Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela, the historic pilgrimage destination and capital of Galicia, beckons travelers with its timeless charm, winding cobblestone streets, and monumental cathedral that houses the relics of Saint James. Navigating this UNESCO World Heritage city and its lush surroundings by rental car gives you the freedom to explore beyond the old town walls—revealing hidden coastal viewpoints, rural wineries, and the shaded forests of northwestern Spain.

At the heart of the city lies the Plaza del Obradoiro, where the Baroque façade of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela greets pilgrims completing the famous Camino de Santiago. While walking the final steps of the camino is a rite of passage, renting a car provides unmatched flexibility to discover Galicia’s diverse landscapes at your own pace. With Cardamar Car Rental, you can begin your journey at Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport or pick up your vehicle at our downtown office. Choose from compact cars ideal for city driving, comfortable sedans, or spacious SUVs perfect for groups or longer road trips.

The booking process is quick and hassle-free: select your pickup location and travel dates online, add extras like GPS navigation, child seats, or an additional driver, and enjoy transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Every booking includes comprehensive insurance, flexible fuel policies, and 24/7 roadside assistance for total peace of mind. You can cancel free of charge up to 48 hours before pickup.

With your car secured, drive west toward the rugged Costa da Morte, where dramatic cliffs meet the Atlantic at Finisterre—once considered the "end of the world." Stop in Muxía to visit the Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Boat and enjoy fresh scallops at local seaside taverns. Heading north along the AC-552, don’t miss Praia das Catedrais near Ribadeo, where stunning sea arches and caves appear at low tide.

Travel inland via the AP-9 to A Coruña to see the ancient Tower of Hercules and stroll the palm-lined Paseo Marítimo. Or drive south on the AP-53 toward the Ribeira Sacra wine region, where terraced vineyards rise above the Miño River. Stop in Chantada or Pantón for a wine tasting, enjoying local Mencía and Godello wines with unforgettable views.

Return to Santiago for a final taste of Galician culture. Explore the old town’s alleyways, cross the Romanesque Portico de la Gloria, and relax at the Mercado de Abastos with traditional empanadas and Albariño wine. End your visit with the moving Botafumeiro ceremony in the cathedral—a centuries-old ritual not to be missed.

Cardamar Car Rental makes it easy to explore Santiago de Compostela and Galicia on your own terms. Whether you're tracing the camino, visiting ancient landmarks, or tasting your way through the region, renting a car gives you the freedom to experience it all. Book online today and unlock the treasures of northwestern Spain with Cardamar.