Santiago de Compostela: Old Town Walk & Cathedral Views

Summary

Walk Santiago’s winding old streets with locals, markets and cathedral views

You’ll wander Santiago’s Old Town with a local guide who knows every hidden corner, from bustling markets to silent stone alleys. Hear stories behind cathedral squares, taste real market air, and pause for sweeping city views in Alameda Park. It’s more than sightseeing — you’ll feel part of the city’s rhythm for a couple hours.

What’s the experience like?

Li was waiting by the blue umbrella in Plaza do Obradoiro, waving us over like we were old friends even though we’d just met. She started off by asking if we’d already tried tarta de Santiago — I hadn’t, but promised to hunt it down later. The square was buzzing with pilgrims dropping their backpacks and hugging each other. It felt like everyone had a story here, not just us tagging along for a day trip in Santiago de Compostela’s old town.

We ducked into narrow lanes where the stones were slick from last night’s rain. Li pointed out tiny scallop shells carved into doorways (I missed a couple until she laughed and tapped one with her umbrella). There was this moment near Mercado de Abastos when the smell of fresh octopus just hit me — so strong I almost forgot what street we were on. We watched a fishmonger joke with an old woman buying clams; didn’t catch every word but you could tell they knew each other for years.

I didn’t expect to feel so much just walking through squares around the cathedral — it’s loud and quiet at the same time, if that makes sense. Kids chasing pigeons while someone played Galician pipes nearby. The highlight for me was reaching Alameda Park; Li let us stop for a bit and honestly, that view of the cathedral towers through the trees is still stuck in my head. I tried to take a photo but it never looks quite right compared to being there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Walking tour of Santiago Old Town

• Meet at Plaza do Obradoiro
• Join group walking tour
• Explore main squares around cathedral
• Visit Mercado de Abastos and hidden streets
• Enjoy views from Alameda Park

Top questions

How long does the Santiago de Compostela Old Town walking tour last?

The walking tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is Plaza do Obradoiro; look for the blue umbrella.

Is this tour led by a local guide?

Yes, it is led by professional guides licensed by Spain's Xunta de Galicia.

Are audioguides provided?

If the group is large, audioguides will be provided during the tour.

What are some highlights included in this walking tour?

You’ll visit main squares around the cathedral, Mercado de Abastos, narrow streets, hidden squares, and Alameda Park for great views.

Is lunch included in this walking tour?

No lunch is included; only the guided walk is part of your ticket.

Do I need to be physically fit for this tour?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended due to walking distances and uneven surfaces.

What’s included

Your day includes a spot on a two-hour guided walk through Santiago’s historic center with a licensed local guide; if your group is big enough you’ll get an audioguide too—no meals or tips included though, so bring your curiosity (and maybe some change for pastries).