The Best of Santiago de Compostela
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Port
Vigo, Spain
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$200
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Transfer to Santiago and follow your guide on foot across Obradoiro Square. The magnificent buildings surrounding this focal point include the cathedral, the Town Hall and the Palace of Saint Jerome.
At the marvelous 15th-century Hotel of the Catholic Kings, step inside to view this absolutely beautiful hotel, built during the reign of Isabella and Ferdinand. A blend of Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque styles grace its rich and inviting interior.
Cross the square to view the façades of Santiago's enormous cathedral. The west side shows the Apostle James (Santiago) as a pilgrim, and a representation of the urn where the remains of the Apostle appeared. On the north side is the Plaza de Azabacheria and a neo-Classical façade. To the south is the Silversmiths' Square where, during the Middle Ages, silversmiths had their smithies. This is the only façade of the cathedral that is in Romanesque style. Your guide will show you the Jubilee Door on La Quintana Square, where pardons are dispensed. Then, you can step inside the church to explore on your own.
Head back to the Hotel of the Catholic Kings to gather in the courtyard for cocktails. Watch a special dance demonstration by a typical Galician dance group or Tuna singers, and enjoy a sample of local gastronomic specialties.
Schedule permitting, you will have some free time to do a little shopping before you return to Vigo by coach.
Please note: Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience. Restoration work will be taking place inside St. James Cathedral, so certain sections may be unavailable to visit.