The Majestic Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela: A Pilgrimage Destination
Discover the stunning Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key pilgrimage destination with breathtaking architecture and rich history.
The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is an architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning façade, rich history, and significance as a pilgrimage destination. Tourists flock here to explore its intricate design and spiritual atmosphere.
A brief summary to Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
- Praza do Obradoiro, s/n, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, 15704, ES
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the tranquility of the cathedral.
- Check the schedule for special ceremonies, including the swinging of the Botafumeiro, to enhance your visit.
- Take time to explore the nearby streets for authentic Galician cuisine and local shops.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the surrounding area is best explored on foot.
- Consider visiting during off-peak seasons for a more intimate experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, navigate to Santiago de Compostela using GPS with the coordinates 42.880688, -8.544395. Take the AP-9 motorway if you are coming from the north (A Coruña) or the N-550 from the south. Once you arrive in the city, follow signs for 'Centro' to reach the historic center where the Cathedral is located. There is limited parking near the Cathedral. The closest parking garages are at Plaza de Galicia and Avenida de la Libertad, but note that there may be fees ranging from €1.50 to €2.00 per hour.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
To reach the Cathedral by bus, use the local bus service (Transportes de Santiago), which operates several routes that connect to the city center. If you are coming from nearby towns or cities, check the schedules for buses arriving at the Santiago de Compostela bus station, which is located about 2 kilometers from the Cathedral. From the bus station, you can take bus route C, which will take you directly to the city center. The fare is approximately €1.00.
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Train
If you are traveling by train, take a train to Santiago de Compostela's main train station (Estación de tren de Santiago). Once you arrive, the Cathedral is about a 20-minute walk (1.5 km) from the station. Exit the station and head northwest on Calle de la Estación, then turn left onto Avenida de Fernando el Católico. Continue straight until you reach Praza do Obradoiro, where the Cathedral is located. Alternatively, taxis are available outside the station and will take you directly to the Cathedral for around €5.00.
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity of the Camino de Santiago, simply follow the yellow arrows that mark the pilgrimage route. The Cathedral is the final destination for many pilgrims and should be relatively easy to locate. Upon arriving at Praza do Obradoiro, you will see the Cathedral standing prominently. Make sure to take time to explore the surrounding square, which is filled with historical significance and beautiful architecture.
Discover more about Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
O Peregrino Escondido
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Praza de Fonseca, 1
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Hospital Real de Santiago de Compostela
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Rúa da Raiña
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Casa Das Pomas
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Casa Gótica
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Xardin das pedras que falan
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Ollador de Estrelas, Paio de Solovio
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Casas medievais da Rúa Nova
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Pazo de Vaamonde
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Fonte do Toural
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Fonte San Clemente
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Escultura de Isaac Díaz Pardo, miradoiro
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Eucalipto centenario
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As Duas Marias
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Unmissable attractions to see
Parroquia de Nosa Señora la Antigua de la Corticela
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Pr. da Quintana de Vivos
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Porta Santa da Catedral de Santiago de Compostela
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Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Santiago de Compostela
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Praza da Inmaculada
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Porch of the Glory
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Praza da Quintana de Vivos
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Praza da Quintana de Mortos
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Casa da Parra
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Pazo de Xelmírez
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Casa da Conga
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Praza das Praterías (Santiago de Compostela)
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Fountain of Horses
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Seminario Mayor San Martín Pinario
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Cathedral Museum
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Essential places to dine
Restaurante San Jaime
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The Greenhouse
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Restaurante La Piccola Italia scq Pizzeria
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Dos Reis Especia
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A Curtidoría
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Benboa Compostela
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Restaurant Casa Camilo
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Restaurante Tarará
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Casa Manolo
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A Fuego Lento
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Casa Marcelo
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Taberna O Gato Negro
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Restaurante O Piorno
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A Horta d'Obradoiro
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
TRISQUEL ARTESANÍA
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Consigna Peregrinos Campus Stellae
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Kilómetro Cero SCQ
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Berenguela - JoyasdelCamino.com
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O Pórtico
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Xoiaría Regueira
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Souvenir Corticela
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La Fábrica de Nikis
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Casa Miguel
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Dolmen
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Merlín e Familia
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Galician Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Café / Pub La Quintana
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Pub Casa das Crechas (Santiago de Compostela)
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Pub Albaroque
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Bar Forest
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Pub Atlántico (Santiago de Compostela)
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Pub Atlántico
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Pub Século IX
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Fuco Lois (Santiago de Compostela)
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Fuco Lois
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Pub Modus Vivendi
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Pub Modus Vivendi (Santiago de Compostela)
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