Plan a getaway to Santiago de Compostela and experience a stay at our Parador, located right on Obradoiro Square! Here are our recommendations for a truly fantastic two-day visit to one of the most beautiful and spectacular cities in all Europe, a World Heritage City and the destination of the Way of St. James. Ready for an unforgettable experience?
DAY 1
On the first day, we recommend immediately starting out with a stroll through the area around the cathedral. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is the most noteworthy example of Romanesque art in Spain. It is also the destination of all routes of the Way of St. James, which for centuries has brought pilgrims from all over Christendom to the tomb of the Apostle. Obradoiro Square is the historic heart of Santiago, the sum of the city's many traditions and long history. A 360-degree turn offers a quick view of a range of different architectural styles, the result of over more than 700 years of construction. We also recommend a visit to Quintana Square, an open public space bordered by the sanctuary end of the cathedral, founding monastery, canons cemetery and first town hall. A must-see!
For a relaxing end to the day, there is nothing better than dinner in the pleasant atmosphere of the Parador de Santiago Hostal Dos Reis Católicos, which boasts two equally enticing restaurants. Restaurante Dos Reis, located in an elegant hall whose walls are filled with legends, is the perfect place to sample the best dishes of the Atlantic. Restaurante Enxebre is more informal and offers a delicious selection of market fresh cuisine featuring the finest Galician products.
DAY 2
The next day, after enjoying the Parador's delicious buffet breakfast, take advantage of the morning hours to visit the spectacular Mercado de Abastos (food market), which is never short on charm and bustling activity. Continue on to the beautifully maintained Alameda Park, which offers spectacular views of the old quarter; the church, monastery and park of San Domingos de Bonaval, home to the Pantheon of Illustrious Galicians; and the green spaces around the capital, extending all the way to the sea, just half an hour away. On any of the side streets, you will find a great place to stop for lunch and enjoy the most typical and delicious food of the region: delectable seafood.
In the afternoon, explore the surrounding area, going as far as A Coruña, just 62 kilometers away. In the "crystal city" there is one absolute must-see: the symbol of the city, the Tower of Hercules. It is a lighthouse dating from the Roman period situated in a strategic spot with views of the sea and green spaces. A romantic spot with so much history behind it! But that's not the only thing worth seeing in A Coruña. You'll also want to stroll along the city's promenade, one of the longest in Europe. Then head for María Pita Square, where you can have a casual dinner at one of the local bars. Lastly, pay a visit to the port and say farewell to a city as beautiful as it is filled with legends.
Back in Santiago, don't miss the opportunity to discover such highlights as Santa María A Real do Sar Collegiate Church. Together with the cathedral, this is the church that has preserved the largest part of its original Romanesque stonework and it has an interior with lovely proportions. There is also the Renaissance Colegio de Fonseca (Fonseca School) and the magnificent San Martiño Pinario Monastery.
So how does this plan for a two-day visit to Santiago de Compostela sound? Book your getaway today!
Book now at the Parador de Santiago de Compostela
Here is a map of Santiago de Compostela to help you get oriented.
