Santiago de Compostela City Walking Tour
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Let yourself be amazed by the most incredible stories of the Galician capital on this tour of hidden Santiago. We will go through its main tourist attractions and tell you curiosities that will leave you open-mouthed.
Available options
Santiago de Compostela City Walking Tour
What's included
Use of radio guides in large groups to ensure the quality of the tour.
Official Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We start at Praza das Praterías, opposite the South facade of the Cathedral. Our meeting point is the Fountain of Horses. This fountain of beautiful Baroque style has given rise to a number of interpretations about its meaning.
Then we will show you the huge scallop shell that, it is said, supports the entire cathedral. It's not visible to the naked eye, so you may have passed through here before without notice. On your next visit, you can boast of knowing Santiago better than anyone.
2
A few steps away we will reach the majestic Plaza del Obradoiro, surrounded by emblematic buildings. Here we have to stop yes or yes. We will discuss some details of the facade of the cathedral, admire its towers and see the oldest hotel in the city. We will also observe a curious element carved in stone that is present throughout the historical area. What is it? What does it mean? We'll tell you!
3
We leave the square by the Arc de la Musica, where the sound of bagpipes will accompany us for a stretch to round off the experience, and we will cross the Plaza de Azabachería, one of the most important in the surroundings of the Cathedral.
There we find the church of the Corticela. The origins of this chapel date back to the S. IX, is one of the oldest in Santiago. You may have stopped by without seeing her, but she's full of details worth knowing.
4
We will cross the old Jewish quarter to reach the Plaza de Cervantes, where truculent events took place in the time of the Holy Inquisition.
5
The tour will take us to know the oldest pub in Santiago, which was once the home of the doctor who introduced X-rays in Galicia. Oh, and we'll also show you the church where Mother Rosalia de Castro died praying. As we told you at the beginning, this guided tour of Santiago de Compostela is full of amazing stories!
6
To finish the walk, we will enter the Alameda, where we will see the statue of the Two Marys (we will tell you the story) and the ‘Tree of the lovers’. From this tree you will enjoy the best view of the entire historic area of Santiago de Compostela. You will take some spectacular photos!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
The meeting point will be in Praterías Square, next to the Fountain of Horses. Get the GREEN umbrella!
About Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela is a historic city in northwestern Spain, renowned as the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. It is famous for its stunning cathedral, which houses the remains of St. James the Apostle, and its rich cultural heritage. The city's medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a blend of history, architecture, and vibrant Galician culture.
Top Attractions
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
This iconic cathedral is the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. It houses the remains of St. James the Apostle and is a masterpiece of Romanesque and Baroque architecture.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Old Town (Zona Vella)
The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with narrow medieval streets, historic buildings, and vibrant plazas. It's the heart of the city and a must-visit for its architectural and cultural charm.
Historical/Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore
Alameda Park
This beautiful park offers stunning views of the cathedral and the city. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
Nature/Scenic
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Museo das Peregrinacións e de Santiago
This museum is dedicated to the history of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage and the city of Santiago de Compostela. It offers a fascinating look into the cultural and religious significance of the pilgrimage.
Museum
1 hour
€3
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pulpo a la gallega
Galician-style octopus served with potatoes, paprika, and olive oil.
Main Dish
Contains seafood, gluten-free
Empanada gallega
A savory pastry filled with various ingredients like tuna, meat, or vegetables.
Snack
Can be vegetarian or vegan, contains gluten
Caldo gallego
A traditional Galician soup made with white beans, potatoes, kale, and chorizo.
Soup
Contains meat, gluten-free
Popular Activities
Hiking the Camino de Santiago
Cycling tours
Kayaking in the surrounding rivers
Visiting Alameda Park
Relaxing at local cafes
Enjoying a spa day
Visiting museums
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. The city is bustling with pilgrims and tourists, and outdoor activities are at their best.
18°C to 28°C
64°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Galician, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Santiago de Compostela is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of distractions and scams
Getting there
By air
- Santiago de Compostela Airport • 12 km from city center
By train
Santiago de Compostela Railway Station
By bus
Santiago de Compostela Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Free Now, Cabify
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Zona Vella)
New Town (Zona Nova)
Day trips
A Coruña
75 km (47 miles) • Full day
A Coruña is a coastal city known for its Roman lighthouse, beautiful beaches, and historic architecture. It offers a mix of history, culture, and relaxation.
Rías Baixas Wine Region
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
The Rías Baixas region is famous for its Albariño wine, a crisp and refreshing white wine. Visitors can tour vineyards, taste local wines, and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.
Festivals
Festival of Saint James • July 24-25
Arts Festival (Festival de Arte Sacro) • April
Pro tips
- Visit the cathedral's rooftop for stunning views of the city
- Try pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) at a local tavern
- Explore the Old Town's narrow streets and hidden gems
- Attend the Pilgrim's Mass at the cathedral for a unique cultural experience
- Take a day trip to the Rías Baixas wine region for wine tasting and coastal scenery
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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