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A Coruña occupies a strategic position on the rugged Atlantic coast of northwestern Spain, situated on a narrow peninsula that juts into the Atlantic Ocean, creating a natural harbour that has shaped its urban character as a historic port city. The city's geography is defined by its coastal setting at approximately 43°N latitude, with the Atlantic Ocean to the west and north, and the Ría de A Coruña estuary to the east, which moderates local climate and influences air quality patterns. The terrain is generally low-lying, with the urban area averaging just 21 meters above sea level, though it rises gently to the south where it meets the Galician hinterland of rolling hills and agricultural zones. This coastal location creates a distinct urban-rural gradient, with dense urban development concentrated on the peninsula transitioning to suburban areas and then to the rural landscapes of Galicia's interior. The city's position exposes it to prevailing westerly winds from the Atlantic, which typically disperse pollutants effectively, though the surrounding topography can occasionally create microclimates where pollutants accumulate. Industrial activity is limited compared to major Spanish cities, with the main sources being port operations, maritime traffic, and general urban emissions from transportation and residential heating. The proximity to the ocean means sea salt aerosols are a natural component of the atmosphere, while the lack of major industrial belts in the immediate region contributes to generally good air quality, though urban emissions can concentrate in the densely built historic core during periods of atmospheric stability.

A Coruña's air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern shaped by its Atlantic maritime climate, with generally favourable conditions year-round due to persistent oceanic winds. During winter, from December through February, increased residential heating and occasional temperature inversions can lead to modest pollution accumulation, particularly in the city's sheltered valleys and dense urban areas, though these episodes are typically brief due to frequent Atlantic storms that rapidly clear the air. Spring brings improving conditions from March to May as heating demands decrease and increasing sunlight hours enhance atmospheric mixing, with the prevailing westerlies effectively dispersing pollutants, making this an excellent season for outdoor activities for all residents, including sensitive groups like those with respiratory conditions. Summer months from June to August see the cleanest air, as strong sea breezes and consistent Atlantic airflow prevent pollution buildup despite increased tourism and traffic, though occasional Saharan dust intrusions from Africa can temporarily elevate particulate levels, typically in July or August. Autumn, spanning September to November, experiences transitional conditions with generally good air quality maintained by Atlantic weather systems, though increasing rainfall and foggy periods in October and November can sometimes trap pollutants near the surface, particularly during calm mornings. Sensitive individuals should monitor local air quality reports during winter inversion episodes and summer dust events, but overall A Coruña offers favourable conditions for outdoor activity throughout most of the year, with spring and summer being particularly recommended for those with health concerns.