Santiago de Compostela, Spain: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Santiago de Compostela, Spain? If you're planning to go to Santiago de Compostela, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Santiago de Compostela
  2. Important essentials for Santiago de Compostela
  3. Activities for Santiago de Compostela
  4. Santiago de Compostela in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Santiago de Compostela in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Santiago de Compostela in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Santiago de Compostela in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Santiago de Compostela in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Santiago de Compostela in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Santiago de Compostela in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Santiago de Compostela in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Santiago de Compostela in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Santiago de Compostela in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Santiago de Compostela in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Santiago de Compostela in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Based on the climate and weather in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Santiago de Compostela, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Santiago de Compostela, Spain by month

January

January in Santiago de Compostela can be brisk. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santiago de Compostela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you plan to visit the charming Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Pilgrimage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Santiago de Compostela can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). There is frost once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santiago de Compostela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the necessary kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to visit the charming Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Pilgrimage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

In March, Santiago de Compostela is relatively cool. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Santiago de Compostela, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santiago de Compostela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you plan to visit the charming Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Pilgrimage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Santiago de Compostela can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santiago de Compostela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you plan to visit the charming Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Pilgrimage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Santiago de Compostela is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santiago de Compostela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you plan to visit the charming Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Pilgrimage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Santiago de Compostela is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santiago de Compostela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the correct type. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to visit the charming Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Pilgrimage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July here is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santiago de Compostela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you plan to visit the charming Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Pilgrimage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Santiago de Compostela is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santiago de Compostela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to visit the charming Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Pilgrimage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you are traveling to Santiago de Compostela in September, you will notice that it is mild. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santiago de Compostela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you plan to visit the charming Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Pilgrimage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

In October, Santiago de Compostela is cool. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Santiago de Compostela, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santiago de Compostela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you plan to visit the charming Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Pilgrimage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Santiago de Compostela can be chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santiago de Compostela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to visit the charming Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Pilgrimage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Santiago de Compostela is cold. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) to low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santiago de Compostela. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the necessary type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to visit the charming Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you visit the Pilgrimage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Santiago de Compostela, located in the northwestern part of Spain, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Known for its religious significance, the city holds the shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great, attracting millions of Christian pilgrims each year. But besides its religious importance, Santiago de Compostela offers plenty of other attractions that can make your trip an unforgettable experience. Here are the top tourist attractions in Santiago de Compostela:

1. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral: This Roman Catholic cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Constructed over several centuries, the cathedral boasts an impressive Baroque façade and houses some of the most important holy relics of the Christian world.

2. Praza do Obradoiro: This central square located in front of the cathedral is a hub of activity and a must-visit location in Santiago de Compostela. Surrounded by important buildings such as the Palacio de Raxoi and the Hostal de Los Reyes Católicos, the square is also where pilgrims end their journey and receive their “Compostela” certificate.

3. Mercado de Abastos: This bustling market might not look like a typical tourist attraction, but it’s the perfect spot to experience the local culture and cuisine. Filled with vendors selling fresh seafood, meats, fruits, and vegetables, you can catch a glimpse of everyday life in Santiago de Compostela and taste some of the best Galician delicacies.

4. Parque da Alameda: With its winding paths, lush gardens, and picturesque fountains, this urban park is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. It’s a great spot to relax, people-watch, or take memorable photos with Santiago de Compostela’s landmarks in the background.

5. Monastery of San Martin Pinario: This impressive building is one of the largest monasteries in Spain and is still active today. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church, the cloisters, and the museum to learn about its history and see its various art collections.

6. Museum of the Galician People: If you want to delve deeper into the region’s history and culture, this museum is an excellent place to start. From prehistoric times to modern times, the exhibits showcase the traditions, customs, and lifestyles of Galician people.

7. University of Santiago de Compostela: Founded in the 16th century, the university is one of the oldest in Spain and has played a significant role in the intellectual and cultural development of the city. Visitors can take a campus tour or attend cultural events and concerts hosted by the institution.

From religious landmarks to cultural treasures, Santiago de Compostela offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a pilgrim or a casual traveler, this city is worth a visit, and with so many top tourist attractions to choose from, you won’t be disappointed!

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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