As Burgas Interpretation Center Ourense - Shadow work on the balcony at Quinta do Portal, designed by Siza Vieira.
1 / 10

As Burgas Interpretation Center Ourense

3.2
·46 reviews·Ourense, Spain

Ourense's iconic free thermal springs, offering a unique Roman-era bathing experience in the heart of the city.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds, enjoy tranquility

CrowdLow
Loading map...
As Burgas Interpretation Center Ourense - Shadow work on the balcony at Quinta do Portal, designed by Siza Vieira.

As Burgas Interpretation Center Ourense

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds, enjoy tranquility

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ourense's iconic free thermal springs, offering a unique Roman-era bathing experience in the heart of the city.

3.2
(46 reviews)

"A surprising and wonderful space in the center of a city, with striking hot springs."

Vertical photo
TIP

💧 Embrace the Heat!

Pools can reach 60°C! Test the water carefully before fully immersing.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Access Points

Access via Burgas Street, Plaza de la Herreria, or Baños Street for different perspectives.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Main Burgas Pools

The Main Burgas Pools

Center of Ourense

Iconic thermal pools with naturally heated waters, a central feature of Ourense's thermal heritage.

Archaeological Finds

Archaeological Finds

Outside Interpretation Center

Discover ancient Roman remains and learn about the historical significance of these thermal springs.

Interpretation Center Exhibits

Interpretation Center Exhibits

Inside Visitor Center

Gain insights into the geology, history, and cultural importance of Ourense's famous hot springs.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Heat: Timing is Key

As Burgas are popular, especially with locals. Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and truly soak in the thermal experience. Some pools reach 60°C, so be prepared for intense heat!

Free Access, Essential Info

The thermal baths themselves are free to access, a huge draw for visitors. The Interpretation Center offers valuable context, but check for any ongoing renovations that might affect exhibits.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the crowds, enjoy tranquility
Crowd
Low
When
Late evenings
Why
Relaxing atmosphere, fewer people
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Locals' favorite, avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Estamos em Ourense na Galícia, a cidade das águas quentes. Ao longo do rio Minho, existem várias est[ancias termais a céu aberto e rodeado pela natureza exuberante. O melhor: a maioria das Burgas tem acesso gratuito. Algumas piscinas chegam a 60 graus. Veja as Burgas que eu indico: . A Chavasqueira – é a primeira que encontrará na rota Termal e fica a poucos metros da fantástica Ponte do Milênio. ...
@roteironamao
15K likes • 597K views

💧 Embrace the Heat!

Pools can reach 60°C! Test the water carefully before fully immersing. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Access Points

Access via Burgas Street, Plaza de la Herreria, or Baños Street for different perspectives. Reddit

🏛️ Check for Renovations

The Interpretation Center may be undergoing updates; check ahead for full exhibit access. Reddit

🚰 No Facilities Nearby

Plan ahead as there are no restrooms directly at the main Burgas site. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

💧 Embrace the Heat!

Pools can reach 60°C! Test the water carefully before fully immersing. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Access Points

Access via Burgas Street, Plaza de la Herreria, or Baños Street for different perspectives. Reddit

🏛️ Check for Renovations

The Interpretation Center may be undergoing updates; check ahead for full exhibit access. Reddit

🚰 No Facilities Nearby

Plan ahead as there are no restrooms directly at the main Burgas site. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.2
(46 reviews)

Reviews Summary

As Burgas is celebrated as a unique and wonderful urban thermal space, with its free access and striking hot springs being major draws. Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the opportunity to experience Ourense's famed waters. However, some find the Interpretation Center could be more engaging and better equipped for larger groups, with a noted lack of nearby facilities.

"The Burgas Baths are a unique space in the center of a city, surprising and wonderful. The place is very popular, and many people from the city and surrounding area regularly visit the baths. The hot springs are also striking."

José Carlos Merino

"It can be accessed via three streets: the main Burgas Street, Plaza de la Herreria, and Baños Street. The visitor center has five rooms plus the archaeological finds outside, which provide an introduction to the Orense hot springs. Admission is free."

Doncelador

"O centro de interpretação está muito bem conseguido tendo em conta o espaço disponível para a exposição. A área é ampla mas parece que fica algo por saber. Está em remodelação."

Sónia Abrantes

What People Like

Unique urban thermal experience
Free access to hot springs
Historical Roman remains

What People Dislike

Limited facilities nearby
Interpretation center could be improved
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

As Burgas is centrally located in Ourense. You can easily walk from most parts of the city center. If arriving by car, look for public parking nearby. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops close to the main access streets. Reddit

Yes, As Burgas is a well-known landmark in Ourense. It's situated in the heart of the city, making it straightforward to locate. Follow signs for the thermal springs or ask locals for directions. Reddit

Absolutely! Several bus lines stop near the main access points of As Burgas, including Burgas Street and Plaza de la Herreria. Check local Ourense bus routes for the most convenient options. Reddit

You can access the thermal area via three main streets: the main Burgas Street, Plaza de la Herreria, and Baños Street. Each offers a slightly different perspective and approach to the springs. Reddit

While direct parking at As Burgas is limited due to its central location, there are several public parking garages within a short walking distance. Consider parking at Plaza de Abastos or Calle Bedoya. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The thermal baths themselves are completely free to access and enjoy. The Interpretation Center also offers free admission, though it may be undergoing renovations. Reddit

The thermal pools are generally accessible at all times, being an open-air public space. The Interpretation Center has specific opening hours, which can vary, so it's advisable to check locally or online before your visit. Reddit

No, admission to the As Burgas Interpretation Center is free. This allows everyone to learn about the history and significance of Ourense's thermal waters. Reddit

While As Burgas is popular, it can be challenging for very large groups to navigate the space comfortably, especially within the Interpretation Center. It's best suited for smaller groups or individuals. Reddit

There are no age restrictions for visiting the thermal pools, but caution is advised for young children due to the high temperatures. The Interpretation Center is suitable for all ages. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The thermal waters at As Burgas are naturally very hot, with some pools reaching temperatures as high as 60°C (140°F). Always test the water carefully before entering. TikTok

Bring a swimsuit, towel, and perhaps water shoes. It's also a good idea to bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated, especially given the heat. TikTok

Unfortunately, there are no changing facilities or restrooms directly at the main Burgas site. Visitors are advised to come prepared or use facilities elsewhere in the city. Reddit

As Burgas are ancient Roman thermal springs, central to Ourense's identity as the 'City of Water.' The site has been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries. Reddit

The Interpretation Center's hours can vary, and it has been noted to be undergoing renovations. It's best to confirm current operating hours before your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the steam rising from the pools, the ancient stone structures, and the surrounding urban landscape. The contrast between the hot springs and the city is visually striking. TikTok

Photography rules inside the Interpretation Center may vary, especially if there are sensitive exhibits or audiovisual displays. It's generally best to be discreet or check for signage. Reddit

Early morning or late evening light can create beautiful atmospheric shots, with fewer people in the frame. Golden hour can also offer lovely lighting. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near historical sites. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone over As Burgas. Reddit

A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for early morning or evening shots. A wide-angle lens can help capture the scale of the thermal area and its surroundings. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

As Burgas offers a unique experience for families, but with a crucial caveat: the extreme heat of the water. While the idea of warm pools is appealing, temperatures can reach up to 60°C, making them potentially unsafe for very young children. Parents should exercise extreme caution, test the water thoroughly, and supervise children closely. TikTok

Consider visiting the Interpretation Center first to provide context about the springs. The archaeological finds might be of interest to older children. For a more relaxed thermal experience suitable for families, Ourense offers other thermal facilities with more controlled temperatures, though As Burgas remains a must-see for its historical significance and central location. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

As Burgas is a dream destination for budget travelers, as the main thermal pools are completely free to access. This allows you to experience a significant part of Ourense's unique charm without any cost. The Interpretation Center is also free, offering valuable insights into the site's history. Reddit

To maximize your budget, pack your own snacks and water, as facilities directly at the site are limited. You can easily spend hours enjoying the thermal waters, making it a highly rewarding and cost-effective activity. Combine your visit with exploring the rest of Ourense on foot to save on transportation costs. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thermal Waters of Ourense

As Burgas are the heart of Ourense's reputation as the 'City of Water.' These natural thermal springs have been a vital part of the city's history and culture for millennia. The waters emerge from the earth at high temperatures, rich in minerals, and are believed to have therapeutic properties. The Romans were the first to harness these waters, establishing thermal baths that laid the foundation for Ourense's enduring connection to its hot springs. Reddit

Today, As Burgas represent a unique blend of ancient heritage and modern urban life. While the Interpretation Center provides context, the true experience is immersing yourself in the warm waters. It's a communal activity, with locals and visitors alike gathering to relax and rejuvenate. The accessibility and free nature of the main pools make them a beloved public amenity. TikTok

It's important to note the extreme temperatures of some of the pools, which can reach up to 60°C. Visitors should exercise caution and test the water before entering. The surrounding area offers a glimpse into the Roman past, with visible archaeological remains that speak to the long history of human use of these natural wonders. Reddit

Navigating the Interpretation Center

The As Burgas Interpretation Center aims to provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the thermal springs' significance. It typically features exhibits detailing the geological formation of the springs, their historical use from Roman times to the present day, and the cultural impact they've had on Ourense. Audiovisual materials and signage are intended to enhance the learning experience. Reddit

However, feedback suggests that the center, while well-intentioned, may have limitations in terms of space and the depth of information presented. Some visitors feel that more could be done to expand on the content, particularly with engaging audiovisual elements. It's also worth noting that the center has been mentioned as being in a state of renovation, which could affect the completeness of the exhibits. Reddit

Despite these points, the Interpretation Center remains a valuable starting point for anyone interested in the thermal heritage of Ourense. It offers a free opportunity to learn about the origins of the city's famous hot springs and appreciate their historical and cultural importance before or after experiencing the baths themselves. Reddit

You may also like