Santiago is easily seen in a day, though its atmosphere invites you to stay. The old town is compact, of stone and arcades, and everything revolves around the cathedral, the goal of the Camino. This route covers the essentials of the Galician capital.
Getting there
By high-speed train from Madrid in about 3h; there's also an airport with domestic and European flights. The station is 15 minutes from the centre. Santiago is also the end of the Camino routes.
The one-day route
Start at Obradoiro Square, before the Baroque façade of the Cathedral, where pilgrims finish. Step in to see the Pórtico de la Gloria and, if it coincides, the botafumeiro. Walk the old town (Rúa do Franco, Praza da Quintana, Praterías) and don't miss the Mercado de Abastos, where you buy Galician produce and have it cooked. Finish at Alameda Park for the best view of the towers at sunset.
Where to eat
Octopus á feira, seafood, empanada and tarta de Santiago. The Mercado de Abastos and the taverns of Rúa do Franco (avoiding the most touristy) are a safe bet.
What we don't recommend
- Rushing it. Santiago's atmosphere is best enjoyed strolling without a clock.
- Eating only on the touristy Rúa do Franco. The market and the back streets reward you more.
In one sentence
Santiago in a day is cathedral, wet stone and the end of the Camino; with one more night, you take home its unique atmosphere and an escape to the Rías Baixas.