Craggy coastlines, softly curling hills, and rustic towns line the short yet stunning 144-mile route. It all begins in the rainbow-colored city of Porto.

A contrasting image appears before you as you wave goodbye to the labyrinth of narrow streets and the iconic Dom Luis Bridge. The hustle and bustle of urban space makes way for unspoiled natural beauty.

The scenic back roads zigzag through villages that looked untouched for centuries and natural reserves soaked in the region's specialty, port wine. You'll be kept in amazement until the journey's end when the towering spires of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral appear before you.

You've come to the right place if you're ready to venture through this thrilling voyage. In our Porto to Santiago de Compostela ultimate guide, we created everything you need to embark on a stress-free trip!

The beginning of Santiago de Compostela

The history of Santiago de Compostela begins in the first century when a tomb believed to be that of the apostle St. James was discovered. Rulers built a church, and Christian worshipers flocked to the area.

In 997 AD, the Moorish caliphate of Córdoba destroyed everything but the tomb and its mystery went missing for centuries.

Religious significance

In the 9th century, the tomb was rediscovered. As a result of the construction of significant buildings such as cathedrals, monasteries, pilgrim hospitals, and bridges, the region thrived with religious wealth. By the 12th century, the faithful were crossing the continent to witness the spiritual site. And thus the birth of the Camino de Compostela pilgrimage.

Modern Santiago de Compostela

The region has continuously witnessed various religious rulers and unreliable finances for centuries. In the 20th and 21st centuries, the city and pilgrimage saw a rejuvenation.

Today, over 414,000 people trek the Camino annually. The city continues to be a vibrant spot with a rich cultural heritage and a thriving pilgrimage tradition.

Plan in advance

This destination is a sought-after city and pilgrimage destination. Many travel from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, so transportation providers often overinflate last-minute prices. Or worse, they might sell out in advance.

You should also book your transportation in the morning. You will get more time to explore, avoid rush hour, and have daylight to admire the scenery.

Speak to your local driver

All Daytrip drivers speak English, and you can discover first-hand experiences or stories you won't find in a tourist guide.

Although they're not travel guides, they have extensive knowledge of the area. You can ask for food recommendations, the best bars, and hidden gems off the tourist map!

Pack Accordingly

The weather along the Atlantic coast can sometimes be unpredictable. Pack clothes appropriate for the season. Comfortable walking shoes are essential to exploring Santiago de Compostela on foot or one of the many sightseeing spots along the way.

Driving can take around three hours. So be sure to pack snacks and water!

Bus from Porto to Santiago de Compostela

The bus is the most affordable way to travel from Porto to Santiago de Compostela. Alsa and Flixbus are the two bus providers and offer tickets from as low as €14 one way. The average cost when booking within 30 days of your journey is €29.99.

The voyage takes between 3.5 and 5 hours, depending on the route and traffic. Several buses require a change in Vigo, which allows you to explore the city.

Trains from Porto to Santiago de Compostela

Unlike traveling between most European cities, trains are not the most popular method of transportation. There's an average of three trips between the cities daily, but all require a change at Vigo.

The journey time is solely dependent on the transfer duration. It could take up to six hours if you have to wait for a train. The fastest train trip will get you to Santiago de Compostela in 4 hours and 48 minutes for between €17 and €30.

Daytrip private car service from Porto to Santiago de Compostela

Daytrip's private car service is the best way to get from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, sparing you from the hurdles presented by other transportation options. In just 2 hours and 40 minutes, you'll be transported from the chic eateries along the Douro River to exquisitely decorated buildings surrounded by hilly terrain.

Believe it or not, the style and comfort of traveling in a private vehicle and views of the scenic coastal road aren't the highlights of the venture. With Daytrip, you have the option to turn your ride from A to B into a sightseeing adventure. Braga, Pontevedra, Barcelos, and more are treasures you can easily visit!

Get lost in the Old Town

The entire old town of Santiago de Compostela is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So it's no wonder endless historical gems are scattered throughout its walkways. Some of the most awe-inspiring landmarks here include:

• Praza do Obradoiro
• Abbey of San Martin Pinario
• Praza de Quintana
• Pazo da Fonseca
• Pazo de Raxoi

You're free to explore the mystical streets as you like. Photograph the incredible gothic architecture, unwind with a coffee in a cozy cafe, or reward yourself after a day of sightseeing with a refreshing shot of Orujo, the local brandy!

Discover the Museum of Pilgrimage

If you don't fancy a walk along the Camino, you can still experience this epic trail at the Museum of Pilgrimage. It was established in the 1950s to prevent the walk from falling into despair like in previous centuries.

Today, it's still dedicated to protecting and documenting the trails. You can learn all this and more through one of the in-depth tours, which cost only €2.40.

Sample the flavors of Galician Cuisine

Sampling Galician cuisine is the best way to taste the flavors of Santiago de Compostela. The style isn't as popular as other European foods such as Italian, French, or Greek. So now is your chance to experience an authentic meal.

The dishes primarily consist of seafood and hearty stews or soups. Many meals are also cooked with regional wines. Some of the top meals to look out for are:

• Polbo á feira
• Empanada galega
• Caldo Gallego
• Lacón con grelos
• Carne ó caldera

Santiago de Compostela in the spring

Overall, spring is the best time to travel to Santiago de Compostela. The feeling of summer is right around the corner, and the blue skies let you explore the doors without the herds of tourists.

Santiago de Compostela in the summer

Summer is the best season for walking outdoors. The average daily high temperature is 71° Fahrenheit. There are also numerous festivals, including the Feasts of the Apoloses and St. John's Night.

Santiago de Compostela in the fall

During the fall, northern Spain's countryside turns from bright green to red and burnt orange. Also, local products are harvested during this period. So, foodies can indulge in delicious fresh cuisine!

Santiago de Compostela in the winter

Winter is cold and brings an average of 5.5 inches of rain. But don't let the climate deter you. The gloomy weather gives the city a unique atmosphere and allows you to explore a tour at your own pace with hardly any other visitors.