Top 9 Best Things To Do in Santiago de Compostela

Discover the best things to do in Santiago de Compostela. Start planning a trip filled with centuries-old landmarks and Galician flavors you won’t find anywhere else. This guide brings together the city’s most iconic sights. Among them is the cathedral where Saint James is said to rest alongside quiet, off-the-beaten-path gems. 

Santiago de Compostela is best known as the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James). This ancient pilgrimage route is made up of different paths that stretch across Europe, all leading to the beautiful Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. It is here that the remains of Saint James are believed to rest.

However, the city’s magic extends far beyond the pilgrim’s path. Nestled in the heart of Galicia, Santiago welcomes all travelers, pilgrims or not. It offers visitors a beautiful mix of sacred sites, cobbled streets, and delectable Spanish food.

If you're thinking of traveling here, you'll find a wide range of tours and activities in Santiago de Compostela that go beyond the pilgrimage experience. Whether you're into history, local food, or just want to take in the atmosphere, there are plenty of ways to explore the city.

Short on planning time? Some of the best vacation packages in Santiago de Compostela include itineraries and stays. Many of them feature the top hotels and accommodations in Santiago de Compostela, making it easy to enjoy the trip without too much prep.

Keep reading to uncover the best things to do in Santiago de Compostela. Make the most of your time in one of Spain’s most enchanting cities.

9. Experience the Pilgrim's Mass

Attending the Pilgrim’s Mass at the Santiago Cathedral is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Santiago de Compostela. Held daily at the main altar, this sacred ceremony welcomes both pilgrims and visitors, offering a moment of reflection in the heart of the city.

One of the most awe-inspiring moments comes during the Botafumeiro ceremony. This giant incense burner swings across the Cathedral, filling the space with both scent and silence. It’s a tradition that dates back centuries and remains one of the most powerful Santiago de Compostela tourist attractions.

Mass is held four times a day at 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 12:00 PM, and 7:30 PM. An English-language mass is also offered daily at 10:30 AM in the Pilgrim’s Office Chapel. At the beginning of each Pilgrim’s Mass, the number of people who have completed their Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in the last 24 hours is read aloud. It’s a touching way to recognize the journeys that end here.

This experience is perfect for anyone looking to connect with Santiago’s spiritual roots. Just remember to arrive early to get a seat and dress modestly out of respect. Those who want a deeper understanding of the Cathedral should consider joining cultural tours in Santiago de Compostela.

8. Relax at the Alameda Park

If you're wondering what to do in Santiago de Compostela after a long day of exploring, head to Alameda Park for some well-deserved rest. Just steps from the city center, this green haven is perfect for unwinding, whether you prefer a quiet stroll, a scenic jog, or a peaceful cycling route.

As the city’s oldest and most iconic park, Alameda is loved by both locals and pilgrims. It’s divided into three unique areas—the Paseo da Alameda, the Oak Grove of Santa Susana, and the Paseo da Ferradura. Each offers its own charm, from shady lanes and flower gardens to historic statues and a picturesque bandstand.

Stick around for sunset at Paseo da Ferradura, where you’ll catch golden views of Santiago Cathedral’s spires rising above the city.

Whether you're reflecting on your Camino journey or simply enjoying the fresh air, Alameda Park deserves a spot on any Santiago de Compostela sightseeing list. To discover more beautiful corners like this, consider joining a guided tour of Santiago de Compostela’s top attractions.

7. Learn About Wine at Bodegas Granbazan

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One of the most scenic Santiago de Compostela tourist attractions lies just beyond the city: the elegant Bodegas Granbazan. Set in a Galician chateau surrounded by lush vineyards, this spot is ideal for anyone curious about the region’s celebrated Albariño wines.

A visit here offers more than just beautiful views. You can choose between two tours. There’s the classic guided tour of Bodegas Grabanzan, which includes a wine tasting. You can also go for an elevated experience that pairs the tasting with a curated tasting menu. Both tours offer insight into the winemaking process, highlighting what makes Granbazan wines so memorable.

The winery is open year-round, though tour times vary with the seasons. It’s best to check availability in advance. Located on the outskirts of Santiago de Compostela, Bodegas Granbazan is easy to reach if you're planning a road trip. Car rentals in Santiago de Compostela allow you to explore at your own pace.

The drive itself is part of the charm, taking you through picturesque towns in Galicia such as Padron and Pontevedra. If you’re looking for things to do in Santiago de Compostela that go beyond the usual, this wine tasting experience blends flavor, culture, and scenery into one unforgettable outing.

6. Take a Day Trip to Finisterre and Costa da Morte

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For a different kind of day trip from Santiago de Compostela, head to the windswept coastlines of Finisterre and Costa da Morte. This route reveals the wilder, more remote side of Galicia, where the scenery is as powerful as the legends.

Costa da Morte, once considered an ancient Celtic region, is known for its rugged cliffs, quiet inlets, and deserted beaches. Its name, "Coast of Death", reflects a long history of shipwrecks along this dramatic stretch of shoreline. 

Nearby, the Cape of Finisterre has drawn visitors for centuries. It was believed to mark the end of the known world—a gateway to the beyond. Today, it stands as the second most visited place in Galicia after Santiago Cathedral.

Join the Finisterre and Costa da Morte tour to explore some of the most mysterious places to see in Santiago de Compostela and beyond. You'll visit landmarks like the Finisterre Lighthouse and the stunning Ezaro Waterfall. This coastal journey adds a powerful natural backdrop to your time in Galicia.

Bring layers and sturdy shoes if you plan to walk the cliffside paths, as the Atlantic weather can change quickly. And don’t miss the chance to enjoy fresh local seafood for lunch—one of the area’s culinary highlights.

5. Visit the Cidade da Cultura de Galicia

For a fresh perspective on Santiago de Compostela sightseeing, head to the Cidade da Cultura de Galicia. This striking modern complex, designed by architect Peter Eisenman, stands in contrast to the city’s medieval core. In fact, it has become one of the most talked-about attractions in Santiago de Compostela.

Spread across a hilltop overlooking the city, the site hosts exhibitions, cultural events, and open-air installations throughout the year. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, it’s a peaceful spot for a walk. 

Explore key features like the Hejduk Towers and wide public spaces. Or, join one of the guided tours to better understand the bold architectural vision behind it. After some exploration, take a rest at an on-site cafe. For something more affordable, bring your own snacks or relax in the gardens surrounding the complex. 

To make the most of your time in the city, pair your visit to the Cidade da Cultura with one of the many city sightseeing tours in Santiago de Compostela. These tours will take you through the medieval side of Santiago, giving you the chance to admire its rich history and stunning architecture. The experience contrasts beautifully with the modern design of the Cidade da Cultura.

4. Discover the Museo do Pobo Galego

Gain a deeper appreciation for Galician culture at the Museo do Pobo Galego. Also known as the Museum of the Galician People, it’s one of the most enriching stops for anyone interested in sightseeing in Santiago de Compostela. 

Located in the beautifully preserved Convento de San Domingos de Bonaval,, this museum explores the region’s identity. Explore exhibits on traditional crafts, seafaring life, folk customs, and regional attire.

Its collection, originally focused on rural and maritime heritage, has grown to include historical documents, sculptures, and artistic items that reflect Galicia's evolving society. Don’t miss the museum’s standout feature—the remarkable triple-spiral staircase, a rare and beautiful example of local architecture, also attributed to Domingo de Andrade.The museum is especially rewarding in the quieter afternoon hours. Join a guided tour or explore the museum solo with a free audio guide from the museum. 

Whether you’re planning a quick city break in Santiago de Compostela or a longer stay, this cultural stop is well worth adding to your itinerary. It’s a thoughtful and engaging way to explore the stories that shape the city’s soul.

3. Enjoy a Tapas Tour in Santiago de Compostela

One of the most fun things to do in Santiago de Compostela is sampling your way through Galician cuisine. A guided foodie tour in Santiago de Compostela offers the perfect introduction to Galician culinary delights, experience warm hospitality, listen to each dish’s origin, and learn cultural tidbits you won’t find in brochures.

From pulpo a la gallega (octopus seasoned with paprika and olive oil) to savory empanadas (meat pies), the dishes are full of bold flavors. Galician food is hearty and portion sizes here are often double what you'll find elsewhere in Spain, so come hungry. Don’t forget to pair your tapas with Albariño or Mencia wines. 

Evening tours are ideal for those who want to soak up the city’s energy while discovering hidden bars and chatting with locals. If you're wondering what to do in Santiago de Compostela beyond the usual landmarks, this culinary journey adds a tasty twist to your itinerary.

2. Wander Through the Old Town

The Old Town is one of the most unforgettable Santiago de Compostela attractions. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic quarter enchants with its cobbled streets, stone buildings, and centuries-old legends. 

One of these legends tells the story of how a 9th-century shepherd discovered the tomb of Saint James beneath a sky filled with mysterious lights. The story’s event gave rise to the name "Compostela," or "field of stars."

Begin your exploration at the Praza do Obradoiro, the city’s main square, where pilgrims, musicians, and street performers converge before the majestic Santiago Cathedral for centuries. Then explore the alleys that wind past charming cafes and timeless architecture. Stop by the Mercado de Abastos to browse fresh produce and chat with local vendors.

One quiet highlight you shouldn’t miss is the worn handprint left on the marble Arbol de Jese in the Cathedral’s Portico da Gloria—evidence of countless pilgrims who have passed through. It’s now off-limits to touch, but it’s still a powerful symbol of pilgrims’ spiritual journey. 

To go deeper into the city's history, consider a guided walking tour of the Old Town. It’s a great way to uncover hidden corners and discover more places to visit in Santiago de Compostela.

1. Explore the Santiago Cathedral

At the top of any list of things to do in Santiago de Compostela, Santiago Cathedral stands as a powerful symbol of faith, history, and beauty. As the final stop on the legendary Camino de Santiago, this awe-inspiring structure is one of the most revered Santiago de Compostela tourist attractions.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, the Cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, with later Gothic and Baroque additions. Myths swirl around its origins, and to this day, there's debate over whether the apostle James truly rests beneath its altar. Still, the spiritual pull remains undeniable.

In the Middle Ages, the Cathedral’s doors were never locked. Pilgrims were welcome to arrive day or night, often spending their first evening in silent prayer within its stone walls. Today, it can host up to 1,200 visitors at once—yet it still manages to feel deeply personal. 

To make the most of your visit, start with the daily Pilgrim’s Mass, held at 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 12:00 PM, and 7:30 PM—an experience that captures the Cathedral’s living spiritual tradition. Afterward, explore the Cathedral Museum, where religious relics, historic artworks, and the tomb believed to belong to Saint James help bring the site’s history to life.

The Cathedral is generally open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, though hours may change during services and holidays. For a different perspective, head up to the rooftops for a breathtaking view over Praza do Obradoiro and the city beyond.

To see it all in one visit, consider joining a Cathedral and Museum tour. It’s an ideal way to gain deeper insight into one of Europe’s most significant pilgrimage destinations.

Is Santiago de Compostela walkable? 

Yes, Santiago de Compostela is a very walkable city. Its compact Old Town, cobbled lanes, and well-connected landmarks make it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions in Santiago de Compostela are within walking distance of each other, which means you can enjoy historic sites, charming plazas, and local cafes without relying on transport.

How many days do I need to spend in Santiago de Compostela?

Two to three days is ideal for most travelers. This gives you enough time to visit the Santiago Cathedral, explore the Old Town, and enjoy experiences like a tapas tour or a relaxing stroll in Alameda Park.

Short city breaks or weekend getaways in Santiago de Compostela can be rewarding, especially with a well-organized itinerary. Longer stays allow for day trips to places like Finisterre or deeper cultural experiences at local museums and wineries.

What is the most famous Camino de Santiago path?

The Camino Frances is the most well-known Camino de Santiago path. It begins in St. Jean Pied de Port in France and stretches across northern Spain, ending at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. 

This path has been walked by pilgrims for centuries and remains the most popular today. If you’re not walking the Camino but want to connect with its spirit, this Santiago de Compostela travel guide includes background on the Camino’s history and significance.