Two days in Santiago de Compostela: A perfect end to walking the Camino

After weeks (or even months) of walking the Camino, the moment you reach the Praza do Obradoiro and gaze up at the towering facade of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is nothing short of surreal. Whether you’ve walked from St Jean Pied de Port, Sarria or a different route altogether, arriving in Santiago is both a celebration and a farewell to your journey. Spending a couple of days in Santiago offers a gentle transition from pilgrim life back to an everyday pace, and gives you a chance to soak up the atmosphere of this historic and welcoming city.

From collecting your Compostela to attending Mass at the Cathedral, exploring the local markets and rooftops, and even venturing to Finisterre and Muxia, here’s how to make the most of two days in Santiago de Compostela.

Day 1: Pilgrim rituals, rooftops and local life

Start your day at the Pilgrim’s Office

Your first port of call should be the Oficina del Peregrino (Pilgrim’s Office), located at Rua das Carretas 33, just a short walk from the cathedral. This is where you’ll collect your Compostela, the official certificate of completion for your pilgrimage.

You’ll need to present your stamped credencial (pilgrim passport), which shows the places you’ve stayed and visited along the way. The last 100km on foot (or 200km by bike) is the minimum required for eligibility. In peak times (especially summer), the office can get busy, so it’s wise to go early in the day. You’ll receive a numbered ticket with a QR code on arrival, and you can track your position in the queue by scanning the code and checking the website. This means you can grab breakfast or explore nearby streets instead of waiting in line.

Rooftop tour of the Cathedral

While the Cathedral itself is a must-visit, whether you’re attending Mass or simply admiring the architecture, a real hidden gem is the rooftop tour. Accessed through the Cathedral museum, the Paseo por las Cubiertas takes you high above the city with a bird’s-eye view of the Praza do Obradoiro and beyond. On the tour, you’ll get fascinating insights into the history of the cathedral’s construction, along with panoramic views of Santiago’s terracotta rooftops and rolling Galician hills. Tours must be booked in advance through the cathedral’s website. They are conducted in Spanish, but written information in English is available via QR code, so you can easily follow along.

Pilgrim mass and the Botafumeiro

The daily Pilgrim’s Mass takes place at 12 noon and 7.30pm inside the Cathedral. Seating can fill up quickly, so arrive early to soak up the atmosphere. During the Mass, recent pilgrims from around the world are welcomed, country by country, which can be an emotional moment for those who have just completed their journey.

On special occasions (and sometimes as a surprise), you may be lucky enough to witness the Botafumeiro in action. This giant incense burner, one of the largest in the world, swings dramatically through the cathedral’s transept, filling the space with its fragrant smoke.

Mercado de Abastos: Santiago’s lively market

No visit to Santiago is complete without experiencing the Mercado de Abastos, located on Rua das Ameas, a short walk from the cathedral. Operating since 1873, this bustling market is the second most visited site in the city and a delight for the senses. Browse stalls of fresh seafood, Galician cheeses, cured meats, seasonal fruit, vegetables, and artisan products. If you’re feeling peckish, pick up a few goodies and grab a seat at one of the market’s small bars or outdoor tables. Some vendors will even cook your seafood on the spot for a delicious and inexpensive lunch.

A sweet treat from the Benedictine nuns

For something a little quieter and distinctly local, visit the Convento de San Pelayo de Antealtares, where the Benedictine nuns bake homemade pastries, including the famous Tarta de Santiago (the distinctive Spanish almond cake marked by the iconic Cross of a Saint). You won’t find a shopfront; instead, you ring the bell and order through a wooden turnstile known as the ‘nun’s window’. It’s a charming tradition, and the treats are absolutely worth it.

Evening atmosphere and buskers

In the evening, take time to wander Santiago’s atmospheric old town. Cobbled laneways twist and turn through centuries-old stone buildings, leading you past hidden squares and tucked-away taverns. The Praza do Obradoiro comes alive at sunset, often filled with overjoyed pilgrims taking celebratory photos, guitar-playing buskers, opera singers, and street performers of all sorts. Grab a seat on the steps and simply take it all in. It’s the perfect way to end your first day.

Day 2: Day trip to the coast and local exploration

Finisterre and Muxia day trip

If your legs are still up for more exploring, consider a day trip to the coast. Finisterre (Fisterra in Galician) was once believed to be the “end of the world”, and many pilgrims choose to walk or travel there after arriving in Santiago. The wild Atlantic coastline is stunning, especially around Cape Finisterre, where the lighthouse stands proudly on the cliffs.

A few kilometres north is Muxia, another site with deep cultural and historical significance. The Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Boat (Santuario da Virxe da Barca) sits dramatically on a rocky headland above crashing waves; a striking and memorable spot.

If you’re short on time, both towns can be visited in a single day via a guided coach tour, which typically departs from Santiago in the morning and returns by early evening. It’s a symbolic way to round out your pilgrimage with a final step towards the sea.

Santiago’s hidden corners

Back in Santiago, spend your final hours exploring hidden corners of the old town. Wander through the Parque da Alameda, where leafy walking paths frame postcard-perfect views of the cathedral. You can also visit the Monastery of San Martín Pinario, one of Spain’s largest and most historically significant monasteries, located just behind the cathedral.

For coffee or a relaxed lunch, head to Rua do Franco or Rua da Raina, where tapas bars, cafes, and restaurants spill onto the pavements. Try traditional Galician dishes like pulpo a la gallega (octopus with paprika and olive oil), empanada gallega (savoury pie), or simply enjoy a glass of crisp Albariño wine.

Getting to the train station and airport

Santiago Train Station (Estacion de Santiago de Compostela)

The train station is about a 15–20 minute walk from the old town or a short taxi ride away. It is on Rua do Horreo and is well-connected to other parts of Spain. If you’re heading to Madrid, the high-speed train makes the journey in roughly 3.5–4 hours. Services also run to A Coruna, Vigo, and other regional destinations.

Santiago Airport (Aeropuerto de Santiago-Rosalia de Castro)

The Santiago airport is about 12km outside the city centre and reachable by public bus in around 30 minutes. If you’re travelling with a group or have heavy luggage, taxis are also available and cost approximately €20–€30 depending on the time of day. Your hotel reception can help arrange one.

Final reflections

Santiago de Compostela is more than just the finish line of the Camino; it’s a city brimming with atmosphere, history, and life. Spending two full days here gives you the chance to slow down, look around, and really savour where your journey has brought you.

Whether you’re sharing a glass of wine in a sunlit square with friends you’ve made along the way, exploring the lively streets to the sound of buskers, or gazing out over the Atlantic from the cliffs of Finisterre, these moments are a gentle way to round off your time on the trail.

When you leave Santiago, you take more than a certificate or a pair of well-worn shoes. You carry with you the sights, sounds, and small joys of the Camino; memories that will stay with you long after you’ve gone home.