Complete Cathedral Tour: Portico Da Gloria, Museum and City Tour

Set out on a captivating journey through the hallowed halls of Santiago de Compostela’s iconic cathedral. This complete tour offers a chance to marvel at the intricate Romanesque carvings of the Portico da Gloria, a true masterpiece of medieval art. Explore the cathedral’s storied past as you explore its historic treasures, including the grand main altar and hidden chapels. But the adventure doesn’t end there – ascend to the cathedral rooftops and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views that will leave you spellbound. This immersive experience promises to transport you to the very heart of this revered pilgrimage site, leaving you yearning for more.

Good To Know

• The 3-hour guided tour provides priority access to the Cathedral Museum, Portico da Gloria, cathedral roofs, Carraca Tower, and the Botafumeiro.
• The tour offers an immersive exploration of Santiago de Compostela’s historic center, showcasing the cathedral’s architectural splendor and cultural heritage.
• Visitors can witness the intricate Romanesque carvings of the 12th-century Portico da Gloria and gain insights into the region’s religious significance.
• The tour includes access to the cathedral’s library, chapter house, treasury, and chapel of relics, providing a comprehensive understanding of the building’s history.
• However, the tour has received poor reviews, with frequent cancellations, no-show guides, and refund delays reported, so caution is advised when booking.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Complete Cathedral Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Santiago de Compostela‘s iconic landmark. Priced from €14.99 per person, this 3-hour guided experience showcases the Portico da Gloria, the Cathedral Museum, and a city tour in Spanish or English.

Guests can expect priority access to the Cathedral Museum and opportunities to witness the magnificent Portico de la Gloria, explore the cathedral’s roofs and Carraca Tower, and admire the stunning Botafumeiro.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later booking option, this tour provides an immersive and adventurous way to discover the cathedral’s rich history and architectural wonders.

Itinerary Highlights

Guests begin the Cathedral Tour at Rúa de Trás Salomé, where a guided exploration of the Plaza del Obradoiro awaits.

For 75 captivating minutes, visitors enjoy the grandeur of this iconic square, capturing stunning photos during the allotted 15-minute break.

Next, they venture into the Portico de la Gloria, marveling at its intricate carvings and sculptural details for half an hour.

The itinerary may vary, but each highlight offers a glimpse into the cathedral’s rich history and architectural splendor.

• Guided tour of the Plaza del Obradoiro
• Photo stop and free time
• Visit to the Portico de la Gloria
• Exploration of important cathedral rooms
• Admiration of the Cathedral and Botafumeiro

Tour Features

Adventurous travelers who embark on the Cathedral Tour can look forward to a captivating experience.

The tour provides priority access to the Cathedral Museum, allowing visitors to explore the renowned Portico de la Gloria, the intricate roofs, and the iconic Carraca Tower.

Along the way, they’ll venture into the library, chapter house, treasury, chapel of relics, and stand before the magnificent main altar.

The highlight undoubtedly lies in witnessing the impressive Cathedral and the mesmerizing Botafumeiro, a giant incense burner that swings high above the congregation.

However, it’s important to note that tour availability is subject to the Portico de Glory ticket availability, so early booking is recommended.

Accessibility Information

Unfortunately, the Cathedral Tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

The tour route involves navigating uneven terrain, steep staircases, and narrow passageways, which may pose significant challenges for those with limited mobility.

However, the Cathedral offers an immersive and captivating experience for able-bodied visitors.

Explore the:

• Portico de la Gloria, a masterpiece of Romanesque sculpture
• Rooftops, offering breathtaking views of the city
• Carraca Tower, a unique architectural feature
• Library, chapter house, and treasury, showcasing the Cathedral’s rich history
• Main altar and Botafumeiro, a mesmerizing incense swinger

These highlights make the Cathedral Tour a must-see for those who can navigate the accessible areas comfortably.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

The Cathedral Tour has drawn mixed reviews from past visitors, with an overall rating of just 1 out of 5 based on 5 reviews.

Travelers report frequent cancellations due to logistics issues, no-show guides, and delays in getting refunds. One reviewer laments the "complete waste of time and money", while another describes the tour as a "disorganized mess".

Despite the cathedral’s architectural grandeur, the tour experience seems to have fallen short, with customers criticizing the lack of coordination and professionalism.

Those seeking an immersive and well-executed cathedral visit may want to consider alternative options or approach this tour with cautious expectations.

Guided Tour

Stepping through the grand entryway, visitors embark on an immersive guided tour that showcases the Cathedral’s architectural splendor.

Expert guides lead the way, providing insights into the Portico da Gloria’s intricate carvings and the Cathedral’s storied history.

Along the journey, guests:

• Witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of the main altar and the famous Botafumeiro censer.
• Explore the serene library, stately chapter house, and the treasury’s glittering collections.
• Ascend to the rooftops for panoramic views over the city’s historic heart.
• Discover hidden chapels and the revered Chapel of Relics.
• Immerse themselves in the Cathedral’s spiritual ambiance and architectural brilliance.

This guided tour offers a captivating window into Santiago de Compostela’s cultural and religious heritage.

Portico Da Gloria

Towering above the bustling Plaza del Obradoiro, the grand Portico da Gloria captivates visitors with its intricate Romanesque carvings and awe-inspiring scale.

Constructed in the 12th century, this iconic architectural masterpiece features a wealth of intricate sculptures, from the central figure of Christ in Majesty to the expressive faces of the apostles and prophets.

Visitors can marvel at the level of detail and craftsmanship as they step through the ornate portal, transporting them back to the medieval era.

The Portico da Gloria is a must-see highlight of any visit to the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Cathedral and City Exploration

Visitors embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Santiago de Compostela’s historic center, their footsteps echoing against the weathered cobblestones as they approach the towering Cathedral.

This immersive tour offers a chance to:

• Explore the Cathedral’s breathtaking interiors, from the intricate main altar to the intricate stained glass windows

• Ascend to the Cathedral’s rooftops, offering panoramic vistas of the ancient city

• Discover hidden gems, like the serene Carraca Tower and the grand library

• Witness the mesmerizing performance of the Botafumeiro, the Cathedral’s colossal incense burner

• Gain a deeper understanding of the Cathedral’s rich history and its significance as a pilgrimage site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally permitted during the tour, though visitors are advised to be mindful of their surroundings and follow any specific instructions from the guide. Capturing the awe-inspiring cathedral in all its glory is an integral part of the immersive experience.

Can I Buy Tickets on the Day of the Tour?

You can secure your spot by booking the tour in advance. Same-day tickets are subject to availability and may sell out quickly, so it’s recommended to reserve your place ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss out on this immersive experience.

Are Audio Guides Available for the Tour?

Audio guides aren’t offered on this tour. Guests will need to rely on the live guided commentary to fully explore the cathedral’s stunning Portico da Gloria and discover its hidden treasures throughout the immersive 3-hour experience.

Is There a Dress Code for the Cathedral Visit?

The cathedral has a relaxed dress code, though visitors should avoid overly casual or revealing attire. Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended to respectfully explore the sacred space.

Can I Leave the Tour Group to Explore on My Own?

Visitors have the flexibility to explore the cathedral on their own during designated free time. However, they must rejoin the guided tour group to continue the planned itinerary and ensure they don’t miss any key highlights.

The Sum Up

The Complete Cathedral Tour of Santiago de Compostela offers an unparalleled journey through the city’s rich history and spiritual significance. Visitors are whisked away to the awe-inspiring Portico da Gloria, before diving into the cathedral’s hidden treasures and scaling the rooftops for breathtaking panoramic views. This immersive experience ensures an unforgettable glimpse into the cultural heart of this iconic pilgrimage site.

You can check if your dates are available here: