Drawing in thousands of people on foot through the famous Camino de Santiago, and offering a delicious introduction to Galician culture through food, history, culture, and tradition, Santiago de Compostela is a must-visit destination to visit in Spain’s repertoire of incredible cities!

Adventure your way through Santiago’s history and tradition by admiring the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the final resting place of one of Jesus Christ’s apostles, St. James, and then make your way around Praza do Obradoiro, and try to spot out the “kilometer zero” plaque!

Tucked away in Spain’s northwesternmost region of Galicia, take advantage of the incredible day trip ideas available to you, from exploring the dramatic nature at Ribeira Sacra, or the stunning Cíes Islands for a truly breathtaking view of the wild Atlantic and jagged coastline.

Indulge in regional cuisine on a food tour, trying dishes like Gallega-style octopus and Gallega-style stew, delicious Albariño wine from the Rias Baixas area, and much more!

So, if you’re liking what you’re reading, let’s continue covering the best things to do in Santiago de Compostela for you, and your epic travels!

1 – Admire the Porch of Glory at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

Built in 1075, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is known as one of the most important religious structures in Spain, as it’s the final stop on the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.

Said to house the remains of St. James, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles, the stunning medieval and romanesque style cathedral is also famous for the Porch of the Glory, (Pórtico da Gloria), which is a structure on the west side of the cathedral of 200 biblical figures.

Those who are of the faith may be interested in the ceremony “Hugging the Apostle” which is a tradition available to anyone interested in visiting the dressing room of the Apostle Santiago between 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM.

Also worth checking out is the Botafumeiro, a giant incense burner from the 19th century!

Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela tours

2 – Take a self-guided tour of the Praza do Obradoiro

Praza do Obradoiro, Santiago de Compostela

Walk upon the most famous plaza in Santiago de Compostela, the Praza do Obradoiro, where you’ll find some of the most famous sights in the city, including the Cathedral to the Pazo de San Xerome, the Paxo de Raxoi (town hall), and even a historic hotel specifically built for tired pilgrims during their pilgrimage.

Located in front of the Cathedral, today’s plaza is overflowing with delicious restaurants and cafes, offering visitors one of the best views in the city’s heart! Enjoy a walk through the plaza, admiring the courtyards, the buzz of the locals passing by, and a 17th-century college originally built to educate the poor.

Lookout for the “kilometer zero” sign in the middle of the plaza, indicating the final site of the Camino de Santiago!

3 – Get a taste of the Pilgrimage Experience and walk the last 10 kilometers to Santiago

pilgrim for a day experience

So maybe you’re interested in getting a bite-size taste of what it takes to walk the Camino de Santiago, but you don’t want to do the whole thing?

Check out the Pilgrim for a day experience, where you’ll get to walk the last few kilometers of the trail with the help of a guide and see what the pilgrims see when they start to arrive in the city after a long trek!

Learn about the religious significance of this holy pilgrimage, and hear incredible stories from the experience. By the time you arrive at Praza do Obraidoro, you’ll be received with a grand welcome and congrats for completing the Pilgrim for a Day experience!

After all that walking, don’t forget to give your body some care and relaxation with a special pilgrim massage.

Camino de Santiago – the final stage

4 – Take in the architectural beauty of the Hostal de los Reyes Catolicos

Hostal de los Reyes Catolicos, Santiago de Compostela

Built under the rule of the Spanish Catholic monarchy in the 16th century, the Hostal de los Reyes Catolicos was created to house tired pilgrims when they arrived at Santiago de Compostela on their pilgrimage.

The Hostal de los Reyes Catolicos is located in the famous Praza do Obradoiro, and stuns all with its Gothic style. When you step through the doorway, you’ll find two medallions with imagery of the Catholic Monarchs, and then follow the path into the incredible courtyard and the Chapel of Enrique de Egas, dedicated to the architect of the building.

Also known as one of the oldest hotels in Spain, whether you stay the night, or just pop in, the Hostal de los Reyes Catolicos is one of the best things to do in Santiago de Compostela to absorb the city’s famous history!

Hostal de los Reyes Catolicos tours

5 – Walk amongst centuries-old oak trees at the Parque Alameda

Parque Alameda, Santiago de Compostela

Commonly referred to as just Alameda, take a beautiful morning stroll through the city’s main park, comprised of 3 different parts including the Paseo da Alameda, Carballerira de Santa Susana (Oak Grove), and Paseo da Ferradura.

The park and its stunning trails offer a peaceful disconnection from the busyness of the city while remaining close to the main sights like the Cathedral. Admire and breathe in the freshness of the carefully manicured gardens, quaint ponds with relaxing fountains, and plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the scene slowly.

While walking around, you’ll notice the statue of “As duas Marias” which are two Spanish sisters, showing a friendly and welcoming gesture at the entrance of the park. Their story is quite troubled, however many see their statue as a representation of marginalization and the fight for equality.

6 – Hit the Casco Antiguo (Old Town)

Casco Antiguo, Santiago de Compostela

Marvel at the stunning Casco Antiguo (Old Town) and stop by some of the most famous sites around, from the Cathedral to the Praza do Obradoiro, Platerias Square, and its towering clock, amongst other sites!

The city is beloved by visitors and locals for its unique charm, specifically, its true-to-history atmosphere, with its similar architectural style throughout the town square, gallery-style balconies, and beautiful cobble-stone streets to get joyfully lost in!

Make sure to book a walking tour in Santiago to get a great overview of the city’s landmarks, plus check out a few hidden streets and corners of the city to spot the best tapas restaurants and more!

Walking tours are free, with a few paid options for a customized experience, so don’t hesitate to add a walking tour to your list of activities to plan on doing in Santiago de Compostela!

walking tours in Santiago de Compostela

7 – Get into some medieval history on a Templars Tour

Templars tours in Santiago de Compostela

Join a templar tour and explore Santiago’s history of the Knights Templar, as you visit some of the most popular sites including the Corticela Chapel, Plaza de Cervantes, the Church of Santa Maria do Camiño, and many more sites!

Templars are known as religious military knights that protect and serve the pilgrims and other areas of the Catholic faith. They were prominent in Santiago de Compostela and therefore had specific areas throughout the city where they’d meet. They were known as one of the wealthiest military orders in Western Christianity.

As you stop by these religious buildings, you’ll dig more into the history of the templars in Santiago, and how they influenced the local culture and religious importance of the city.

There are a few free templar tours and others that also infuse other interesting topics!

Templars tours in Santiago de Compostela

8 – Get cultured at the Cidade da Cultura de Galicia

Cidade da Cultura de Galicia, Spain

Only 8 minutes away from the historic center of Santiago is the impressive Cidade da Cultura de Galicia, a cultural complex space housed inside a few modern buildings with a few notable spaces to check out!

From a grand library to the Museum of Galicia and more, you can also expect to attend live concerts, view traveling exhibits, check out a conference, or even sit in for a film screening or look at the artwork! With something happening every day of the week, you’ll never be bored or find a repeating event in this cultural space!

Join a tour of the space, and get a behind-the-scenes look at all that happens inside the space, including learning about the space’s architect’s design and inspiration. The space is open Monday to Sunday, from 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM.

9 – Visit one of the most popular Galician museums at the Museo del Pueblo Gallego

Museo del Pueblo Gallego, Santiago de Compostela

Get a glance at Gallego culture at the Museo del Pueblo Gallego, housed inside a historic convent from the 17th-18th century, which offers a great number of cultural relics and insight into the region’s history and ways of life.

From traditional wear to unique musical instruments, agricultural practices, and conventional home items, see how unique and beautiful the Gallego culture is, which has influences from both Spain and Portugal.

While visiting, check out the church and convent as well as the Panteón de Galegos Ilustres, which is a cemetery where you can find some of Galicia’s most prominent figures.

Make sure you don’t miss anything and opt for a museum tour where you’ll meet with your guide for an introduction to Galician culture from a local, which typically lasts close to 2 hours.

10 – Grab a fresh snack at the Mercado de Abastos

Mercado de Abastos, Santiago de Compostela

Enjoy a colorful display of the region’s freshest ingredients, from seafood to cheeses, vegetables, and more at the Mercado de Abastos (food market).

Considered to be the 2nd most visited site after the cathedral in Santiago, the Mercado de Abastos has been in function for at least the past 300 years, providing the locals with the freshest produce inside its stunning Romanesque-style building. Stop by some of the cafes and food stalls inside selling already-prepared Galician dishes to enjoy as you walk around the market!

The food market is a perfect place to mingle with the locals for a bit, and people watch to observe the scene of locals buying their groceries, just as they did a few centuries ago.

The Mercado de Abastos is located only a 5-minute walk from the Cathedral and the Praza do Obradoiro.

11 – Sink your teeth into Galician classics on a food tour

food tours in Santiago de Compostela

Speaking of delicious food and ingredients, a must-do activity in Santiago is a tasty food tour!

Known for dishes like boiled octopus with paprika, tetilla cheese, empanadas, and a special almond cake with the Cross of Saint James imprinted on it, there are tons of delicious foods to enjoy unique to this region of Spain.

When you book your food tour in Santiago de Compostela, you’ll be unlocking your entrance into some of the city’s most authentic and historic restaurants and bars around the city center.

Along your food tour experience, you’ll also be enjoying local Galician beers and Albariño wine, and afterward, you’ll leave with a sweet taste in your mouth with a stop at the local sweet shop Airas Nunes for a coffee and local pastry!

Food tours start at $38 USD.

food tours in Santiago de Compostela

12 – See what’s inside the Praza da Quintana de Vivos

Praza da Quintana de Vivos, Santiago de Compostela

Step through the doors of the 17th-century Praza da Quintana de Vivos, a space that was created originally to host several town celebrations, including religious events with the pilgrims of the Caminos de Santiago.

Located within the Praza de la Quintana, the Praza da Quintana de Vivos (Alive’s quintana) is one of the other sections of the praza, including the Quintana de los Muertos (Death’s quintana). From here, you can take a view from different angles of the cathedral and the San Paio Monastery.

Check out the other sites inside the praza, from the abundant coffee shops and restaurants, many of which serve the traditional Torta de Santiago, an almond cake with the image of the Cross of Saint James in powdered sugar.

Check out other small shops, selling church relics, as well as city souvenirs!

13 – Plan to walk the Camino Finisterre

Finisterre, Spain

Embark on a mystical hike out west from Santiago de Compostela to Cape Fisterra on the Camino Finisterre!

Historically a walk that took a couple of days, the pagans would head to Cape Fisterra on what was known as the Coast of Death, and see as the sun “died” to which they’d say prayers and give offerings to appease the gods.

Today, you can make your way to this site to see the incredible Galician coast, and get views of the Atlantic Sea on a Costa da Morte tour from Santiago de Compostela. On your several-day journey on the Camino Finisterre, see the site of Ara Solis, the place where the prayers took place and where an altar stands today.

Next, stop at the fishing village of Muxia, a quaint town also famous for the site of the Sanctuary of the Virgin.

Finisterre tours

14 – See one of the Romanesque churches in Santiago at the Colegiata de Santa María de Sar

Colegiata de Santa María de Sar, Spain

Walk around the impressive 12th-century Colegiata de Santa María de Sar, a beautiful Romanesque church, 14 minutes away from the city center of Santiago.

Step inside, and see the intricacies of the church, from the beautiful relics to the construction errors and more, starting with the cloister and the inspiring gardens and arcade, to the slightly inclined interior walls.

Access the church museum inside, Museo da Colexiata do Sar, where you can see a great deal of 18th-century religious objects, as well as some fascinating information about the archaeological collection of the church’s foundation.

15 – Check out the religious items inside the Mosteiro de San Martiño Pinario

Mosteiro de San Martiño Pinario, Santiago de Compostela

Make your way to the Moisteiro de San Martiño Pinario, located in Plaza de la Inmaculada, which was founded by a group of Benedictines, as soon as there was news about the findings of the remains of St. James.

After the monastery was established, it became part of the Benedictine Congregation of Valladolid, where a great deal of wealth came through, allowing the monastery to be built in a beautiful baroque style.

Considered to be one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in all of Spain, step inside the monastery, and check out a few other details within, such as the monastic rooms and the important religious altarpieces inside, and an exhibit of Galician art.

16 – Take a boat tour along the Galician waterways

boat tours in Santiago de Compostela

Make your rounds through the scenic and sleepy coastal villages via water on a scenic boat tour! From the famous Rias Baixas to smaller towns like Padrón, Ila da Toxa, Cambados, and Comborro!

Leaving Santiago early in the morning, you’ll get to visit a few villages that not many get to see, where you’ll get to hop off the boat and explore some of the ancient histories of the towns, from crossing the longest European bridge to stopping by a few natural parks and beaches on the towns and islands!

Along your tour, stop by for a delicious lunch and then head to the markets to see locally crafted items from handmade soaps made of mineral salts, to the Capilla de las Conchas (Seashell Chapel).

Boat tours from Santiago de Compostela start at $43 USD and typically last 8-10 hours.

boat tours near Santiago de Compostela

17 – Cruise through the Rias Baixas

Rias Baixas, Spain

Hop on board a panoramic boat tour through the southern coast of Galicia, through the Rias Baixas, known as a series of 4 inlets, and get enamored by the different landscapes, sites, and villages while stopping at a few for lunch and more!

Check out small towns like O Grove Town and breathe in the peace of the sleepy town, where you’ll enjoy a full lunch featuring fresh seafood and other regional dishes with Albariño wine. Afterward, you’ll also get to stop by local vineyards to sample a bit of the local wines, which Galicia is known for.

Next, you’ll visit the site of “La Lanzada” for a scenic walk, until reaching views of the dramatic coast to see the Atlantic Ocean and the picturesque houses on the mountains overlooking the edge of Spain.

Rias Baixas tours start at $55 USD.

Rias Baixas tours

18 – Enjoy a libation or two on a wine tour

wine tours in Santiago de Compostela

Relish a few of the regional wines, mostly coming from the Rías Baixas region on a delicious wine tour, with cheese tastings!

Learn from the winemakers what makes Galician wine delicious, and sample a good variety of both red and white wines, as you meet locals at the restaurant where the tasting takes place.

The tasting will take place in a central restaurant in Santiago de Compostela, so rest assured you’ll be able to spot it quickly!

On the other hand, if you want to experience wine country in the wild, check out Bodegas Grabazán, a Galician vineyard with ample activities to enjoy, including wine tastings, with mussels and cheese.

Enjoy a complete tour of the vineyard and winery, and then head into the tasting room to sample the wines produced by the local brand called Grabazán.

wine tours in Santiago de Compostela

Read more: 15 Top Wine Regions in Spain

19 – Check out what’s happening at the Gaiás Centre Museum

Gaiás Centre Museum, Spain

Free to enter and full of different cultural events and activities throughout the year is the Gaiás Centre Museum, a modern and futuristic building that changes the historical landscape and offers numerous things to do in Santiago!

Consisting of 3 floors, the Gaiás Centre Museum has a beautiful art gallery, stunning murals created by local artists, concert spaces, reading rooms, and more within its bright and airy walls.

Opened from Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, be aware that the exhibit space is closed on Mondays, and the museum has different hours of operation depending on holidays.

After you explore the interiors of the museum, make sure to check out the cafeteria and restaurant on the main floor.

20 – See modern Galician art at the Contemporary Art Center of Galicia

Contemporary Art Center of Galicia, Santiago de Compostela

Tucked inside the historic center of Santiago is the Contemporary Art Center of Galicia (CGAC) an art museum dedicated to showcasing examples of regional modern art, as well as a few international pieces.

Step inside, and check out the Library of Contemporary Art, stop for a lecture, or an art workshop catering to all different ages, among the many different events that take place, allowing you to explore Galician culture through its art, and inclusively interact with modern art!

Want to get the most out of your experience? Check out one of the free guided tours offered to groups of 4+ people, available between Tuesday and Friday, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Other than that, the CGAC is open between Tuesday – Sunday, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM. Entry is free.

21 – Book your day trip to Ribeira Sacra

Ribeira Sacra, Spain

Home to Galician dry red wine and offering outstanding nature views of dramatic cliffs and mountains everywhere you look near the wild Atlantic, the Ribeira Sacra is one of Galicia’s best-kept secrets that you should consider visiting!

At only 1.5 hours away from Santiago de Compostela, Ribeira Sacra enchants with views of scenes of monasteries and homes dotting the canyons, along with its traditional and ancestral wine-making traditions.

From its natural beauty to its cultural richness, make sure to book your Ribeira Sacra tour to get an overview of the incredible Romanesque architecture that decorates the city, from its churches, monasteries, boutique hotels, and more!

Be taken to nature sights truly out of this world like the Balcones de Madrid, the Castro Caldelas viewpoint, and the Chantada Lighthouse, amongst many other notable sights in nature to see!

Ribeira Sacra tours

22 – Kayak around the Ezaro Waterfall

Ezaro Waterfall, Spain

Enjoy the unique experience of seeing the Ezaro Waterfall for yourself, the only known European waterfall and river that flows directly into the Atlantic Ocean.

Though it’s a popular site that many on the Camino de Finisterre pass by, you don’t have to go on a multi-day hike to enjoy the incredible views of this powerful waterfall! Consider a kayaking trip around the Ezaro Waterfall, as you follow and listen to your guide share with you all the interesting facts, myths, and legends that surround this mystical natural site.

On a kayaking tour, you’ll get a first-person perspective of the dense flora and fauna that lives near the waterfall, right as you are in the middle of it! Depending on the experience and time, you may even be able to jump in for a quick swim, so be prepared!

kayaking near Santiago de Compostela

23 – Take a photo or two at Cathedrals Beach

Cathedrals Beach, Spain

One of the most beautiful images to come out of Galicia is the vision of the natural “naves and chambers” created by the force of the Atlantic Ocean on Cathedrals Beach.

Also known as As Catedrais Beach and Praia das Catedrais, this incredible site is located 2 hours from Santiago de Compostela, in the province of Lugo, and features transparent, blue waters all year round. Walk around, and see the resemblance for yourself of some of the towering, natural rock formations and what you’d see inside a cathedral!

Because this is a famous site in Galicia, it’s important to note that you have to make a reservation to visit Cathedral Beach or check out a planned day trip that takes care of that for you.

Check the forecast for low tide, as that is when the beach is open!

Cathedrals beach tours

24 – See the stunning coastal city of A Coruña

A coruña, Spain

Situated only 50 minutes away from Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña is one of Galica’s main port cities with exquisite views of the Atlantic Sea, and most famous for the Tower of Hercules, said to be the oldest Roman lighthouse in the world!

Explore the breezy Plaza de María Pita, the historical churches, and the stunning Gardens of San Carlos, and walk along the historic town spotting other amazing landmarks on a walking tour, and in your free time.

On your A Coruña tour, stop by the city of Betanzos, a stunning city stuck in its medieval ways as it was once part of the important 7 provincial capitals of the old Kingdom of Galicia. For lunch, you’ll try Betanzo’s famous Tortilla de Betanzos (omelet) prepared a little runnier than traditional Spanish omelet, and without onions.

A Coruña tours

25 – Get educated at the Pilgrimage Museum

Pilgrimage Museum, Santiago de Compostela

Learn all there is to know about the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, considered to be one of the most popular pilgrimages in the world to do, with an estimated 350,000 people doing it annually!

At the Pilgrimage Museum, located inside the Bank of Spain building in Praza das Praterias, you’ll find a wealth of information, stories, and histories dating back to the origins of this famous walk, to answer everyone’s question of why people do it.

The museum does a great job of collecting artifacts, materials, objects, and all sorts of information to display at the museum, to educate those who may not know about the pilgrimage, in its permanent exhibits.

Other exhibits showcase some of the world’s other popular pilgrimages, further opening up your mind to this fascinating cultural phenomenon of walking long treks for religious meaning.

26 – Check out the medieval cities of Vigo and Baiona

Vigo, Spain

Book your tour to explore more of Galicia’s enchanting corners, this time Vigo and Baiona, two important medieval towns with much to see both in town and in nature.

Vigo is known as the largest city in Galicia, and one of the most important port cities in all of Spain, with incredible views of the wild Atlantic Ocean. As for nature, you’ll get to visit Monte do Castro, and if time permits climb up the mountain and see even more wide views of the ocean and the incredibly green landscape of the mountains!

Next up, Baion is a beautiful little town doused in medieval charm, starting with its charming castle and historic center. Here is where you’ll enjoy lunch, in which you must give the local seafood dishes a try!

Vigo and Baiona tours start at $42 USD.

Vigo and Baiona tours

27 – Take the ferry to Cíes Islands

Cíes Islands, Spain

Set on the panoramic Vigo estuary is the archipelago known as the Cíes Islands, made up of three islands that house stunning natural parks on the Atlantic!

With awards like “The Best Beach in the World” and repeated good reviews from past travelers, it’s safe to say that a visit to the Cíes Islands is a must-do when you’re near Santiago, only 1 hour away from Vigo, and then a 45-minute ferry to the islands.

Consider booking a Cíes Island tour, get picked up from Santiago, and head to the islands for a full day of fun excursions! Start at the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, and then check out the award-winning beaches on the island of Monteguado.

Lastly, get a view of the whole archipelago when you visit the Cíes Lighthouse for the best photo op on the islands!

Cíes Islands tours

28 – Visit the Celtic wonderland of Pazo do Faramello

Pazo do Faramello, Spain

Visit the heritage home of Pazo do Faramello, a stunning historical building surrounded by a dense cherry and chestnut tree forest, two rivers, and a gorgeous 19th-century French garden, setting the scene for a romantic escape!

Situated on what was the old Portuguese Camino de Santiago, the Pazo do Faramello is only 15 minutes away from Santiago de Compostela, and lucky for you, there is a Pazo do Faramello tour that includes ground transport, a guide, and even a sampling of local products and wine!

Tuck inside the historic Royal Faramello Paper Pill dating back to 1710, which is mentioned in a few Galician literature pieces, while immersing yourself in the Celtic influence that still lingers on the property.

Step inside the house, and see pieces of artwork and the chapel with antiques of the house’s past lives, and more!

29 – Enjoy to the fullest a traditional Gallega dinner

traditional gallegan dinner, Spain

Are you down for some spooky stories and a delicious Galician dinner? Then you must make room in your Galician itinerary to explore a traditional Gallega dinner with an addition of a walking tour where you’ll walk the streets of Santiago at night, listening to the local legends that seem to haunt the streets as soon as the sun goes down.

On this unique experience, you’ll get to devour traditional local dishes like Pulpo á feira (Galician-style octopus), Galician empanadas, Lacón con grelos (pork shoulder with turnips), grilled meat dish varieties, and the special Cocido Gallego (Galician stew).

After dinner, continue on your tour, and participate in an ancient tradition of Queimada, used to “speak” with the ghosts using a regional drink in a special ritual!

The tour involves alcohol, therefore the tour is not recommended for anyone under 18.

traditional gallegan dinner

30 – Find your new favorite dish at the best restaurants

best restaurants in Santiago de Compostela

Enjoy a delicious meal on an open terrace when you hit up Abastos 2.0, located within the famous Mercado de Abastos, featuring a great range of Galician dishes! Expect high-quality ingredients, including fresh meats and seafood, in its seasonally rotating menu!

Relish the warm and unique interiors of the Casa de Xantar O Dezaseis, a fabulous restaurant serving incredible Galician dishes, specifically seafood, from prawn croquettes with garlic to queen scallops with caramelized onion and a regional cheese called Arzúa, and mussels in a citrus marinade. Another great place for seafood? A Taberna do Bispo, which also features a great selection of Portuguese wines!

Go where the locals go at Don Quijote, a Michelin-starred restaurant beside the Cathedral, that’s been a local favorite since the late 70s! Serving dishes made with historic recipes from the region, with an added twist, you’re going to be in for a treat!

How to get to Santiago de Compostela?

Before arriving at Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ), be sure to look into pre-booking an easy and convenient airport transfer to your hotel in the city! Available at different price points, an airport transfer is the best option that you can prepare ahead of time, without worrying about where to catch the bus or hail a taxi!

Where to stay in Santiago de Compostela?

Overlooking the gorgeous historic district of Santiago de Compostela, check out Hotel Montenegro Compostela and its 16th-century charm. Situated in one of the historic buildings in the city center, this hotel integrates modern comforts like the indoor Montenegro Cafe, tv, and high-speed internet within its traditional style, true to the city’s beauty.

Hotel Virxe da Cerca by Pousadas de Compostela is another wonderful option and is only a few moments away from the Mercado de Abastos and the Cathedral! Dine deliciously at the hotel’s indoor restaurant, featuring a complete menu of Galician classics and a few modern twists on the region’s award-winning gastronomy.

Enjoy the comfortable and sleek rooms and ambiance at Hotel Universal, located in the heart of the historic center of Santiago de Compostela! Featuring stunning views of the city’s most recognizable sights, stylish interiors, clean rooms, and a wonderful staff to take care of you!

best hotels in Santiago de Compostela

Visiting Santiago de Compostela on a budget?

Get an understanding of the city first on an educative and fun free walking tour in Santiago de Compostela! Enjoy a few hours of walking through the city’s historic sites discovering a few hidden gems and neighborhoods, as you learn from your local guide the city’s best-kept secrets while learning the lay of the land!

Where to go next?

A little under an hour away from Santiago de Compostela is the westernmost city of Vigo, enamoring visitors with its fresh seafood dishes, stunning historic district, wild nightlife, and incredible museums housed in a 17th-century heritage house like the Quiñones de León Museum!

In A Coruña, get nerdy at the National Museum of Science and Technology, get your picture with the city’s emblematic Hercules Tower, and relax for a while amidst the locals at the city’s main plaza, the Praza de Maria Pita!

Relish the Gothic architecture of the Igrexa da Virxe Peregrina and a few other holy sites in Ponteverde! Check out the bustling local food scene at the city’s own Mercado de Abastos, and then after a hearty meal, walk it off at the stunning Parque das Palmeiras.

Yell “Kaixo” to Bilbao from the tops of the gorgeous Mirador de Artxanda, pop into the city’s most beautiful and historic churches like Begoñako Basilika, while also getting a taste of the modern with a stroll through the Zubizuri bridge.

Drink port wine and enjoy the incredible views of the Duomo River when you stop by Porto in Portugal! Enjoy the views of the city from a bird’s eye perspective at the Clérigos Tower in the center, and see if you can spot the city’s crystal palace at the Crystal Palace Gardens!

Final thoughts

With a history doused in religion and human faith, and welcoming everyone to enjoy its charm, Santiago de Compostela is surely a Spanish hidden gem worth learning and exploring more!

When planning your list of the best things to do in Santiago de Compostela, make sure to loop us in and share what made it on your itinerary!

Happy travels!

Table of contents:

30 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Santiago de Compostela