Reaching the city is a proud moment after days of walking. Stay a little longer to visit the cathedral, explore the Old Town, relax in Alameda Park and learn more about Galicia. We arrange your hotels with breakfast, luggage transfers and support throughout your Camino, so you can enjoy the finish without worrying about practical details.
Highlights:
- Explore the Casco Histórico on foot to see centuries-old streets, historic squares and traditional Galician restaurants.
- Book the cathedral rooftop tour in advance if you want panoramic views across the city.
- Visit the Cathedral of Santiago, mark the end of your walk and check the official cathedral information if you hope to see the Botafumeiro.
- Walk through Alameda Park for tree-lined paths, open green space and views towards the cathedral.
- Visit the Museum of Pilgrimage and Santiago or learn about Galicia at the Museo do Pobo Galego.
The cathedral spires appear on the horizon as you approach Santiago de Compostela, bringing a deep sense of satisfaction after days, weeks or even months of walking.
The Streets of Santiago
Walking through the old streets of Santiago as you wind your way towards the Praza do Obradoiro can be emotional for many as the long walk finally nears its completion. As you slip your backpack from your shoulders and stand in front of the towering presence of the cathedral, you take a deep breath and congratulate yourself safe in the knowledge that you have achieved something truly great.
But what happens next? For many people, it can be difficult to readjust to normal life after time spent in the Camino world. It can be a jarring experience and most choose to spend a few days in Santiago resting, unwinding and preparing for whatever the future might hold.
Is Santiago de Compostela Worth Visiting After the Camino?
Yes, the city is well worth visiting, with more than enough excellent bars and restaurants, museums, churches and historical monuments to keep you occupied as you slowly readjust to normal life.
The Cathedral
No list concerning places to visit in Santiago de Compostela would be complete without the Holy Grail. While people undertake the Camino de Santiago for a variety of reasons these days, it still very much retains its pilgrimage vibe, which, for over a thousand years, has seen people walk the Way of St James and end at the gates of the Cathedral in Santiago.
And what a cathedral it is. The cathedral’s restored Baroque façade and twin spires make a striking first impression. As the story goes, this was where the remains of St James were discovered and the first chapel appeared on this very spot in the early 9th Century.
Things have definitely grown over time and today the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is a spectacular sight to behold and a wonderful place to spend some time once you have finished walking.
Rooftop Views and the Botafumeiro
The guided rooftop tour crosses the cathedral’s stone roofs and ends with panoramic views across Santiago.
The Botafumeiro operates during the cathedral’s main solemnities and can also be requested for pilgrim groups. The current brass thurible dates from 1851.
For current opening hours and tour bookings, check the official Cathedral visit information.
Hostal de Los Reyes Católicos
The Hostal de Los Reyes Católicos is a memorable place to stay at the end of the Camino, while lunch offers another way to experience the historic building.
Much of the fabulous building that shows off the very best of Gothic Plateresque architecture is over 500 years old and has been hosting weary pilgrims in its rooms ever since.
Things are a little different these days and the spartan rooms of old have been given a 5-star upgrade, but this Parador hotel still retains its glorious charm of old.
Museum of Pilgrimage and Santiago
It only makes sense after walking across northern Spain to reach Santiago that you take a little time learning more about the Camino de Santiago and its rich history.
The Museum of Pilgrimage and Santiago welcomes visitors at Praza das Praterías, beside the cathedral.
Its exhibitions explain Santiago, the Way of St James and the history of pilgrimage. For a broader context, read our guide to Camino de Santiago history and culture.
Restaurant San Francisco in Santiago de Compostela
Founded by St. Francis himself in 1214, the towering San Francisco Convent has long drawn visitors to it. Little remains of the original structure and what you see today was primarily started in 1742.
Franciscan friars still live in the convent, while visitors can stay at the hotel or dine in its historic restaurant. The restaurant specialises in convent cuisine, with traditional recipes, natural ingredients and slow-cooked dishes served in the historic dining room.
The Museum of Galician People
While you’re in Santiago, why not take a little time to learn more about the fascinating land of Galicia. Galicia has a strong identity and a cultural history distinct from other parts of Spain.
The small Museum of Galician People gives an excellent insight into the way of life, both now and of yesteryear of those who call this windswept, rugged land home. Learn about the food, architecture, costumes and of course the sea, which has shaped Galician life for as long as anybody can remember.
Alameda Park
After the tranquillity of walking the Camino de Santiago, you might find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the crowds in Santiago. The city is compact, but its narrow streets can feel busy after the quiet rhythm of the Camino.
If this is the case, head over to Alameda Park, a peaceful respite that sits just on the edge of the Old Town. The park offers tree-lined paths, open green space and views towards the cathedral from the Paseo da Ferradura. Even better, purchase some delicious food for a picnic and find a quiet corner of the park to watch the world go by.
Casco Histórico (Old Town)
Perhaps the most underrated sight in all of Santiago de Compostela isn’t actually a single sight at all. The Casco Histórico (Old Town) is an intoxicating labyrinth of old streets and alleyways that criss-cross the city chaotically but provide hours (maybe even days) worth of fascinating meanderings. The compact Old Town is easy to explore on foot, with historic streets, squares and landmarks close together.
Santiago de Compostela’s Old Town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. You could spend weeks in Santiago de Compostela and still not visit every restaurant or dimly lit bar in the Casco Histórico – but you can make a good start. The Casco Histórico can become busy and at times crowded, but there are more than enough picturesque squares to sit back in if you need to take a breather.
Ready to plan your own finish in Santiago? See our Camino walking holidays and talk to our 100% Irish-owned team about the route that suits you.
