Are you planning to spend the holidays in Santiago de Compostela or just finishing your Way to Santiago? Whatever the case, this Santiago de Compostela Bucket List is going to be of great help to you. Find here what you should not be missing on your next trip to this beautiful city.
1. Arrive at Plaza del Obradoiro
This huge square in front of the Cathedral is where pilgrims conclude their Camino de Santiago. Observe the beautiful facade of the Cathedral, standing there for more than a thousand years.
2. Visit the Cathedral
This impressive building combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements. Look for the tomb of the Apostle James. If you are lucky, you may have a chance to observe the botafumeiro, a huge censer in action.
3. Admire the Pórtico de la Gloria
At the western entrance of the Cathedral, the Pórtico is what remains of the Romanesque facade. This large relief holds more than 200 figures carved on marble and granite. For centuries, pilgrims kneeled down in front of it before entering the church.
4. View Santiago from the Top of the Cathedral
Climb the 140 steps up to the Tower of Carraca, attached to the facade of the Cathedral. Upon reaching the roof, you will be 30 meters above the Plaza del Obradoiro. Gain a unique 360-degree field of vision across the rooftops and the surrounding mountains.
5. Take a Glance at the Parador de Santiago
In the same square and on one side of the Cathedral, you will find the luxurious Hostal dos Reis Catolicos. Built in the 15th century by the Catholic kings to attend to sick pilgrims arriving in the city, it is considered the first hospital ever existing in Spain.
6. Stroll the Historic Old Town
Surrounding the Cathedral, there are several squares and medieval buildings. The entire area is pedestrian, with narrow lanes full of souvenir shops, bars, and outdoor terraces. There are beautiful mansions, palaces, and convents.
7. Take a look at Plaza de las Platerias
In the southern part of the Cathedral, a Romanesque facade from the 11th century still remains. The square in front of it, known as Platerías (Goldsmith), takes its name from the goldsmith workshops that had stalls around it during medieval times.
Facing the square, there is a fountain with four marine horses. In this square, you will find the Casa del Cabildo, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture from the 18th century. At present, it serves as the headquarters of the Museum of Pilgrimage and Santiago.
8. Visit Plaza del Toral
This square is located at the beginning of the Historical Center, between the streets Rua del Vilar and Rua Nova. It’s surrounded by beautiful baroque buildings such as the 18th-century Palace Pazo de Bendaña, whose facade is topped by the figure of Atlas supporting the celestial vault.
9. Explore Mercado de Abastos
In this market, functioning for three centuries, you can not only buy groceries but also taste excellent traditional Spanish food. Join locals and tourists to enjoy homemade-style dishes. One of the most requested dishes is Octopus, and Pulpo a Feira is a popular choice. I also suggest trying the “empanadas” filled with cod, sardines, or clams accompanied by a cup of the renowned Albariño wine.
10. Try the Tarta de Santiago
This dessert of medieval origin is a symbol of the city and has a protected geographical indication. It’s made with a mixture of almonds, eggs, and sugar and is decorated with the Cross of Santiago on the top. It also makes a great souvenir of the city.
11. Enjoy Nature at Alameda Park
This park, with oak and eucalyptus trees, is not only the lung of the city but also a shelter for pilgrims and locals. It’s a five-minute walk from the Cathedral and a nice place to relax. There are sculptures of dear Galician characters such as poetess Rosalia de Castro and writers such as Valle-Inclán.
12. Visit the Museum of the Galician People (Pobo Galego)
This museum is situated in the former convent of Santo Domingo de Bonaval in the Old Town. It exhibits diverse aspects of the maritime world, traditional crafts, rural life, clothing, and popular architecture.
13. Discover the Galician Contemporary Art Center
Art enthusiasts should not miss the Galician Contemporary Art Center. It’s just next to the convent of Santo Domingo de Bonaval. Find modern and contemporary works by Spanish and international artists there. The building itself is a wonder, having obtained the most important architecture prize, the Pritzker in 1992.
14. Learn about the Pilgrimage History
Visit the Pilgrimage Museum and delve deep into the history of the Camino de Santiago. Discover artifacts, manuscripts, and multimedia exhibits telling the history of pilgrimage through the ages.
15. Take a Day Trip to Finisterre
Extend your journey to Finisterre, also known as the “End of the Earth”. Enjoy its beautiful coastal scenery and the iconic Cape Finisterre, where pilgrims historically concluded their journey.
Where to Stay in Santiago de Compostela
The most recommended area to stay in Santiago de Compostela is the Historic Old Town. This pedestrian area offers plenty to walk and see. In addition to historical monuments and charming plazas, its narrow streets are filled with restaurants, outdoor terraces, bars, and souvenir shops.
1. High-End Hotels (5*)
The Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Catolicos, constructed in the 15th century as accommodations for pilgrims, has maintained its authentic characteristics, such as vaulted ceilings, stone archways, and tapestries. Situated on Plaza de Obradoiro, the Reis Catolicos showcases four exquisite cloisters. The hotel’s two dining establishments feature exposed stone walls and sophisticated candelabras, enhancing its distinct charm.
Book your stay at the Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Catolicos here
2. Superior Hotels (4*)
San Francisco Hotel Monumento stands as a historic monastery, a mere 500 feet from the Cathedral. The roomy and refined accommodations offer minibars, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary internet. Indulge in the gourmet restaurant’s offerings crafted with fresh produce. Enjoy the convenience of free private parking, along with amenities like an indoor pool and designated non-smoking rooms.
Book your stay at the San Francisco Hotel Monumento here
Hotel Compostela offers a central location, allowing convenient exploration of Santiago’s attractions, including the cathedral, on foot. The hotel features an appealing façade, contemporary interior design, and air-conditioned rooms equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a diverse buffet breakfast at the bar-cafeteria.
Book your stay at the Hotel Compostela here
Mid-Range Hotels (3*)
Nest Style Santiago is close to Santiago de Compostela’s old town and Plaza de Galícia Square, It offers rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, central heating, and TVs. The hotel provides a 24-hour reception, safety deposit box, and luggage storage services. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast served from 08:00 to 10:30 and unwind in the lounge equipped with a large TV.
Book your stay at Nest Style Santiago here
Hotel Rua Villar is situated in the heart of the historic center, a mere 49 feet from Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. The elegant rooms are adorned with dark wood decor and offer complimentary Wi-Fi. Housed in an 18th-century building, the hotel preserves original features such as wooden beams and art by Miró and Tàpies. Each room is equipped with plasma TVs, air conditioning, and private bathrooms for a comfortable stay.
Book your stay at the Hotel Rua Villar here
4. Hostels
Albergue Turístico La Credencial is conveniently positioned along the Camino. The hostel provides a perfect rest stop where you can briefly unload your backpack before continuing towards the Cathedral. Its location is near a supermarket and just a 5-minute walk from the bus station. The albergue features a well-equipped kitchen, designated space for bikes, and laundry facilities with washing and drying machines. Beyond catering to pilgrims, it welcomes a diverse range of guests.
Book your stay at Albergue Turistico La Credencial here
Albergue Santos is located at the entrance to Santiago on Rua Concheiros. It enjoys a prime location with nearby conveniences, including an adjacent supermarket and a tranquil atmosphere. The facility offers practical amenities such as a microwave, fridge, and washing and drying machines for guests’ comfort. Additionally, there is secure storage space for bicycles. It’s noteworthy that Albergue Santos extends a warm welcome not only to pilgrims but also to various other types of guests.
Book your stay at Albergue Santos here
