Santiago de Compostela Free Walking Tour

The walk begins in Praza do Obradoiro, facing the 18th-century Baroque façade of the cathedral. From there the guide points out the Neoclassical Pazo de Raxoi opposite and the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, founded as a royal hospital for pilgrims, before leading the group round the back of the cathedral.

In the Quintana you hear why its two levels are called the square of the dead and the square of the living, then continue to Praterías and its horse fountain. The route heads past the university to Rúa do Franco, the old town's busiest street of bars, and ends in the Alameda park beside the statue of the two Marías, sisters remembered for their daily walks in colourful clothes.