O Pedrouzo → Santiago de Compostela
The final stage. From eucalyptus forest to the embrace of the Apostle.
Why this stage is special
This is the stage every pilgrim dreams of: the one that ends in front of the Cathedral. Although the walk is short and comfortable, packed with eucalyptus forests that smell of morning dew, the emotion changes everything. You pass beside Lavacolla airport, climb the legendary Monte do Gozo —where medieval pilgrims first glimpsed the Cathedral spires— and enter Santiago through the old town all the way to the Praza do Obradoiro.
It's not a tough stage, but it is a long one emotionally. Set off early to make the Pilgrim's Mass and savour the last kilometres without rushing.
What the terrain is like, kilometre by kilometre
🌲 Terrain
Gentle and rolling. Small climbs at San Antón and Monte do Gozo, with no demanding sections.
🏞️ Landscapes
Eucalyptus and oak woods, Galician hamlets and the first panoramic view of Santiago from the Gozo.
🥾 Path type
A mix of dirt forest tracks, some paved stretches and city pavements as you enter town.
🏘️ Villages
San Antón, Amenal, Cimadevila, Lavacolla, San Marcos and Monte do Gozo before Santiago.
💧 Water points
Fountains in Amenal, Lavacolla and Monte do Gozo. Bars open early in almost every hamlet.
🌳 Shade
Plenty of shade in the first half thanks to the eucalyptus; scarce as you near the city.
🚗 Traffic
Low overall, with road crossings near the airport and at the urban approach. Take care.
⚠️ Key tip
Leave before dawn if you want a photo in the Obradoiro without crowds and a seat at the noon Mass.
The gear that makes a difference
An honest selection for this stage: only what you'll really use. The links are affiliate links; they cost you nothing extra and help us keep this guide going.
🥾 Hiking boots / shoes
Comfortable and already broken in. For the final stage, nothing brand new.
🔋 Power bank
So you don't run out of battery for the Cathedral photo or the digital Compostela.
🦯 Trekking poles
Ease the knees on the descents to Lavacolla and Monte do Gozo.
🧥 Rain jacket
Galicia is Galicia. Lightweight, breathable and always within reach.
🧦 Technical anti-blister socks
The last day is no time for blisters. Seamless and well ventilated.
Accommodation in Santiago for pilgrims
Book ahead in high season (Jun–Sep): Santiago fills up. Prices are per night, approximate.
Pilgrim hostel (albergue)
Budget-friendly with a pilgrim vibe. Ideal for your last night if you want to share the end of the Camino.
Guesthouse in the old town
A private room a few minutes from the Cathedral. The perfect balance of price and rest.
Hotel to celebrate
A well-earned treat after weeks of walking. Many with spa and breakfast to recharge.
To refuel when you arrive
From the pilgrim's menu on the way to a proper celebratory seafood feast in Santiago.
Stop in Lavacolla
Bars and eateries with a pilgrim's menu and freshly made tortilla, at the midpoint of the stage.
Octopus & seafood
Pulpo á feira, empanada and albariño to toast the finish. Booking recommended at weekends.
Pilgrim's breakfast
Arriving mid-morning? A good brunch and specialty coffee is the best reward. See the final section.
Monuments and stops with history
Lavacolla
The river where medieval pilgrims washed before entering the holy city.
Monte do Gozo
The "mount of joy": the first view of the Cathedral spires and the monument to John Paul II.
Santiago Cathedral
The Pórtico da Gloria, the Botafumeiro and the Pilgrim's Mass. The end of the Camino.
More tours and experiences on GetYourGuide.
How to get there and how to get back
How to reach O Pedrouzo: if you start here, the usual way is to come from Santiago (regular bus, ~30 min) or continue on foot from Arzúa. Santiago airport (Lavacolla) sits at the midpoint of the stage.
How to get back from Santiago: the train and bus stations are well connected with the whole of Spain, plus direct flights from the airport (SCQ), 12 km from the centre.
🚆 Trains and buses
Compare timetables and prices for your trip home.
🎫 Trains (Trainline)
Renfe and AVE tickets to Madrid, A Coruña or Vigo.
🚗 Car hire
If you want to keep exploring Galicia at your own pace.
Sort these out before you set off
🛡️ Travel insurance
Medical and baggage cover designed for pilgrims and travellers.
📶 Data eSIM
Internet the moment you land, no swapping SIMs or roaming.
📱 eSIM (Holafly)
Unlimited data with support in English and Spanish. Handy for short stays.
What we wish we'd known
Really get up early
Leaving at 6:30–7:00 you reach the Obradoiro around 11:00, with time for the Compostela and the noon Mass.
Get two stamps a day
On the last 100 km you need two daily stamps in your credential to earn the Compostela.
Book bag transfer in advance
If you use luggage transfer, leave your pack ready the night before; the last day you walk lighter in body and soul.
Save energy for the finish
The entrance into Santiago drags on through tarmac. Slow down and enjoy: you've made it.
Don't ruin the final stage
Breaking in new footwear on the last day
The worst moment for a blister. Wear what you always wear.
Setting off too late
You'll miss the Pilgrim's Mass and find the Pilgrim's Office packed.
Not booking accommodation in Santiago
In summer the city fills up. Lock in your bed in advance.
Forgetting the second stamp
Without the right stamps on the last 100 km, they won't grant the Compostela.
Everything you wonder before this stage
How many kilometres is O Pedrouzo to Santiago?
How long does the stage take?
Is it a hard stage?
What time should I set off?
Where can I refill water?
Does it pass near Santiago airport?
What is Monte do Gozo?
How do I get the Compostela?
Do I need to book accommodation in Santiago?
What time is the Pilgrim's Mass?
Can I do this stage by bike?
What should I do the day after arriving?
Quick comparison for pilgrims
| Product | What it's for | Rating | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technical socks | Prevent blisters and keep feet dry | ★★★★★ | Amazon |
| Folding poles | Reduce load on knees and descents | ★★★★☆ | Amazon |
| Lightweight rain jacket | Galician rain without the weight | ★★★★★ | Amazon |
| Power bank 10,000 mAh | Charge your phone on the way | ★★★★☆ | Amazon |
| Anti-blister plasters | Treat and protect feet on the move | ★★★★★ | Amazon |
Navigate between stages
To experience Santiago beyond the Camino
Free walking tour of Santiago
The old town, its legends and hidden corners with a local guide.
What to do after finishing the Camino?
The Camino doesn't have to end at the Cathedral. Here are the best ways to extend the experience.
Finisterre & Muxía
The "end of the world" and the kilometre-zero lighthouse. A perfect symbolic close.
Costa da Morte
Wild cliffs, lighthouses and Atlantic fishing villages of Galicia.
Rías Baixas
Cambados, albariño wine and the best estuary views. Ideal for a rest day.
Our featured recommendation
Bonsai Café
Just arrived in Santiago after the Camino? You've earned a good breakfast. At Bonsai Café we welcome you in the heart of the city with weekend brunch, Berraco by Bou specialty coffee and the best cocktails to toast your arrival.