Santiago de Compostela in 1 Day for Seniors - Official Tourist Guide (English / Spanish)
In Collaboration with Galicia Travels. Updated on February 3, 2026.
A gentle, wheelchair‑friendly guided walking tour of Santiago de Compostela's Old Town led by Official Tourist Guides. Visit the main plazas surrounding the Cathedral, hear local stories and legends, and finish with a relaxed lunch at a nearby restaurant. Ideal for seniors who want comfort, short walks and plenty of seating.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Galicia Travels, inspired by the tour Guided tour in the old town of santiago de compostela with Official Turistic Guides. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Official Tourist Guide (English / Spanish)
- Step‑friendly route with frequent seating pauses
- Visit Praza do Obradoiro, Praterías, Quintana, Inmaculada and Mercado de Abastos
Itinerary
Day 1
Morning guided walking tour around the Cathedral and nearby plazas (1h30). Finish with a relaxed lunch near the market.
Meet & tour start — Praza do Obradoiro (Official meeting point)
Meet your Official Tourist Guide in Praza do Obradoiro in front of the Cathedral. The guide will briefly introduce the route, safety notes and accessibility options before setting off.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10 minutes early to use the wide, flat approach to the square and secure a seat on one of the stone benches while the guide checks names.
- Praza do Obradoiro is largely step‑free; the guide can position the group away from busy traffic for clearer explanations and better hearing.
- Accessible public toilets are a short walk to the east (inside nearby tourist facilities); ask the guide to point them out before departure.
Plaza Platería — Romanesque façade & sculptural details
Short walk to Praza das Praterías to learn about the cathedral's western façade and Romanesque architecture; excellent spot for close‑up viewing without stairs.
Tips from local experts:
- This plaza is compact and mostly level — the guide will position the group near the best viewing bench to avoid standing for long stretches.
- Bring a light scarf or hat in spring; the square can be exposed to wind but has sheltered corners for brief rests.
- If you use a mobility aid, ask the guide to take the quieter route along the stone pavement to avoid uneven cobbles.
Praza da Quintana — Legends, the Holy Door (exterior explanation)
Visit the Plaza de la Quintana and hear tales about the Puerta Santa and the Monastery. Explanations focus on the exterior and history — cathedral entrance is optional and not included.
Tips from local experts:
- The Quintana area has gentle slopes; the guide will avoid steep steps and remain on the level plaza for storytelling.
- If you wish to enter the Cathedral afterward, ask the guide for best times and whether assistance is available — note that entrance fees are not included in the tour.
- There are benches and low walls around the plaza; sit for the story segments if you prefer — the guide will pause frequently for comfort.
Praza da Inmaculada — San Martín Pinario and local crafts
A calm square near the Monastery of San Martín Pinario. Learn about monastic life, local traditions (azabache/jewellery) and the role of this plaza in city life.
Tips from local experts:
- Praza da Inmaculada has level pavements and nearby cafés with seating — great for a short rest if needed.
- Ask your guide to point out the easiest step‑free entrance to the monastery area if you want a quieter photo spot.
- Spring mornings are pleasant here — the guide may recommend a nearby cafe seat for anyone preferring to sit while listening.
Mercado de Abastos — short visit to the historic food market
A guided walkthrough of the Mercado de Abastos to discover local produce, seafood and Galician gastronomy. This is a sensory stop — try a small tasting or observe stall displays.
Tips from local experts:
- The market is mostly step‑free with wide aisles near the main entrances — the guide will lead the group through the easiest route.
- If you have dietary restrictions, stalls are very helpful; ask a vendor to point out allergy‑friendly options (many sellers speak basic English).
- There are benches and seated tapas stands inside/near the market for a brief rest; the guide can recommend quieter corners away from the busiest stalls.
Optional relaxed lunch — A Tafona (recommended, step‑friendly)
After the tour, walk a short distance to A Tafona for a sit‑down Galician lunch. Reserving a table is recommended for groups; they offer a calm atmosphere and can accommodate dietary needs.
Tips from local experts:
- A Tafona has step‑free access at the main entrance; ask for a table near the entrance if mobility is a concern.
- Tell the reservation about mobility needs or dietary restrictions — staff are used to accommodating seniors and can offer smaller portions.
- Spring lunchtime is pleasant — request a shaded outdoor table on fine days or a quiet indoor table away from the kitchen.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Shopping, Restaurant |
