Santiago de Compestela is famously the end of a pilgrimage route, but it’s also a springboard for discovering Galicia and beyond on a day trip.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
The history of Santiago de Compostela, the capital of northwest Spain’s Galicia region, dates back to the 9th century and it marks the end of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. There is plenty to discover in Santiago de Compostela, including its iconic cathedral, but if you feel the need to journey further there are some good day trips from the city to be had. Here are three unique day tours from Santiago de Compostela, from trips to sleepy fishing villages, to excursions to different countries altogether.
From Santiago: Tour to Finisterre, Muxia and Costa da Morte
This full day tour is a great way to see some of the most interesting sights around Santiago de Compostela with ease. Travelling by comfortable bus, there is a great variation of different places to visit, starting with a stroll through Muros, a charming fishing village. The next stop is the cascading Ézaro waterfall, before heading to Costa da Morte, or “Coast of Death,” named for its treacherous waters. Other highlights are Finisterre, with its remarkable lighthouse, and the coastal town of Muxía, a place full of history and legends which the guide will be happy to retell. This is a top-rated tour and great value. From €27.00.
Book at Getyourguide.co.uk
From Santiago de Compostela to Rias Baixa Unforgettable Tour
The Rías Baixas are a must-see when visiting Santiago de Compostela, if time permits. This series of four estuarine inlets located on the southwestern coast of Galicia, Spain, is a paradise of white sands and turquoise waters, dotted just inland with villages and vineyards. This nine-hour tour takes in the best of Rias Baixas, with the chance to sample fresh seafood, fine local wine, vibrant art, and enjoy the coastal landscapes. You’ll see villages lost in time, traditional wineries and visit the island of A Toxa, a unique spot famous for its therapeutic muds and healing waters. From €42.00.
Book at Getyourguide.co.uk
Excursion a Oporto desde Santiago de Compostela
With its colourful painted houses and slow pace of life compared to Lisbon, Porto is one of Portugal’s most popular places to visit. This tour allows you to spend the day exploring charming Porto in a small-group tour. The group meets in the morning in the Santiago de Compostela city centre and drives 1.5-hours and a across the border into Porto. The day starts with a walking tour of the city’s key attractions, from the Praça da Liberdade to the Porto Cathedral. Later, you can cross the Douro River to take in some of the famous city views. Round-trip transit from central Santiago de Compostela is included as is a professional guide. From €119.00.
Book at Viator.com