O Pedrouzo → Santiago de Compostela
The final stage. From eucalyptus forest to the embrace of the Apostle.
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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.
The gear that makes the difference
An honest selection for this stage: only what you'll really use. These are affiliate links — they cost you nothing extra and help us keep this guide going.
🥾 Hiking boots / trail shoes
Comfortable and already broken in. No new footwear on the last stage.
🔋 Power bank
So you don't run out of battery for the Cathedral photo — or your digital Compostela.
🦯 Trekking poles
Ease the strain on your knees on the descents towards Lavacolla and Monte do Gozo.
🧥 Rain jacket
Galicia is Galicia. Light, breathable, and always within reach.
🧦 Blister-resistant technical socks
The last day is no time for blisters. Seamless and breathable.
Accommodation in Santiago for pilgrims
Book ahead in high season (Jun–Sep): Santiago fills up fast. Prices below are per night, as a guide.
Pilgrim albergue
Budget-friendly with a real pilgrim atmosphere. Ideal for your last night if you want to share the end of the Camino.
Guesthouse in the old town
A private room minutes from the Cathedral. The perfect middle ground between price and comfort.
A hotel to celebrate
A well-earned treat after weeks of walking. Many come with a spa and breakfast 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.
🚆 Trains and buses
Compare timetables and fares for your journey home.
🎫 Train (Trainline)
Renfe and AVE tickets to Madrid, A Coruña or Vigo.
🚗 Car rental
If you want to keep exploring Galicia on your own.
Sort this out before you set off
🛡️ Travel insurance
Medical and luggage cover designed for pilgrims and travellers.
📶 Data eSIM
Get online the moment you land, no SIM swap or roaming needed.
📱 eSIM (Holafly)
Unlimited data with support in English. Handy for short stays.
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.
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?
A quick comparison for pilgrims
| Product | What it's for | Rating | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technical socks | Prevent blisters and keep feet dry | ★★★★★ | AmazonEnlace de afiliado · Amazon |
| Folding poles | Reduce strain on knees and downhills | ★★★★☆ | AmazonEnlace de afiliado · Amazon |
| Lightweight rain jacket | Galician rain without extra weight | ★★★★★ | AmazonEnlace de afiliado · Amazon |
| 10,000 mAh power bank | Charge your phone on the go | ★★★★☆ | AmazonEnlace de afiliado · Amazon |
| Blister plasters | Treat and protect your feet on the move | ★★★★★ | Amazon |
Browse the stages
Experience Santiago beyond the Camino
Free tour of Santiago
The old town, its legends and hidden corners, with a local guide.
Cathedral rooftops
Unique views of the city from the rooftops of the Cathedral.
Tapas and wine route
Octopus, empanada and albariño around the old quarter.
Secrets of the Cathedral (night tour)
A night-time walk through the lesser-known corners of the Cathedral, outside normal visiting hours.
Queimada show and tasting
Galicia's traditional flaming drink, explained and tasted in a show designed for pilgrims.
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.
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've earned a proper breakfast. At Bonsai Café, right in the centre, we've got weekend brunch, Berraco by Bou specialty coffee, and the best cocktails to toast your arrival.