Spain pushes forward sustainable mobility and rail tourism in Galicia and Extremadura

Xosé Merelles, director of Tourism for Galicia, called for a modern, sustainable mobility network, noting the recent launch of a direct United Airlines flight from Santiago de Compostela to New York and the regional Mobility Strategy that allocates roughly €420 million for 99 measures, including new rail links and airport connections.

Ourense has become a focal point for Galicia’s tourist‑train programme, with all June seats sold out and the Ribeira Sacra route reaching full capacity. The province now runs several themed routes that combine heritage, scenery and wine tourism, cementing its role as a key driver of regional visitor traffic.

Official transport data shows Ourense residents make more than 38 000 daily trips to other provinces, led by Pontevedra, followed by Lugo, A Coruña and León, highlighting the importance of inter‑regional connectivity.

In A Coruña, the upcoming intermodal station in the Os Mallos district is spurring real‑estate interest. Agents report rising prices and strong demand for short‑term rentals and room‑by‑room let‑outs, as investors anticipate higher footfall once the bus‑train hub opens.

Extremadura inaugurated the ExpacioMérida freight terminal, capable of handling up to 300 TEU per month and supporting up to three weekly cargo trains on the Barcelona‑Sevilla corridor. The facility aims to improve logistics for regional producers and attract multimodal traffic.