In the competitive world of audiovisual productions, finding the perfect setting can make the difference between a good work and an exceptional one. This is where Vigo, a gem located in the heart of the Rías Baixas of Galicia, emerges as an ideal destination for filming. Vigo Film Office, the entity responsible for managing productions in this vibrant city, offers a multitude of advantages for any audiovisual project, from its stunning natural landscapes to its unique and varied architecture.
The diverse landscapes of Vigo
Vigo, the largest city in Galicia, is characterised by its ability to offer a wide range of locations in a compact space. Its geography combines urban and rural elements, allowing productions access to industrial landscapes, historical and avant-garde architecture, and dreamlike natural settings.
One of the most representative places is its famous Port of Vigo, the largest fresh fish port in Europe, surrounded by industrial docks and shipyards, providing a unique backdrop for industrial-themed shoots. But this is not the only facet of the city: the architectural splendour of the 19th century, the rationalism of the modern city, and a picturesque old town complete the urban panorama.
To top it off, Vigo offers a rural environment just minutes from the centre. The natural surroundings provide a striking contrast with urban life, allowing directors to experiment with different visual tones without needing long journeys. And, of course, we cannot forget the paradisiacal Cíes Islands, with their Rodas beach, recognised as “the best beach in the world” by The Guardian newspaper.
Climate and connectivity: two great advantages
One of the features most valued by production companies in Vigo is its privileged microclimate. The city enjoys more clear days and mild temperatures throughout the year compared to other parts of Galicia, which guarantees ideal conditions for filming. During the summer months, Vigo remains unaffected by the heatwaves that hit other parts of Spain, making it a perfect location to continue filming without weather interruptions.
Moreover, the city is excellently connected, facilitating production logistics. The high-speed train links Vigo with Madrid, and its proximity to three airports (Vigo, Santiago de Compostela, and Porto) opens up a range of possibilities for both national and international productions. The proximity to Portugal is another factor to consider, as it facilitates cross-border co-productions, further expanding creative opportunities.
Free services and facilities for productions
One of the biggest advantages that Vigo Film Office offers to production companies is its agile and free management of filming permits. This includes handling permits with the local council, changing urban furniture, reserving parking spaces, and closing streets, all without any additional cost. Furthermore, the Vigo Film Office team advises productions in finding locations and provides contacts for auxiliary services and local technicians, further streamlining the production process.
Another highlight is Vigo’s excellent hotel offering, with an unbeatable price-quality ratio. Vigo Film Office negotiates and provides several budgets for production companies to ensure the filming teams have the best possible conditions during their stay.
Successful productions in Vigo
The appeal of Vigo has not gone unnoticed by major streaming platforms. In recent years, the city has been the setting for notable films and series such as “A Private Affair” (Amazon Prime, 2022), “A Man of Action” (Netflix, 2022), and “Dry Water” (HBO, 2020). Award-winning director Carla Simón also chose Vigo to shoot her latest project, “Romería”, and Daniel Sánchez Arévalo will soon shoot his new feature film “Rondallas” in the city and its surroundings.
These productions have praised the facilities and collaboration from the local council through Vigo Film Office, highlighting the tranquillity and respect they found in the city, far from the saturation of other better-known filming locations.
A destination yet to be discovered
Vigo, despite being the backdrop for important productions, remains a little-explored destination in the audiovisual field, offering a unique window of opportunity for production companies looking for fresh, versatile locations full of possibilities. The diversity of settings, favourable climate, the facilities provided by Vigo Film Office, and the peaceful atmosphere of the city make Vigo an essential destination for any audiovisual production wanting to harness all the potential that Galicia has to offer.
With all this in mind, Vigo presents itself as the perfect place for the next great film or television production.