Orense is an ancient town in northwest Spain in the province of Galicia and is best known for its ancient bridges and for its old town. It is accessible from Madrid by train while an airport is nearby in Vigo. You can have cheap car hire in Orense and explore all there is to see in the region.

Orense is not overloaded with attractions but it has plenty to see and boasts a nice setting on the River Mino. The river is spanned by several ancient bridges providing access to the old town and its many squares and old buildings. The old town has some nice wandering and also has tapas bars and shops.

With car rental at Orense you can also check out the town’s Roman remains and the nearby hot springs, while Santiago de Compostela is just over an hours’ drive north. It is especially noted for its imposing cathedral which is the site of a huge annual pilgrimage.

Also out of town with car hire in Orense is Vigo, the largest town in the region. It is best known for its excellent seafood restaurants and waterside setting. The nearby Cies Islands (Islas Cíes) can be visited by boat from Vigo’s harbour, although they only run in the summer months.

In addition, up and down the coast is a stunning coastline and some little visited beaches. You can take an extended trip with car rental in Orense from A Coruna in the north to Vigo in the south with much of the road hugging the coast.