Travelers heading to Santiago de Compostela next spring should be aware that the city’s main airport, Santiago–Rosalía de Castro Airport (SCQ), will temporarily close for renovation works. This Santiago de Compostela Airport closure will affect many pilgrims walking thee Camino de Santiago, since Santiago is often the final destination or the nearest international airport for those returning home or connecting to other Spanish cities.

Important Things to Know About the Santiago de Compostela Airport Closure

The Santiago de Compostela Airport closure is scheduled from 23 April to 27 May 2026. During this period, no flights will arrive or depart from the airport. The works focus on a complete runway renovation and essential infrastructure upgrades to ensure safer and more efficient operations in the coming years.

If you’ve already booked a flight:

If you’ve already booked a flight to or from Santiago de Compostela during the Santiago de Compostela Airport closure period, your airline should contact you with information about rebooking or alternative arrangements. If you haven’t received any updates, get in touch with your airline or travel agent as soon as possible to adjust or reroute your journey.

If you haven’t booked a flight yet:

If you haven’t booked yet but plan to walk the Camino de Santiago or travel in Galicia between 23 April and 27 May 2026, make sure to plan ahead and choose an alternative airport. Update your transfer plans and accommodation dates early to avoid last-minute changes. As with any major infrastructure project, it’s also wise to check for updates in case the construction timeline shifts.

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Where to Fly Instead

During the closure of Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ), you can use one of the following nearby airports:

  • A Coruña Airport (LCG): located about 70 km north of Santiago, this is the closest alternative. It offers several daily flights to Madrid and Barcelona, plus a few international connections. Trains and buses run frequently between A Coruña and Santiago, taking about an hour.
  • Vigo Airport (VGO): around 90 km south of Santiago, Vigo Airport is another good option with connections to Madrid, Barcelona, and Lisbon. Regular buses and trains link Vigo with Santiago in about 1.5 hours.
  • Porto Airport (OPO): situated in northern Portugal, around 220 km from Santiago, Porto is a major international hub with many low-cost and long-haul flight options. It’s easy to reach Santiago from Porto by bus or train, which takes about 3.5 to 4 hours.
  • Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD): Spain’s largest international airport with extensive connections worldwide. From Madrid, you can travel to Santiago by high-speed train (AVE) or a short domestic flight.
  • Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN): another key hub for international and European flights. It offers multiple daily flights to Galicia or a scenic train journey across northern Spain.

How to Reach the Alternative Airports

All nearby airports are well connected to Santiago and the rest of Galicia by public transport. For train travel, check Renfe (Spain) or CP Comboios de Portugal (Portugal) for routes from Madrid, Vigo, A Coruña, or Porto. For buses, reliable companies include FlixBus, ALSA, and Monbus, all offering regular services between Santiago, A Coruña, Vigo, and Porto. Taxis and private transfers are also available and can be a convenient option if you’re travelling with luggage after completing your Camino.

Your Questions About the Santiago Airport Closure, Answered

Why is Santiago de Compostela Airport closing?

Santiago de Compostela Airport will temporarily close for major runway renovations and infrastructure upgrades to enhance safety and efficiency. These works are part of a long-term improvement plan to ensure smoother operations for future flights.

When will Santiago de Compostela Airport reopen?

The Santiago de Compostela Airport closure is scheduled from 23 April to 27 May 2026. The airport is expected to reopen at the end of May 2026, just in time for the busy summer and Camino pilgrimage season.

How can I travel to Santiago de Compostela while the airport is closed?

During the Santiago de Compostela Airport closure, you can fly into A Coruña, Vigo, or Porto airports instead. These airports are well connected to Santiago by Renfe trains and ALSA or Monbus buses, offering reliable routes before and after your Camino.

    Need Help Planning Around the Santiago de Compostela Airport Closure?

    If you have any questions about how this airport closure might affect your Camino or travel plans, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]. We’re happy to help you plan your journey smoothly and find the best travel options to start – or finish – your adventure in Santiago de Compostela.

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