Exploring Santiago de Compostela: What to Do After You Finish Your Camino
Celebrating Your Camino Completion
Arriving in Santiago de Compostela is one of the most emotional moments of the entire Camino. After weeks — or even months — of walking, the sight of the cathedral’s spires brings a wave of gratitude, relief, and joy that’s hard to put into words.
When I reached the Praza do Obradoiro for the first time, I cried tears of both exhaustion and happiness.
I had made it.
But then, after hugging fellow pilgrims and snapping photos, I asked myself: “Now what?”
Finishing the walk doesn’t mean the journey is over. Santiago is a beautiful, historic city full of things to see, do, and experience before heading home.
In this guide, I’ll share my favorite activities and tips for making the most of your time in Santiago after completing your Camino.
Related Post: How to Get Your Compostela Certificate in Santiago
1. Visit the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
The cathedral is the heart of the city and the spiritual destination for pilgrims from around the world.
Must-Do Experiences at the Cathedral
Attend the Pilgrim’s Mass
Held daily, often at noon.
Arrive at least 45 minutes early to get a seat.
Watch for the spectacular Botafumeiro, the giant incense burner that swings through the nave.
Visit the Apostle’s Tomb
Walk down to the crypt beneath the main altar to pay your respects to St. James.
Hug the Apostle Statue
A centuries-old tradition symbolizing gratitude for your completed journey.
Personal Tip: The cathedral can be very crowded, especially during peak season. Try to visit early morning or late evening for a quieter, more reflective experience.
The Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
2. Collect Your Compostela Certificate
One of the most important pilgrim traditions is receiving your Compostela, the official certificate marking the completion of your Camino.
Go to the Pilgrim’s Office at Rúa Carretas, 33.
Bring your stamped Credencial (pilgrim passport) and a photo ID.
Fill out the form with your name, starting point, and reason for walking (religious, spiritual, or cultural).
For a small fee, you can also request a Distance Certificate showing exactly how far you walked.
Related Post: How to Get Your Pilgrim Passport and Compostela Certificate
My Compostela Certificate.
3. Wander the Praza do Obradoiro
The main square in front of the cathedral is where pilgrims gather to celebrate, reflect, and reunite with friends made along the way.
Things to do here:
Sit on the cobblestones and watch new pilgrims arrive.
Capture photos of your arrival and fellow walkers.
Take a quiet moment to reflect on how far you’ve come.
My Favorite Memory: I sat here for nearly an hour, soaking in the energy and joy of pilgrims arriving from all over the world. It was a beautiful reminder that the Camino is a shared experience.
4. Explore Santiago’s Old Town (Casco Histórico)
Santiago’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, full of narrow streets, ancient stone buildings, and lively squares.
Highlights to Explore:
Praza da Quintana – Stunning at night with illuminated buildings.
Monasterio de San Martín Pinario – A beautiful and historic monastery.
Mercado de Abastos (Market) – Perfect for tasting local cheeses, seafood, and produce.
Rúa do Franco – Famous for its tapas bars and lively pilgrim vibe.
Personal Tip: Wear your Camino shell proudly as you walk — locals love welcoming pilgrims and hearing about your journey.
5. Treat Yourself to a Pilgrim Feast
After weeks of simple meals and energy bars, you deserve a culinary celebration!
Galicia is known for its fresh seafood and hearty traditional dishes.
Must-Try Foods:
Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician Octopus) – Tender octopus served with olive oil, paprika, and sea salt. It is delicious!
Tarta de Santiago – A rich almond cake decorated with the cross of St. James. Also delicious!
Empanadas Gallegas – Savory pastries filled with tuna, meat, or vegetables.
Galician Wines – Especially Albariño, a crisp white wine perfect with seafood.
Related Post: Stage by Stage: The Camino de Santiago Francés Route Breakdown
Celebration dinner in Santiago with new friends met along the trail.
6. Shop for Camino Souvenirs
Bring home a piece of your Camino journey with meaningful souvenirs.
Popular Pilgrim Mementos:
Hand-carved wooden walking sticks
Ceramic scallop shells
Local Galician wines or olive oil
Santiago crosses or jewelry
Compostela certificate frames
Where to Shop:
Small artisan shops around the cathedral
Mercado de Abastos for edible gifts
Specialty Camino stores on Rúa do Franco
7. Rest and Recover
Your body has worked hard! Take a few days to relax and allow yourself to fully recover before heading home.
Book a massage or spa treatment — some hotels offer special pilgrim packages.
Take a leisurely stroll through the Alameda Park, with incredible views of the cathedral.
Enjoy a slow morning with café con leche at a local café.
Personal Tip: Don’t feel pressured to rush off immediately. Giving yourself time to rest will make the return home easier and more meaningful.
8. Take a Day Trip to Finisterre or Muxía
Traditionally, some pilgrims continued past Santiago to the “End of the World” — the rugged coastline at Finisterre and Muxía.
Finisterre (Fisterra):
90 km from Santiago.
Known for its lighthouse and dramatic ocean views.
Pilgrims sometimes burn a piece of clothing or leave a memento here.
Muxía:
Smaller, quieter, and deeply spiritual.
Home to the Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Boat.
You can walk this extension or take a day trip by bus or tour group.
The zero kilometer marker in Finisterre.
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9. Reflect and Journal
The Camino changes everyone in different ways. Before rushing back into everyday life, take time to reflect.
Ways to Reflect:
Write down your favorite memories, lessons, and challenges.
Create a photo album or scrapbook.
Journal about how you’ve grown during the journey.
Share your story with friends or family.
Related Post: Top 15 Must-See Towns Along the Camino de Santiago
10. Plan Your Next Adventure
It might sound funny, but many pilgrims start planning their next Camino almost immediately.
There’s something addictive about the simplicity and beauty of this pilgrimage.
Explore other routes like the Camino Portugués or Camino del Norte.
Set new walking goals or fitness challenges.
Stay connected to Camino friends online or through local pilgrim associations.
Final Thoughts: The Journey Continues
The Camino de Santiago doesn’t end when you reach Santiago — it’s just the beginning of a new chapter.
Spending a few days exploring this incredible city allows you to fully celebrate your accomplishment, soak in the culture, and transition back to everyday life with grace and gratitude.
As you wander Santiago’s streets, savor every moment.
These last days are a chance to honor your journey, reflect on your growth, and carry the spirit of the Camino into whatever comes next.
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Buen Camino, friends!