With its advice and suggestions, this complete guide to Santiago de Compostela seeks to make your trip to the city one you will never forget. We covered every detail you need to know in it, including how to get there, where to stay, what to see and eat, when is the ideal time to travel, and other factors that will make your trip an unforgettable experience.
There are various ways to go to Santiago, including flight, train, bus, automobile, and even pilgrimage. Because it is a popular tourist destination, there are excellent transportation options. Santiago is a small city that offers easy walking exploration and a variety of transportation options, including bicycles, buses, and taxis. Whenever feasible, we urge that you bring a decent pair of shoes to stroll around and enjoy the experience. Walking through its historic city center will help you feel the enchanting ambiance and introduce you to charming spots.
Where to stay in Santiago de Compostela?
Santiago boasts a large and diverse range of accommodations. Among the hotels, we recommend the Hostal dos Reis Católicos because of its significant historical past, and the Hotel Costa Vella due to the beauty of its garden. Whether you favour hostels or hostels, The Last Stamp is both modern and cosy. And, if you like apartments or houses, the options are plenty both in the city and in the surrounding area, in a more rural setting if that is your taste. In this comprehensive guide to Santiago de Compostela, we provide some samples of the most typical hotels, but there are several options in this city.
Where to eat in Santiago de Compostela?
A visit to the Santiago de Compostela Market is a necessity because it will introduce you to the city’s gastronomy and traditions. There are various locations within the market where you can sample traditional cuisine. The Pulpería Abastos offers the best direct pulp on the market. Already beyond the market, be wary of A Taberna do Bispo´s rich Padrón peppers because “uns pican e outros non”. For a unique experience in a Michelin-starred restaurant, visit Casa Marcelo and to enjoy an exceptional fusion of tradition and innovation, visit O Curro de Parra
What to See in Santiago de Compostela?
Of course, you should not miss visiting the Cathedral, its squares, the market, the Alameda Park, or San Domingos de Bonaval, about which you can learn more on our blog on important visits to Santiago de Compostela. However, there are other lesser-known but equally charming areas of the city that you may learn about by following this link. Santiago offers easy access to places like Coruña, Pontevedra, and Vigo, all within an hour or less by train. Other tiny towns with a lot of charm are Combarro, Cambados, and Finisterre. Guided and customised tours are an interesting alternative for learning more about the city’s history or planning a trip to another destination.
When is the best time to visit Santiago?
Maybe the best time to visit the city is during the spring because the temperatures are mild and there is less tourism, but every season in Santiago has its charm. During the summer, all of Galicia is filled with popular festivals. It will make a little more heat, but remember that it is in the north of Spain and, in general, the temperatures are quite mild. On July 25th, the festival of the Apostle James is celebrated and the city offers concerts and free shows that will make you vibrate. Autumn also has the advantage of temperate temperatures and less tourism. It is also the perfect time to enjoy the most typical gastronomy. Finally, winter is the ideal option if what you are looking for is a more intimate experience in which you can enjoy each visit with time without crowds or queues. Mind you: bring an umbrella.
What can't you miss?
The Cathedral serves as the focal point of any visit to this city. You should not miss a visit to the Portic of Glory, which will astound you with everything this remarkable Romanesque construction conceals. Climbing the cathedral’s roofs will provide you with a breathtaking view of the city. Traveling through Santiago’s old town, which has been designated as a World Heritage Site, and becoming lost in its labyrinthic paved lanes will take you back in time and connect you with the charm of this city. Popular streets include Rua do Franco, Rua da Raíña, and Plaza de Cervantes, offering a lively and local vibe.
