Check out the gas-lit central avenue, which illustrates a quirk of 19th century Spanish society: There are different walkways depending on your social class. There are also many things to do in Santiago de Compostela. And if brandy is not your cup of tea, indulge in a glass of albario, a tasty Galician white, slightly acidic wine. Santiago de Compostela 3 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in. Bonaval sits on the grounds of a Dominican convents old cemetery and has been re-invented into a secluded public green space byPortuguese architectlvaro Siza. If you love walking, exploring the Old Town, known as Zona Vella, should be on your must-do list. The church is open daily to the general public for visitations. That is very good to take. Within Santiagos city walls youll be forgiven for believing that youre stepping around a film set. If youve had tapas in Spain youll have seen or tried the little green peppers named after this rural town. At the end of each of my hikes along the Camino I have taken time to sit quietly and think about my journey a lot can come up. #2 USC - Where to Stay in Santiago de Compostela on a Budget. I must admit that eating, preferably with friends, is my favorite thing in Santiago de Compostela. The Parador is very overrated. 7) Enjoy free tapas Tapa at Caf Venecia The Spanish custom of getting a small plate of noms with your drink at a caf/bar/restaurant dates back centuries, when you would receive a tapa or "lid" of bread, cheese, meat, etc. She adores Santiago, where she studied Journalism at Santiago de Compostela University. Oh, the city also is known for its great food; be sure to try the pulpa a la gallega, a boiled octopus dish that is considered the Holy Grail of seafood, at least here. As some Galicians say, more than a city, Santiago is a big village. Santiago sculpture on top of the Facade del Obradoiro, Santiago de Compostela cathedral, Spain, Europe Day 1 Morning: Plaza del Obradoiro Plaza del Obradoiro is the central square of Santiago de Compostela. Monte do Gozo[SEE MAP] alschim / Flickr Country: Spain. 3. Santiago de Compostela: Finisterre, Muxia & Costa da Morte It's some of the essential cities within the area. In the centre is a stone slab marking kilometre zero on the trail. If you want to end your pilgrimage in a special restaurant, San Francisco Convent is your answer. 19% as popular as Vila Nova de Gaia Try some of the delicious canned foods canning is a huge industry in northern Spain! Santiago de Compostela is a wonderful metropolis in Galicia, Northern Spain. If you want to find some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the church is one of the ideal things to do. Across the entire Camino, pilgrims pass through diverse and excellent wine country, but this 6.5-mile (10.4 km) stretch in Rioja wine country is especially pleasing for the . Munch on delicious pastries from the many bakeries, and listen to the world go by. Its a supreme piece of Romanesque architecture and one of Spains most iconic buildings. Santiago de Compostela is the final destination of your Camino de Santiago. The cathedral is Santiagos most famous building with a Romanesque structure and later Gothic and Baroque elements. Octopus is especially identified with this region, and the dish pulpo feira is popular throughout Spain. As you imagine, this is a San Franciscan convent, where the Franciscan monks used to live. We and our partners use cookies to better understand your needs, improve performance and provide you with personalised content and advertisements. 1. This was founded in the ninth century by a group of Benedictine monks who settled in the city after getting news of the discovery of St. James remains. The main attraction of Cape Finisterre is the lighthouse. Alameda Park is a lovely sprawling park right in the heart of Santiago de Compostela. Now its a plush five star hotel with every modern luxury, for those in need of worldly comfort at the end of their long spiritual journey perhaps! For more information about the Camino de Santiago or to book your Camino trip, contact our travel specialists on the form below: Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. It is made with whats left of the grapes after the wine pressing process and is usually distilled with nuts, dried fruits or herbs. Visit Minube to learn more about the top Santiago de Compostela attractions. There are plenty of options to take a tour out to the coast or get a bus or shuttle. Gather some maps, collect brochures, Google the best restaurants and most popular things to do and then follow your instincts. Nobody can leave Santiago without indulging in Galician dishes, especially their most iconic one, the octopus. The best way to discover a city is by foot, and there are plenty of excellent walking tours available in Santiago. Me? 15 Best Things to Do in Santiago de Compostela (Spain), Best Hotels in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, 30 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California, 25 Most Beautiful Medieval Castles in the World, 40 Places to See in California Before Your Kids Are All Grown Up, 15 Best Things to Do in Middleborough (MA). Here are the top things you must never miss when you are in Santiago de Compostela. Since youre this close to Galicias stunning coast you should push on a little further and see it for yourself. This is also the site of the Pazo de Raxoi, the seat of the city council, and Hostal do Reis Catlicos. It was built here in the 12th century in the Romanesque style, with rounded arches, arcaded colonnades, rose glass windows and a remarkable cloister that offers splendid views of the garden. Required fields are marked *. Walk down the granite streets, gaze up at the arches and people watch in the squares. Santiago de Compostela is the final destination for most people on the Camino de Santiago (some continue to Fisterra). See locals doing their shopping in the historic Mercado de Abastos and pick up some gorgeous products for yourself too! We can offer you a customised itinerary to suit your style and the length of time that you have available. 5. In . The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, 4. Home > Blog > Top 10 Things to Do in Santiago de Compostela. The Alameda Park is also a central point to many celebrations in Santiagos busy festival calendar. The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is the destination for the thousands of pilgrims who arrive every day to its km 0. However, there are many more festivals in and around the different neighbourhoods in Santiago. Not only is it a building of great beauty that dates back to the 19th century, located on Ra das Ameas, but enjoying the best seafood, fish, meat, cheese, vegetables in Santiago y and much more is a delight.. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral - Connect with your spiritual side or simply savor the serene atmosphere at this site of worship. When pilgrims pass through this door and meet other conditions, all their sins will . In addition, this is also a great area for the night owls who want to experience the party scene of the city. It is a perfect stopover for travellers to get some rest and enjoy fresh seafood. Excursion to Finisterre + Costa da Morte (7 stops) 23 9 hours 15 minutes Hotel pickup offered Instant Confirmation from US$35.19 Finisterre Tour from Santiago de Compostela 16 9 hours from US$42.47 Masaje "Final del Camino de Santiago" 13 1 hour Instant Confirmation from US$60.67 Old Town of Santiago de Compostela Walking Tour 9 The Obradoiro Facade (facing the square) was created by Fernando de Casas y Novoa. As you can see there are many things to do in Santiago so make the most of it! The ultimate calendar of events and things to do in Santiago de Compostela today, this weekend, and beyond (Updated October 2022). The sisters used to go for a walk in the Alameda every day at 2 oclock on the dot. The entire city was built around this monument, and at 10,000 metres youll need a lot of time to explore every nook and cranny. Known for being the burial site of the apostle St. James and the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes, Santiago de Compostela is a dream destination for both cultural aficionados, pilgrims, and travelers in search of spiritual adventures. This part of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that extends from south of the cathedral to the Plaza de las Plateras. It's the second largest monastery in Spain after the Monastery of El Escorial outside Madrid. Here you will find not only Romanesque and baroque churches, museums and some of the oldest University buildings but also many cozy cafes, traditional and contemporary restaurants, interesting shops and some of the best nightlife too! The Casa de la Troya Museum is located in the heart of Santiago de Compostela old town, very close to the church of St. Martin Pinario the Cathedral. The building used to be a boarding house for university students in the 19th century and it inspired Alejandro Perez Lugin to write his famous novel, La Casa de la Troya. I lived in Santiago (or Compostela) for four years while studying at the citys University (one of the oldest in Europe by the way, founded in1495) and the mention of Santiago always gives me a warm exciting feeling. Its a Romanesque building that was constructed in the 1100s next to the River Sar. 4. The Old Town with its winding granite streets, arches, squares, and monuments has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. 15 Things that you should do and visit in Santiago, Spain. Little has changed in the intervening years, except buttresses were added down the sides in the 1700s to make the structure a little more sound. To join these pilgrims on the Way of Saint James to Santiago de Compostela get in touch with us! Almost everywhere I sit down to have a drink or coffee will sell calamari and I can eat them all day long. In the 1400s the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabel walked the Camino de Santiago across northern Spain. What you see today dates from the late-15th century, the result of an injection of wealth after the monastery became part of the City of Valladolids Benedictine Congregation. This magnificent building stands in the Praza do Obradoiro and boasts a Romanesque structure with later elements of the Gothic and Baroque styles. There is no doubt that your first stop should be the imposing Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, the place where, as already mentioned, Saint James is believed to be buried. Known in this area as pulpo Feira, because it used to be eaten on market day, and in the rest of Spain as Galician style octopus, this dish will conquer every foodies taste buds and heart. This church is in the outlying district of the town by the banks of Sar River. With its breath-taking green areas, imposing oaks, eucalyptus trees, and palms, as well as ponds, sculptures and charming alleys filled with cheerful people. Stay up to date with the latest Camino news, events and webinars. See all 2022 Excursion to Finisterre + Muxia + Costa da Morte (7 stops) 238 Bus Tours from C$53.23 per adult Full-Day Tour to Santiago de Compostela and Valena do Minho from Porto 83 Bus Tours from C$129.67 per adult Masaje del Peregrino 135 from C$68.25 per adult Santiago de Compostela also has great museums, beautiful parks and magnificent medieval buildings just waiting to be photographed. The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is the burial place of Apostle St.James, one of many twelve apostles of Jesus. Grand, elegant and a wonderful example of Roman architecture, the city of Santiago De Compostela has been built around one of Spain's most iconic Cathedrals. Here's our pick for the top 20 must-visit attractions in this Galician city. The other great reason to visit is to trace Galicias wild Atlantic coastline, which has deep fjord-like crags, called rias here. Your email address will not be published. Right alongside the cape, there is a quaint fishing village by the name of Finisterra. While in this culturally rich area, find time to visit its stunning cathedral. Grixoa Larao Marantes Marrozos Nemenzo A Peregrina Sabugueira San Caetano San Lzaro San Paio Santa Cristina de Fecha Santiago de Compostela Sar Verda Vidn Villestro Vista Alegre. Temporary stalls are also set up by the entrance, selling fruit and veg. 8 Fascinating Things to See in Santiago de Compostela 1. #1 Old Town - Where to Stay in Santiago de Compostela for your First Time. #3 Angrois - Best Neighborhood in Santiago de Compostela for Families. That is why when you visit it, you will find many things to do in Santiago de Compostela. Next to Bonaval, youll find two of Santiagos 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. And this is what those pilgrims walk those hundreds of miles for. There are so many more things to do. Galicia is well-known for its Baroque architecture, and one of the best examples is Casa do Cabildo. This incredible place will give you the chance to explore the phenomenon of Santiago in a deeper way and learn about the city, the cathedral, the pilgrimage, and of course, the apostle himself. It has a magnificent triple staircase that spirals around. Old Town The Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James) is a Europe-wide network of trails that converge at Roncesvalles and Jaca near the Spanish border and then continue the 800 km route west through northern Spain to Santiago. Although the entrance to the main nave of the temple is free, the complete visit to the Cathedral of Santiago includes the museums, the tribune and the ascent to the roofs.It is definitely a must to see the Cathedral in its entirety when visiting the city for the first time; tickets can be purchased individually . It is also the endpoint of the famous Camino de Santiago and an excellent place for pilgrims to rest after their walk. Down the steps, the lower part of the square was actually a burial ground right up to the late-18th century. But what you will probably love most are the views of the Cathedral, which make this park a meeting point for romantic locals and travelers alike. Fair to say that this was his lifes work: He agreed the contract in 1168 and the carvings werent completed until 1211, six years before he died. Its one of the most important destinations in the Catholic world. 2.) However, they are now residing in another building, and this one has become a hotel and restaurant. With adjacentRaa, thisis the most famous street to go out for a few drinks with friends. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is one of the main attractions for tourists and pilgrims alike. The cost of admission is 6. See exquisite sacred art and architecture at the reputed burial site of Saint James the Great. Filled with both modern and traditional stalls where farmers sell their products, this place gives visitors the chance to see the harmonious mix of the modern and traditional life in Santiago, while indulging in local delicacies. Do You need to dial local telephones? Let us take you on a tour of this wonderful historic UNESCO World Heritage city, here's our list of top things to do and see in Santiago de Compostela. Inside you will find examples of many of the main trends of art in the last few decades. At the Cathedral, check out the Prtico da Gloria (the original Romanesque porch entrance by Mestre Mateo), the Botafumeiro (its giant thurible) and, if you are not scared of heights, take a guided tour of the Cathedrals rooftop to enjoy fantastic panoramic views of Santiago (they run every day from 10 am to 8 pm and it lasts one hour approximately rooftop tours are currently on hold until restoration is complete). That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories. Visit the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Lined with quaint boutiques, elegant cafes and restaurants, a walk around this plaza is pleasant and gives off an old-world charm that attracts people from all over the world. The Pilgrims Reception Office at the cathedral is open from 10 am to 6 pm to claim your Compostela certificate at the end of the Camino. It's population is 97.260 inhabitants, considering 2019 last census. Galicia is famous among Spanish people for its parks, and one of the most beautiful ones is Parque de la Alameda. Ras Baixas: Boat Trip, Mussels, Wine, and Winery Visit Tour. The most striking sight to see is a panoramic view of the iconic bridges that span the river, which could be one of the most beautiful scenes in Galicia. 1. Admire its mesmerizing Romanesque structure, the later Gothic and Baroque elements, and see the city from above during one of the guided rooftop tours available daily. The museum is open all year. 2. More than 10,000 tourists enter the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela every day. The historic centre is completely pedestrianised, allowing you the freedom to stroll at your own leisure through the ancient alleys, cathedrals and museums. Thats the thing: many of the students arriving in Santiago for four years end up never ever leaving for such a small place, Santiago can make quite a big impact on people, whether pilgrims, visitors, or students. Without overstating the obvious, whether you arrive as a pilgrim or as guest for a day or two, the cathedral is the number one destination, with the crypt containing the remains. You can learn loads about the development of Galicia through its food too, so make sure to explore local shops and eat what the locals eat. The city population is just around the 100,000 mark but with nearly 40,000 students settling there for the academic year and thousands of pilgrims walking into town every year, Santiago de Compostela gets a very special mix of people. Whether you are looking for a long weekend on the Way or a month or more walking a full Camino route, we can help. Lets have a look at the best things to do in Santiago de Compostela: When you visit Santiago theres a good chance that some of the people on the streets have walked a very long way to be here. Combarro Porto is the second-largest city following Lisbon. Santiago Cathedral. The museum is open with visits to the permanent Collection, Gelmrez Palace, and Portico of Glory on Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm, and Sundays, from 10 am to 2 pm. She also loves travel, good food and good books, as well as all things arty crafty. This is the case at Parque de la Alameda, which has large grassy areas as well as horse chestnuts, oaks, eucalyptus trees, cypresses and palms shading its paths. In 1895, the church was declared Bien de Inters Cultural which means Heritage of Cultural Interest. For centuries, pilgrims have travelled to the city to atone for their sins and visit the tomb of St James,. Admire the incredible artwork and majestic architecture! 1. What is The Botafumeiro And When Can I See it? Finding out which one is part of the fun of eating them! and, if you are not scared of heights. Santiago de Compostela is usually filled with thousands of pilgrims who have walked a long way to reach it, and it offers an impressive atmosphere, enhanced by its beautiful architecture, museums, and cathedrals, as well as the local, colorful bars and cafeterias. The city has its beginning inside the shrine of Saint James the Great, now the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, as the vacation spot of the Way of St. James, a main Catholic pilgrimage direction since the 9th century. Whether you are interested in exploring the nightlife in Santiago or are only looking to see the city by day, tasting its local alcoholic beverages should be on your list. Catedral de Santiago de Compostela The Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is without a doubt the city's most famous sight - the culmination of various pilgrimage routes across Spain and Portugal. You'll walk past or even through it if you follow the Portuguese Camino but not on other routes. Catedral de Santiago de Compostela is a world heritage site in Galicia, Spain. I wish I could have been here at night! Santiago de Compostela is a beautiful and historic city that is well worth visiting. Home Travel Guides Spain 15 Best Things to Do in Santiago de Compostela (Spain). After visiting the cathedral you are in the perfect place to explore Santiago de Compostelas Old Town. Personally, I think Santiago is a great city but Im obviously biased. Although I am not religious, I find peace in churches of all faiths. It is quite pocket-sized too, so make sure you dedicate at least a couple of days to soak in the citys vibrant atmosphere. T. MUSIC AND CULTURE. Relax and enjoy a picnic in Alameda Park. The Hostal do Reis Catlicos is a building with a lot of history. This was founded in the 800s to look after the tomb of St. James, which had then only recently been discovered. The whole area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so expect to be amazed by its beautifully arranged streets, bustling square, amazing arches and monuments, old buildings, as well as the colorful cafes and traditional restaurants. The New Town isnt much of a sight, mostly apartment buildings housing the student population, but you will also find shopping areas, good bookshops, as well as restaurants and bars. Travellers who want to experience the charm and peace of an old town should take a day trip to Vigo. Enter one of the main monuments of the famous Camino de Santiago and take a guided tour inside Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and its museum. From free walking tours (you are expected to tip) to tours focusing on food and wine, and museum tours to kid-friendly walks, there is something for everyone! Things to Do 1.) Know the Monastery of San Martio Pinario. Things to do near Universal Cafe Bar on Tripadvisor: See 37,362 reviews and 29,385 candid photos of things to do near Universal Cafe Bar in Santiago de Compostela, Province of A Coruna. There is something for everyone, including stone streets, artistic Baroque buildings, amazing Spanish cuisine, the awe-inspiring Santiago de Compostela cathedral, and scenic landscapes. His relics lie in the cathedral and are the endpoint of the pilgrimage. Theres Galician bagpipe music, free tastings and a vermouth session too. Santiago de Compostela is a Spanish city in the Galicia region built around a prominent shrine of Saint James the Great. The above are my favorite things to do in Santiago de Compostela. FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Santiago de Compostela. 3. The park is a great stop for every visitor who wants to take in a breath of fresh air. to place on top of your glass to keep flies away, which also prevented you from imbibing on an empty stomach. Order the special Pilgrim menu, and let the atmosphere and typical convent dishes offer you an unforgettable experience. Like most central markets in Spain its the place to be to witness everyday life. Mercado de Abastos de Santiago - Allow some time to have a look at this place of local significance. The food here is wonderful! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Catedralicio Museum After visiting the cathedral you should also visit the Cathedral Museum, which is inside the cathedral. The art centre is a perfect place for those who are enthusiastic about Galician culture and art. 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. However, to get some great photos you will need to be up very early or be lucky with a bright sunny day in the offseason. Santiago is divided into two main districts: the Old Town (Zona Vella) and the New Town (Zona Nova). For pilgrims such as ourselves arriving at the Cathedral is the highlight of their journey. Less than half an hour towards the coast youll be able to see where they originated. Like many on the coast it relies on fishing and a huge shellfish harvest that takes place in the autumn. Santiago de Compostela: Cathedral and Museum Guided Tour") Skip the road and uncover the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela with an knowledgeable information. Let's explore our list of kid-friendly attractions in Santiago De Compostela for perfect family outings and getaways. If you have a few days after your Camino de Santiago, we would suggest an overnight trip to the vibrant port city of Porto. San Francisco Hotel Monumento far superior and reasonable. You can also listen to our podcast about the top things to see and do in Santiago de Compostela here . You may find yourself staring at this incredible portal, mouth agape for a very long time. What to do and see in Santiago de Compostela, Galicia: The Best Walking Tours; Location: Santiago de Compostela. Whatever your choice of words, you must try it at least once before you go back home! The aristocratic residence was built in 1758 and is today a cultural and historic landmark and museum. There are also great temporary exhibitions, theatre plays and workshops waiting for art enthusiasts from all over the world. The Old Town of Santiago de Compostela is a UNESCO-listed site and is a traditional square with two parallel streets. Interestingly, part of the monastery has been converted into a hotel. Welcoming pilgrims is a splendid entrance called the Portico de la Gloria. Bus Tours from 39.00 per adult Full-Day Tour to Santiago de Compostela and Valena do Minho from Porto 83 Bus Tours from 95.00 per adult Masaje del Peregrino 142 from 50.00 per adult Santiago de Compostela: Finisterre, Muxa & Costa da Morte 91 Bus Tours from 39.00 per adult Full Day Excursion to the Ras Baixas and Isla da Toxa 11 Things to do near Exe Peregrino on Tripadvisor: See 37,357 reviews and 29,385 candid photos of things to do near Exe Peregrino in Santiago de Compostela, Province of A Coruna. Noia is the first town youll come to. Its a suitably monumental setting for the fireworks that take place on the 24th of July, the eve of St. James Day. Take a short trip from the city to visit the end of the Earth at Finisterre! Here you will find some of Galicias best produce. Porto, Portugal. Besides being a great spot for relaxation, Bonaval is also a must-visit for travellers interested in art and history, as it hosts the Galician Contemporary Art Centre and the Museum of the Galician People. This vast square is ruled by the cathedrals spellbinding baroque facade, and as you look around youll see masterworks spanning 700 years of the citys history up to the 18th-century. Inner and Outer Experiences of the Camino de Santiago, Reasons Why People Walk the Camino de Santiago, Transitioning from Camino Life to Real Life. Check their website before you visit to see what temporary exhibitions, lectures, artist-driven workshops may be on while you are in Santiago. Take a breather at the Alameda, Santiagos most emblematic green space. Created by Master Mateo in 1188, this doorway is a profusion of sculpture featuring 200 figures from the Apocalypse story and the figure of Saint James the Apostle. For a rural but chic experience, foodies from all over the world are invited to Mercado de Abastos, Santiagos vibrating food market. I just now spent a fortune on the worst tiniest hotel room i have ever stayed in. Pilgrims Mass in The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, Camino Ways Official Camino de Santiago, 10 Things to do in Santiago de Compostela. Thousands of pilgrims make the journey every year to Santiago de Compostela where the resting place of St James (the apostle of Jesus Christ in the Bible). The Prtico de La Gloria is the main entrance and is a beautiful work of art with 200 figures relating to the Apocalypse and a figure of Saint James. Every day at noon there is a mass, and if you're lucky you might see the famous Botafumeiro, an incense spreader weighing 80 kilos and measuring 1.6 meters high! You will also find tours that focus on the history and myths of the famous Camino de Santiago. Journeys end for tired pilgrims and the purported resting place of one of the 12 Apostles, Santiago de Compostela is a city with a staggering artistic and historical wealth. We have picked 10 things to do in Santiago de Compostela that should keep you busy for a couple of days! Bonaval for short, is another popular park in Santiago de Compostela. It was completed in 1486 after ten years of construction and today is believed to be the oldest operating hotel in the world. The cathedral is the main attraction in Santiago. Under the terms of the contract the poor guy would have had to pay 1000 gold pieces had he decided to back out at any time. Ra doFranco 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.

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