La Coruna Cruise Port
Muelle de Trasatlánticos (A Coruña Cruise Terminal)
La Coruna, Spain Port
UN/LOCODE ESLKN Port of call
La Coruna Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Spain |
| UN/LOCODE | ESLKN |
| Contact | |
| Address | Avenida de la Marina, s/n, 15003 A Coruña, Spain |
| Port phone | +34 981 21 96 21 |
| Website | www.puertocoruna.com |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 43.37135, -8.39600 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The Muelle de Trasatlánticos cruise terminal in La Coruña is located only 200 metres (650 feet) from the city's primary retail and dining artery, making it one of the most accessible ports on the Atlantic Ocean. Situated in the Galicia region of northwest Spain, this destination offers a compact, walkable experience that rewards those who skip the organized bus tours. You can reach the famous Plaza de María Pita in under 10 minutes on foot. For those looking further afield, the UNESCO pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela is just 75 km (46 miles) south, roughly 50 minutes by road or train, while the medieval town of Betanzos lies 25 km (15 miles) to the east. As a primary ocean cruise port, La Coruña handles everything from boutique yachts to 3,000-passenger vessels. Be aware that many guests waste time waiting for shuttles to the Tower of Hercules; however, the local bus network is more efficient and costs a fraction of the price. This city rewards the curious walker who ventures into the narrow tapas alleys but punishes those who expect a Mediterranean climate—expect Atlantic breezes and rapid weather shifts. You are visiting the 'City of Glass,' and the experience is as clear and sharp as the galleries overlooking the harbor.
La Coruna — Port Overview
History
La Coruña’s identity was forged by the Romans in the 2nd century AD, when they constructed the Tower of Hercules to guide ships through the treacherous Atlantic Ocean waters of the 'Coast of Death.' By the medieval period, the city became a vital departure point for pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela. Its most defining historical moment occurred in 1589, following the defeat of the Spanish Armada. Sir Francis Drake led an English fleet in a counter-attack, attempting to burn the city to the ground. Local heroine María Pita famously rallied the defenders, killing an English ensign and forcing a retreat. You will see her statue dominating the main square today, a reminder of the city's defiant spirit. In 1809, the city witnessed the Battle of Corunna during the Peninsular War, where Sir John Moore died defending the British embarkation against Napoleon's forces. His tomb remains a focal point in the Garden of San Carlos. The 19th century brought the architectural 'Glass City' boom, where merchants built enclosed wooden balconies—galerías—to protect against sea spray while letting in maximum sunlight. These iconic structures still line the Avenida de la Marina, facing the cruise terminal, offering a direct visual link to the city's maritime prosperity.
The Verdict
La Coruña is a destination that rewards those who arrive with a plan but stay flexible enough to follow the local rhythm. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. Whether you choose to climb the Roman steps of the Tower or simply enjoy the glass-fronted beauty of the marina, La Coruña is a highlight of the Atlantic coast.
Things to Do & See in La Coruna
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plaza de María Pita | Landmark | Plaza de María Pita, 15001 A Coruña, Spain | +34 981 18 42 00 | Open 24 hours (City Hall: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM) | visitcoruna.com | Free |
| Monte San Pedro | Natural Feature | Estrada Os Fortes, 15011 A Coruña, Spain | +34 981 18 43 44 | Daily 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (seasonal variations) | visitcoruna.com | Free |
| Castle of San Antón | Historical Site | Paseo Marítimo, s/n, 15001 A Coruña, Spain | +34 981 18 98 50 | Tue–Sat 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Sun 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM | coruna.gal | EUR €2.00 |
| The Glass Galerías (Avenida de la Marina) | Landmark | Avenida de la Marina, 15001 A Coruña, Spain | Open 24 hours (Viewable from street) | Free | ||
| Tower of Hercules | Historical Site | Av. Navarra, s/n, 15002 A Coruña, Spain | +34 981 22 37 30 | Daily 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (seasonal variations) | torredehercules.org | EUR €3.00 |
Plaza de María Pita · Landmark
FreePlaza de María Pita is the grand living room of La Coruña. Dominated by the eclectic, three-domed Palacio Municipal (City Hall), the square commemorates the woman who saved the city from Sir Francis Drake in 1589. Standing at the base of her statue, you can feel the weight of Galician history. Keep in mind that most visitors merely take a photo of the exterior, but the real treasure is the interior of the City Hall, which features ornate marble staircases and a surprising Clock Museum. The square is surrounded by buildings featuring the iconic galerías—glass-enclosed balconies that give the city its nickname. In the morning, the sun hits these glass panes, creating a shimmering effect that is unique to this port. It is the perfect starting point for any visit, providing an immediate sense of the city's scale and pride. Expect a bustle of locals going about their business; it is far from a tourist-only zone. While the restaurants on the perimeter are convenient, they are better for a quick coffee than a full meal. A visit here delivers the essential visual identity of La Coruña in one panoramic sweep.
Plaza de María Pita, 15001 A Coruña, Spain ·+34 981 18 42 00 ·Open 24 hours (City Hall: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM) ·www.visitcoruna.com
Monte San Pedro · Natural Feature
FreeMonte San Pedro was once a forbidden military zone, housing massive Vickers coastal battery guns designed to defend the Atlantic Ocean approaches. Today, it is the city's most spectacular public park. The scale of the guns, with barrels over 17 metres long, is staggering when seen in person. From the cliffs, you have a direct line of sight to the Tower of Hercules and the entire sweep of the city's beaches. The consistent feedback from visitors is that this view is the highlight of their Spanish coast itinerary. The park also features a hedge maze and a small botanical garden. The spherical panoramic elevator, which climbs the cliffside from the promenade below, offers a thrilling way to arrive, though those with a fear of heights may prefer the road access. The experience here is one of space and wind—it feels remarkably different from the cramped streets of the Pescadería district. It delivers a sense of the rugged, wild nature of Galicia while being only minutes from the urban centre. Do not miss the chance to walk through the old bunkers, which have been cleverly integrated into the landscape.
Estrada Os Fortes, 15011 A Coruña, Spain ·+34 981 18 43 44 ·Daily 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (seasonal variations) ·www.visitcoruna.com
Castle of San Antón · Historical Site
EUR €2.00This 16th-century fortress was built on a small island (now connected by a causeway) to defend the harbor from the English. It has served as a defense point, a prison, and a quarantine station for sailors returning from the Americas. Today, it houses the Archaeological and Historical Museum of A Coruña. The site is compact but dense with history, spanning from the Bronze Age to the modern era. You can walk through the old casemates and stand on the ramparts where soldiers once watched for Drake's fleet. The contrast between the ancient granite walls and the modern cruise ships docked nearby is striking. The walk from the terminal is 1.1 km—it is a flat, scenic stroll along the water. The museum provides the best context for understanding why La Coruña was such a coveted prize for European empires. It is rarely crowded, offering a quiet escape from the busier shopping districts. The entry fee is one of the best values in the city. A visit here delivers a deep sense of the city's maritime survival through the centuries.
Paseo Marítimo, s/n, 15001 A Coruña, Spain ·+34 981 18 98 50 ·Tue–Sat 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Sun 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM ·www.coruna.gal
The Glass Galerías (Avenida de la Marina) · Landmark
FreeThe 'Galerías' are the reason La Coruña is known as the City of Glass. These enclosed wooden balconies were originally designed for fishermen's houses but were adopted by the wealthy bourgeoisie in the 19th century. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, they act as solar heaters, trapping the sun's warmth while keeping out the salt spray and wind. The row of white-painted galerías on Avenida de la Marina is one of the largest and most photographed architectural ensembles in the world. As you step off the ship, they are the first thing you see—a wall of gleaming glass that seems to float above the port. This is not just a tourist site; it is a functioning part of the city's architecture. Walking along the wide promenade of the Parrote, you can see the intricate carpentry and the way the glass reflects the changing mood of the sea. You will find that the best photos are taken from the harbor wall near the Palexco building. It is a stunning example of how a city adapted to its environment to create something beautiful. A walk here delivers the essential 'postcard' moment of any trip to Galicia.
Avenida de la Marina, 15001 A Coruña, Spain ·Open 24 hours (Viewable from street)
Tower of Hercules · Historical Site
EUR €3.00The Tower of Hercules is the only Roman lighthouse in the world that is still used for maritime signaling. Built in the late 1st century AD, its core is original Roman masonry, though the exterior was encased in a neoclassical 'shell' in the 1700s. Standing on the rugged headland, it has guided countless ships through the Atlantic Ocean for nearly 2,000 years. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage landmark and the pride of Galicia. Even if you choose not to climb to the top, the experience of being at the base is profound. You can see the original Roman foundations in the archaeological excavation at the bottom. The surrounding headland is an open-air sculpture park with over 15 works by local artists. The wind here is consistently 15–20% stronger than in the city centre; bring a jacket. This is the one must-see that justifies leaving the immediate pier area. It delivers a sense of timelessness that few other Roman sites can match. It is the sentinel of the city, standing as a bridge between the ancient world and modern maritime life.
Av. Navarra, s/n, 15002 A Coruña, Spain ·+34 981 22 37 30 ·Daily 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (seasonal variations) ·www.torredehercules.org
Eating & Drinking in La Coruna
Galician cuisine is defined by the Atlantic Ocean—it is simple, ingredient-driven, and incredibly fresh. The regional star is Pulpo á feira (octopus), but do not overlook the seafood platters (mariscadas) featuring barnacles (percebes), which are harvested at great risk from the local cliffs. Another staple is the Empanada Gallega, a savory pie filled with tuna, cod, or meat. Drink the local Estrella Galicia beer—this is where it is brewed—or a crisp Albariño white wine, which perfectly complements the saltiness of the seafood. For something unique, try the Herb Liqueur (Licor de Hierbas) as a digestif. You will find the most genuine versions in the 'Calle Galera' and 'Calle Barrera' tapas alleys. Tourists often expect spicy food, but Galician cooking uses almost no heat beyond a dusting of sweet or smoky paprika. The genuine experience is found in the 'tabernas' where the menu is handwritten and the floors are granite.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A Pulpeira de Melide | Calle Plaza de España, 16, 15001 A Coruña | +34 981 15 21 59 | Tue–Sun 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 11:30 PM | apulpeirademelide.com | €25.00–€35.00 (~$29.00–$40.00 USD) |
| Taberna Da Galera | Calle Galera, 32, 15003 A Coruña | +34 881 92 48 33 | Daily 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM | €20.00–€30.00 (~$23.00–$34.50 USD) | |
| La Bombilla | Calle Torreiro, 6, 15003 A Coruña | +34 981 22 46 91 | Daily 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM | €2.00–€5.00 (~$2.50–$6.00 USD) |
A Pulpeira de Melide
€25.00–€35.00 (~$29.00–$40.00 USD)This is where you go for the definitive Galician octopus experience. The octopus is boiled in traditional copper vats and served on wooden plates with olive oil, sea salt, and pimentón (paprika). Order the Pulpo á feira and a side of Cachelos (boiled Galician potatoes). The atmosphere is noisy, bright, and authentic. One honest limitation: they do not take reservations for small groups during lunch, so arrive at 1:15 PM to secure a table.
Calle Plaza de España, 16, 15001 A Coruña ·+34 981 15 21 59 ·Tue–Sun 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Taberna Da Galera
€20.00–€30.00 (~$23.00–$34.50 USD)Located in the heart of the tapas district, this is a masterclass in modern Galician small plates. The zamburiñas are a must—sweet, local scallops grilled with a hint of garlic and onion. The space is narrow and often standing-room only at the bar, which is the most authentic way to eat here. It is fast, efficient, and exceptionally fresh. If you want to try multiple local specialties in one sitting, this is the place.
Calle Galera, 32, 15003 A Coruña ·+34 881 92 48 33 ·Daily 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM
La Bombilla
€2.00–€5.00 (~$2.50–$6.00 USD)You don't come here for a quiet cocktail; you come for a glass of the local Estrella Galicia beer and their famous cheap tapas. It is a local institution where everyone from students to grandfathers rubs shoulders. Order a 'caña' and you'll get a small snack included. It is the perfect place to absorb the local energy of the Pescadería district.
Calle Torreiro, 6, 15003 A Coruña ·+34 981 22 46 91 ·Daily 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Getting There & Around
Once you leave the terminal, your feet are your best asset. The city centre is a compact isthmus. To reach the Tower of Hercules, take Bus #3 or #5 from the stop at Puerta Real (near María Pita square); the fare is €1.30 (~$1.50 USD) and takes 12 minutes. Taxis are plentiful and use meters; a ride to the Tower should not exceed €8.00 (~$9.00 USD). Avoid Uber here as the local taxi fleet is faster and often cheaper due to high availability. For a unique experience, use the Paseo Marítimo, one of the longest seaside promenades in Europe. The walk from the ship to the Tower along the coast takes about 45 minutes of brisk walking—it is beautiful but skip it if it's raining as the wind is relentless. One expert tip: the red 'Tourist Train' (Tren Turístico) is often overpriced and slow; the regular municipal buses follow similar routes for a fraction of the cost and run every 10–15 minutes.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in La Coruna
Plaza de María Pita
9:00 AM (45 min)
The heart of the city. Admire the stunning City Hall and the statue of the local heroine. Most people miss the historical museum inside the City Hall which is often open to the public for free.
- 5-minute walk from the cruise terminal exit. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Look at the windows of the buildings—this square has some of the best examples of the city's signature wooden galerías.
Ciudad Vieja & San Carlos Gardens
10:00 AM (60 min)
Walk through the medieval quarter. Visit the Collegiate Church of Santa María and the Garden of San Carlos. The garden is the final resting place of Sir John Moore and offers the best harbor view.
- 5-minute walk from Maria Pita Square.
- Entry: Free (Free)
- The small Church of Santiago is the oldest in the city; look for the carved scallop shells on the facade.
Avenida de la Marina Shopping
11:15 AM (75 min)
Explore the famous 'Glass City' architecture and browse the local boutiques. This is the best place to find genuine Galician lace or ceramics before returning to the ship.
- 5-minute walk from the Old Town.
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Enter the San Agustín market nearby to see the seafood displays before the lunch rush.
Lunch Recommendation
A Pulpeira de Melide
This is a family-run institution. Unlike the tourist traps on the main strip, they use traditional copper cauldrons for the octopus, ensuring perfect texture every time.
Order: Pulpo á feira (Octopus with paprika), Pimientos de Padrón
Calle Plaza de España, 16, 15001 A Coruña
Cost: €25.00–€35.00 (~$29.00–$40.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in La Coruna
Tower of Hercules
9:00 AM (120 min)
The world's oldest working Roman lighthouse. Even if you don't climb the 234 steps, the surrounding sculpture park and coastal views are magnificent.
- Taxi from the pier (10 mins) or Bus #3/5. (€8.00 (~$9.00 USD) taxi)
- Entry: €3.00 ($3.50)
- Buy tickets online in advance; they limit the number of people allowed inside the tower each hour.
Paseo Marítimo Walk
11:30 AM (60 min)
Walk toward the city along the Atlantic shore. You'll pass the 'Domus' interactive museum and the local beaches.
- Walk from the Tower along the coast.
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Stop at the giant red 'A CORUÑA' sign for the quintessential photo op.
Getting back to the ship
To guarantee return before a typical 5:00 PM all-aboard, you should leave the Tower of Hercules or Monte San Pedro no later than 4:15 PM. A taxi from the Tower to the pier takes roughly 10 minutes and costs €8.00 (~$9.00 USD). If you are in the Maria Pita area, the walk to the ship is only 5 minutes, allowing you to stay until 4:40 PM safely. If you are running late, call the port agency (number provided on your daily ship program) immediately. Unlike some ports, the ship in La Coruña is highly visible from much of the city, so you can easily gauge your distance. Passengers who miss the ship will need to take a train or flight to the next port (often Bilbao or Gijón), which can cost upwards of €200 (~$230 USD).
Weather & Best Time to Visit La Coruna
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: April through October
14°C–24°C (57°F–75°F). Rainfall is common even in summer, often as a fine mist.
What to wear: Layers are non-negotiable. Even on a sunny day, the Atlantic breeze can be chilly. Bring a lightweight, waterproof shell and sturdy walking shoes with rubber soles to handle wet granite. Avoid umbrellas if it's windy—the local 'orballo' rain often comes sideways. A pashmina or light scarf is ideal for the wind at the Tower of Hercules.
Weather risks: High winds can occasionally prevent docking, though rare. Fog can obscure the Tower of Hercules views in the early morning.
August is the busiest month but remains temperate; you won't experience the 40°C heat of Madrid or Seville.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March–May) | Mild but highly unpredictable. Expect a mix of bright sun and sudden Atlantic rain showers (known locally as 'orballo'). | The polished granite paving stones in the Ciudad Vieja become exceptionally slick when wet, even with light mist. | Calle Real, Plaza de María Pita, and the steps leading to the Church of Santiago. | Wear shoes with significant rubber grip. Avoid leather-soled shoes entirely. Carry a compact windproof umbrella rather than a heavy coat. |
| Summer (June–August) | Cool and comfortable compared to southern Spain. Highs rarely exceed 25°C (77°F), but the UV index remains very high due to sea reflection. | Intense sun exposure on the Paseo Marítimo promenade, which has very little shade for several kilometres. | The 13 km walking path between the Cruise Terminal and the Tower of Hercules. | Walk the promenade in the morning before 11:00 AM. If visiting the Tower, the queue is entirely exposed; bring water and a hat. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Locals in La Coruña are polite but more reserved than those in southern Spain. A firm nod or a 'Buenos días' (Good morning) is the standard greeting. In social settings, Spaniards use two kisses on the cheeks, but as a visitor, a handshake is perfectly acceptable. Dining follows the strict Spanish schedule: lunch is the main meal and starts at 1:30 PM or 2:00 PM. Trying to eat lunch at 12:00 PM will result in limited options. When finished, place your knife and fork parallel on the plate; the waiter will not bring the bill unless you ask for it ('La cuenta, por favor'). Photography is welcome everywhere except inside churches during mass. In tapas bars, it is normal to see people dropping used paper napkins on the floor in very traditional spots, but this is fading—look at what others are doing. Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up to the nearest Euro is standard for coffee, and 5–10% is generous for a full meal. A common mistake is assuming everyone speaks English; while common in the terminal, a few words of Spanish earn immense goodwill.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Paying for a cruise line shuttle to the city centre. |
Trying to eat a full lunch before 1:30 PM. |
Wearing sandals or flip-flops for a city walk. |
Assuming the 'Tourist Train' is the best way to see the sites. |
Practical tips
Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere, including most taxis and small bars. However, keep €10–€20 in cash for the smallest tapas spots or for purchasing bus tickets. Tipping is modest: round up for drinks, add €2–€3 for lunch. Five essential words: 'Hola' (Hello), 'Gracias' (Thank you), 'Por favor' (Please), 'Pulpo' (Octopus), and 'Caña' (Small beer). Pickpocketing is rare compared to Barcelona, but be vigilant in the crowded tapas alleys of Calle Galera. When visiting churches like the Collegiate of Santa María, ensure shoulders and knees are covered as a mark of respect. The best crowd-avoidance strategy for the Tower of Hercules is to arrive before 10:15 AM or after 3:30 PM; the 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM window is when the ship excursion buses peak. If you're walking the promenade, stay on the ocean-side path; the city-side can be narrow and crowded with local commuters.
Cruise Lines Visiting La Coruna
Port of Call
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FAQ — La Coruna
Can I walk to the Tower of Hercules from the cruise ship?
Yes, but it is a substantial walk. The distance is 3.5 km (2.2 miles) each way along the coastal promenade. For an average walker, this takes about 45 to 55 minutes without stops. It is a beautiful route on a clear day, but the Atlantic wind can be very tiring. If you are on a 4-hour port call, you should take a €8.00 (~$9.00 USD) taxi to the Tower and walking back toward the ship to save time. For a guaranteed back-to-ship experience, consider checking with your cruise line or a licensed local operator for private guided walking tours.
Is there a beach near the cruise port?
The two main beaches, Orzán and Riazor, are located on the opposite side of the isthmus from the cruise pier. They are a 15-minute flat walk (roughly 1.2 km) from the terminal. While beautiful and popular for surfing, the Atlantic water temperature averages 18°C (64°F) in summer, which most Americans find too cold for swimming. The beaches are better for a scenic walk or a coffee at a beachfront cafe.
What is the best thing to buy in La Coruña?
The most authentic and high-quality souvenir is Sargadelos ceramics. These blue-and-white pieces are made in Galicia and are highly collectible. Expect to pay €30.00 (~$34.50 USD) for a medium-sized decorative piece. You can find their flagship store on Calle Real, a 5-minute walk from the ship. Avoid generic Spanish fans or flamenco dresses, as these are not traditional to this northern region.
Is Santiago de Compostela worth it for a one-day cruise stop?
It depends entirely on your port time. The train takes 35 minutes and costs ~€12.00 (~$14.00 USD), but you must also factor in the 10-minute taxi to the A Coruña station. If your ship is in port for at least 8 hours, it is a magnificent trip. If you have 6 hours or less, you will spend half your day in transit. Most of travelers find that La Coruña itself offers plenty to do for a shorter stay.
Are the museums in La Coruña closed on certain days?
Most municipal museums, including the Castle of San Antón and the Domus, are closed on Mondays. The Tower of Hercules remains open 7 days a week, but ticket availability is significantly tighter on Mondays as all tourists congregate there. If your ship docks on a Monday, it is best to book your Tower tickets online at least 48 hours in advance.
What should I order at a Galician tapas bar?
You must try 'Pulpo á feira' (octopus with paprika) and 'Pimientos de Padrón' (small green peppers, some of which are spicy, most are mild). A plate of octopus typically costs €15.00–€18.00 (~$17.00–$21.00 USD). Pair it with a 'caña' of Estrella Galicia beer for about €2.50 (~$3.00 USD). If you prefer wine, ask for a local Ribeiro or Albariño white wine.
How much is a taxi from the cruise port to the city centre?
You don't need one! The cruise pier is located right in the city centre. A taxi to the farthest local site, like Monte San Pedro, will cost roughly €10.00 (~$11.50 USD). Taxis in La Coruña are strictly metered and very honest; there is no need to negotiate the fare in advance. Most drivers now accept credit cards, but it's wise to ask '¿Tarjeta?' before starting the ride.
Is La Coruña safe for solo travelers?
La Coruña is one of the safest cities in Spain. Violent crime is extremely rare. The main tourist areas are well-lit and busy with locals. Standard precautions against pickpockets should be taken in the crowded tapas streets (Calle Galera) or at the Tower of Hercules, but generally, you can walk anywhere in the city centre with total peace of mind.
Does it rain a lot in La Coruña?
Galicia is the 'Green Spain,' and that green comes from regular rain. Even in the height of summer, a light morning mist or a passing shower is common. The rain is usually light—what locals call 'orballo'—but it can make the granite streets slippery. Always bring a light waterproof jacket, regardless of what the morning sky looks like from your balcony.
Can I use US Dollars in La Coruña?
No. Shops, restaurants, and taxis only accept Euros or credit cards. You will get a terrible exchange rate if you find someone willing to take USD. Use your credit card for most purchases or withdraw Euros from an ATM at one of the many banks on Avenida de la Marina, directly across from the pier. Ensure your card has no foreign transaction fees before you travel.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.