Ultimate Guide to Exploring Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Santiago de Compostela serves as the final destination for most pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago, with the iconic cathedral being the highlight of this historic city. While Galician is widely spoken, the locals are proficient in Spanish and eager to communicate. Moreover, the city hosts an airport, although international flights are limited.

Best Time to Visit

For an unforgettable experience, consider visiting around July 25 to participate in the Feast of Santiago, where you can enjoy beautiful fireworks the night before, known as the fogo do Compostela. However, be aware that from fall through spring, rainy weather is prevalent.

Number of Days to Spend

It is advisable to spend at least two days in Santiago. However, if you encounter rainfall, you might find yourself enjoying an extended stay indoors.

Hotels

For accommodation options in Santiago de Compostela, consider the following:

• Hotels in Santiago de Compostela with booking.com
• Hotels in Santiago de Compostela with Travelocity

For budget-conscious travelers, Hostelworld offers dormitory-style accommodations.

Things to Do

• Visit the breathtaking Cathedral del Apóstol.
• Savor local seafood, particularly the renowned ‘pulpo a la gallega‘ (boiled octopus), though its texture may not suit everyone’s palate.
• Explore the Museo das Peregrinacións to learn about the history and significance of this vital pilgrimage site, even if you have not traveled here on foot.
• Indulge in homemade Chocolate con Churros at Café Metate, a former chocolate factory.
• Discover Santiago’s array of museums and religious structures, including Mosteiro de San Paio, Colexiata de Santa Maria do Sar, and Museo do Pobo Galego.

Day Trips from Santiago de Compostela

• The nearby town of Coruña is worth an overnight visit.
• Rias Bajas to the west can be explored, but public transport options are limited.
• The historic Fisterra, known as the “end of the world” by Romans, is also a close destination.

Distance to Santiago de Compostela

• Barcelona—711 miles (1,145 kilometers)—approximately 11 hours by car, 17 hours by bus, or a 1.5-hour flight.
• Madrid—374 miles (602 kilometers)—around six hours by car, 7.75 hours by bus, 8.5 hours by train, or a one-hour flight.
• Seville—595 miles (957 kilometers)—about nine hours by car, 14.5 hours by bus (overnight only—one per day), or a 1.5-hour flight, with no direct train access.

First Impressions

Santiago’s old town is compact and features winding, narrow streets, predominantly pedestrianized, therefore negating the need for a car during your visit.

Cathedral

The journey to the iconic cathedral takes approximately 20 minutes on foot from the train station. Traverse Rúa do Hórreo towards Praza de Galicia, continuing past it until reaching Praza de Toural on your left. Follow Rúa do Vilar, leading you to the Catedral del Apóstol.

Visit the Cathedral, which may captivate you for hours, depending on your interest in these magnificent structures. It stands as one of Spain’s most intricately designed architectural wonders, deserving of your attention.

As you navigate Santiago’s old town, you will discover plenty more sights awaiting you just around the corner.

For those arriving from the bus station, which is located slightly east of the city center, simply follow the road straight ahead for approximately 1,600 feet (500 meters) until descending a set of stairs on your right. Continue along this path, and you will find yourself at Praza de San Martiño Pinario, just a short stroll from the cathedral.