Where to eat and sleep

Casco histórico / @ Mónica Ferreiros

They say Santiago is the biggest village in the world and, at the same time the smallest city on the planet. This Galician capital combines the comforts of small locations and the advantages of large sophisticated cities.

It can be crossed from one end to the other in a leisurely stroll and benefits from the amenities of large capitals.

Solitary and tranquil corners and, bustling streets of wine bars all share the same stage.

The historic centre, declared as a world heritage site by UNESCO, is the jewel in the crown. Constructed stone by stone around its majestic cathedral. The discovery of the tomb of the apostle in the IX century transformed this sacred place forever.

Where to sleep

Santiago is a welcoming city. It has the oldest hotel in the world, established in 1499 as a Royal hospital with the primary function of caring for pilgrims. Situated in the heart of Obradoiro Square, the Hostal de los Reyes Católicos combines luxury and quality with a long Jacobean tradition, it is nothing less than a living museum.

The Franciscan convent, another landmark in Santiago, also offers accommodation. According to legend it was founded by San Francisco, the Hotel Monumento San Francisco and, it is situated just a hundred meters from the cathedral. Aside from these two jewels, Santiago has a significant hotel industry network distributed throughout the city.

Where to eat

 Santiago, as the capital of Galicia is seen as the benchmark of regional cuisine. To its Market of Abastos the most exquisite delicacies from the Atlantic and, the most flavoursome meats and vegetables in the planet arrive on a daily basis.

The most traditional hospitality can be found on its street, particularly on calle del Franco and Raiña, close to the cathedral. The rest of its historic centre is also full of good catering establishments.

Furthermore, outside its city walls there is another area where the locals can frequently be found enjoying good food and drink, namely on Rúa de San Pedro. There are also restaurants for lovers of Mediterranean, Italian, Argentinian, Japanese, Turkish and American cuisine.