Santiago de Compostela Day Trips: Top 5 Must-See Spots

So, you’ve made it to Santiago de Compostela, a city practically overflowing with history and spiritual significance, very much the finish line for countless pilgrims. That’s great! Still, the region surrounding Santiago, that’s Galicia, it is something quite special too; it’s very, very gorgeous, with a super interesting culture, and there’s honestly so much more to explore right around the corner. This very article serves almost as a guide to some really unforgettable day trips that you can definitely take from Santiago, very quickly opening up a whole other side of the Galician countryside for you. From the definitely striking coastlines to historical spots practically soaked in heritage, get yourself prepared for an adventure that is basically full of amazing memories.

Finisterre: To the End of the Earth

Cape Finisterre, a place that’s really calling out to those who appreciate history, well it’s got such a neat nickname; they sometimes call it “the end of the world.” Finisterre, very honestly a historic place, once thought literally to be the westernmost point of the known earth. For people finishing the Camino de Santiago, many continue their trek those extra few kilometers, and that brings them right over to this special place. To stand right on those very cliffs, just gazing out at what seems like the unending Atlantic, that’s really an unforgettable way to feel peace with your surroundings. Aside from the powerful symbolism, it has gorgeous scenery, the beaches are amazing, and the local seafood is very, very tempting. So be sure to take a pause at a restaurant near the harbor; then treat yourself to some freshly caught delicacies. You should take some time out and check out the lighthouse; you might just find some amazing, picture-worthy moments. You’ll see, you can’t go wrong! See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Finisterre Cape Tour)

Pontevedra: A Walk Through History

Pontevedra, honestly a city somewhat hidden, with charm practically everywhere. Just a pretty short ride from Santiago, its historic center really gives you some perspective on life. Pontevedra is pretty special because they’ve done quite a bit in keeping cars away from the main part of town; walking here really gives you freedom as you carefully examine the detailed granite buildings and maybe even take a moment at one of the many plazas. Check out the Basilica of Santa Maria la Mayor, an interesting sample of Galician Gothic architecture; but honestly take in some small moments, maybe sit down at a café, enjoying a few tapas as the day slowly passes you by. To sum it up, this is really a spot where you just chill and see local Galician culture from a really authentic view. It’s such an enjoyable activity too. Read our full review: Pontevedra Tour Review and Details

Rías Baixas: Wine and Coastal Views

For the lover of the very tasty wine and eye pleasing coastline views, well then, Rías Baixas might really be your type of spot. Rías Baixas is particularly famed, it should be noted, because of its absolutely special Albariño white wine. Here, actually, there are tours of wineries that teach you just what makes this wine very, very special; also tasting sessions that’ll give your taste buds a treat. Aside from the tasty side, Rías Baixas also boasts gorgeous coastal landscapes, definitely perfect for seaside walks and photographing the scenery. You can visit places such as Cambados and Combarro; pretty seaside towns with neat architecture and ancient maritime traditions. Try some freshly caught seafood right on the coast as a top thing you just cannot miss. In a word, these places will definitely create that special Galician impression that will never go away! See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Rías Baixas Winery Tour)

A Coruña: City by the Sea

Now, if you’re kinda into places that blend some cultural feels with some really awesome views, then there’s A Coruña; it’s one big attraction, and is pretty close. Tower of Hercules, basically a Roman lighthouse from way back in the day and still doing its job; that should clearly be on your list to just admire. Check out the Maria Pita Square, just a wide, really cool gathering area that says lots about the town. To stroll along the promenade by the ocean, really, it provides just wide angles and really nice scenery. A Coruña provides some top notch seafood spots just about everywhere, with lots of spots letting you take samples of the super local Galician tastes. It should be mentioned, if shopping is something that’s quite fun to you, well there is no doubt A Coruña will deliver. Basically, it’s really perfect as an exploration of urban vibes mixed with seaside beauty. Read our full review: A Coruña City Tour and Details

Muros: Coastal Charm

Well then Muros is your ticket if your idea of the perfect day trip is basically wandering around some peaceful Galician village by the water, very near to Santiago. A coastal village like Muros might be the best choice you could hope for; and honestly, it just brings that slower life forward in your thoughts and memories. Muros’ historic heart will really draw you in because, well it has ancient buildings, pretty squares, and is obviously full of local life. Get a view of the old fishing harbor, which kind of just screams the cultural flavor of the place. Grab a local restaurant right along the water to eat the freshly prepared catch while staring at the sea. Basically, Muros gives just this peaceful feeling you won’t soon just cast away somewhere; that’s how most visitors describe their trips. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Muros Day Trip Galicia)

“Exploring the regions around Santiago is like unfolding the chapters of a captivating novel, each location telling a distinct part of Galicia’s cultural and natural heritage.”