Whether you have arrived at this historic holy city by foot, car, bus, train, or plane, I’m confident that you are all looking for the same thing: interesting things to do in Santiago de Compostela.
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Is Santiago de Compostela worth visiting?
It is absolutely worth visiting, and it ranks high on the list of my favorite cities in Spain.
Not only does it have a great deal of historical and religious significance, but it is also home to winding cobblestone streets and charming hidden corners.
How to get to Santiago de Compostela
It is a well-connected, major city within the region of Galicia, Spain. The city has its own airport (SCQ), train station, and bus station.
To find the best prices for travel I like to use the website OMIO.
I chose to visit Santiago de Compostela as part of a longer trip exploring the region of Galicia. So my journey began in Vigo prior to traveling here.
However, many visitors arrive by foot via the Camino de Santiago. If you are curious to know more about this Pilgrimage you can scroll to the bottom of this post.
How many days do you need?
The answer highly depends on what you are in Santiago de Compostela for.
If you are arriving on foot after a long pilgrimage, I would suggest spending at least 2-3 days in the city. This gives you time to rest, relax, and still enjoy this incredible place.
If you are just visiting to see the sights, maybe you can come by car, train, or plane. The city is pretty easy to experience with just one full day. (This is what I did).
However, if you wish to explore the surrounding area, and maybe hike a small portion of the surrounding trails give yourself additional time!
Where to Stay?
Many hostels cater to the pilgrims and visitors of the Camino de Santiago.
Since I was not a pilgrim, I opted for an Airbnb that offers a spectacular view of the Cathedral and a great location within the city.
For only $26 a night or 22 Euro, you can rent this private room with the friendliest and most helpful host, Cristina.
Check out the listing here!
Things to Do: Santiago de Compostela
There are so many things to do in and around Santiago de Compostela. I only had one full day, so I will outline the highlights of this remarkable city!
Free Walking tour
While I have outlined a do-it-yourself version below. I always highly recommend hopping on a FREE (tip-based) walking tour. Because not only will they take you to the city’s highlights but they will also give you so many wonderful anecdotes and knowledge to go with it. The guides are always the BEST on a free walking tour! – Be sure to tip them accordingly!
Reserve your spot on a Free Walking tour, here!
One day in Santiago de Compostela
If you only have one day in this magical city, I recommend you get started early!
Morning
Breakfast: Café near Pazo de Fonseca
Surrounding the historical landmark of Pazo de Fonseca are several cafés and terrazas where you can enjoy fresh orange juice, café con leche, and pan con tomate.
After a delicious start to your morning, cross the street and enjoy the courtyard of Pazo de Fonseca.
Pazo de Fonseca was commissioned in the 16th century and was originally used as a university for theological studies.
Currently, the building belongs to the University of Santiago and houses the university library.
The inner cloisters are a must-see and you cannot miss the stunning structural details.
Post breakfast stroll
One of my favorite things to do in this city is to walk around the quiet cobblestone streets and look for quirky little hidden details.
This door knocker is one of many small details that add to Santiago de Compostela’s character.
Mercado de Abastos
Mercado de Abastos has been a vibrant place in the community since 1873. The majority of the market is dominated by food stalls which include, bakeries, fish, butchers, fresh produce, and cheeses.
In addition, the market also has dry-good stalls to visit. These stalls sell things like clothing, perfume, jewelry, and flowers.
The market is open from 8 am-3 pm every day but is best if you arrive on the earlier side.
I would fully recommend purchasing the best bread, cheese, and produce the town has to offer and save it for a park picnic with a view.
Picnic at Parque de San Domingos de Bonoval
Now that you are stocked up with the best snacks. It is time to do as the Spaniards do, have a picnic.
My favorite place to picnic is at Parque de San Domingos de Bonoval. This park offers a great deal of shade and an alternate perspective of the Catedral de Santiago de Compostela.
Parque de San Domingos de Bonoval is located directly behind an old 18th-century cemetery and convent. Making it a tranquil and beautiful spot to enjoy your market haul from earlier in the day.
Shopping
Now it is time to make your way back towards the historic city center. To the stunning plazas and the famous cathedral.
While on your way be sure to stop at several of the cute boutiques you will pass.
La Reina de Saba will be along the route. This small fragrance store is amazing. Everything smells so good, and the prices are cheap! Whether you are looking for a unique scent or one that mimics designer brands, La Reina de Saba has it all.
I wish I had bought more while I was there!
Praza das Praterías
Of all the plazas in this city, Praza das Praterías is my favorite. It is surrounded by the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and the Museum of the Pilgrimage.
The museum would be a very interesting place to visit if you have the time.
However, the plaza itself is stunning. Take a seat on the stairs and enjoy the energy of this square. Often there is live music, and the sweet sound of a Spanish guitar fills the air.
Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela
You can’t go to Santiago de Compostela and not visit the cathedral. People walk hundreds of miles every year to visit this sacred place.
The Catedral de Santiago de Compostela is home to the tomb of St. James and is the finish line of the religious pilgrimage.
If you do nothing else while you are here, this is the thing to do.
Cheer on the Pilgrims
After you visit the interior of the cathedral, exit and go to the plaza at the front of the building, Praza do Obradoiro.
From this plaza not only can you take in the beautiful views of the cathedral facade, but you can also watch pilgrims finish their treks.
It brought me so much joy to watch the triumph and excitement of the people who worked so hard for that moment.
Enjoy a Bocadillo de Calamares
If you are hungry, venture down one of the side streets on the right of the plaza. There you will find a small bar with amazing food.
Bar Coruña serves hands down the best bocadillo de calamares I have had in Spain.
I cannot speak for the rest of its food, but this sandwich alone makes Bar Coruña worth a visit.
Watch the Sunset from Parque da Alameda
Parque da Alameda offers some of the best views of the city. It is an unbeatable location to watch the sunset from.
In addition to offering stunning sunset views, it is home to many monuments, and the hidden gem, Igrexa de Santa Susana.
Igrexa de Santa Susana is an old church that was consecrated in 1102 and was made to house religious relics.
Praza do Obradoiro by Night
Not only is the cathedral stunning by day, but it is also incredible at night. They light the cathedral, and the square is often filled with live music and dancing.
This is an amazing place to spend your time.
When you are ready for dinner there are many delicious options.
Where to eat in Santiago de Compostela
Petiscos do Cardeal
Petiscos do Cardeal is a small tapas restaurant that is open later than most restaurants in the city.
No matter when you visit you will be impressed. Order several plates, and a drink, and enjoy the local flavors.
I would highly recommend the Gambas al Ajillo (Shrimp with garlic). These shrimp were amazing. After we devoured the first plate we ordered two or three more.
Check out their menu here.
Bar Coruña
As I have mentioned previously, Bar Coruña is a great place for a casual bite to eat.
Grab a Jarra de Cerveza and a bocadillo while enjoying the traditional Spanish feel of this bar.
I cannot say enough good things about their bocadillo de calamares. It is the best I have ever had. Just looking at the picture is making my mouth water.
Taberna O Gato Negro
If you are looking to enjoy the Galician classic of Pulpo Gallego (Octopus) then Taberna O Gato Negro is the place for you.
Our Airbnb host recommended it and we were delighted to sample the local flavors.
Taberna O Gato Negro is a compact and narrow space, located not too far from the Cathedral. It is worth a visit.
Restaurante María Castaña
Restaurante María Castaña is a more upscale option for classic Galician cuisine.
It has a beautiful patio and offers interesting twists on some traditional regional foods.
If you are looking for a great meal and are not on a tight budget, then this is your place.
Mesón 42
Mesón 42 is another restaurant that specializes in local cuisine.
It is also one of the few restaurants that I noticed with TVs. That being said, if you are trying to catch a fútbol match this is a good place to stop, for some beer, food, and especially dessert.
While I was here I thoroughly enjoyed their Filloas con Nata y Miel. These are crepe-like pastries filled with whipped cream and honey. A postre (dessert) of my dreams!
Santiago de Compostela Pilgrimage
The Camino de Santiago is a religious pilgrimage that is one of the most popular in Europe. This trek combines many intertwining trails throughout Spain, and neighboring countries, but ends at the tomb of St. James in the Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela.
In English, this hike is known as the “Way of St. James” and the most popular route is called the Camino Francés, as the trail begins in France near the border with Spain.
The 780 km route runs through major Spanish cities such as San Sebastian, Pamplona, Bilbao, and Burgos, and ultimately ends in Santiago de Compostela.
Along the route are many churches, significant religious sights, and a community of pilgrims that makes the experience unforgettable.
If you are interested in hiking the Camino de Santiago you can find more information on their official website.
What is so special about Santiago de Compostela?
The city is special mostly due to its connection with the Camino de Santiago, and more notably for being the final resting place for St. James, or in Spanish, Santiago.
However, the city itself has a special charm to it that makes it special to me, aside from the obvious reasons.
Why is it a holy place?
Santiago de Compostela is recognized as a Holy place by the catholic church and is one of three recognized holy cities along with Rome and Jerusalem.
The city earned its status from being the burial place of St. James, one of Jesus’s loyal apostles. Following the pilgrimage to his burial site is one way that Catholics from all over the world can earn absolution for their sins.
Where is St James buried?
St. James is buried in a silver box located in the crypt at the Cathedral of Santiago.
The story goes that St. James was killed in the holy land of Jerusalem, and his followers carried his body back to Santiago de Compostela before it was laid to rest. The remains were rediscovered and dug up to be authenticated in 813.
At that point, King Alphonso II built the Cathedral of Santiago on the original burial location and created an elaborate crypt where the remains continue to be visited daily by dedicated pilgrims.
What is the best-known symbol of Santiago de Compostela?
The most recognizable symbol of Santiago de Compostela is the scallop shell. Shells mark the thousands of kilometers of the Camino de Santiago and can be found all over the city and across the country near major trails.
Many legends surround the scallop shell and its ties to the Camino de Santiago. One legend explains the shell’s contribution to one of the 23 miracles performed by St. James.
Stories cite that St. James healed a knight with a throat disease by holding a scallop shell to the infected area.
To learn more about the significance of the shell. Click here!
Is it safe?
Yes.
Crime rates for the city are below Spain’s national average. I know several female travelers who completed the Camino de Santiago and stayed in Santiago de Compostela solo. They all reported how safe they felt during the entirety of their experience.
To me, the city and the people all felt very welcoming.
How far is the ocean from Santiago de Compostela?
The city is about 40 km from the Atlantic Ocean and is very close to many beautiful ocean-side towns in Spain.
Does Santiago de Compostela have a beach?
Santiago de Compostela does not have a beach. It is a landlocked city.
However, If you are looking to wash your feet in the ocean after your hike, some nearby beaches are easily accessible by train or bus.
Praia de Boa Grande
The closest beach is Praia de Boa Grande which is only 40 km away. Praia de Boa Grande may be the closest but reaching it can be on the complicated side. It can be reached by some expert navigating of the public transit system.
Praia de Compostela
Compostela Beach is located in the town of Vilagarcía de Arousa and although it is about 10 km farther than Pria de Boa Grande it is much easier to get to without the use of a car.
For about 5$ you can catch a train from Santiago de Compostela to Vilagarcía de Arousa to dip your feet in the ocean at the pristine Compostela beach.
Islas Cies
The Islas Cies are an archipelago off the coast of Vigo. They are home to some of the most pristine beaches in the country and are just an hour and a half from Santiago de Compostela. If you are interested in Las Islas Cies, please read my blog post all about them!
A Coruña
This is where I headed after Santiago de Compostela. A Coruña is one of the oldest cities in Spain and is also home to beautiful Atlantic beaches!
Playa de las Catedrales
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