Are you ready for a spiritual journey like no other? Santiago de Compostela, Spain, is made for you! This charming town is the terminus of the pilgrimage route to Santiago and is rich in history and culture.
Whether you’re seeking religious enlightenment or simply looking to see new sights, this bustling city has something for everyone.
Join us as we take you on a virtual tour of the 15 best things to do in Santiago de Compostela, from visiting iconic sites to delicious local cuisine.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
About Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela is a city in the region of Galicia in northwestern Spain. It is the capital of the province of La Coruña.
The city’s cathedral is the destination of the Way of St. James Pilgrimage, a network of pilgrimage routes leading to the Sanctuary of St. James the Greater.
The origins of Santiago de Compostela are legendary.
The most popular route is known as the Camino Francés, or French way, and traditionally begins in the French Pyrenees, through northern Spain, and on to Santiago de Compostela.
Whether you’re taking a spiritual journey or just want to explore this historic city, Santiago de Compostela has plenty to offer. Here are some of our top picks:
Best things to do in Santiago de Compostela
- Santiago Cathedral: Santiago de Compostela’s most popular tourist attraction and home to many pilgrims on the pilgrimage route to Santiago. The final destination is Santiago de Compostela. Saint-Jacques Cathedral. Saint-Jacques Cathedral. The cathedral is a Romanesque and Gothic building built in the 12th century.
- Plaza del Obradoiro: This central square in front of the cathedral is one of the best places to people watch and feel the atmosphere of Santiago de Compostela.
- Alameda Park: This park is a great place to relax, have a picnic, or take a walk after exploring the cathedral and plaza.
- Museo das Peregrinacións e da Ruta Xacobea: This museum tells the story of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route and presents the history, culture, and art of the region.
- Hostal dos Reis Católicos: Once a hospital for pilgrims, this 15th-century hotel now houses a museum and a luxury hotel on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
- Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada: This former convent hotel is located on one of the most beautiful parts of the Santiago pilgrimage route between León and Santo Domingo de la Calzada.
Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is the final destination for many pilgrims embarking on the Camino de Santiago. The cathedral is a beautiful sight, with its ornate facade and enormous size.
Inside, the cathedral is equally impressive, with beautiful stained glass windows and a magnificent altarpiece. Visitors can explore the cathedral on their own or take a guided tour.
Plaza Obradoiro
Plaza Obradoiro is the center of Santiago de Compostela. Here you can find the iconic cathedral as well as many other historical buildings and monuments. The square is also a great place to people-watch, grab a coffee or lunch, and shop.
Walking the Way of San Diego
Walking the Way of San Diego is an experience you will never forget. The Camino is an ancient network of pilgrimage routes to the Spanish city of Santiago de Compostela.
It is believed that the remains of the apostle Saint James are buried there. Every year, thousands of people from all over the world walk this path in search of spiritual enlightenment or simply for the challenge.
The most popular route is the Camino Frances, which runs from France through the Pyrenees to Spain.
The hike usually takes around a month but can be done in as little as two weeks if you are fit and experienced. It’s a tough but rewarding journey, and you’ll meet a lot of interesting people along the way.
If you are considering walking the Camino de Santiago, be sure to do your research and plan ahead.
There are many different routes, so it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you. Remember, take your time – it’s a pilgrimage, not a race!
Visit the monastery of San Martino Pinario
The monastery of San Martino Pinario is located a few steps from the cathedral and is one of the most important places of pilgrimage in Santiago de Compostela.
The abbey was built in the 9th century and has a beautiful cathedral with two naves. The monastery also has a museum of religious art and artifacts.
Plaza da Quintana and Quatro Cantón
Plaza da Quintana is one of the most popular squares in Santiago de Compostela. It is famous for its beautiful architecture and a gathering place for pilgrims.
The square is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops. There is also a fountain in the center of the square.
Quatro Cantón is another popular square in Santiago de Compostela. It is famous for its statue of Saint-Jacques and its many churches. There are also restaurants, cafes, and shops around the square.
Roman Walls Tour The
Roman Walls Tour is one of the best things to do in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. The tour takes you through the ancient city walls built by the Romans in the 3rd century.
You will learn about the history of the city and visit some of its most important monuments. The tour is led by a local guide who knows the history and culture of the city.
Alameda Park
Alameda Park is one of the best places to visit in Santiago de Compostela.
The park is huge, with many different areas to explore. The park has playgrounds, gardens, fountains, and sculptures. You will also find a café and a few restaurants in the park. Alameda Park is a great place to relax or take a walk.
Café
The historic and charming Café del Obradoiro is the perfect place to rest after exploring Santiago de Compostela.
This cafe has been serving traditional Spanish cuisine since 1884, and its location in Plaza Obradoiro makes it a great spot for people-watching.
The menu includes classic Spanish dishes such as tortillas and pulpo a la gallega, as well as more contemporary dishes such as salmon with mango salsa. Accompany it all with a glass of local Albariño wine or a cup of coffee.
