A sanctuary illuminated by the light of Saint James
Santiago de Compostela
Why Santiago de Compostela?
The final destination of a thousand-year pilgrimage, unfolds around its magnificent cathedral, a city where stone streets carry echoes of devotion and history! Granite buildings shine softly in the rain, and the old town blends monastic calm with the everyday life of markets and cafés that welcome travellers and pilgrims alike. In the Obradoiro Square, the vast baroque frontage and the steady toll of bells create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Local dishes such as tender octopus and crisp white wine add warmth to the experience, making each moment in this sacred city linger long after the journey ends!
Main Attractions
Obradoiro Square
The monumental heart of Santiago is the final stage of the pilgrimage! The cathedral’s majestic façade rises high, filling the square with a sense of history and awe! Around it, elegant buildings frame a setting that offers a striking and unforgettable welcome!
Cathedral
The Cathedral is the end of the pilgrimage, attracting visitors from across the world! Its awe-inspiring interior and quiet cloisters convey centuries of devotion and art, while the graceful altar and rising columns leave travellers with a lasting sense of wonder!
Saint James' Statue
On the main altar, the statue of Saint James stands as a powerful symbol for arriving pilgrims! Its silver-clad presence offers a sense of welcome after the long journey, while the golden backdrop highlights the dignity and splendour of this sacred place!
Saint James' Tomb
Beneath the altar, in a chamber filled with deep reverence, lies the tomb of Saint James, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus! The silver reliquary glows softly in the dim light, welcoming pilgrims who come to offer their final prayers after the long journey!
Botafumiero
The Cathedral's gigantic incense burner, the famous Botafumeiro, swings high across the nave in a spectacularly wide arc! As the silver vessel sweeps through the air, incense fills the space and the cathedral takes on a solemn, majestic atmosphere!
Azabachería Square
Located next to the cathedral, this square was the arrival point for pilgrims! It also hosted the city’s jet craftsmen workshops, a legacy that can still be sensed in its calm atmosphere, that offers a gentle pause at the threshold of Santiago’s historic heart!
Cervantes Square
Set in the heart of the old town,this square retains the friendly atmosphere of the market square it once was! The statue of Cervantes stands quietly above the cobbles, framed by sober stone buildings that catch and reflect the soft Galician light!
Central Market
The Central Market is the heart of Santiago’s food culture, filled with fresh seafood and local specialities! The bustle of vendors and the aromas of Galician ingredients create a lively, welcoming atmosphere where you can experience the city’s everyday life!
Galician Style Octopus
One of Santiago’s essential flavours is the Galician style optpus! Tender slices of boiled octopus are seasoned with coarse salt, paprika and olive oil, creating a simple yet deeply satisfying taste that reflects the region’s honest, distinctive food culture!
Platerías Square
Facing the cathedral’s south side, this square preserves the legacy of the city’s historic silversmiths! Here, the baroque façade catches the soft Galician light, creating a refined and unmistakably Santiago atmosphere that welcomes all visitors!
Holy Door
Set along one of the sides of Saint James Cathedral, the Holy Door opens only in special jubilee years! Its stone arch stands in quiet solemnity, while its carvings catch the shifting light and create a sense of reflection unique to this sacred city!
What's included?
The prices for this city tour include all of the following expenses!
Optional Tours
CombarroOptional€500 per person
In Combarro, stone granaries and seaside calvaries stand along the calm inlet, blending history with the scent of the Atlantic! Here, narrow lanes filled with traditional bars by the water showcase the simple character of Galicia’s gastronomy!
CambadosOptional€500 per person
Calm inlets and flower-lined stone streets shape this town’s gentle coastal charm! Known as the capital of Albariño wine, its squares carry a soft scent of grapes, while old manor houses and the harbour reveal a rich maritime spirit!