Finisterre: Day Trips and Tours from Santiago De Compostela

If you’re new to Spain’s west coast or simply wish to see what lies outside of the country’s bustling cities, you should consider participating in a day trip to Finisterre from Santiago de Compostela.

On these excursions, you can discover a plethora of breathtaking views along the “Coast of Death,” as well as the spot which was, for many centuries, thought of as where the world ended. With so much to see, Finisterre day trips are a fun way for the whole family to explore northwestern Spain.

Here's all you need to know about Finisterre, one of the most exciting day trips from Santiago de Compostela.

How to get to Finisterre from Santiago de Compostela?

Finisterre is a village and cape that is located in the Galicia region of Northwest Spain. It is approximately 70 kilometers north of Santiago de Compostela.

From Santiago de Compostela to Finisterre by car

The journey to Finisterre by car takes just under an hour and begins by traveling out of Santiago de Compostela along the DP-0701. You’ll then merge onto the DP-7804, which you’ll follow as far as Longarela before switching onto the CP-8401. Next, you’ll utilize the CP-2403 to reach Cerceda before joining the AC-523. To complete the final leg of your route, you’ll join the AC-14, which leads you to Finisterre.

From Santiago de Compostela to Finisterre by public transport

It is possible to make the jaunt to Finisterre from Santiago de Compostela via public transport. A direct bus links the two destinations, leaving from Santiago de Compostela - Estacion Intermodal several times throughout the day. Be aware that bus journeys are significantly longer than traveling by car, taking 3 hours each way.

Guided tour to Finisterre from Santiago de Compostela

Alternatively, you can book a guided excursion to Finisterre and not worry about the transportation details. These typically last between 9 and 10 hours, leaving Santiago de Compostela around 9 AM. The meeting place with your guide and group varies between tours, but you can find out the exact location by consulting the booking page.

What is the typical itinerary?

While each Finisterre day trip is unique, all excursions share similarities. After meeting your group and guide in Santiago de Compostela, you’ll set off toward the first destination of the day - either Ponte Maceira, or the Paxareiras Viewpoint.

While each tour visits different destinations, you can expect the layout of the itinerary to be very similar. You’ll hop between many locations throughout the day, stopping at each spot long enough to snap a spectacular photo, learn the history behind the attraction and have a brief wander alone. While several of the destinations differ between Finisterre day tours, there are some locations that you can guarantee you’ll see.

These include the Sanctuary of the Virgin of A Barca in Muxía, as well as the spot known as the “End of the World.” When your adventure is over, you return to your meeting point, and either head back to your hotel or continue sightseeing in Santiago de Compostela.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Finisterre?

There are a couple of different options to choose between when selecting your Finisterre day trip.

Day trip to Finisterre plus Muxía and Costa da Morte from Santiago de Compostela

The most popular Finisterre day trip includes several destinations, enabling you to gain an insight into this region of Spain. The first stop on your excursion is one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Ponte Maceira, which is home to less than 100 residents.

After admiring Ponte Maceira’s charming streets and historic bridge, you’ll move on to Muros, which features a picturesque promenade along the seafront, to breathe in the fresh ocean air before hopping back on your vehicle for a scenic ride along the coast. The next stop on your itinerary is Ézaro Waterfall, which tumbles into the Xallas River from a height of over 40 meters.

As you continue on through Finisterre, you’ll discover the point once believed to be the end of the world, now known to be the most western point in Europe. At the Finisterre Lighthouse, you can take in a panoramic view of the entire Costa da Morte.

Lastly, you’ll journey to Muxía’s coastal sanctuary — a popular Christian pilgrimage spot where it is believed that the Virgin Mary arrived to help St. James spread the word of Christianity.

Day trip to Finisterre plus Muxía and Cape Vilán from Santiago de Compostela

Start your Finisterre day tour with a visit to the Paxareiras viewpoint, from which you’ll gain sweeping views over Carnota Beaches' golden shores and azure waters. Continuing on, you’ll reach Finisterre Lighthouse, built in the 19th century as a marker of this tricky nautical navigation point.

The Costa da Morte, or "Coast of Death", gained its nickname after a 16th century shipwreck of 25 vessels that resulted in 1,700 crew members perishing at sea. Don’t let these historic tales scare you away from hopping on a vessel of your own to gain a unique view of the astounding coastline from the water.

Put your feet up and relax with local produce as you sail gently through the sea before visiting Muxía, and learning about its famed religious monument. End your excursion at the Lighthouse of Cabo Vilán — the oldest electric lighthouse in the country — to admire more coastal views from an elevated height of over 100 meters.

How much does a day trip to Finisterre from Santiago de Compostela cost?

A day trip to Finisterre that includes Muxía and Costa da Morte costs between €40, and €50 per adult, while children aged 3 to 11 cost €30. Round-trip transportation is included, as well as the services of a professional guide.

For a Finisterre day tour that includes a boat trip will pay approximately €50 per adult. Child rates of €40 apply to those between the ages of 3 and 11. The price includes transportation, the services of a guide, a boat ride included, refreshments, and admission to the Museum of Cabo Vilán.

What will you see and do?

While the village of Finisterre is charming, most visitors make the trek there to visit its cape, which is the most westerly point in Europe. In ancient times, when it was widely believed that the world was flat, the Romans assumed that Finisterre was the end of the world after finding nothing in the surrounding region. Consequently, they named it “End of the Earth” in Latin, a name which has stuck until today.

The main attraction at the cape is its lighthouse, which is the official marker of this western point of the country. From here, you can hike up to the Monte Facho viewpoint, where you’ll gain extraordinary views of the Atlantic Ocean and discover remains of Pagan worship spots.

There are several beaches located along Cape Finisterre, including Langosteira, Arnela, Riveira and Corbeiro. Visitors on a day tour to Finisterre from Santiago de Compostela will usually have the opportunity to see several of the area’s rugged beaches, which feature silky sands backing onto tempestuous turquoise seas and surrounded by verdant hills.

When is the best time to visit Finisterre?

The best time to visit Finisterre is between June and September, when the weather is mild and rainfall is minimal. This period offers the most favorable conditions for exploring its rugged coastline, historic lighthouse, and beautiful beaches. Additionally, the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage during the summer, adds a unique blend of spiritual energy and local culture.

However, for a more relaxed and quiet visit, the shoulder months—May and October—provide fewer crowds and equally stunning landscapes.

Are there any tours to Finisterre from other cities in Spain?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Spain:

• Day trips to Finisterre from A Coruña

Travel tips

• The weather in Finisterre can be unpredictable. Carry a light waterproof jacket and wear comfortable shoes.
• Bring water and some snacks with you, especially if you plan on hiking or walking, as options may be limited in certain areas.
• Finisterre is known for its fresh seafood, so don't forget to try the local delicacies like percebes (gooseneck barnacles).
• If your schedule allows, watch the sunset at the cape. It's a magical experience with the sun setting over the ocean's horizon.