How to Get from Santiago to Finisterre and Muxía – Complete Travel Guide
The Journey Beyond Santiago
When I walked the Camino de Santiago, reaching the Praza do Obradoiro and standing in front of the cathedral felt like the culmination of a life-changing journey. I had dreamed of that moment for months.
But after a day of celebration and reflection, I realized my heart wasn’t ready to say goodbye just yet.
That’s when I decided to continue to Finisterre and Muxía, two stunning coastal towns known as the “End of the World.”
Traditionally, some pilgrims walked to Finisterre after reaching Santiago, believing that completing their journey at the ocean symbolized renewal and closure. Today, you can either walk this extension or take a bus or tour — and in this post, I’ll show you exactly how to get there, plus what to see and do once you arrive.
Related Post: Exploring Santiago de Compostela: What to Do After You Finish Your Camino
Why Visit Finisterre and Muxía?
These coastal towns are more than just beautiful destinations — they are deeply meaningful stops for many pilgrims.
Finisterre (Fisterra):
Historically thought to be the literal end of the earth, Finisterre’s dramatic cliffs and lighthouse offer a powerful place to reflect on your Camino journey.Muxía:
Smaller and quieter than Finisterre, Muxía has a deep spiritual history, with legends tied to the Virgin Mary and a sanctuary perched above the crashing waves.
Personal Note:
Standing at the Finisterre lighthouse, watching the sun dip below the horizon, was one of the most emotional moments of my Camino — almost as powerful as arriving in Santiago itself.
The zero kilometer marker in Finisterre.
Travel Options: Santiago to Finisterre and Muxía
There are three main ways to make the journey: walking, bus, or organized tour.
Here’s how to decide which is right for you.
1. Walking the Camino Finisterre-Muxía
If you aren’t ready to hang up your boots, you can walk from Santiago to the coast as an extension of your pilgrimage.
Distance:
Santiago → Finisterre: 90 km (56 miles)
Santiago → Muxía: 86 km (53 miles)
Finisterre → Muxía: 29 km (18 miles)
Typical Itinerary:
Day 1: Santiago → Negreira (21 km / 13 miles)
Day 2: Negreira → Olveiroa (33 km / 20.5 miles)
Day 3: Olveiroa → Cee (19 km / 12 miles)
Day 4: Cee → Finisterre (16 km / 10 miles)
Optional Day 5: Finisterre → Muxía (29 km / 18 miles)
Highlights Along the Way:
Rolling green hills and peaceful forests
Quiet villages and fewer crowds than the main Camino
Stunning coastal views as you approach Finisterre
Tip: At the Finisterre municipal office, you can receive a special certificate called the “Finisterrana” to commemorate walking this extension.
Related Post: Stage-by-Stage Camino Francés Breakdown
2. Taking the Bus
If time is limited or your body needs rest, taking a bus from Santiago is an excellent option.
The trip is scenic, comfortable, and budget-friendly.
Bus Service Provider:
Monbus – The main company operating routes to both Finisterre and Muxía.
Travel Time:
Santiago → Finisterre: ~2.5 to 3 hours
Santiago → Muxía: ~2.5 hours
Cost:
Around €12–€15 one-way
Tickets can be purchased online or at the Santiago bus station (Estación de Autobuses de Santiago).
Bus Schedule Tips:
During peak season (July & August), buses run several times per day.
Off-season schedules may be reduced, so check in advance on the Monbus website.
Seats fill quickly in summer — book tickets online if possible.
3. Joining an Organized Day Tour
For those who prefer convenience and expert guidance, consider booking a guided day trip from Santiago.
Why Choose a Tour:
No planning or logistics required.
Comfortable transportation in a small group.
Guided commentary about the history and culture.
Often includes stops at both Finisterre and Muxía in one day.
What’s Included:
Round-trip transport
Visits to key sights like:
Ézaro Waterfall (one of the few waterfalls that flows into the ocean)
Finisterre Lighthouse
Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Boat in Muxía
Cost:
Typically €30–€50 per person
Tip: Book early during peak season, as tours often sell out.
Personal Experience:We splurged and took a car service (we were limited on time and needed some “just us” time,) after walking the Camino and loved being able to sit back, relax, and watch the Galician countryside roll by.
What to Do in Finisterre
Once you arrive in Finisterre, take time to explore and enjoy this beautiful seaside town.
Top Experiences:
Visit the Lighthouse:
Walk to the Cabo Fisterra Lighthouse, where many pilgrims symbolically “end their journey.”Watch the Sunset:
This is one of the most iconic Camino moments. Bring a jacket and your camera!Explore the Harbor:
Finisterre has a working fishing port with charming restaurants and cafés.Try Local Seafood:
Fresh octopus, scallops, and mussels are regional specialties.
FOLLOW THE CAMINO CHRONICLES
The harbor in Finisterre.
What to Do in Muxía
Muxía is smaller and quieter than Finisterre, offering a deeply spiritual experience.
Top Experiences:
Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Boat (Santuario da Virxe da Barca):
This church is tied to a legend of the Virgin Mary appearing to St. James.Walk Along the Rugged Coastline:
The dramatic rocky shore is perfect for reflection and photography.Sample Traditional Galician Dishes:
Look for simple seafood stews and hearty breads.
The Rugged Coastline in Muxia.
Finisterre vs. Muxía: Which Should You Visit?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
Finisterre-
Atmosphere
Lively, popular with tourists and pilgrims
Famous Landmark
Lighthouse at “End of the World”
Views
Stunning ocean sunsets
Best For
First-time visitors, classic Camino ending
Muxia-
Quieter, more peaceful
Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Boat
Rugged, dramatic coastline
Reflection, solitude, spiritual renewal
My Recommendation:
If you can, visit both. Walking between the two or taking a tour gives you the best of both worlds.
Packing Tips for the Extension
Even if you take a bus or tour, you’ll want to be prepared for coastal weather and extra walking.
Light Rain Jacket: The coast is often windy and wet.
Layered Clothing: Mornings can be chilly, afternoons warm.
Comfortable Shoes: Even if you aren’t walking the extension, you’ll want sturdy footwear for sightseeing.
Camera or Phone: The scenery is breathtaking!
Snacks & Water: Services may be limited, especially in smaller villages.
Related Post: Complete Camino Packing List
Me enjoying chocolate and churros on the rocky shore in Muxia.
Get Your Gifts and Gear Here
Sample 2-Day Itinerary: Santiago → Finisterre & Muxía
Day 1: Santiago → Finisterre
Morning bus or tour to Finisterre
Explore the harbor and town center
Walk to the lighthouse and watch the sunset
Overnight stay in Finisterre
Day 2: Finisterre → Muxía → Santiago
Morning bus or short hike to Muxía
Visit the sanctuary and coastline
Lunch in town
Return bus to Santiago in the afternoon
Final Thoughts: A Beautiful Ending to Your Camino
Whether you walk, bus, or join a tour, traveling from Santiago to Finisterre and Muxía is the perfect way to close your Camino journey.
Standing at the ocean’s edge, watching the waves crash and the sun set, brings a powerful sense of completion.
It’s a reminder that while your Camino walk may be over, the lessons and memories will continue to shape your life.
Take your time, savor the experience, and let the Camino spirit carry you forward — wherever your next journey may lead.
Call-to-Action
Download my free Camino Packing Checklist to get ready for this extension or your next pilgrimage.
Read Best Places to Stay on the Camino de Santiago: Albergues, Hotels, and More and Top 15 Must-See Towns Along the Camino de Santiago
Follow Camino.Chronicles on Instagram for travel tips, stories, and inspiration.
Buen Camino, friends!
Renae