Arriving in Santiago on the Portuguese Camino
The last stage, Padrón – Santiago, enters the city after crossing the river Sar by the Ponte Vella and continues along Avenida de Rosalía de Castro and Rúa do Franco to the Plaza del Obradoiro. Just after the bridge, the variant via Conxo branches off to the right, passing the monastery of Santa María de Conxo and adding 1.4 km.
The Pilgrim’s Office, where you collect your Compostela, is at Rúa Carretas 33, very close to the Obradoiro. To obtain it you must have walked at least the last 100 km (62 miles) and carry two stamps per day on that stretch.
What to see in Santiago de Compostela
Santiago Cathedral
Bishop Diego Peláez began the Romanesque cathedral in 1075. Its Pórtico de la Gloria is the work of Master Mateo. Since 16 October 2026 the Pilgrim’s Mass has been held in the church of San Agustín (9:30, 12:00 and 19:30), except the 7:30 one, which stays in the cathedral; confirm the times on arrival.
Old town
It has been a World Heritage Site since 1985 and you can walk it from the Obradoiro along Rúa do Franco, Rúa do Vilar and Rúa Nova.
University
The University of Santiago was founded in 1495, on the initiative of Lope Gómez de Marzoa, and its historic buildings are spread around the old town.
Population and location
Santiago de Compostela has 100,965 inhabitants (INE, 2025) and a municipal area of 220.01 km². It is the capital of Galicia and the end of all the Caminos de Santiago.
The Holy Year
The privilege of the Jacobean Holy Year was granted by Pope Alexander III in 1181 with the bull Regis Aeterni: it is celebrated when 25 July, the feast of Saint James, falls on a Sunday.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I stay when I arrive in Santiago on the Portuguese Camino?
This guide lists 40 places to stay for pilgrims in Santiago de Compostela, with checked prices, beds and seasons. The public albergue is Residencia de peregrinos San Lázaro (80 beds).
Where does the Portuguese Camino enter Santiago?
Over the Ponte Vella on the river Sar, along Avenida de Rosalía de Castro and Rúa do Franco, to the Plaza del Obradoiro.
Where do you collect the Compostela?
At the Pilgrim’s Office, at Rúa Carretas 33, very close to the cathedral.
Can you go into the cathedral with a rucksack?
No. You have to leave it beforehand at the albergue or in left luggage.
