You might think that Santiago de Compostela’s characteristic rainy microclimate would preclude the existence of terrace bars and al fresco café culture. Fortunately, you’d be wrong! On those occasional sunny days that make you want to kiss the Old Town's beautiful cobblestone streets, you’ll be delighted that the Galician capital's many plazas—both the hidden corners and the ostentatiously grand squares—and abundant greenery lend themselves to some truly special outdoor seating areas. Grab a spot on one of these fabulous terraces in Santiago de Compostela, order a drink, and settle in to relax and watch the world go by.
Insider's Tip: Not all terraces are created equal. While all of the top terraces in Santiago de Compostela feature beautiful surroundings, some are best for enjoying a drink or light snack while others deserve a spot in your vacation meal plan. So, if you happen upon a beautiful terrace and feel compelled to grab an available table (fate!), take a look around at the other tables to see what everyone else is ordering. We recommend this always, everywhere! Trust the locals.
The best terraces in Santiago de Compostela for drinks:
1. Pub Momo
A local institution inspired by the adored Michael Ende novel, Pub Momo has an underground, offbeat personality. In addition to being a great place to grab a drink no matter the hour or season, it also features a backyard terrace overlooking Belvis Park and the monastery. Come a couple of hours before sunset on a long summer day and just bask in the city's magic.
Address: Rúa da Virxe da Cerca, 23
2. Café-Jardin Costa Vella
The garden terrace tucked behind and belonging to Hotel Costa Vella is easily one of the best terraces in Santiago de Compostela. It’s a sprawling, enchanted area shaded by trees and ornamented with flowers, fountains and statues. Another perk? In the distance, you can see rooftops of the Old Town and the rolling hills beyond the city. There’s even an enclosed atrium in the garden for rainy day, so there’s no excuse not to visit!
Address: Rúa da Porta da Pena, 17
3. La Radio
The delicious smoothies and cocktails are second only to the ambiance at La Radio. Good music, a beautiful setting in front of an old church, and a prime location just down the street from the Mercado de Abastos (Santiago de Compostela's central marketplace) make this is great place for a liquid snack, day or night.
Address: Praza de San Fiz de Solovio, 2
The best terraces in Santiago de Compostela for a casual bite:
4. Café-Bar Hamburguesería DA-CA
Sometimes you've just gotta have a nice burger, and when in Santiago, you can't go wrong with DA-CA. This small local joint located a bit off the tourist path has a terrace overlooking Belvis Park. Order a drink or a plato combinado (an entrée with sides) for a simple, homemade meal.
Address: Rúa do Pexigo de Abaixo, 20
5. El Caballo Blanco
Tucked between the Mercado de Abastos and the thoroughfare Rúa Preguntoiro, this terrace on beautiful Plaza de Pescadería Vella is perfect for a drink and a few traditional tapas.
Address: Praza da Pescadería Vella, 5
6. Café Agarimo
With an excellent location in Plaza de Cervantes, Café Agarimo is a quintessential place to spend some time in the Galician capital. Enjoy people-watching along with a coffee, a sandwich or a ración (shared plate) at one of the most fabulous terraces in Santiago de Compostela!
Address: Rúa do Preguntoiro, 2
7. Bierzo Enxebre
Bierzo Enxebre is a local favorite when it comes to terraces in Santiago de Compostela. Good, traditional food served in large portions on a charming, quiet side street terrace—what more could you ask for?
Address: Rúa da Troia, 10
The best terraces in Santiago de Compostela for great food:
8. A Moa
Whether you sit downstairs in the restaurant with its open kitchen, upstairs at the bar, or out back on the picturesque patio, A Moa always delivers. Imaginative, quality dishes with a modern rustic touch make this restaurant undoubtedly worthy of a stop. The charming garden terrace is just the cherry on top!
Address: Rúa de San Pedro, 32
9. A Taboa de Picar
Though located a little bit outside of the Old Town, the views you’ll find on this garden terrace are absolutely worth it. Enjoy simple, upscale fare and superior wine choices while taking in the stunning view.
Address: Rúa do Pombal, 17
10. O Curro da Parra
O Curro da Parra offers a changing seasonal menu to ensure that they only cook up the freshest local products. Note that the lamb and fish options are always outstanding. Throw in their fabulous wine cellar with over 80 varieties, and it’s no wonder this is one of the top terraces in Santiago de Compostela!
Address: Rúa Travesa, 20
Read more: Not sure what to order when you get to your terrace of choice? This guide to typical food in Galicia will walk you through some of the best options.
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