Discover the allure of the UNESCO World Heritage Site city of Santiago de Compostela on this full day tour.

Traveling by coach, it's a comfortable ride of just over 1 hour to this charming town that offers visitors a magical glimpse into the past. Upon arrival, you will disembark your coach for a ten-minute walk to the center of the city where you will find the famous cathedral at Plaza del Obradoiro. Here, you can appreciate the great Romanesque architecture of the Cathedral and surrounding buildings. Positioned to one side of the Cathedral is the well-known Hostal de Los Reyes Catolicos, a former hospital which is now a luxurious hotel. Directly opposite the Cathedral is the Palacio de Rajoy. Built in the 18th century, the Palace today serves as the Town Hall and also the parliament building for the regional government.

Making your way to the Hostal de Los Reyes Católicos, you will be treated to a leisurely lunch of local favorites accompanied by a glass of rosé wine. Following lunch, your guide will provide you with plenty of information from the exterior of the Cathedral. Afterwards, those who wish may enter the Cathedral independently during the free time you will be provided. For those who choose to enter, you will find a unique gamut of architectural styles. Romanesque, Baroque and Ogival Gothic styles are all combined with the most elegant Plateresque throughout the vast confines of the cathedral. There is also a silver urn containing the ashes of St. James, the Apostle of Santiago. The urn is kept in a small crypt situated immediately under the ornate high altar dominated by the carved image of the Patron Saint of Spain.

Your guided tour resumes with a walk through the Old Town of Santiago de Compostela. Before rejoining your coach for the transfer back to the ship, free time will be provided to explore on your own or do some souvenir shopping.

Gain an understanding of rural life in the Galicia region by visiting a monastery and several small farms that produce signature cheeses and specialty meats. The Monastery of our Lady of Sobrado was founded in 952, and while touring you will see the cloisters, church and kitchen where the monks prepare dishes that reflect the bountiful local agriculture. Galicia is also renowned for its excellent pork and beef, which are essential ingredients in stews, empanadas and churrasco. You will learn how Galician pigs and cows are bred and raised while touring one of the farms. Another farm will lend great insight into the use of milk from cows and goats for cheese. You can expect to see the animals milked and learn the cheese-making process step by step. Some of the more popular Galician cheeses are creamy tetilla and lightly smoked San Simon. A tasting of cheeses and meats will provide an even deeper understanding of the cuisine.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit a monastery and see how the monks prepare dishes with Galician ingredients.
• Tour two farms, one that breeds pigs and cows, the other devoted to cheese making.
• Sample a variety of cheese and specialty meats that reflect Galician cuisine.

Capture the moment by taking the perfect selfie photo in La Coruna! Instantly share your experience with family & friends on your favorite social media site as some of the stops might include Wi-Fi in real time. Your accompanying guide will help you choose the spot to take the best selfie photo including composition, posing, lighting etc. Capture the spirit of this incredible destination.

Your tour begins with a panoramic drive by San Carlos Gardens. You will have designated selfie stops at: • Playa de Riazor
• Mount San Pedro (or Old Town)
• Maria Pita Statue
• Crystal Glass Facades

Your picture-perfect day includes some free time to explore on your own at the Old Quarter.

OVERVIEW

Enjoy one of La Coruña’s beautiful beaches after gaining a historical perspective of the city by walking to several of its most revealing landmarks. Founded in the 12th century, Santiago Church has been renovated following several fires and may well be Old Town’s most recognizable icon. Nearby Maria Pita Square tells the story of Sir Francis Drake’s attack on La Coruña in 1589 as it is named for a woman who heroically defended the city during that siege. Free time around a memorial obelisk built in 1895 will allow you to discover the modern side of the city. Then, you will be able to enjoy a break during which you can delight in a typical Spanish taste while taking in the breathtaking sea view. Alternatively, if you're lucky with the weather conditions, you can lay your towel on the beach, stretch out and bask in the sun, stroll along the shore without a care in the world, and take a refreshing swim. If the weather isn’t on our side and we can’t enjoy the beach, don’t worry! We can head to Real Street, where you’ll have some free time to shop and explore the many wonderful spots this magical city of La Coruña has to offer.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through La Coruña’s atmospheric Old Town and admire its historical landmarks.
• See the city’s oldest church and several monuments commemorating key events.
• Delight in a typical Spanish Mediterranean taste or spend free time relaxing on a popular beach known for its natural beauty.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing with a swimsuit underneath.
• Bring a towel and sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.