Heading north towards Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Equally monumental and welcoming, this city will receive you with open arms.
Discover the city that the Camino de Santiago leads to like never before. Read on to find out everything there is to see in Santiago de Compostela and get ready for an unforgettable trip!
A university tradition, passion for nature, pilgrimage and an immense historical legacy go hand in hand in this city, which never ceases to amaze visitors and locals alike.
The first thing worth discovering in this city is its imposing historic centre, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Ready to discover the must-see attractions in Santiago?
Possibly the most emblematic square in the city, and it comes as no surprise! This square is the monumental centre of Santiago, as it is home to its main historical icons:
The cathedral is home to the Cathedral Museum, where you can learn first-hand about the history of this temple and the works of art, paintings or tapestries associated with it.
Stepping beyond Plaza del Obrador, the historic centre of Santiago is home to a network of streets and alleyways that we recommend you get lost in to discover all the hidden charms in the oldest and most historic part of the city. Make the most of this opportunity and sample the local cuisine while strolling down the well-known Rúa do Franco or Rúa do Vilar.
Keep an eye out for the legendary Entrerrúas y Oliveira, the narrowest streets in Santiago. These narrow passages are a real challenge, as it is almost impossible for two people to pass each other by in the narrower part. Fancying a stroll down them?
This green lung for Compostela hides many curiosities that few are aware of. Walk along the central promenade and look for a crescent-shaped stone bench.
The acoustics of the 'whispering' bench will amaze you: even the slightest sound made by anything touching the stone will resonate like a whisper in your ear. The secret lies in its concave shape and the hard material it is made of. Try sitting at one end and listening to a passer-by or a bird at the other end. It isn't magic, but it seems like it!
On your walk, you will surely come across Las Marías. These statues pay tribute to two unforgettable sisters who, having been locked in their house during the Civil War, walked the streets of the city during the post-war period wearing unusual clothes and makeup for the time. Today, they are considered a symbol of rebellion. Drop by and say hello to them!
If you have ever taken the Camino de Santiago French Way, you will no doubt remember seeing the city of Santiago and of course, its cathedral for the first time from the top of this mountain. As well as being a key point on the pilgrimage, this setting is also a natural space from which to enjoy privileged views and take a walk to enjoy nature and to get away from it all.
Mercado de Abastos is one of the reference points for discovering the excellent gastronomy for which Galicia in general and Santiago in particular are known. Enjoy sampling local cuisine in the taverns around the market, such as on Rúas das Ameas or in Praza de Santo Agostiño.
The Alta Velocidad (high-speed) has arrived in Galicia. With Renfe, you now have more trains, better connections and less travel time, meaning you can enjoy Galician jewels like Santiago de Compostela.
Travelling by train between Madrid and Galicia has never been easier. Hop on board and let us take you there! Consult our routes.
Looking for a different experience? Then why not discover Galicia on board one of our tourist trains? They are the perfect option for those looking for a different tourism experience in which to soak up the best that Galicia has to offer. See them for yourself!