Whether you have arrived at the city on foot or by another mode of transport, take advantage of your visit to get to know the area. Today we tell you all the things to see near Santiago de Compostela by car in one day.
Take advantage of your visit to Santiago to explore the surrounding area
Santiago de Compostela is one of Spain’s main cultural destinations. A World Heritage Site since 1985, it is the most cosmopolitan city in Galicia and attracts both pilgrims and tourists in general.
Although the historic city centre is the best known part, a short distance away there are estuaries, natural viewpoints, fishing villages and protected areas that are also worth a visit. Perhaps its great attraction lies in the fact that you don't have to travel too far to go from inland Galicia to the beaches along the coast. Aside from that, there’s nothing better than the region’s delicious gastronomy.
However, even though the pace of life here is fairly relaxed, you need to get organised if you want to make the most of the time. For this reason, it is best to have a rental car, since not everything we suggest is easily accessible by public transport. In addition, you can stay in each place for as long as you like, with no time restrictions.
To make it easy for you, at OK Mobility we not only offer excellent conditions, but we also have several locations where you can collect your vehicle. The closest is the one in Santiago itself, but you can also pick it up at other points like in Asturias. And when it's time to drop it off, you can choose the one that suits you best according to your location.
Things to see near Santiago de Compostela by car in one day
There are many things to see near Santiago de Compostela, but it all depends on how much time you have available and how much you want to make the most of your day. As the saying goes, he who grasps too much retains little, so we leave you several proposals for you to choose the ones that suit you best according to your tastes and preferences.
1. Padrón
Padrón is one of the first natural stops when heading south from Santiago. It is linked to the Camino de Santiago and the figure of the Apostle, but also to literature, as it is the birthplace of Rosalía de Castro. However, perhaps you are already familiar with the name as Padrón peppers come from here. In addition to enjoying the area’s gastronomy, you can stroll along the Sar River and visit the church of Santiago.
2. Noia
Noia hides a historic centre with a medieval air and arcaded streets that lead to the estuary of Muros and Noia. The church of San Martiño stands out, but do not leave without a stroll through its quiet harbour and a snack by the sea.
3. Muros
If you continue along the coast, you reach Muros, a seaside town with stone arcades and squares that open out onto the Atlantic. It is closely linked to fishing and its busy port can be observed from the promenade.
4. Ézaro Waterfall
The Ézaro Waterfall is one of the most unique spots in Galicia. The Xallas River flows directly into the sea and forms a waterfall that is not commonly seen in Europe. There are walkways and a nearby viewpoint that you can reach by car. A quick stop but a very visual one.
5. Fisterra
Fisterra has, for centuries, been considered the "end of the world", and therefore cannot be missing from a list of places to see near Santiago de Compostela. It has a lighthouse located on a cliff overlooking the ocean and it appears to mark the boundary of the Earth. It is one of the most iconic points of the Galician coast, and it is perfect for a stroll as you observe the strength of the Atlantic.
6. Costa da Morte
The Costa da Morte is not a specific point, but a stretch of coastline marked by cliffs, open sea and a long history of shipwrecks. If you walk along it, you will come across several viewpoints and quiet beaches. You can just enjoy them or imagine the boats drifting from the sand.
7. Ponte Maceira
On the way back to Santiago, Ponte Maceira is a quiet stop along the River Tambre. There is a medieval stone bridge and traditional houses. It is best to finish the route back where you started and with a relaxing walk before returning to the city.
If you were wondering what to see near Santiago de Compostela, you now have plenty of stops to create your own itinerary. Rent your car at Santiago de Compostela Airport with OK Mobility and explore every destination at your own pace. With your rental car, you'll save time and enjoy greater comfort, and you can always return to your starting point if you prefer a hassle-free trip. Check our terms and book your vehicle before availability runs out.
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