Things to do in 

Santiago De Compostela

Santiago de Compostela brims with timeless elegance, set against a historic backdrop that feels wonderfully alive. Exploring the city unveils a tapestry rich with tradition and heritage. Uncover the best things to do in Santiago de Compostela by meandering around its whispering, stone-walled neighborhoods, and vibrant seasonal celebrations. Off-the-beaten-path experiences will carry you into verdant landscapes, while local travel tips will guide you to hidden gems tucked away in the city's ancient heart.

Explore Santiago De Compostela off the beaten path

If you're up for alternative things to do, wander into small corners and simple rituals that locals enjoy, and trade busy sights for slower, quieter moments.

Cultural experiences: Start your morning at Mercado de Abastos, nibbling pulpo a feira and creamy tetilla with a small glass of albariño at the counter. After dark, squeeze into Casa das Crechas for a gaita-led folk session, or catch the tuna universitaria singing along Rúa do Vilar.

Small museums and galleries: Duck into Museo do Pobo Galego in San Domingos de Bonaval to climb the carved triple-spiral staircase and learn about bagpipes, boats, and lace. Step next door into the CGAC, the sleek Centro Galego de Arte Contemporánea, for quiet galleries and rooftop views of Bonaval park. Then find the Fundación Eugenio Granell on Praza do Toural for surrealism tucked inside a baroque pazo.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Walk up Monte Pedroso for a soft sunset over the rooftops and green hills; bring a jacket for the breeze. In the late morning, wander the terraced paths of Parque de Bonaval for calm views of spires without the crowds.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: Swing by Mercado de Abastos late morning to pick up vacuum‑sealed canned mussels, local honey, and wedges of tetilla or San Simón. Pop into the Sargadelos store on Rúa do Vilar for blue-and-white Galician ceramics. Before evening, browse Rúa da Acibechería for azabache jet jewelry carved into scallop shells and simple crosses.

Popular neighbourhoods

By stepping into Santiago de Compostela's charismatic neighbourhoods, you delve deeper into the city's rich heritage, inspirational art, divine gastronomy, and capturing the essence of everyday Spanish life.

Old Town: Meander through the cobblestone alleys of Old Town, home to the majestic Santiago de Compostela Cathedral - an endearing blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles.

New Town: Experience Santiago modern living in New Town, where fashionable shops, cheerful cafes, and sleek galleries make for lively urban exploration.

San Pedro: Savour the aromatic Galician cuisine in San Pedro, where family-run taverns serve feasts of Octopus ‘á feira’, Empanada Gallega, and Padron peppers.

Bonaval: Immerse yourself in Bonaval, captivated by the quiet charm of verdant parks, weathered stone houses, and the striking contemporary art museum, CGAC.

Belvis: Relax in the peaceful precincts of Belvis, known for its lush gardens offering a tranquil retreat from the bustling city life, yet promising spectacular views of the cathedral's spires.

Things to do in Santiago De Compostela by season

Spring: Often the best time to visit Santiago de Compostela, with soft light on the cathedral and camellias blooming in Alameda Park. Watch Holy Week processions wind through the old quarter, then linger over seafood and Albariño on quiet terraces, a gentle pace that suits seniors and culture lovers.

Summer: Longer days bring lively plazas and cool evenings, perfect for families to picnic in Bonaval Park or couples to wander the cloistered lanes. For things to do in Santiago de Compostela in summer, catch the Festas do Apóstolo street concerts and fireworks, or slip out to the Rías Baixas for breezy beach time.

Fall: Trace the last waves of pilgrims into town as the grape harvest fills nearby valleys, and taste roasted chestnuts at local magosto gatherings. Expect slower museums, softer light and easy day trips to green countryside that appeal to foodies and relaxed travellers.

Winter: Christmas in Santiago de Compostela feels intimate, with nativity scenes, twinkling lights on Praza do Obradoiro and the Three Kings parade for kids. Warm up with caldo galego, browse covered markets without the rush and enjoy a contemplative cathedral visit.

Annual festivals and recurring events colour the calendar: Semana Santa processions in spring, the Festa da Ascensión in May with traditional music and fairground rides, and July’s Festas do Apóstolo celebrating Saint James with open-air shows and fireworks. Come autumn, chestnut roasts and folk gatherings pop up across the city, keeping Galician traditions front and centre.