The 7 things to do in Santiago de Compostela

Visit Santiago de Compostela: what are the best things to do and see in the capital of Galicia especially known for its pilgrimage?

The name of Santiago de Compostela is known to be that of the famous Catholic pilgrimage whose city marks the end of the course. This city, which houses the tomb of the Apostle Saint-Jacques the Major before whom the pilgrims come to gather, possesses a thousand and other riches related to his history and culture.

Galicia is a region well apart from which the cultural footprint is strong on the city. Visiting Santiago de Compostela is therefore also discovering a unique heritage and immersing itself in Galician culture. Are you wondering what to do in Santiago de Compostela? Here are some trails to guide your stay in the city.

1. The majestic cathedral of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle

We must begin his visit to Santiago de Compostela by the Place do Obradoiro which leads us to the cathedral. This impressive monument is the uncontourable of your stay. Built from 1075, it has undergone several phases of work and expansion that offer a mix of styles ranging from Romanesque to neoclassical to baroque and gothic. Take the time to observe the facade of the Oberdoiro, the portico of the Glory or the master altar.

The Place do Obradorio has the peculiarity of giving to see the facades of four monuments of different styles: the cathedral and its baroque façade, the Hotel des Rois Catholiques for the Renaissance, the Palace of Raxoi in a neoclassical style and finally the College of San Jeronimo for the Gothic!

2. A walk in the historic centre

Inscribed to UNESCO’s World Heritage, the old city is worth a visit. Take the time to walk among its charming arcades streets and its many places where it is pleasant to rest for a moment. On your way you will also find beautiful parks like Bonoval or Alameda and its famous statues called "Dos Marias".

3. Know the Monastery of San Martiño Pinario

A true jewel of baroque art containing some treasures for lovers of beautiful objects. It is one of the major monasteries of the region, erected in the 17th century and extending over 20,000m2 ! The monastery contains very beautiful gardens but also a church whose work of the façade is worth a look, just like the altar you will find inside.

4. Museums homage to Galicia culture

We must recall that Galician culture is in honour of Santiago de Compostela! There are several museums dedicated to this theme, such as the City of Culture of Galicia, but also the Museum of the Galician People. The first, more excited, is a resolutely contemporary building whose aim is to promote regional language and culture. The second highlights the legacy of Galicia and has a magnificent spiral staircase of the 13th century.

5. A tasting of seafood is required!

Among the sights of the city is a passage as obligatory as the cathedral and other historical monuments: gastronomy! You cannot leave from Santiago de Compostela without honoring the specialties of the sea in the region. The garlic octopus or Galician octopus is a sure choice.

6. See also in Santiago de Compostela

Here is a list of some additional places to continue to visit Santiago de Compostela:

• Hotel of Catholic Kings
• La Place de la Quintana
• The Mercado de Abastos de Santiago, one of the most famous markets in Spain
• The San Francisco Convent
• Monte do Gozo, last stage of pilgrims before Santiago

7. Things to do in the vicinity of Santiago de Compostela

Now you know what to do in Santiago de Compostela, but what about it? Here are some suggestions:

• The Coruña, the largest city in Galicia
• Lugo, its cathedral and wall
• The monastery of Samos, a place of passage of the pilgrimage near Lugo
• Cape Finisterre, the most western point of continental Spain and the end of the pilgrimage to Compostela

How to get to Santiago de Compostela?

Many pilgrims choose each year to go to Santiago de Compostela on foot, following the paths of Compostela. But it is possible to get there by plane also (with direct flights from Paris) or by car and train. To find a cheap flight to Santiago de Compostela, you can search the site of our partner Skyscanner .

Where to stay in Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela is not a big city, and you are advised to stay in the historic centre or its surroundings, where you will find many affordable hotels and hostels. You can find a cheap hotel in Santiago de Compostela by searching this Compare hotels .