Things to do in Santiago de Compostela
Updated:
The essentials on arrival: Obradoiro square, the Cathedral and the Apostle’s tomb (free entry through Platerías), the Portico of Glory and the rooftops (ticketed visits), the Pilgrim’s Mass and your Compostela at the Pilgrim’s Office. Leave your pack first: it is not allowed in the Cathedral.
Get your quoteCathedral and the Apostle’s tomb
- Entry to the church and the Apostle’s tomb is free, through the Platerías door; backpacks are not allowed and access is limited during services. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)
Portico of Glory and rooftops
- The Cathedral runs visits to the Portico of Glory, the rooftops and Carraca tower, the Museum and cloister, and the Pazo de Xelmírez. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)
- Tickets are sold on the official visits website. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)
Obradoiro square
The monumental heart of the city, framed by the Cathedral, the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, the Colexio de San Xerome and the Pazo de Raxoi. (Source: Santiago Tourism, accessed 24/10/2026)
Pilgrim’s Mass and Botafumeiro
- From 16 October 2026 until further notice, because of works at the high altar, the 9:30, 12:00 and 19:30 Pilgrim’s Masses are held in San Agustín church; the 7:30 Mass stays in the Cathedral, in the Communion Chapel. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)
- Cathedral notice: the Botafumeiro is temporarily out of service for restoration works. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)
Pilgrim’s Mass: times and venue · Botafumeiro: when it swings
The Compostela
The Pilgrim’s Office, Rúa Carretas 33, opens every day from 9:00 to 19:00, except 25 December and 1 January. (Source: Pilgrim’s Office, accessed 24/10/2026)
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Where to stay
Where to stay in Santiago de Compostela · Get a quote for your Camino
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to enter Santiago Cathedral?
Entry to the church and the tomb is free through the Platerías door. The Portico of Glory, rooftops and Museum are ticketed visits.
Can I go in with my backpack?
No. Leave it in left-luggage or at your lodging.
Where is the Pilgrim’s Mass now?
From 16 October 2026, until further notice, the 9:30, 12:00 and 19:30 Masses are in San Agustín church; the 7:30 one is in the Cathedral’s Communion Chapel.
How long do I need for Santiago?
A full day for the essentials; two if you want the guided visits at an easy pace.
Schedules change: always check the current times on the official website linked.
More Santiago guides
- Getting home from Santiago de Compostela
- Luggage storage in Santiago de Compostela
- Albergue vs hotel or guesthouse on the Camino
- Camino de Santiago app
- Botafumeiro: when it swings
- Pilgrim’s Mass: times and venue
- Visiting Santiago Cathedral and the Portico of Glory
- Holy Door 2027 and the jubilee indulgence
- Obradoiro square
- Tarta de Santiago
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