Santiago de Compostela – the resting place of Saint James and the goal of the Camino – is one of the three great pilgrimage cities of Christianity, alongside Jerusalem and Rome. This complete guide brings together our articles on the cathedral, the Camino de Santiago and where to stay, and sets out the practical basics for planning a visit to this enchanting city in Galicia, northwest Spain.

In This Series

• The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
• The Camino de Santiago: Walking the Way of Saint James
• Where to Stay in Santiago de Compostela: Budget Hostels and Pensions

Who Comes Here

Pilgrims who have walked or cycled the Camino arrive daily, often after weeks on the road, to pray at the tomb of Saint James and attend the Pilgrim’s Mass. They are joined by countless other visitors drawn by the cathedral, the beautiful old town and the rich culture of Galicia.

When to Visit

Late spring and early autumn offer the best balance of weather and crowds; Galicia is famously green because it is often wet, so bring a raincoat in any season. Summer and especially Holy Years are the busiest and most expensive times. The feast of Saint James on 25 July is the city’s great celebration.

Getting There

Santiago has its own airport with connections across Spain and Europe, and is linked by high-speed and regional trains and by bus to the rest of the country. Many visitors, of course, arrive on foot or by bicycle along the Camino. Within the city, the compact old town and cathedral are explored entirely on foot.

Explore More Sacred Sites

• The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem
• The Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem
• Vatican City and St Peter’s Basilica, Rome
• The Basilica of the Annunciation, Nazareth
• Lourdes, France
• Fatima, Portugal
• Mont-Saint-Michel, France
• The Holy Sites of Christianity: A Guide to the Great Sacred Places