A Coruña harbor and PALEXCO exhibition and congress palace

Palacio De Exposicións E Congresos

Palacio de Exposicións e Congresos Palexco Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide in A Coruña, Spain

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located at the heart of A Coruña’s waterfront, the Palacio de Exposicións e Congresos (PALEXCO) is one of Galicia’s premier venues for conferences, exhibitions, and cultural events. Renowned for its striking maritime-inspired architecture and its role in revitalizing the city’s port district, PALEXCO serves as a dynamic hub for both local and international visitors. This guide provides comprehensive information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, key facilities, nearby attractions, and practical tips to ensure a rewarding and seamless visit to this iconic venue (Palexco Official Site, CorunaVirtual, Visit Coruña).

Introduction
Architectural Genesis and Urban Significance
Visiting Hours and Ticketing
How to Get to PALEXCO
Facilities and Key Spaces
Accessibility and Inclusivity
Notable Events and Visitor Experience
Nearby Attractions and Local Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Further Resources

Architectural Genesis and Urban Significance

PALEXCO’s design, crafted by renowned architects César Portela and Ricardo Bofill, echoes the maritime legacy of A Coruña. The building’s sweeping, undulating roofline and expansive glass façades evoke the image of a ship anchored on the Atlantic, seamlessly blending the venue with its waterfront surroundings. This architectural approach not only provides panoramic views of the marina and bay but also infuses event spaces with abundant natural light (corunavirtual.com).

The venue is central to A Coruña’s late 20th- and early 21st-century urban renewal, anchoring the transformation of the historic Transatlantic Dock area into a vibrant business, leisure, and tourism district. Its establishment has spurred growth in hospitality and retail, reinforced the city’s role as a business tourism hub, and served as a symbol of contemporary Galician identity (acorunacb.com).

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Regular Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Weekend and evening hours may be extended for special events.
Event-Specific Hours: Check the official PALEXCO website or event organizer pages for precise timings.
Tickets: Many events (conferences, exhibitions, concerts) require advance ticket purchase or registration. Tickets are available online or at the venue’s box office.
Guided Tours: Guided architectural or sustainability tours are occasionally available and should be reserved in advance.

Tip: Book tickets early for popular events and check for discounts or accessible seating if required.

How to Get to PALEXCO

PALEXCO is conveniently located at Avda. Porto da Coruña 1, 15003 A Coruña:

By Air: A Coruña Airport is 10 km away, accessible by taxi or shuttle.
By Train: The city’s main train station is 3 km from the venue, with bus and taxi connections.
By Bus: Several city bus lines (1A, 3, 7, 17) stop nearby.
By Car: On-site underground parking spans two levels, including accessible spaces. Drop-off zones are located at the main entrance (A Coruña Congress Guide, PDF).

Facilities and Key Spaces

PALEXCO offers over 22,000 m² of versatile event and exhibition space, including:

Auditorio Gaviota: Main auditorium, 1,482 seats, state-of-the-art AV systems.
Auditorio ARAO: Flexible auditorium for smaller meetings.
Sala Bitácora: VIP lounge for private gatherings.
Barlovento & Sotavento: 550 m² open-plan spaces with marina views.
Loft Dársena: Panoramic glazed space for receptions and exhibitions.
Exhibition Halls (Hall Proa & Hall Popa): 2,000 m² and 1,300 m² respectively, ideal for large-scale expos.
Modular Meeting Rooms: Configurable spaces for workshops and seminars.
Terraces: Outdoor areas with Atlantic views for receptions and photo opportunities.

All event spaces are equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, advanced lighting and sound, and technical support (Live the World).

Accessibility and Inclusivity

PALEXCO is fully accessible and committed to inclusivity:

Physical Access: Step-free entrances, ramps, elevators, wide corridors, and adapted restrooms throughout.
Seating: Reserved wheelchair-accessible seating in all auditoriums.
Communication: Multilingual signage (Spanish, Galician, English), audio induction loops, and live captioning for major events (PALEXCO Accessibility).
Sensory Support: Tactile paving, high-contrast signage, quiet zones, and support for guide dogs.
Public Transport: Accessible bus stops and train connections nearby.
Parking: Reserved accessible spaces in the underground parking.
Family-Friendly Amenities: Baby-changing facilities, stroller access, supervised children’s zones during select events.
Catering: Menus catering to vegetarian, vegan, halal, gluten-free, and other dietary needs.

Inclusivity training for staff and gender-neutral facilities further enhance the visitor experience.

Notable Events and Visitor Experience

PALEXCO hosts a diverse calendar of events, including:

International and National Congresses for science, medicine, and business.
Trade Fairs and Expos across various industries.
Concerts, Theatrical Performances, and Cultural Festivals.
Gastronomic Events celebrating Galician cuisine.
Private Functions such as weddings and banquets.

For up-to-date event listings and ticketing, check the official events calendar.

Visitor Services:

Multilingual information desk
On-site cafeteria and catering
Business center and VIP lounges
Cloakroom, lost-and-found, and 24/7 security
Free Wi-Fi and charging stations

Nearby Attractions and Local Tips

Within Walking Distance:

Waterfront Promenade: Panoramic Atlantic views, cafés, and accessible paths.
Old Town (Ciudad Vieja): Romanesque churches, María Pita Square, and cobblestone streets (Turismo de A Coruña).
Tower of Hercules: UNESCO World Heritage lighthouse (accessible grounds).
Orzán & Riazor Beaches: Boardwalk access and seasonal beach wheelchairs.
Museums: Domus (Casa del Hombre), Museo de Bellas Artes, and more.

Travel Tips:

Use public transport or BiciCoruña for sustainable travel.
Weekdays tend to be less crowded.
English is widely spoken at major events.
The Atlantic climate can be changeable—bring layers.
Book accommodation early during major events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are PALEXCO’s visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM–9:00 PM; extended for special events.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Online via the official PALEXCO site or at the venue box office.

Q: Is PALEXCO accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with step-free access, elevators, adapted restrooms, and reserved seating.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, especially during open days or special exhibitions. Book in advance.

Q: What attractions are near PALEXCO?
A: The Old Town, Tower of Hercules, city beaches, and museums are all nearby.

Summary

PALEXCO embodies A Coruña’s modern spirit, offering state-of-the-art event spaces, architectural distinction, and a strong commitment to accessibility and sustainability. Its central location on the Transatlantic Dock connects visitors to the city’s historic, cultural, and commercial highlights. Whether attending an international congress, exploring an exhibition, or enjoying the local scenery, PALEXCO ensures a welcoming and enriching experience for all. For current visiting hours, ticketing, and event information, consult the official PALEXCO website.

Plan your visit with confidence, and consider the Audiala app for real-time updates and personalized travel assistance.