Getting to Santiago is an exercise in willpower, vitality and energy that consumes us during the walk to the desired location. However, when we finish the journey in the Galician capital, we can feel empty, not knowing what to do. That's why, in this article, Portuguese Camino de Santiago gives you 8 suggestions on what to do when you reach Santiago de Compostela in 2024.
What to do when you arrive in Santiago is the question on many pilgrims' minds when they realize they've reached the long-awaited city. There is so much choice that it can sometimes feel overwhelming. Why not start by taking advantage of this historic location to:
- Stroll through the streets of the old town.
You'll have to pass through them to get to the cathedral, so why not take advantage of them? All these little alleys tell the story of this ancient territory. Time hasn't completely passed here. In this way, the houses make you imagine all the generations that have lived here and made this territory.
Divided between ancient museums, churches and other monuments, there are also picturesque cafés here, perfect for resting your feet.
San Pedro Street
Rue de San Pedro welcomes pilgrims on the French Way. However, it is also the most discreet in terms of tourism. In other words, you can stroll around this area at your leisure, where culture lives hand in hand with local commerce.
Preguntoiro Street
This alley is difficult for those crossing the city by car, as it is narrow and mostly pedestrianized. However, you can cross the entire historic center through it, getting to know the real Santiago de Compostela.
Cervantes Square
If you look at the top of the fountain, you'll find Spain's most famous writer. It looks small today, but it was once the center of Santiago de Compostela. Here, it was the town hall, a forum for trade and even a place for executions.
- Going out to eat
After all, this is the Iberian Peninsula and that means you can eat well in any restaurant you come across. It's no different in Santiago de Compostela, where there are plenty of restaurants to rest up from the long walk we've just completed. Next comes the moment most pilgrims are waiting for:
A little away from the historic center. It's perfect for people visiting the city's tourist attractions. Affordable, with a delicious pilgrim menu, quick service and a friendly atmosphere that few people know about.
For seafood lovers, there's no better option than this Galician treasure. This area is also known for its octopus, so it's best to try this local specialty when you can.
The best tapas and snack restaurant in Santiago de Compostela. Hidden away in the Plaza de la Pescadería Vella, it's one of those places where evenings are made that create memories. A must try.
- See the art of compatriot Siza Vieira
With an appropriate last name websiteThe Portuguese architect has several works in the Camino de Santiago landscape. From the pedestrian area in Leça da Palmeira to the Boa Nova Tea House in Santiago, there are three examples for those who love this art. The Galician Contemporary Art Center, the Faculty of Communication Sciences and, of course, the Santo Domingo de Bonaval park. Which, by the way, is exactly where we're going now.
- Take a stroll through the Mercado de Abastos
It's the second most visited place in the city after the cathedral. It's exactly what the name suggests: a market. A place where you can stroll around and enjoy the sights, bargain with the traders and feel like you're shopping in another era, another time. Here, you'll also be able to buy the food that the best restaurants in the region use for their dishes.
- Buy souvenirs for the family
In the Abastos market or in any other area of Santiago de Compostela, you can buy souvenirs for yourself or for family and friends. With stores entirely dedicated to this type of trade, this is the place to buy that magnet for the fridge, a tile with the yellow arrow or a map so you don't get lost on the way back.
- Visit the museums
This city is not only the political and spiritual center of Galicia, it is also a cultural center of excellence throughout the Iberian Peninsula. In the cathedral, for example, you can visit all the museums for just 15 euros. The rest, from the Museum of the Galician People to the Museums of Pilgrimages to Santiago, have different prices for each age group. It's a case of seeing which one suits you best!
- Take a walk in alameda parque
However, if you prefer to relax, you can take advantage of the Alameda Park. The large green lung of the city is perfect for a siestaor simply to lie on the grass and read a book. In a sea of options, few of them are bad.
- Continue to the end of the world
Arriving in Santiago doesn't mean the end of the Camino. Although this is the goal of many pilgrims, the walk is a constant and you can always continue on to Finisterre. This is a different route, so much so that you can find a kilometer zero marker in this area too. Now, what to do when you arrive is up to you.
What to do in 2024 when you arrive in the Capital of Galicia?
Now that you have these ideas of what to do when you arrive in Santiago de Compostela, you can enjoy the city more in 2024. If you get the chance, rest in this shrine in memory of Jesus' apostle and enjoy everything you've achieved so far.
Tell us about your experience in the city in the comments!
It was a unique experience and I highly recommend it.