Itineraries for Your Trip to Santiago de Compostela
3 Days in Santiago de Compostela for First Timers
Santiago de Compostela—the capital of Spain’s Galicia region—is one of my favorite cities in the country. And it’s not just because I can bask in the beauty of the city’s cathedral after completing the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage (I highly recommend embarking on it). I also savor the city’s food scene, which features local wines, fresh seafood, and tapas. Plus, Santiago’s inviting streets are lined with family-owned shops, tiny tapas bars, and bustling restaurants—it’s the perfect city for wandering. And, nearby, the region’s landscape is stunning, whether you’re walking the Camino or driving through the coastal Atlantic viewpoints. Here’s what to do if you have three days in Santiago de Compostela.
It tends to get rainy in Santiago de Compostela, so don’t forget your umbrella.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a visit to Obradoiro Square, where you can catch memorable cathedral views and soak in the city’s ambience.
Santiago’s historic center is relatively small, so it’s easy to get the lay of the land with a walking tour. Start in Obradoiro Square, which overlooks the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Circle the massive building and end up in Praza das Praterías, which sits behind the cathedral. Then, wander down Rúa do Franco and Rúa do Preguntoiro, admiring the stunning architecture, which features a mix of baroque, Romanesque, and Gothic buildings.
Hungry after all that tourism? A tapas tour of Santiago de Compostela is a great way to savor traditional Galician cuisine, during which you’ll sample the freshest seafood, local cheeses, and regional wines.
Santiago’s surroundings are just as impressive as the city itself. Breathe in the salty air on a coastal day trip to Cape Finisterre and the Coast of Death (also known as the end of the world).
Back in the historic Santiago city center, seeing the Santiago de Compostela cathedral is a must. Start by snapping some photos of the baroque facade, then take a guided sightseeing tour of the inside. Although you can enter for free, most guided tours include visits to additional areas, including the rooftop terrace.
Although you can find some of the best seafood at Santiago’s Mercado de Abastos, getting out on a boat in the nearby Rias Baixas means you can sip Galician wine and eat mussels, all with beautiful scenery.
Stroll through one of Santiago’s most beautiful parks, Parque da Alameda. This green space features manicured gardens and tree-lined paths, perfect for a post-lunch walk. Afterwards, consider pampering your tired feet with a massage. Because the city is the final destination for many pilgrims, foot massages for weary travelers are readily available.
