24 Hours In Santiago De Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a beautiful city with a great history and culture to match.  You can check out our post The History of Santiago de Compostela to learn how the city was founded and it´s growth until the current day.

There is so much to see and do in Santiago and many Pilgrims choose to spend an extra few days to soak up the atmosphere before saying goodbye to the Camino.

For those of you who have a little less time in Santiago, here is a rundown of things to see and do in 24 hours. 

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

The Cathedral at Santiago, believed to be the final resting place of St James, is the number one destination for all Pilgrims entering the city. Many Pilgrims head directly to the square in front of the Cathedral to celebrate their journey of a lifetime and attend the Pilgrim's Mass held in the Cathedral.

Mercardo de Albastos

The Mercado de Albastos is the market that has served the good inhabitants of Santiago for centuries and is the second most popular place to visit after the Cathedral.

The Market sells a mind-boggling array of produce and Galician delicacies.  You can visit one of the many restaurants that have popped up around the market or, for a small fee, you can cook the produce you buy in their kitchen.

The Alameda Park

The location of La Alameda Park is one of the best places to view the Spires of the Cathedral of Santiago in the distance, especially at sunset.  A quiet oasis in the middle of a very busy city, it's the perfect place to recharge, reflect, share a picnic or meet fellow Pilgrims to share your Camino memories.

The Dos Marias (Two Marys)

If you visit the La Alameda Park, don't forget to visit the two Marys, located close to the entrance of the Park.  The Two Marys were legends in the 1950s and the city of Santiago has honoured their memory with two bronze statues.

The Pilgrim Office

Every Pilgrim who has walked the Camino de Santiago is entitled to receive a "Compostela" (certificate).  The Compostela can be obtained from the Pilgrim Office close to the Cathedral.

Casco Historico

Casco Historico means Historical Centre and the old town of Santiago de Compostela, the location of the Cathedral is a beautiful place to explore.  Wander around the ancient streets, take a coffee or lunch at one of the many restaurants or purchase your Camino souvenirs from one of the many shops to take home with you.

San Martin Pinario Monastery

The 10th-century Benedictine Monastery is now a hall of residence for University students although you can still pay a visit to appreciate the beauty of this baroque building. 

The church, which is still open to the public, has a beautiful stairway and its walnut choir stalls made by Mateo de Prado are considered the most impressive in Galicia.

The City of Culture

The City of Culture is located outside of Santiago Centro, on a hill above the city.  This modern building which is a great white mound copying the curves and bumps of earthy hills built at a hefty price, has caused much controversy in Santiago.  Nevertheless, it is worth a visit, even just to take in the architecture.  If you would like to visit, a regular bus service runs from the city centre

San Francisco Convent

Feeling hungry?  Then head over to the San Francisco Convent which housed Franciscan monks in the 18th century. While the monks have now moved to a more modern building, the old convent serves as a hotel and restaurant offering a special Pilgrim menu with typical convent or monastery dishes.

We hope you enjoy your 24 hours in Santiago de Compostela!