Santiago de Compostela★★★
Santiago de Compostela is the destination of all Caminos — and one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The entire old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site: a labyrinth of granite alleys, Romanesque and Baroque churches, arcades, and squares where street musicians play and pilgrims celebrate their arrival.
The centerpiece is the Cathedral (11th–18th century) with the Pórtico de la Gloria (Romanesque masterpiece by Master Mateo, 1188) and the famous Botafumeiro ceremony, where an 80 kg incense burner swings through the transept.
But Santiago is more than a pilgrimage destination: It is a lively university town (30,000 students) with excellent Galician cuisine, a vibrant bar scene, and a unique atmosphere that combines spirituality and student life.
Plan 2 days — one for the cathedral and old town, one for the parks, museums, and gastronomy.
Attractions
★★★ Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
The destination of millions of pilgrims for over 1,000 years. The current cathedral was built from 1075, with the baroque west facade (Obradoiro) added in the 18th century. Inside, the Pórtico de la Gloria — 200 polychrome stone figures, one of the most significant Romanesque artworks in the world (viewing by appointment only, 12 €).
The Botafumeiro ceremony takes place during pilgrim masses and on feast days — the giant incense burner is swung by eight men (Tiraboleiros) through the transept, up to 20 m high, at up to 68 km/h. Guaranteed goosebumps.
Cathedral: free entry. Daily 7–21. Pilgrim mass: daily 12. Museum: 8 €. Roof tour: 15 € (book in advance, spectacular view).
★★ Plaza del Obradoiro
The monumental square in front of the cathedral — where all the Camino routes end. Pilgrims lie on the ground, cry, embrace. Surrounded by the Hostal dos Reis Católicos (now a Parador hotel, the oldest hotel in the world, 1499), the Palacio de Rajoy (town hall), and the Colegio de San Xerome.
★★ Mercado de Abastos
Santiago's market is the second most important attraction after the cathedral. Galician octopus, Percebes (goose barnacles, from 30 €/kg), Padrón peppers, Tetilla cheese. Some stalls will cook freshly bought fish for you for a 3–5 € preparation fee.
Mon–Sat 8–15. Best to visit Tue–Fri, Saturday is extremely busy.
★ Alameda Park
Beautiful city park with oaks, camellias, and the best photo spot in the city: From the viewpoint at Paseo de la Herradura, you can see the entire silhouette of the old town with the cathedral.