24 Hours In Santiago De Compostela.

Santiago de Compostela is the endpoint of most Camino and the prized destination for every pilgrim

This is a beautiful city with a great history and culture to match.

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 pilgrims 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 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 the journey of a lifetime.

Mercardo de Abastos

The Mercado de Abastos 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. Visit one of the many restaurants that have popped up around the market or, for a small fee, customers can cook the produce they 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)

A visit to La Alameda Park won’t be complete without a visit the two Marys statues, located close to the entrance of the park. The Two Marys were legends in the 1950s and 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 is the old town of Santiago de Compostela, as well as being the location of the cathedral. Wander around the ancient streets, take a coffee or lunch at one of the many restaurants, or purchase Camino souvenirs to take home.

San Martin Pinario Monastery

The 10th-century Benedictine monastery is now a hall of residence for University students, although the building is sill open to 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 the 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. The modern building is a great white mound copying the curves and bumps of earthy hills. The cost of the building 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.

If you plan to walk the Camino de Santiago and need a little helping hand preparing for your journey, why not let me take care of the mundane, leaving you to enjoy the magic? I offer Camino Itinerary Planning on all Camino de Santiago routes.

If you plan to walk the Camino de Santiago, check out my book, A Wild Woman’s Guide To The Camino de Santiago. I share everything you need to know before you begin your Camino. Read at A Wild Woman’s Guide To The Camino De Santiago or click the link below.