Santiago de Compostela is more than just the final destination of the Camino de Santiago – it’s a charming city full of character, with winding alleys and quaint granite streets waiting to be explored. There are plenty of things to do in Santiago de Compostela, from discovering its rich history to enjoying the local cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. The city is compact and easy to explore on foot, so it’s well worth spending at least a couple of days here to truly take it all in.
Things to do in Santiago de Compostela
As some Galicians say, Santiago is more of a big village than a city. Its population is around 100,000 people. During the academic year, nearly 40,000 students settle in the city to study. Thousands of pilgrims also arrive throughout the year, walking into Santiago after finishing the Camino. This creates a unique and welcoming mix of people from all walks of life.
I think Santiago is a wonderful place, though I may be slightly biased. I lived in Santiago, also known as Compostela, for four years while studying. The University of Santiago, founded in 1495, is one of Europe’s oldest. Just hearing the name Santiago brings back warm and exciting memories for me.
Many of my closest friends still live in the city today. In fact, a lot of students who move there never leave after graduation. Despite its size, Santiago leaves a lasting impression on those who spend time there. Whether you’re a visitor, student, or pilgrim, the city has a lasting effect. And that’s exactly why there are so many great things to do in Santiago de Compostela.
10 things to do in Santiago de Compostela
We have picked 10 things to do in Santiago de Compostela that should keep you busy for a few days!
1. The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
If you’ve walked all the way to Santiago de Compostela, your first stop will likely be the Praza do Obradoiro, home to the city’s iconic Cathedral. This is the heart of Santiago and the place where the remains of Saint James are believed to rest. you have walked all the way to Santiago de Compostela, your first stop is likely to be the Praza do Obradoiro with its iconic Cathedral.
Among the many things to do in Santiago de Compostela, visiting the Cathedral is a must. It’s the city’s most famous landmark, originally built in Romanesque style and later enhanced with Gothic and Baroque features. The building’s grand presence makes it one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world.
Inside the Cathedral, don’t miss the Pórtico da Gloria, the original Romanesque entrance sculpted by Mestre Mateo. Be sure to see the Botafumeiro, the giant incense burner that swings through the air during special services. For a different view, join a guided rooftop tour of the Cathedral—perfect for panoramic views over the city and a unique perspective of this historic monument. This can be added to your package – just let us know!
2. The Old Town
Santiago is mainly divided into two areas: the Old Town (Zona Vella) and the New Town (Zona Nova).
The Old Town is a maze of granite streets, arches, charming squares, and historic landmarks. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. In this area, you’ll find Romanesque and Baroque churches, fascinating museums, and some of the University’s oldest buildings. You’ll also discover cosy cafés, a mix of traditional and modern restaurants, unique shops, and some of the city’s liveliest nightlife.
The New Town is more residential, with apartment blocks that mostly house students. While it’s not a main tourist spot, it still offers good shopping, excellent bookshops, great places to eat, and a variety of bars.
3. Alameda Park
Take a moment to relax at the Alameda, Santiago’s most iconic green space.
Enjoy a walk along the Paseo da Ferradura, where you can admire a stunning tree-framed view of the Cathedral. Rest by the statue of the writer Valle Inclán, or snap a photo with the colourful statue of ‘As Marías’, the two Fandiño sisters.
These sisters were known for their daily walks in the Alameda, always precisely at 2 o’clock. The park is also a key venue for many of Santiago’s lively festivals throughout the year.
4. ‘De Viños’ – Wine trail
Rúa do Franco stretches all the way to Obradoiro Square and is named after the French pilgrims who once followed this route to reach the Cathedral.
Together with the nearby Raíña street, it is one of the most popular spots for a casual drink with friends. Many bars and restaurants along Rúa do Franco display octopus, shellfish, and other Galician delicacies in their windows (vegetarians, take note!). Most also offer a free snack with every drink, such as croquettes, tortilla, or even “tiger filet” (which isn’t actually tiger meat).
After enjoying some wine and snacks, you might find yourself too full for dinner. But if you’re still hungry, try ordering a few dishes to share. do Franco goes all the way to the Obradoiro Square and takes its name after the French pilgrims that used to follow this street to get to the Cathedral.
5. Museo das Peregrinacións
After completing your pilgrimage to Santiago, it’s highly recommended to visit the Museo das Peregrinacións, which is dedicated to the history and traditions of the Camino. This museum offers fascinating insights into the pilgrim experience and the cultural significance of the journey.
6. San Domingos de Bonaval Park
‘Bonaval’ for short, is another popular park in Santiago de Compostela.
Bonaval sits on the grounds of a Dominican convent’s old cemetery and has been re-invented into a secluded public green space by Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza.
Next to Bonaval, you’ll find two of Santiago’s best museums: the CGAC (Galician Contemporary Art Centre) in a modern building also by Siza and the Museum of the Galician People (Museo do Pobo Galego) in the former convent.
Bonaval is loved by visitors and locals, who like to enjoy a good book there or just relax under the shade of the oak grove (carballeira) on a hot day.
7. Mercado de Abastos
Santiago’s food market has a rural chic feel: traditional stores run by ladies from surrounding farms mix with stylish stalls. Modernity and tradition really live in harmony in the Abastos area, with exciting new restaurants also opening their doors in recent years. Here you will find some of Galicia’s best produce.
8. Culture
Santiago has a very active cultural life: from poetry recitals to concerts big and small, galleries, exhibitions, museums, theatre, etc…there is always something to fulfill your cultural ambitions.
Many pubs and cafes also have their own cultural activities so make sure to catch one of these as this is one of the top things to do in Santiago de Compostela.
9. Festas
Festas da Ascensión in May and Festas do Apóstolo in July (celebrating Saint James Day and Galicia’s National Day) are the main celebrations in Santiago, with outdoor concerts and many other events taking place, some of them free of charge.
However, there are many more festivals in and around the different neighbourhoods in Santiago. Before you travel, check out the Santiago Turismo website, local tourist board, to see what’s coming up in Santiago.
10. Try the octopus
You can’t leave Santiago (or Galicia) without trying the land’s most iconic dish: octopus.
The Galicians call it octopus fair style (‘pulpo á feira’) as it used to be a dish eaten on market day; while Spaniards like to call it octopus Galician style.
Whatever your choice of words, you must try it at least once before you go back home! As you can see there are many things to do in Santiago so make the most of it!
Although all routes lead to Santiago if you only have a short time to spend on the Camino there are some popular starting points that will allow you to finish in this stunning city: the last section of the Camino Frances, the Camino Inglés, and the last week on the Portuguese Camino are trails to consider.
For more information on any Camino de Santiago routes or to book your Camino trip, contact us. Plan your Camino effortlessly and get an instant quote with our Camino Planner.
