Visiting Santiago de Compostela was one of the most meaningful experiences of our travels through Spain. Nestled in the heart of Galicia in the country’s northwest, this historic city is the final destination of the legendary Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage route that has drawn travelers for over a thousand years. Even for those not walking the Camino, the city radiates a sense of spirituality, tradition, and deep cultural heritage. We spent two full days exploring Santiago, but it’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down — where every cobbled street and ancient stone archway seems to hold a story.
The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is, without question, the crown jewel of the city. Its awe-inspiring Baroque façade and towering spires dominate the skyline, and stepping inside to see the shrine of St. James the Apostle — whose remains are believed to rest here — was a profoundly moving moment. If you’re fortunate you might witness the Botafumeiro, a massive incense burner swung dramatically through the air during mass, filling the cathedral with clouds of fragrant smoke. Whether one is religious or not, the cathedral’s energy is unforgettable.
Wandering the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, felt like walking through a living museum. We admired medieval buildings, hidden courtyards, and lively plazas filled with musicians and pilgrims celebrating the end of their journeys. The Praza do Obradoiro, in front of the cathedral, is the city’s beating heart — a gathering place where weary travelers, locals, and tourists all come together in shared awe.
Santiago also offers a vibrant culinary scene, with cozy taverns serving Galician seafood, one local favorite is the fresh pulpo a la gallega (octopus with paprika), and of course a glass of crisp Albariño wine. We loved strolling through the Mercado de Abastos, the city’s central market, where locals chatted over baskets of produce and the scent of the Atlantic filled the air.
Getting to Santiago is simple — it’s well-connected by train or plane from major cities like Madrid (about a 3–4 hour train ride) or Porto, Portugal (roughly 3 hours by car).
Santiago de Compostela is unlike any other city in Spain — peaceful yet alive, sacred yet welcoming. It’s a place where centuries of history meet the human spirit of discovery, making it one of Europe’s truly special destinations.