History of O Carril
It was born as a town around 1500 and had a port from 1512; by about 1750 it was one of the most important in Galicia. On 15 September 1873 the first railway in Galicia, between O Carril and Santiago, was opened here. It was a municipality in its own right until 1913.
What to see in O Carril
Seafaring quarter and Rúa da Mariña
With the port and the clam monument.
Population and location
The parish of Santiago do Carril had 3,151 inhabitants in 2025 (IGE), in the municipality of Vilagarcía de Arousa.
The Portuguese Camino in O Carril
You can only pass through on foot: the Traslatio boat goes direct from Vilanova to Pontecesures. From here it is 23.7 km to Padrón via Catoira.
Frequently asked questions
How many albergues are there in O Carril?
This guide lists 5 places to stay for pilgrims in O Carril, with checked prices, beds and seasons. The public albergue is Albergue de peregrinos de O Carril (30 beds, no advance booking).
Do you pass through O Carril by boat?
No: the boat goes from Vilanova de Arousa to Pontecesures. O Carril is on the walking option, at km 11.3.