €15 per person (2 hours, Spanish language); meeting at South Door (Puerta Sur) with white umbrella; tour includes exterior facades, interior with all chapels, Museum of Relics, Pórtico del Paraíso, Gothic dome, Santo Cristo chapel; optional bell tower climb after tour; suitable for reduced mobility, pet-friendly; advance booking recommended; allow 1.5-2 hours for visit.
Plaza Mayor & Old Town
From the Cathedral, explore Plaza Mayor and the surrounding Old Town squares that reveal centuries of urban life. Plaza Mayor serves as the social heart, surrounded by the Town Hall (Ayuntamiento) and Episcopal Palace—the main monuments that define the square's character. The plaza connects to smaller squares whose names reveal Ourense's historical activities: Plaza del Trigo (Wheat Square), once home to grain markets. The medieval street layout preserves the Old Town's intimate scale, with arcaded walkways, traditional shops, and local bars.
Plaza do Ferro is at the heart of the city’s wine district, surrounded by bars and taverns where locals enjoy Galician wines from the nearby Ribeira Sacra region. In the evenings, this lively square fills with people sharing glasses of Mencía reds and Godello whites along with tapas.
The Mercado de Abastos (food market) occupies a beautiful covered structure where fresh Galician products fill stalls—seafood from the Galician coast, local vegetables, cheeses, and charcuterie showcase the region's culinary wealth. The market operates in the mornings and offers authentic glimpses of daily Galician life. The nearby Alameda offers shaded park space for relaxing.
Practical Info: Plaza Mayor and Old Town are free to explore; Mercado de Abastos is open mornings Mon-Sat; Plaza do Ferro bars open afternoons/evenings; allow 1-2 hours to wander the squares and market; combine with a Cathedral visit.
Ponte Vella (Roman Bridge)
Walk to the Ponte Vella (Old Bridge), Ourense’s famous Roman bridge over the Miño River. Also known as the Puente Romano, this old stone bridge has linked both sides of the river for centuries and is a key city landmark. Its medieval arches make for great photos of the river and historic center. The riverside walkway along the Miño is perfect for a stroll and leads to more thermal pools.
Practical Info: Free access 24/7; photogenic sunset views; 10-minute walk from Plaza Mayor; combine with riverside thermal pools; allow 30 minutes.
Riverside Thermal Pools
Besides Burgas, Ourense has free thermal pools along the Miño River, each offering a different experience. These modern pools use the area’s natural geothermal waters and have outdoor baths with temperatures from 36-42°C in beautiful riverside spots. They’re open all year and feel especially magical in cooler months when steam rises from the water. Some pools have changing rooms, showers, and places to relax.
Practical Info: Free admission; bring swimsuit, towel, and waterproof sandals; several locations along the river (Chavasqueira, Outariz, Muíño da Veiga, among others); open 24/7 in most locations; can get crowded on weekends and holidays; allow 1-2 hours; combine with the Ponte Vella walk.
Food & Drink
Ourense’s cuisine is rooted in Galician traditions, with a focus on fresh seafood, high-quality beef, and local produce. The local specialty is pulpo á feira (Galician-style octopus), which is boiled, sliced, and topped with olive oil, paprika, and coarse salt, usually served on wooden plates. Empanadas (savory pastries) are filled with things like cod, tuna, pork, or mushrooms. Caldo gallego (Galician broth) is a hearty soup made with white beans, greens, potatoes, and pork. Local beef from Galician cattle (vaca gallega) is served grilled or in stews. Fresh river fish and eels from the Miño River are also common on menus.
The Ribeira Sacra wine region surrounds Ourense, with vineyards growing on the steep slopes of the Sil Canyon. Mencía red wines taste of fresh red fruits, while Godello whites are known for their mineral and citrus flavors. In Galicia, wine is enjoyed with meals throughout the day.
Ourense's markets and traditional taverns serve authentic regional cooking at reasonable prices. The area around Plaza do Ferro is home to wine bars and traditional restaurants. Expect main courses €10-18, tapas €3-6, menú del día (lunch special) €12-15, local wine glass €2.50-4.
Walking Tours
Free Tour Ourense: Duration: 2 hours | Starting at As Burgas thermal springs (look for a white umbrella at 11:00 AM). Discover Ourense's Roman past at Las Burgas ancient hot springs, where Romans bathed, and locals still gather today. Enter the Old Town to reach Plaza Mayor with the Town Hall and Episcopal Palace. Continue through historic squares whose names reveal past activities, such as Plaza del Trigo (Wheat Square). Visit the beautiful Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral whose Pórtico del Paraíso rivals Santiago's famous Pórtico de la Gloria. Walk to the Alameda and the stunning Mercado de Abastos, displaying fresh Galician products. Arrive at Plaza do Ferro in the wine district. Finish at mysterious places that surprise visitors. Spanish language. Includes As Burgas, Praza do Ferro, the principal Old Town streets, a group photo, and visits to the main monuments. Suitable for reduced mobility, families with children, and pet-friendly. No minimum attendees, no additional cost.
Discover the Majesty of Ourense Cathedral: Duration: 2 hours | Starting at the Cathedral's South Door, Plaza del Trigo (white umbrella at 1:30 PM). Walk around the Cathedral, admiring its different facades, including the head, which showcases all architectural styles. Take one of the most beautiful tour pictures from this perspective. Enter to explore details, legends, and curiosities. Visit the Museum of Relics with unique pieces. Admire the beautiful Pórtico del Paraíso, inspired by the portico of Santiago de Compostela. Marvel at the late Gothic dome with the flamboyant-style High Altar. Visit the baroque chapel of the famous Santo Cristo—does his hair really grow? The tour ends inside, with an optional bell tower climb. Spanish language. Includes Cathedral and the official Galicia guide. Suitable for reduced mobility, pet-friendly. From €15 per person.
Free Tour through the Mysteries and Legends Ourense: Duration: 2 hours | Evening tour at 8:30 PM. Uncover Ourense's mysterious side through enigmas, stories, and legends hidden in the historic center. Explore supernatural tales and historical mysteries associated with convents, palaces, and churches. Discover local folklore while walking atmospheric evening streets. Spanish language. Suitable for reduced mobility, families with children, and pet-friendly. No minimum attendees, no additional cost.
Explore more free tours in Ourense.
Weather in Ourense
Ourense has an oceanic climate with warm summers and mild, rainy winters. Spring (March-May) sees temperatures rise from 12-17°C (54-63°F) in March to 15-22°C (59-72°F) in May, with moderate rainfall but pleasant conditions for sightseeing. Summer (June-August) brings warm weather averaging 20-28°C (68-82°F), occasionally reaching 30-35°C (86-95°F). July-August are the driest months. Autumn (September-October) offers comfortable temperatures of 17-24°C (63-75°F) in September, cooling to 13-19°C (55-66°F) in October, with increasing rainfall. Winter (November-February) is mild, with temperatures of 8-13°C (46-55°F) and frequent rain. January averages 6°C (43°F) lows, 12°C (54°F) highs.
Best visiting periods: May-June and September-October for 18-24°C (64-75°F) and comfortable exploring; thermal pools are enjoyable year-round, especially atmospheric in cooler months; avoid December-January for wettest weather.
Short History of Ourense
The Romans founded a settlement here called Aquae Aurimense (Golden Waters), recognizing the value of the therapeutic hot springs. Roman baths, bridges, and infrastructure established Ourense as an important provincial center. The hot springs continued to attract people through medieval times, when the Cathedral was built and the city became a regional religious center. Ourense served as a stopping point on interior routes to Santiago de Compostela.
The medieval period brought prosperity through trade, agriculture, and the springs' reputation. The Cathedral's construction spanned centuries, incorporating Romanesque foundations with Gothic additions, including the magnificent Pórtico del Paraíso. The city developed around Plaza Mayor as the civic and commercial heart.
Ourense maintained regional importance through modern times while preserving its historic character. The late 20th and early 21st centuries brought renewed investment in thermal tourism, creating modern pool facilities that complement the ancient As Burgas springs. Today, Ourense balances thermal tourism, wine region commerce, and authentic Galician culture, attracting visitors seeking therapeutic waters, architectural heritage, and natural beauty beyond Spain's coastal destinations.
FAQ about Ourense
What can you see in Ourense in one day?
Visit As Burgas thermal springs and soak in the free thermal pool, explore Ourense Cathedral with the Pórtico del Paraíso, wander Plaza Mayor and Old Town squares, visit Mercado de Abastos, see Ponte Vella Roman Bridge, relax at riverside thermal pools, and enjoy pulpo á feira at a traditional restaurant.
What are the best things to do in Ourense?
Bathe in As Burgas ancient thermal pool, tour the Cathedral's Pórtico del Paraíso and Santo Cristo chapel, explore Old Town historic squares, visit Mercado de Abastos for fresh Galician products, walk Ponte Vella bridge, enjoy riverside thermal pools, take free walking tours, day-trip to dramatic Sil Canyon and Ribeira Sacra wineries.
When is the best time to visit Ourense?
May-June offers 18-24°C (64-75°F) with comfortable sightseeing; September-October provides 17-24°C (63-75°F) after summer crowds; thermal pools are enjoyable year-round, especially atmospheric in cooler months when steam rises; avoid December-January, the wettest period.
What should you eat in Ourense?
Try pulpo á feira (Galician-style octopus with paprika and olive oil), empanadas with various fillings, caldo gallego (Galician broth), fresh river fish and eels, and local Galician beef, paired with Ribeira Sacra Mencía reds or Godello whites from nearby wine terraces.
Are the thermal pools really free?
Yes. The Burgas thermal pool in the city center and riverside thermal pools along the Miño River offer free admission. The naturally hot spring water (60-68°C at source) is cooled to a comfortable bathing temperature (38-42°C). Bring your own swimsuit and towel.
Is Ourense Cathedral worth visiting?
Absolutely. The Cathedral houses the magnificent Pórtico del Paraíso, a 13th-century masterpiece by students of Master Mateo that rivals Santiago's famous portico. The baroque Santo Cristo chapel, Gothic dome, Museum of Relics, and multiple architectural styles make it one of Galicia's most important religious buildings.
How far is the Sil Canyon from Ourense?
The Sil Canyon is 30-50 km from Ourense, depending on which viewpoint you visit. Car recommended for flexibility to explore multiple miradores (viewpoints), wineries, and monastery sites. Allow a full day to experience canyon views, wine tasting, and an optional catamaran river cruise.
Which tours are available in Ourense?
Freetour.com offers Free Tour Ourense (2h covering As Burgas, Cathedral, Plaza Mayor, Old Town, Plaza do Ferro, Spanish, tip-based from €0, rated 9.6), Discover the Majesty of Ourense Cathedral (2h guided tour, Spanish, from €15), and Free Tour through Mysteries and Legends (2h evening tour, Spanish, tip-based from €0).
