Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

The cathedral is the goal of the pilgrim routes, and many visitors arrive tired from the walk. Inside you see the long nave, the high altar and the way down to the tomb of the Apostle. Services run through the day, so the church fills and empties in waves. The museum, the Pórtico da Gloria and the roofs are separate paid visits with their own tickets.

What to look for

• The high altar and the tomb of the Apostle
• The long nave and its vaults
• The Praterías door, the entrance for visitors
• Pilgrims arriving and taking part in services

Opening hours

Every day 7:00 to 21:00. On Saturdays in summer it closes at 20:30 for the pilgrims' vigil. There are no visits during services.

Source: Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, checked November 2, 2026

Tickets and booking

Free. Entry to the church is free. The museum, the Pórtico da Gloria and the roofs are ticketed separately.

Getting there

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Tip

Go first thing in the morning, when the nave is quiet, and leave bags at the hotel because backpacks are not allowed in.