• Morning (Free): Start your day with a visit to the 📍 Ponte Romana. This ancient Roman bridge is an iconic symbol of the city and offers stunning views of the Miño River. It’s a great photo opportunity and a chance to talk about history with the kids. Follow this with a stroll through the 📍 Parque de San Lázaro, the city's main park, perfect for children to run around and play.

• Lunch (Low Cost): Head to the 📍 Mercado de Abastos for a taste of local produce and affordable food options. Pick up some fresh bread, cheese, and fruit for a picnic lunch by the river.

• Afternoon (€): Immerse yourselves in thermal waters. Instead of splurging on a fancy spa, visit the free thermal baths along the Miño River. 📍 Outariz Thermal Baths are easily accessible by a tourist train or a pleasant walk, offering different pools with varying temperatures. Remember to bring your swimsuits and towels!

• Evening (Free): Take a leisurely walk through the 📍 Old Town (Casco Vello), admiring the historic architecture. Many plazas offer free entertainment, such as street performers. Have dinner at a pulpería (octopus restaurant) and share a ración (portion) of pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus), a local specialty, to keep costs down.

• Morning (€): Visit the 📍 Cathedral of Ourense (Catedral de Ourense). While there is an entry fee, it’s well worth it to marvel at its Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. Check for family discounts.

• Lunch (Low Cost): Prepare your own sandwiches and snacks at your accommodation and enjoy a picnic at 📍 Montealegre Park. This park offers panoramic views of Ourense.

• Afternoon (Free): Explore the 📍 Claustro de San Francisco, a beautiful Gothic cloister that now houses the Archaeological Museum. Check ahead for free admission days or times. Afterwards, let the kids enjoy some playground time in a nearby park.

• Evening (€): Enjoy a traditional Galician dinner at a restaurant offering a menú del día (daily menu). This is a fixed-price menu that usually includes a starter, main course, dessert, and drink, offering excellent value for money. Consider trying local specialties like empanada gallega (Galician pie) or caldo gallego (Galician broth).

• Morning (Free): Visit the 📍 Jardín Botánico, a botanical garden with a diverse collection of plants. This provides a peaceful and educational experience for the whole family.

• Lunch (Low Cost): Have lunch at a bocadillería (sandwich shop). Bocadillos are a cheap and cheerful way to feed the whole family.

• Afternoon (€): Take a day trip to the 📍 Ribeira Sacra, a stunning region known for its vineyards, monasteries, and breathtaking views of the Sil River canyons. Driving is the cheapest option 🚗 Alquiler de Coche (Mejor Precio), but check for affordable bus tours. The views from the viewpoints are worth the trip.

• Evening (€): Enjoy a final tapas hopping experience in the old town. Tapas are small, affordable dishes that are perfect for sharing. This is a great way to sample a variety of Galician flavors without spending a fortune.

• Transport: Ourense is a walkable city. Consider using local buses for longer distances – they are affordable. Walking is a great way to explore the city and discover hidden gems. For day trips to places like Ribeira Sacra, renting a car or taking a bus tour is recommended. 🚗 Alquiler de Coche (Mejor Precio)
• Accommodation: Look for budget-friendly apartments or guesthouses outside the city center for better deals. Self-catering can save you money on meals. 🏨 Reservar Hotel con Descuento (25% OFF)
• Safety: Ourense is a relatively safe city. However, be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and teach your children about basic safety precautions.
• Language: While many people in tourist areas speak some English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will be helpful and appreciated.
• Food: Take advantage of the menú del día for affordable lunches. Supermarkets offer great value for preparing your own meals.
• Flights: Book flights well in advance and consider flying into Santiago de Compostela Airport or Vigo Airport, then taking a bus or train to Ourense. ✈️ Vuelos Baratos (Expedia)

Ourense offers a fantastic family vacation that won't break the bank. By focusing on free activities, affordable food options, and budget-friendly accommodation, you can create lasting memories without overspending. Enjoy the thermal springs, explore the historic sites, and immerse yourselves in the rich culture of Galicia.