Seeking a little adventure this summer?

With a new direct route linking Cork and Santiago de Compostela, suddenly one of Europe’s most atmospheric cities feels very doable for a long weekend — or a low-key romantic escape.

Santiago is best known as the final stop on Spain’s legendary Camino de Santiago, but you don’t need to have walked hundreds of kilometres to appreciate it. Think cobbled streets spilling into sun-drenched squares, the dramatic Cathedral rising out of nowhere, traditional Galician music drifting from doorways, and long tapas evenings that turn into “just one more” glasses of wine.

There’s almond cake (order the tarta de Santiago, obviously), a café culture you’ll want to move into, and the coast just a day trip away — from A Coruña and Vigo to the wild, end-of-the-world energy of Cape Finisterre.

So now that you can fly direct from Cork, the only real question is: where are you staying?

We’ve rounded up the coolest Airbnbs in Santiago — think minimalist lofts and romantic hideaways perfect for couples, best friends, or anyone in their “book flights first, figure it out later” era.

1. Galeras Park apartment

Price: From €446 for two nights (sleeps six people) 

If it’s luxury and convenience you’re after, this newly renovated apartment is located 100 metres from the pilgrim reception centre and 200 meters from the Cathedral. It has a parking space with an elevator that gives direct access to the apartment, all nestled in the beautiful Galeras Park.

Previous guests confirm there are lots of lovely restaurants and cafes nearby and it’s suitable for family groups too. “We were particularly impressed with their travel cot for our six month old and the baby towel and blankets were very thoughtful touches.” said recent guest, Dearbhla.

2. Cabañas de Compostela

Price: From €208 for two nights, sleeps two

Located just ten minutes from Santiago de Compostela, this idyllic nature cabin features a bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, living area, sofa bed, TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning and an outdoor terrace under birches, beeches and ash trees.

If you like to shop for local ingredients and cook, it has a refrigerator, induction hob, extractor hood, sink, Dolce Gusto coffee maker, juicer and the necessary utensils. In the bathroom you will have shampoo, gel and soap, as well as a hairdryer.  Towels and bed linen are provided too.

3. Sienna Home Apartamento

Price: From €171 per night, sleeps four 

Located in the neighbourhood of Santiago, 20 minutes walk from the Cathedral and main restaurant/bar area, this little gem is a bright and modern apartment ideal for a restful break. Located 20 metres from the Portuguese Way, makes it the perfect place to leave your backpack before reaching the Cathedral.

There’s a spacious bedroom with a double bed and a modern bathroom with a spectacular shower. In addition, the sofa easily transforms into a double bed. The apartment is surrounded by extensive green areas, with gardens and an area of swings and children’s games for little visitors too.