Santiago de Compostela: Day Trips and Tours from Porto

A day trip to Santiago de Compostela from Porto will take you on a mini pilgrimage to one of Spain’s most sacred cities. The capital of Galicia lies at the end of the famous Camino de Santiago, and many people walk for days before arriving here. It’s a lot less effort to visit on a tour!

The Old Town of Santiago is packed with Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with the cathedral taking center stage.

You will find below all you need to know about Santiago de Compostela, one of the most interesting options for day trips from Porto.

How to get to Santiago de Compostela from Porto?

Santiago lies over the border in northwestern Spain’s Galicia region. It’s quite a drive between the two cities, but the reward is worth the effort.

By car

If you’re traveling by car, the journey takes around 2.5 hours. The route follows the E1 north from Porto to the border with Spain. From there, you can take the AP-9 all the way to Santiago. Note that there are road tolls on this journey.

On a guided tour

The most relaxing way to travel is on a guided day tour. Lasting up to 11 hours, these excursions take the stress out of planning the day, and you won’t have to worry about any transport logistics. Travel time is usually 2.5 to 3 hours each way.

What is the typical itinerary of a day trip from Porto to Santiago de Compostela?

If you’ve selected the pickup option, you’ll be collected from your central Porto hotel. Otherwise, you will need to get to the pre-arranged meeting point.

After a scenic drive north by minivan or bus you’ll cross the border into Spain. Once in Santiago, your guide will show you the top historical sites – there will also be free time to explore.

Some excursions make a stop in the border village of Valença do Minho on the return journey. Your day trip to Santiago de Compostela from Porto then ends in the evening, back where you started.

What kind of tours are available to go to Santiago de Compostela?

Guided group tour to Santiago de Compostela plus Valença do Minho from Porto

The most affordable trips are the group ones. Group sizes vary, and there’s usually a maximum of 30 participants on each bus. If you’d prefer a more intimate experience, some providers operate with a maximum of just eight people.

Most group trips break up the return journey with a visit to Valença do Minho, which sits right on the border between Spain and Portugal.

Our pick: Day Trip from Porto to Santiago de Compostela and Valença

• Price: From €80 per person
• Duration: 10 hours

Private day tour to Santiago de Compostela from Porto

On private excursions to Santiago de Compostela, you’ll have the luxury of your own vehicle and guide. The schedule can be tailored to your interests so if there’s something in particular that you’d like to see in Santiago, just ask your guide.

Private tours often include a stop in Viana do Castelo on the way back to Porto. You’ll be able to visit the famous Santa Luzia Sanctuary and stroll around the Old Town.

Our pick: Private Tour Santiago de Compostela & Viana do Castelo from Porto

• Price: From €550 per group (up to 8 people)
• Duration: 9 horas

How much does a tour to Santiago de Compostela from Porto cost?

Group day tours from Porto to Santiago de Compostela start at €80 per person. Some tours offer half-price child places for visitors under 12 years – check with the operator to see if this applies to your booking.

For a private jaunt to Santiago de Compostela, prices start at €550 for a group of up to 8 passengers. This includes transport in a luxury vehicle, road tolls, a private guide and drinks. Hotel pickups are also offered.

What will you see and do in Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

The Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is the main attraction on your Santiago de Compostela day trip. Legend has it that St. James – one of Jesus’s apostles – was buried here. You can visit the tomb of St. James down in the crypt beneath the altar.

The cathedral architecture is sublime, with Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque influences creating a worthy masterpiece. There’s also a clock tower and several chapels to discover.

Camino de Santiago

The city is internationally famous as being the final destination on the long-distance Camino de Santiago hiking trail.  The full route is about 800 kilometers long, and you’ll get to see a small section for yourself.

Pilgrims and hikers from all over the world come to walk this scenic road that connects different points in Europe to Santiago. This epic trek ends at the cathedral in Santiago.

Historical Center

Elsewhere in the heart of the old city, you’ll come across other historical sites that will have you reaching for the camera.

The Plaza del Obradoiro is surrounded by ancient landmarks, including the Hostal de los Reyes Catolicos where weary pilgrims used to take their rest. Santiago City Hall is another must-see, while the Monastery of San Martiño Pinario is second only to the cathedral.

Valença do Minho

The border town of Valença do Minho is situated between Spain and Portugal. This charming village boasts a 17th-century fortress and beautiful traditional architecture.

When is the best time to visit Santiago de Compostela?

You can go on a Porto to Santiago de Compostela tour at any time of year. May, June and September are the best months, when the weather is pleasant, and the city isn’t too busy.

In summer the streets are crowded and temperatures soar, while winter can be chilly, but the attractions are quiet.

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes as once you’re in Santiago you’ll be doing a lot of walking between the sights.
• Take bottled water and snacks for the journey if they are not included in your tour price.
• It’s best to book a day trip from Porto to Santiago de Compostela online so you can compare rates and find the best offers.
• There is not usually a toilet on the bus so make sure you go before you board.