Best road trips in Galicia starting from Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela

Do you want to travel to Galicia soon and are looking for the best activities near Santiago de Compostela? If you’re planning to visit the enchanting lands of Galicia, we recommend organising your itinerary to ensure you don’t miss anything during your stay. In this article, we share three of the best driving routes through Galicia, all starting from Santiago de Compostela.

By hiring a car in Santiago de Compostela, you can explore these routes at your own pace and without feeling rushed—all while saving money compared to alternative transport options.

Why take a driving route in Galicia?

Galicia is one of the most beautiful regions in Spain. You’ll come across breathtaking landscapes, including a coastline bordered by the Cantabrian Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Additionally, there are charming villages to discover near Santiago de Compostela.

For those who haven’t walked the Camino de Santiago but wish to experience it more closely, many of these routes will allow you to visit villages along this historic pilgrimage. Furthermore, Galicia is renowned for its exceptional wines, such as Ribeiro and Albariño. Missing the opportunity to taste these local gems would be a real shame during your stay.

If you’ve decided to explore Galicia, we recommend spending several days to truly experience all it has to offer. Visitors agree that to fully discover Santiago de Compostela and its surroundings, hiring a car is the best option. Why? It provides the flexibility and freedom to reach hidden corners that capture the essence of Galicia. To learn more, check out our customers' reviews and tips on car hire in Santiago de Compostela.

Before hitting the road, make sure to read our comprehensive guide on tolls in Santiago de Compostela, where we cover everything you need to know: prices, routes, and more.

The 3 best driving routes from Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is famous as the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago. However, it is also home to top hiking routes that usually fly under the radar. Santiago de Compostela is an excellent starting point to discover Galicia. Here, we present the three best driving routes in Galicia, all beginning from Santiago.

Route 1: Santiago to O Cebreiro

The first route takes you from Santiago to O Cebreiro, offering a journey through history and natural beauty. Begin your journey by visiting the Monastery of Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil, declared a Historic and Artistic Monument. Next, head to Vilouxe, take a walk through its narrow streets and follow the signs to the viewpoint, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Sil Canyon.

Continue on to the Monastery of Santa Cristina de Ribas de Sil, a site of Cultural Interest, and make a stop in Parada de Sil, a picturesque spot worth exploring before reaching your final destination.

Finish your route in O Cebreiro, a small yet iconic village marking the entry point to Galicia on the French Camino de Santiago. This Historic and Artistic Ensemble has captivated visitors since 1962.

Route 2: Santiago to the Rias Baixas

This second route explores the beauty of Galicia’s Rias Baixas, renowned for its coastal charm. Begin in Combarro, one of Galicia’s most picturesque villages, known for its traditional horreos and quaint streets. Then, continue to Baiona, where you’ll find the Parador Nacional Conde de Gondomar, a historic fortress offering stunning views of the sea.

Next, visit the Castro de Santa Tegra in A Guarda. This ancient hillfort is also home to the Ao Masat Museum, featuring an impressive collection of artefacts. Journey on to O Rosal to explore the water mills of O Folon and O Picon, both Cultural Interest Sites. Finish your road trip with a grand finale in Tui, a charming border town with Portugal, surrounded by the Miño River.

Route 3: Santiago to the Rias Altas

The third route takes you northwards to the Rias Altas, showcasing dramatic coastal landscapes. Start your journey in Ribadeo, home to the stunning Playa de las Catedrales. This beach is famous for its impressive cliffs and caves, a natural marvel that is not to be missed.

Next, visit Foz, where you’ll find the Basilica of San Martiño and the Pico da Lebre viewpoint, offering incredible views of the coastline. Estaca de Bares in Mañon will be your next stop; a unique location marking the divide between the Cantabrian Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

Before finishing your trip, don’t miss two of Galicia’s most emblematic spots: Cariño and Cap Ortegal. End your journey in A Coruña, one of Galicia’s main cities, where you can explore the Tower of Hercules, Maria Pita Square, and the San Anton Castle.

Find the best car rental deals in Santiago de Compostela with DoYouSpain

Galicia offers countless attractions, and the best way to ensure you don’t miss anything is to hire a car in Santiago de Compostela. By having your own vehicle, you can explore every corner of this stunning region at your own pace.

With DoYouSpain, which instantly searches and compares thousands of car rental offers, you’ll always get the best option at the lowest price guaranteed. The process is quick and efficient—your booking can be completed in under three minutes.

If you’re wondering where to pick up your rental car, DoYouSpain provides several convenient options. For those arriving by plane, the most practical choice is to collect your car directly at Santiago de Compostela Airport. Alternatively, if you’re arriving by other means of transport, you can pick up your vehicle in the city centre or at Santiago’s train station. If you have any questions during the booking process, feel free to call us on +34 964 830 995 or contact us through the Customer Area.