✨ AI-Enhanced Insights
Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport (SCQ/LEST), also known as Lavacolla, is the main international gateway to Galicia, located about 12 km east of Santiago de Compostela. Renamed in 2019 after Galician poet Rosalía de Castro, it serves as a key arrival point for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. The modern terminal opened in 2011 and handles domestic, European, and seasonal international flights.
💡 Local Tip
If you're starting the Camino, pick up your pilgrim credential in Santiago before heading out, and note that the airport bus drops you near the old town—many albergues are within walking distance of Praza do Obradoiro.
🚖 Getting There
The Line 6A bus connects the airport with Santiago's city centre and bus station, with departures roughly every 30 minutes; taxis are available outside arrivals and cost around €20–25 to the centre. If you are driving, the airport is close to the AP-9 and A-54, and rental car desks are in the terminal. Allow extra time in Galicia's frequent rain or fog, especially for early morning flights.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far is Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport from the city centre?
A: It is about 12 km (7.5 miles) east of Santiago de Compostela; the drive takes 15–20 minutes, and the bus takes around 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.
Q: What is the cheapest way to get to Santiago city centre from the airport?
A: The Line 6A urban bus is the cheapest option, running regularly between the airport, Praza de Galicia, and the city bus station. Tickets can be bought from the driver.
Q: Are there direct trains from the airport?
A: No, the airport does not have a train station. Travelers can take the 6A bus or a taxi to Santiago's railway station and connect to Renfe services.
Q: Which airlines operate at SCQ?
A: Airlines vary by season and include Ryanair, Vueling, Iberia, and Air Europa, among others. Check the Aena website for the latest destinations.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 27, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash