Things To Do in Santiago de Compostela when it Rains: Museums, Markets and Indoor Plans

Santiago de Compostela

If you’re visiting Santiago, you’re likely to get a few rainy days, but that doesn’t have to ruin your plans. The city actually has a special side when it rains and you can still have a great time. At DoYouSpain, we’ve put together this guide to help you find the best spots to stay dry and make the most of your trip. Hiring a car in Santiago de Compostela is the best way to get around without getting soaked, making the whole trip much easier and more comfortable.

Santiago in the Rain: A Practical Guide to Enjoying the Galician Capital

Before you head out, check the forecast to plan your day. Rain is just part of life here, and the city is well-prepared for it. Having a car gives you so much more freedom; it’s the perfect way to get around and stay dry while moving between different spots, without having to wait around for buses or stand in the rain.

Museum Route: Culture & History

When the weather isn't on your side, museums are the perfect place to be. Not only do they keep you out of the rain, but they also offer hours of entertainment and culture indoors, making them the ideal plan to enjoy your day without getting wet.

The Cathedral Museum and The Portico of the Glory

These are two essential stops and perfect for spending the morning under cover. The Cathedral Museum is much more than just displays; it allows you to explore the interior and see the Treasury. You can also walk through the cloister galleries and watch the rain fall over the courtyard without getting a drop on you.

The Portico of the Glory is a fully enclosed space. Following its recent restoration, seeing the original colours of the figures while it rains outside is a unique experience. A tip from DoYouSpain: book your ticket in advance to go straight in and avoid queuing out in the street.

CGAC and The Pobo Galego Museum

At DoYouSpain, we are always looking for ways to make your trip easier, and these two museums are perfect because they are right next to each other. Being so close means you spend less time in the rain and more time enjoying your visit.

The CGAC is a modern art space that often surprises visitors with its workshops and exhibitions, ideal if you are looking for something a bit different to do with the family. Right next door, the Museo do Pobo Galego is the essential stop for getting to know Galician culture. Make sure you don't miss its famous triple spiral staircase; a stunning piece of architecture!

Gastronomy in Santiago: Where to Eat Well

Santiago is famous for being one of the best places to eat in Spain. The city is packed with spots where local produce takes centre stage, and the atmosphere is so welcoming that you’ll completely forget about the weather. From traditional market stalls to long-standing local taverns, here are a couple of essential stops:

Abastos Market

It’s the second most visited spot after the Cathedral. This is an indoor market with free entry where Galician food is the main attraction. You’ll find top-quality fresh produce at very reasonable prices, all without having to worry about your umbrella.

Top Tip: Get there early, as it fills up fast!

The Best Tapas Areas in the Old Town

Santiago is a foodie’s paradise, and its streets are perfectly set up for you to enjoy even when the weather is looking a bit grey. Rúa do Franco is the most famous street; it’s packed with taverns where the quality of the food is fantastic. It’s always a great choice, whether you’re after a quick bite or a relaxed dinner. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere without the crowds, Rúa da Raiña is the ideal spot.

The best thing about these streets is that they have covered walkways, allowing you to hop from bar to bar hardly getting wet. That said, to move around freely and get here without any hassle, we recommend checking out our blog on where to park in Santiago de Compostela. There you’ll find key tips on where to leave your hire car just a short walk from the centre.

The City of Culture: Gaiás, a Must-See for Modern Design

Located on Mount Gaiás, this is a huge space on the outskirts of Santiago where you could spend hours. It’s very spacious and offers a more relaxed atmosphere away from the busier areas of the Old Town.

The main building is the Museo Centro Gaiás, which always hosts a variety of local and international exhibitions. You’ll also find the Library of Galicia and several cafés where you can sit down and have a break for a while.

As it’s right at the top of a hill, the most convenient way to get there is by hire car. There is free parking right by the entrances, so the walk from your car to the building only takes a few seconds in the rain.

Car Hire in Santiago: The Best Option for Rainy Days

In Santiago, when the rain starts, having a car is a total lifesaver. It’s the difference between sticking to your plans or having the weather get in the way of your trip. With your own car, you can get between the museums, restaurants, and the Gaiás without having to wait around for a bus. It’s the easiest way to stay dry and make the most of your day, especially if you’ve got kids with you or a lot of luggage.

Practical Tips for Visiting Santiago de Compostela in the Rain

To get around the Old Town, the best thing to do is leave your car in one of the nearby car parks, such as the one in Plaza de Galicia; from there, you can walk through the street arches without getting wet. If the weather doesn’t seem to be clearing up, prioritise larger indoor spots like the Abastos Market, where you can spend plenty of time exploring. Just one thing: make sure you wear shoes with good grip, as the stone streets in Santiago can be quite slippery when they’re wet.

Why Choose DoYouSpain for your Trip to Santiago

If you are looking to save on your trip to Galicia, DoYouSpain is the number one car hire comparison site. We guarantee the lowest prices on the market with non-stop deals, allowing you to pick up your vehicle wherever suits you best. Plus, you can choose the specific type of car that fits your needs for getting around the city and the surrounding areas, always with clear terms and no hidden extras.

If you have any questions during the booking process, our team is here to help 24 hours a day. You can reach us through the Customer Service Area, chat with our Virtual Assistant, or call us directly on +34 964 830 995. Book now and get ready to discover every corner of Santiago at your own pace, without the rain holding you back.