Best areas to park in Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela

Looking for somewhere to park in Santiago de Compostela? The Galician capital is a must-visit destination for any traveller. However, the city’s charm also comes with a small challenge if you’re driving, as traffic in the old town is restricted and parking spaces are limited.

In this guide, we’ll show you where to park in Santiago de Compostela if you’re travelling with a hire car, highlight the best areas to leave your vehicle, and explain your parking options—so you can enjoy your visit without the hassle.

Best areas for free parking in Santiago de Compostela

Although access to the old town is restricted for non-residents, there are several neighbourhoods and streets nearby where you can park for free. These areas are ideal if you’re arriving in your own car or with a hire car and don’t want to be too far from the city centre.

Some of the best areas for free parking in Santiago de Compostela include:

San Lazaro area

Located to the north of the city, next to the Palacio de Congresos, it offers plenty of free parking spaces. It’s a convenient option if you’re arriving via the motorway or from the airport, as it’s easily accessible.

Fontiñas neighbourhood

One of the city’s largest residential areas, well connected to the centre. There’s usually space available, especially on weekdays, and you can reach the historic quarter on foot in about 20 minutes.

Campus Sur and around Parque de la Alameda

Close to the university buildings and green areas, there are still a few streets where you can find free parking, particularly outside term time.

Pontepedriña neighbourhood

Situated to the south of the city, this area offers several streets without parking restrictions. From here, you can reach the city centre in less than 15 minutes.

Blue zone in Santiago de Compostela: types, prices, and hours

If you prefer to park closer to the city centre and can’t find a free space, a good alternative is Santiago de Compostela’s blue zones, also known as ORA zones (Ordenanza Reguladora del Aparcamiento – Parking Regulation Ordinance). These parking areas allow you to leave your car for a limited time by paying a small fee through parking meters or mobile apps.

In Santiago, blue zones require a ticket and have a maximum parking time depending on the type of bay:

• General blue zone: parking permitted for up to 2 hours.
• Short-stay blue zone: maximum stay of 1 hour.
• Long-stay blue zone: parking permitted for up to 4 hours.
• Resident blue zone: reserved for authorised residents, also with a 4-hour limit.

The blue zones’ operating hours in Santiago de Compostela are Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 14:00 and from 16:30 to 20:00, and Saturdays from 9:00 to 14:00. Parking is free on Sundays and public holidays.

As for prices, they depend on the zone type and parking duration, but generally range between €0.15 for half an hour and €1.05 per hour.

Where to park near Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

Santiago’s old town is full of narrow, cobbled streets where traffic is restricted for private vehicles. This means parking right next to the Cathedral is not allowed unless you have a special permit.

However, that doesn’t mean it’s difficult to get there. There are several nearby areas where you can leave your car and reach the Cathedral on foot in just a few minutes. A good option is to park around the University Campus or in residential neighbourhoods such as Pontepedriña or Fontiñas, then walk or take a local bus to the centre.

You can also choose to park in one of the blue zones located as close as possible to the Cathedral.

Another convenient alternative is to use one of the paid car parks in the surrounding area, which offer the advantage of being within walking distance of the main landmarks and usually have security. This is a comfortable option if you’d rather forget about your car while exploring the old town.

Parking in Santiago de Compostela

Parking in Santiago de Compostela doesn’t have to be a worry. By knowing the best areas for free parking, the blue zones, the paid car parks, and the closest options to the Cathedral, you can enjoy this unique city without stress.

If you’re travelling through Galicia or planning a route that includes Santiago, remember that with DoYouSpain you can hire a car at the best price and explore with complete freedom. That way, you’ll not only discover the Galician capital, but also the nearby villages, beaches, and landscapes that make the region so special.

Don’t forget that DoYouSpain also offers 24-hour assistance through its online form, by calling +34 964 830 995, or via its AI Assistant.