Hotel Pazo de Altamira

Hotel Pazo de Altamira takes its name from the pazo, the traditional Galician manor house, and offers an old-town stay with stone walls, wooden beams and a village-manor atmosphere. It is the kind of hotel travellers choose when they want to be inside the historic district rather than outside it, with the cathedral and the main squares only minutes away on foot. The scale is small, which adds to the charm. Rooms are individually styled, staff know guests by name and breakfast is a leisurely start to the day. It suits couples, solo travellers and small groups.

The location is the main advantage. You step out into the lanes of the old town and are surrounded by cafes, bakeries and shops. Evening noise from the bars can reach rooms on busy streets, so ask for a quieter room if you are a light sleeper. In return you get to walk home after dinner through lanes that are atmospheric after dark.

Inside, expect stone, wood and a mixture of historic and modern details. Rooms vary in size, so check the description when you book, and request a higher floor if available. Bathrooms are generally modern. There may be stairs and narrow corridors, which can be challenging with heavy luggage, so ask about assistance and lifts.

Make the most of the setting by walking out early. Before the day-trippers arrive the lanes are almost empty, the stone glows in the low light and the bakeries are opening. Return for breakfast, then plan the day. In the evening the same streets fill with music and conversation, so you can join in or retreat to your room.

Ask the staff for restaurant suggestions, since they know which small places serve the best seafood and where to find a table without a long wait. For a longer stay, request a room with a view, and check whether there is a lift, as old buildings often have limited access.

Ask for the quietest available room if you plan an early start, and confirm breakfast hours the evening before.