O Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostela
The final stage. From eucalyptus forest to the embrace of the Apostle.
Best season: May–Oct
Map
- O Pedrouzo
- Santiago de Compostela
FEAACS track published by IGN. Follow current trail signs.
Source: IGN/CNIG · FEAACS · CC BY 4.0 · Accessed:
The Camino Bonsai Café team · Last editorial update:
From O Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostela is 19.4 km along the French Way (Camino Francés). It's stage 33, with 310 m of ascent and 350 m of descent, completed in 4h45 approx. Difficulty: Easy.
Why this stage is special
This is the stage every pilgrim dreams of: the one that ends right in front of the Cathedral. The walk itself is short and comfortable, through eucalyptus forest that smells of damp earth in the morning, but the emotion changes everything. You pass right by Lavacolla airport, climb the legendary Monte do Gozo — where medieval pilgrims first saw the Cathedral's towers — and enter Santiago through the old town all the way to Praza do Obradoiro.
It isn't a physically hard stage, but it is a long one emotionally. It's worth getting up early to make it to the Pilgrim's Mass and to savour the final kilometres without rushing.
What the terrain is like, kilometre by kilometre
Terrain
Gentle and rolling. Small climbs at San Antón and Monte do Gozo, with no demanding stretches.
Scenery
Eucalyptus and oak forest, Galician hamlets, and the first panoramic view of Santiago from the Gozo.
Trail type
A mix of dirt forest tracks, some paved stretches and city pavements as you enter town.
Villages
San Antón, Amenal, Cimadevila, Lavacolla, San Marcos and Monte do Gozo before Santiago.
Water points
Fountains at Amenal, Lavacolla and Monte do Gozo, plus bars open early in almost every hamlet.
Shade
Plenty of shade in the first half thanks to the eucalyptus trees; little shade as you approach the city.
Traffic
Generally low, with road crossings near the airport and at the entrance to the city. Take care.
Key tip
Leave before dawn if you want a photo at the Obradoiro without crowds and a seat at the 12:00 Mass.
Accommodation in Santiago for pilgrims
Book ahead in high season (Jun–Sep): Santiago fills up fast.
Albergue Azabache
In the heart of the old town, right by Praza da Quintana. Open February to December.
Pensión A Casa do Peregrino
50 m from the Cathedral, between Cervantes and Quintana squares, with original stone walls.
NH Collection Santiago de Compostela
A 13-minute walk from the Cathedral, with an indoor pool, sauna and spa to help you recover.
Refuel once you arrive
From a pilgrim's menu on the way to a proper seafood feast to celebrate in Santiago.
Stop in Lavacolla
Bars and small eateries with a pilgrim's menu and freshly made tortilla, halfway through the stage.
Octopus & seafood
Pulpo á feira, empanada and albariño to toast the finish. Booking recommended on weekends.
Pilgrim's breakfast
Arriving mid-morning? A good brunch and specialty coffee is the best reward. See the final section.
Landmarks and stops with history
Lavacolla
The river where medieval pilgrims washed before entering the holy city.
Monte do Gozo
The "hill of joy": the first view of the Cathedral towers, plus a monument to John Paul II.
Santiago Cathedral
The Pórtico da Gloria, the Botafumeiro and the Pilgrim's Mass. The end of the Camino.
More tours and experiences on GetYourGuide.
Getting here and getting back
Getting to O Pedrouzo: if you're starting here, the usual way is to come from Santiago (regular bus, ~30 min) or to continue on foot from Arzúa. Santiago airport (Lavacolla) sits halfway through the stage.
Getting back from Santiago: the train and bus station are well connected to the rest of Spain, plus direct flights from the airport (SCQ), 12 km from the centre.
What we wish we'd known
Really get up early
Leaving at 6:30–7:00 gets you to the Obradoiro around 11:00, with time for the Compostela and the midday Mass.
Get stamped twice a day
In the final 100 km you need two daily stamps on your credential to earn the Compostela.
Book your bag transfer ahead
If you use a luggage transfer service, pack the night before; on the last day you'll travel lighter in body and mind.
Save some energy for the finish
The entrance to Santiago runs long over pavement. Slow down and enjoy it — you've made it.
Don't ruin the final stage
Breaking in new shoes on the last day
The worst possible moment for a blister. Stick with what you know.
Leaving too late
You'll miss the Pilgrim's Mass and find the Pilgrim's Office packed.
Not booking a bed in Santiago
The city fills up in summer. Lock in your room ahead of time.
Forgetting the second daily stamp
Without the right stamps for the final 100 km, you won't get the Compostela.
What to pack, travel insurance and getting around
One single guide with the recommended gear, useful services (insurance, eSIM) and transport options for the whole Camino.
Work out how much it will cost you
Set the days, route and type of trip, and we give you an estimate of the total cost with a full breakdown.
Everything you wonder before this stage
How many kilometres is it from O Pedrouzo to Santiago?
How long does the stage take?
Is this stage difficult?
What time should I set off?
Where can I refill water?
Does the route pass near Santiago's airport?
What is Monte do Gozo?
How do I get the Compostela?
Do I need to book accommodation in Santiago?
What time is the Pilgrim's Mass?
Can I do this stage by bike?
What should I do the day after I arrive?
Browse the stages
Make the most of Santiago beyond the Camino
Walking tour of the old town
Small-group walking tour of Santiago’s old town with a local guide.
Cathedral and Pórtico da Gloria
Guided visit to the Cathedral with access to the museum and the restored Pórtico da Gloria.
Queimada show and tasting
The traditional Galician flambéed drink, explained in a show designed for pilgrims.
Fisterra, Muxía and the Costa da Morte
The three unmissable stops of the "end of the world" in a full-day trip from Santiago.
What to do after finishing the Camino
The Camino doesn't have to end at the Cathedral. Here are the best ways to extend the experience.
Finisterre, Muxía and the Costa da Morte
The "end of the world", the kilometre-0 lighthouse and the wild cliffs of the Galician Atlantic coast, all in one full day.
Rías Baixas boat trip and winery
Cambados, albariño wine and the best estuary views, with a boat ride included. Ideal for a rest day.
Praia das Catedrais (Cathedral Beach)
A full day to Lugo, Ribadeo and the spectacular Praia das Catedrais.
Cíes Islands
The Atlantic archipelago with some of Galicia's best beaches, on a full-day excursion.
A Coruña and Betanzos
A full day at the Tower of Hercules and the medieval town of Betanzos.
Massages for pilgrims
Give your legs a break after the Camino at spots in the old town.
Luggage storage
Drop your backpack and move freely around the city on your last day.
Airport transport
From the centre to SCQ with no hassle for your flight home.
Our top recommendation
Bonsai Café
Just arrived in Santiago after the Camino? You have earned a good breakfast. Bonsai Café is right in the city centre, with weekend brunch, Berraco by Bou specialty coffee and the best cocktails to toast your arrival.
Map
- Bonsai Café
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