Things to do in Santiago de Compostela

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

A park with a large tree and a bench. In the background, there is a historic building with multiple towers.
A historic cityscape with a prominent cathedral and dense, traditional architecture.
A stone staircase surrounded by lush greenery and moss-covered walls.
A spiral staircase with a circular skylight at the top.
A silhouette of a church with a tall spire and a dome against a sunset sky.

Santiago de Compostela Attractions

Do you live for shopping or fine food? Or maybe you prefer to get familiar with a new city like a real local. When you're in Santiago de Compostela, it doesn't matter what your interests are — this buzzing city offers all the sights and experiences you could ever need.

If you're ready to explore Santiago de Compostela, sign up for a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let a friendly local show you some of the most popular sites. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {111 fun activities in Santiago de Compostela fun activities in Santiago de Compostela} are also worth a look.

Things to do

Vigo Santiago de Compostela Shore Excursion with Guide

Vigo Santiago de Compostela Shore Excursion with Guide

$65
per adult
Vigo Santiago de Compostela Shore Excursion with Guide
Santiago de Compostela: Finisterre, Muxía & Costa da Morte

Santiago de Compostela: Finisterre, Muxía & Costa da Morte

$59
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Santiago de Compostela: Finisterre, Muxía & Costa da Morte
Picture 1 for Activity From Santiago: Rías Baixas Galicia Seafood & Wine Day Tour

From Santiago: Rías Baixas Tour +mussel cruise and cellar

$53
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
From Santiago: Rías Baixas Tour +mussel cruise and cellar
Full body massage 60 minutes

Full body massage 60 minutes

$80
per adult
Full body massage 60 minutes
Visit to the Cathedral of Santiago with Roofs and Tower

Visit to the Cathedral of Santiago with Roofs and Tower

$40
per adult
Visit to the Cathedral of Santiago with Roofs and Tower
Tour Cathedral of Santiago with roofs & Portico de la Gloria

Cathedral of Santiago with Portico, Roofs, and Museum

$56
per adult
74% of travellers recommend
Cathedral of Santiago with Portico, Roofs, and Museum
Finisterre Express: the route to the end of the world

Finisterre Express: the route to the end of the world

$59
per adult
Finisterre Express: the route to the end of the world
Guided Tour Santiago Cathedral, Museum and Old City

Guided Tour Santiago Cathedral, Museum and Old City

$30
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Guided Tour Santiago Cathedral, Museum and Old City
Day Trip from Porto to Santiago de Compostela and Valença

Day Trip from Porto to Santiago de Compostela and Valença

$93
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Day Trip from Porto to Santiago de Compostela and Valença
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Santiago de Compostela must see attractions

1. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is a magnificent blend of architectural styles, with elaborate Baroque and Gothic features embellishing its primarily Romanesque design. Follow the popular Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route and visit this last stop, the cathedral dedicated to Spain’s patron saint Santiago (St. James).
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A historic square with a prominent cathedral featuring a tall bell tower and intricate architecture.

2. Obradoiro Square

Obradoiro Square is among the largest squares in Galicia and serves as an important symbol of Santiago de Compostela. The square’s four sides are bordered by historic buildings, each representing a different style of architecture and a different facet of local life. With Santiago Cathedral attracting pilgrims and tourists and open-air events taking place throughout the year, you will always find activities in this magnificent square.
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A historic building with a large open courtyard and a crowd of people.

3. Mercado de Abastos de Santiago

Visit Mercado de Abastos de Santiago, one of Spain’s most well-known produce markets, with hundreds of stalls loaded with vegetables, seafood, meat, wines and spirits. Although the market is an understandably popular tourist attraction, you’ll see just as many locals shopping as you will visitors. Many of the city’s restaurants and bars source their produce from this market each day.
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A street with a flower shop, a fruit stand, and a historic building with a tower.

4. San Martino Pinario Monastery

San Martino Pinario Monastery is one of the most important monasteries in Galicia and one of the largest religious monuments in Santiago. Find intricate carvings decorating its façade, while its relatively plain interior is dominated by an enormous gilded altarpiece.
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A historic building with a clock tower, surrounded by a plaza with people and cars.

5. Alameda Park

Alameda Park is a large park located in the heart of Santiago de Compostela. Designed to resemble the grounds of a grand country estate, the park has more than 90 different types of plants. Join locals at this well-loved place to breathe fresh air and escape the city. The park also hosts lively concerts and performances throughout the year.
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A garden with a paved walkway, neatly trimmed hedges, and a bench.

6. Plaza de la Quintana

Plaza de la Quintana is a large, two-level square bordering the iconic Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. Have a seat at one of the cafés lining the square and listen to street musicians perform or watch students chatting on the grand staircase.
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A historic square with a large building featuring ornate architecture and a clock tower.

Recommended things to do in Santiago de Compostela

Number of things to do
111
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Self-Guided Tapas Tour of Santiago de Compostela: $4
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Santiago de Compostela

Free Things to Do in Santiago de Compostela

Some say the best things in life are free. Make sure you explore the following around Santiago de Compostela:

Zona C - This is a non-negotiable stop for culture vultures looking to add an artistic touch to their vacation.

Belvis Park - If you want to turn up the dial on fun during your getaway, this is a good place to start.

Plaza Roja - Tour this landmark and be wowed by its impressive design.

Fountain of the Horses - Soak up some of the historical background of the area through this site.

Toural Square - This thriving spot is a favorite hangout of locals and visitors alike.

Mercado de Abastos de Santiago - Allow some time to have a look at this place of local significance.

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral - Connect with your spiritual side or simply savor the serene atmosphere at this site of worship.

Alameda Park - If you're into digging around the garden, this attraction will captivate your inner green thumb.

Things to Do in Santiago de Compostela with Kids

There's fun for the whole family no matter where you wander in Santiago de Compostela. Here are a few family friendly experiences you can try together that will make your getaway unforgettable:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Santiago de Compostela? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Santiago de Compostela attractions

A historic square with a prominent cathedral featuring a tall bell tower and intricate architecture.

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

9.6/10 (1,231 reviews)
This grand Romanesque cathedral marks the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Witness the spectacular Botafumeiro incense burner swing through the nave during special Pilgrim's Masses.
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Where to stay in Santiago de Compostela

Find the best Santiago de Compostela areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Santiago de Compostela
Learn more about Santiago de Compostela
A historic square with a large ornate building, cobblestone pavement, and people walking.

Santiago de Compostela Historic Centre

Travelers to Santiago de Compostela Historic Centre praise its stunning cathedral. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Plaza de la Quintana and Obradoiro Square.

A modern building with a reflective water feature in front.

San Lazaro

San Lazaro is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Congress and Exposition Center of Galicia and San Lazaro Stadium.

A person with a yellow backpack overlooking a historic cityscape with prominent cathedral spires.

El Ensanche Zona Nuova

Unique features of El Ensanche Zona Nuova include the historic sites and coffeehouses. Make a stop by Galicia Plaza or Plaza Roja while you're exploring the area.

A historic cathedral with intricate architecture, including multiple bell towers and statues.

Santiago de Compostela City Centre

Travelers to Santiago de Compostela City Centre praise its stunning cathedral. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Galicia Plaza and Alameda Park.

A stone bench with a cross on top, surrounded by grass and trees.

Vista Alegre

Though Vista Alegre might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Convento de San Francisco de Santiago and Obradoiro Square.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Santiago de Compostela

A small waterfall cascading over moss-covered rocks in a forested area.

Santa Cristina de Fecha

A stone bridge over a small stream in a lush green forest.

Teo

A flowing stream with moss-covered rocks and lush greenery.

O Pino

A sunset over a coastal landscape with rocky cliffs and a small island.

Vedra

A stone pathway beside a river, with traditional buildings and lush greenery in the background.

Ames

A historic stone building with a tower, surrounded by lush greenery and a river.

Boqueixon

A waterfall cascading over rocks in a forested area.

Val do Dubra

A cityscape with a prominent cathedral and surrounding historic buildings.

Sigueiro

Frequently asked questions

Is Santiago de Compostela worth visiting?
With a mix of walking trails and family-friendly attractions, there's no shortage of things to do in Santiago de Compostela. When you're here, check out Santiago de Compostela Cathedral Museum, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Santiago de Compostela?
Raxoi Palace and Xelmirez Bishop's Palace are two great places to kick-start your vacation adventures. Remember to check out the dining and retail options in Santiago de Compostela while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Santiago de Compostela?
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Santiago de Compostela and should be high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Santiago de Compostela?
Three days will give you enough time to tick off many city sights, such as Santiago de Compostela Cathedral Museum, Raxoi Palace and Xelmirez Bishop's Palace. The average stay in Santiago de Compostela is two days. If you have the time to extend your escape, Padron isn't far away.
Is Santiago de Compostela a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you'd like to see and do in Santiago de Compostela. Several attractions, including Santiago de Compostela Cathedral Museum and Raxoi Palace, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Santiago de Compostela's best neighborhoods, Santiago de Compostela City Centre is 0.1 miles away from downtown, while Santiago de Compostela Historic Centre is 0.1 miles away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Santiago de Compostela with kids?
Planning what to do in Santiago de Compostela with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or toddlers, there's a range of family-friendly activities to keep everyone happy here.

What to do in Santiago de Compostela for adults?
Franco Street and Casa do Cabildo are just a couple of the things to do in Santiago de Compostela. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Santiago de Compostela?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Santiago de Compostela. If you need new ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral Museum is a great spot for anyone looking to save on their travel adventures.

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