What to do when you reach Santiago
You've made it. Here's everything you should do in your first 24 hours, told by those of us who live here.
The pilgrim's four rites
Reaching the Praza do Obradoiro and seeing the Cathedral façade is the moment you've spent weeks imagining. Take a while before doing anything: sit down on the square, like everyone else does, and let it sink in.
Then come the four classic rites: collecting the Compostela, attending the Pilgrim's Mass, giving the embrace to the Apostle and visiting his crypt. And after that, a proper breakfast or a good meal — you've earned it.
How to organise your arrival
The Compostela
Pilgrim's Reception Office, Rúa das Carretas 33. Bring your credential with two daily stamps from the last 100 km. In August, book a slot online.
Pilgrim's Mass
At 12:00 and 19:30. Arrive early if you want a seat. The Botafumeiro doesn't fly every day.
Embrace to the Apostle
Access is behind the high altar. Afterwards you go down to the crypt where the Apostle's remains rest.
Massage for pilgrims
Leg recovery after weeks of walking. Several centres offer a pilgrim rate.
What to see beyond the Cathedral
We're locals. These are the places that genuinely deserve your time.
Praza do Obradoiro
The heart of the city, framed by the Cathedral, the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, the Pazo de Raxoi and the Colexio de San Xerome.
Alameda Park
The best panoramic view of the Cathedral, especially at sunset. Look for the Dúas Marías statues.
Mercado de Abastos
The city's second most visited spot, and rightly so: top-quality Galician produce. Closes mid-afternoon.
Cidade da Cultura
Peter Eisenman's complex on Mount Gaiás, with spectacular views over Santiago.
Old town free walking tour
The best way to grasp the legends and history of the narrow streets.
Cathedral rooftops
Walking the roofs of the temple is the city's most surprising experience.
Where to have breakfast, eat and celebrate
Bonsai Café
If you're looking for a good breakfast after the Camino, this is our place. Berraco by Bou specialty coffee, weekend brunch, pancakes, toasts and the best cocktails to toast your arrival. Right in the centre, a step from the Cathedral.
What you have to try
Pulpo á feira
Boiled octopus with paprika, olive oil and coarse salt on a wooden plate.
Galician empanada
With scallops, tuna or meat. Perfect for the train home.
Tarta de Santiago
Almond, sugar and egg, with the cross of Santiago in icing sugar.
The perfect plan if you only have 24 hours
A realistic itinerary, designed for someone arriving tired from the Camino who doesn't want to miss the essentials.
An unhurried breakfast
Specialty coffee and something substantial. You've earned it.
Pilgrim's Office
Collect your Compostela early, while the queue is still short.
Cathedral and the Apostle's embrace
Visit the Pórtico da Gloria and go up to embrace the Apostle's image.
Pilgrim's Mass
Arrive fifteen minutes early to get a seat.
Mercado de Abastos
Wander the stalls and eat right there: fresh produce of the day.
Aimless old town
Rúa do Franco, Rúa Nova, Praza da Quintana. Get lost on purpose.
Sunset at the Alameda
The best photo of the Cathedral, in afternoon light.
Dinner and a toast
Seafood, albariño and a cocktail to celebrate the end of the Camino.
Extend the experience
The Camino doesn't have to end at the Cathedral.
Finisterre and Muxía
The end of the world and the kilometre-zero lighthouse. The perfect symbolic close.
Transport and transfers
Train, bus or Santiago airport (SCQ), 12 km from the centre.
Everything about your arrival in Santiago
Where do you collect the Compostela?
How long does getting the Compostela take?
What time is the Pilgrim's Mass?
Does the Botafumeiro always fly?
What is the embrace to the Apostle?
Is it worth staying more than a day?
Where can I leave my backpack on the last day?
What do people eat in Santiago?
Related guides
Come celebrate your arrival with us
We're at Avda. Rodrigo de Padrón 2, a short walk from the Cathedral. Brunch, specialty coffee and cocktails to toast your Camino.