The Camino de Santiago
Imagine a journey that not only showcases stunning landscapes but also leads you on a path of self-discovery. The Camino de Santiago is an ancient route that offers precisely that experience.
Stick with us, and we’ll outline the various options you have to reach the final destination: the Cathedral of Santiago. As you may know, this is an ancient pilgrimage route with the aim of reaching the tomb of the Apostle. Naturally, there were many paths to arrive here, trails that still exist today.
Thanks to the Way of Saint James and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a treasury of relics and treasures such as the Botafumeiro and the Portico of Glory, the city of Santiago de Compostela came into being. With the arrival of thousands of pilgrims at the apostolic temple to honor the sacred relics, religious communities were established to safeguard them. Similarly, pilgrims and settlers made their homes in the apostolic city, gradually constructing the beautiful city that stands today—a destination coveted by pilgrims for over 1200 years.
As pilgrims journey towards Compostela, step by step and over the centuries, they forged the various Jacobean routes, which at times nearly vanished from history. While expiating sins and seeking soul redemption were the primary reasons for walking to Santiago in the Middle Ages, today the pilgrimage has taken on a broader significance.
Discover the Way of Saint James
Dive into the fascinating world of The Way of Saint James, an interconnected network of ancient routes. These paths, shaped by centuries of pilgrimages, will lead you to the legendary tomb of the Apostle James, a site of immense historical and spiritual significance at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
As you traverse these routes, you’re embarking not just on a physical journey, but also on a profound journey of self-discovery and spiritual connection.
The History of the Camino de Santiago
To fully immerse ourselves in the history of The Way of Saint James, it’s essential to travel back in time, to the dawn of Christianity. The story begins with James the Greater, whose missionary journey brought him to Roman Hispania.
It’s a journey through history, a bridge between the past and present, connecting pilgrims not only to their faith but also to the cultural and spiritual roots of Europe.
Santiago de Compostela: A Spanish Treasure
Santiago de Compostela is a living testament to the profound heritage of Spain. With roots dating back to Roman times, this city has witnessed pivotal moments and has been a melting pot of diverse civilizations, from the mysterious Celts to the Suevo warriors.
But the most momentous event in its history was undoubtedly the discovery in the 9th century of the tomb of the Apostle James, a find that transformed this city into an epicenter of pilgrimage and Christian devotion.
The Cathedral of Santiago: Heart of the Pilgrimage
The Cathedral of Santiago, a majestic testimony to Spanish Romanesque art, has stood since the Middle Ages as one of the most venerated pilgrimage destinations in the world. This stunning monument is not just an architectural masterpiece, it is the beating heart of the Jacobean Routes, a symbol of faith and perseverance.
It’s not just the end of a journey, but a meeting point where stories, cultures, and traditions intertwine.
Camino de Santiago Routes
As you may already know, the Camino de Santiago is not merely a singular path but rather a tapestry of routes, each with its own distinct allure. Specifically, nine primary paths await you, presenting a diversity of landscapes: from the lush green hills of Galicia to the expansive plains of Castile.
Exploring these routes means diving into varied experiences: For instance, the popular French Way brims with history and camaraderie, while the serene Northern Way offers a more intimate and tranquil journey. Each option, with its own climate and topography, presents a different challenge and unique beauty.
Whether you’re an experienced pilgrim or a first-time adventurer, you’ll find that each route is a completely distinct journey. Not just in mileage and popularity, but also in personal and spiritual experiences.
Next, we’ll talk in detail about all the most popular routes of the Camino de Santiago for you to gain insight into what awaits you on each of them.
El Camino Francés (The French Way)
The French Way is undoubtedly the most iconic route and weaves an unforgettable experience along its approximately 800 kilometers. Divided into about 33 stages, it’s a journey that invites pilgrims of all ages and abilities.
Known for its stunning variety of landscapes, from the Pyrenees to the plains of Castile and the vineyards of La Rioja, it’s perfect for those seeking a balance between adventure and comfort. Its popularity ensures excellent infrastructure of hostels and services, making the logistics of your pilgrimage easier.
Moreover, the weather on this route is generally friendly, though varied, from cool mountain starts to the summer heat in the plateaus. The large influx of pilgrims also means a rich social experience, sharing stories and forming friendships. If you’re looking for a classic route with an ideal balance of challenge and enjoyment, this is your perfect choice.
From Roncesvalles to Santiago de Compostela, there are approximately 800 km, usually divided into about 33 stages, translating to just over a month of walking. On this route, the pilgrim crosses the peninsula from east to west through the Autonomous Communities of Aragon, Navarre, La Rioja, Castile and León, and Galicia, experiencing a rich variety of landscapes and cultures of northern Spain.
From the green mountains of Navarre, across the wide Castilian plateau, and over the mountains separating León and Galicia, the French Way leads the pilgrim to Santiago de Compostela through paths, bridges, villages, and cities born and built by and for the Camino de Santiago.
French Way Map
The Most Popular Routes of the French Way
El Camino Portugués (The Portuguese Way)
The Portuguese Way is a historic route that follows the footsteps of pilgrims from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela, spanning about 620 kilometers. This route can be divided into approximately 27 stages, each revealing a unique cultural and natural landscape.
Though less traveled, it offers a more intimate experience. Ideal for those seeking tranquility, reflection, and a chance to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture that binds Spain and Portugal. Additionally, the route boasts a mild climate, particularly appealing to those who prefer to avoid extremes of heat or cold.
With generally flat terrain and well-marked, this route is accessible to pilgrims of different experience levels and physical conditions. In this case, Portuguese hospitality and the beauty of small villages and towns add a special charm to the journey.
If you’re looking for a combination of moderate challenges, cultural richness, and serenity, the Portuguese Way is an exceptional choice.
From Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela, there are approximately 620 km, generally divided into about 27 stages, almost a month of walking through the interior of Portugal. Heading from south to north, the Portuguese Way crosses the Portuguese districts of Lisbon, Santarém, Leiria, Coimbra, Aveiro, Porto, Braga, and Viana do Castelo. Finally, it crosses the natural border with Spain and Galicia via the international bridge over the Miño River towards Santiago de Compostela.
This route does not present significant elevation changes and offers mild temperatures almost all year round. Passing through important rivers like the Tagus, the Douro, and the Miño, the pilgrim reaches Santiago de Compostela after enjoying a special combination of landscapes, monuments, and the gastronomy of Portugal and Galicia.
Portuguese Way Map
Portuguese Coastal Way
The Portuguese Coastal Way is a newer and less crowded variant than its inland counterpart, stretching for about 280 kilometers. Divided into about 12 stages, this coastal route offers a unique experience, blending the serenity of the sea with the pilgrim spirit.
Unlike the previous option, this route hugs the Atlantic coastline, offering maritime landscapes and a refreshing breeze. Ideal for those who want to combine their walk with moments of reflection in front of the ocean. Also, for those looking for a refreshing swim in the beaches along the way.
Its terrain, though sometimes uneven, is generally accessible, making this route an attractive option for both experienced pilgrims and beginners. Additionally, its relative novelty means you’ll encounter fewer crowds, allowing for a more personal and contemplative experience.
This route does not present difficulty in terms of elevation and offers mild temperatures almost all year round. With the Atlantic Ocean, fishing villages, beaches, and dunes as companions along the way, this path leaves a lasting impression on every pilgrim who walks it, and not just because of the exquisite Portuguese and Galician cuisines.
Portuguese Coastal Way Map
The Best Routes of the Portuguese Coastal Way
El Camino del Norte (The Northern Way)
The Northern Way is a less traveled but immensely enriching route that stretches for about 858 kilometers. This option, which can be divided into around 35 stages, winds along the north coast of Spain, offering unbeatable views of the Cantabrian Sea and lush landscapes.
Unlike other more popular routes, the Northern Way provides a much more solitary and reflective experience. It’s ideal for those seeking a spiritual retreat amidst nature. Its path, which runs along ancient Roman and medieval roads, is still steeped in history and culture.
The varied terrain includes both coasts and mountains and presents a greater physical challenge, making it especially appealing to experienced pilgrims. The cooler and more humid climate is a blessing during the hot summer months.
From Irún to Santiago de Compostela, there are approximately 858 km, usually completed in about 35 stages, more than a month of walking. On this route, the pilgrim travels across the peninsula from east to west parallel to the Cantabrian Sea, crossing the Autonomous Communities of the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia.
With the Cantabrian breeze and the greenery of the north, the Northern Way allows for the enjoyment of beautiful sea and mountain landscapes, as well as the culture of the Cantabrian Sea’s seafaring towns and their exquisite cuisine. In Arzúa, this route converges with the French Way.
Northern Way Map
The Best Routes of the Northern Way
El Camino Primitivo (The Primitive Way)
The Primitive Way is considered the oldest of the Camino de Santiago routes, hence its name. It offers a journey of approximately 320 kilometers. Comprising about 14 stages, it’s a perfect blend of challenge and beauty, taking pilgrims through Asturian and Galician landscapes.
Less traveled than the French or Northern routes, it guarantees a more intimate and peaceful experience. Its history dates back to the 9th century when King Alfonso II the Chaste made a pilgrimage from Oviedo to Santiago, establishing this route. Today, it’s a path that invites reflection and introspection.
Known for its mountainous terrain and trails through dense forests, it presents a challenge for those seeking more than just a stroll. The humid and variable climate adds to its challenge and charm.
It’s also ideal for pilgrims needing a more solitary experience, in direct contact with nature and history. This choice awaits those who wish to follow in the footsteps of the first brave souls who achieved such a feat.
From Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela, there are approximately 320 km divided into about 14 stages. On this route, the pilgrim travels through the Autonomous Communities of Asturias and Galicia from east to west, starting from western Asturias and heading towards the apostolic tomb.
This is a very demanding route in its initial mountain stages between Asturias and Galicia. Once overcome, the path becomes gentler and runs through the green hills and fields of Galicia. In the city of Melide, this route meets the French Way, and together they reach Santiago de Compostela.
Primitive Way Map
The Best Routes of the Primitive Way
El Camino Inglés (The English Way)
The English Way is a historic route that primarily attracted pilgrims from Northern Europe, it stretches for about 113 kilometers. With just 5 stages, it’s an ideal option for those who have limited time but wish to experience the full spirit of the Camino de Santiago.
Unlike longer routes, it offers a compact adventure that is equally rich in history. During the Middle Ages, it was the main choice for pilgrims arriving by sea from England and other Nordic countries. Today, it remains a silent witness to those ancient journeys.
This route, starting in Ferrol or A Coruña, is perfect for those seeking a quieter, less crowded pilgrimage experience.
Despite its short distance, it doesn’t skimp on beauty, offering the green and coastal landscapes characteristic of Galicia. With varied terrain but not overly challenging, it’s ideal for both beginners and experienced pilgrims looking for a new perspective on the adventure.
From A Coruña to Santiago de Compostela, there are approximately 74 km divided into about 4 stages, while from Ferrol to Santiago there are 113 km divided into 5 stages. This route is quite unique, as it only traverses the Galician province of A Coruña, from north to south, throughout its entire journey.
This is a route that runs close to the sea in its initial stages. It does not present a challenging elevation, and it allows one to discover the landscape and heritage of the Galician Rías Altas, while offering a wonderful gastronomy where the sea is the star.
English Way Map
The Most Popular Routes of the English Way
Finisterre and Muxía Way
The Finisterre and Muxía Way, unique in the pilgrimage world, doesn’t end in Santiago but continues to the ‘end of the world’. Spanning about 90 kilometers to Finisterre and an additional 30 kilometers if extended to Muxía, this route can be completed in approximately 4 to 5 stages.
Traditionally, it was traveled after reaching Santiago de Compostela, as a way to culminate the spiritual journey in front of the endless sea. Today, it continues to attract those seeking a symbolic closure to their pilgrimage, offering moments of deep reflection and peace.
With its path winding along the coast, it offers spectacular views of the Atlantic. Despite being less known, it provides the opportunity to experience the tranquility and beauty of Galician villages and landscapes, away from the crowds of the more popular routes.
From Santiago de Compostela to Finisterre and Muxía, there are approximately 120 km divided into about 5 stages. On this route, the pilgrim travels from east to west through the Galician province of A Coruña, with the option to choose the end of their journey, either Finisterre or Muxía.
It’s not a very demanding route in terms of elevation. Along it, the pilgrim will discover rural Galicia, dotted with a wealth of traditional architecture, green landscapes, and legendary places. As a final celebration, a photo at kilometer 0, the end of all the Jacobean routes, is a must.
Finisterre and Muxía Way Map
The Most Popular Routes of the Finisterre and Muxía Way
Vía de la Plata (Silver Route)
The Silver Route is one of the longest and least traveled paths, stretching an impressive 1000 kilometers. This ancient Roman road, transformed into a pilgrimage route, is divided into about 38 stages. It crosses Spain’s diverse geography from Seville to Santiago.
It’s a journey through history, starting in the south of Spain and passing through ancient Roman and Moorish cities. Its length and the variety of landscapes make it wonderful for experienced pilgrims seeking a total immersion experience that’s less commercial.
In addition to its historical richness, it offers a diversity of climates and terrains, from the gentle hills of Extremadura to the green mountains of Galicia. With fewer pilgrims, it’s perfect for those seeking solitude and a personal challenge.
From Seville to Santiago de Compostela, via the Silver Route and the Sanabrés Way, there are almost 1000 km divided into about 38 stages. On this route, the pilgrim travels through the Autonomous Communities of Andalusia, Extremadura, Castile and León, and Galicia from south to north.
This is a route that is not very demanding in terms of relief. Combining the landscapes of olive groves in southern Spain with the characteristic green of Galicia, this route offers an impressive Roman heritage and the diverse culinary richness of the Iberian Peninsula.
Silver Route Map
The Best Routes of the Silver Route
The Winter Way
The Winter Way, an alternative and lesser-known route, offers a journey of approximately 253 kilometers. With about 10 stages, this route was historically chosen by pilgrims looking to avoid the snowy mountains of the French Way during the winter months.
Traversing the Ribeira Sacra wine region and passing by ancient monasteries, it’s a perfect choice for those who love history, culture, and nature. Unlike other more popular routes, it offers a tranquil and meditative pilgrimage experience.
Its varied terrain, combining hills and valleys, poses a moderate challenge, suitable for both experienced pilgrims and those seeking a quieter alternative. With a low influx of pilgrims, it’s ideal for a more personal and reflective experience, immersing oneself in the silent beauty of inland Spain.
From Ponferrada to Santiago de Compostela, there are approximately 253 km to cover in about 10 stages. This route crosses the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula from east to west through the Autonomous Communities of Castile and León and Galicia.
The beautiful landscapes of El Bierzo in León and the canyons of the Sil river in Lugo will encourage the pilgrim on this somewhat lesser-known route, which offers inspiring landscapes, rich heritage, and a cuisine that beckons to be savored alongside some of the best wines of Galicia.
Winter Way Map
The Best Journey of the Winter Way
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Curious Queries
For the Camino de Santiago, make sure to pack weather-appropriate clothing, including quick-drying pants, a technical t-shirt, a sweatshirt, and suitable footwear.
Also, bring a sleeping bag for hostels, extra clothes, waterproof layers, comfortable shoes for resting, toiletries, sunscreen, a basic first aid kit, your phone charger, an extra battery, important documents like your health card, and the pilgrim’s credential. Keep your backpack weight under 10% of your body weight.
On the Camino de Santiago, you have the flexibility to choose from a range of accommodations, including private hostels, budget-friendly options like hostels and pensions, hotels, rural houses, and even luxury hotels. We also offer pet-friendly accommodations, ensuring that your furry companions are welcome along your journey.
On the Camino de Santiago, you will find people of all ages: children, young people. adults, seniors and everyone in between. It’s an inclusive journey for all!
The key is to consider your physical condition and adjust the route according to your needs and health status.
We always emphasize that embarking on the Camino de Santiago alone is one of the most enriching ways to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Living the experience alone is a challenge that can be truly rewarding. While there may be moments when you feel alone, you’ll ultimately find gratitude in the solitude.
They say that the Camino de Santiago acts as the best form of therapy. It allows you to disconnect and dedicate time to what really matters. Reflect on your worries, clarify your thoughts, and begin your journey with the simple task of following the yellow arrows.
Plus, you will never truly be alone. This becomes evident once you set foot on the Camino. Along the stages, you’ll encounter numerous pilgrims with whom you will soon start conversations, share trails, accommodation, tables on terraces, and endless experiences that you will remember with nostalgia when you return home.
First of all, it’s important to understand that embarking on the Camino de Santiago doesn’t require being an elite athlete or being accustomed to long daily walking. It’s an achievable journey for everyone, including you.
If you are considering this trip and you are not sure about your physical condition, don’t worry. You are going to walk an average of 20 kilometers a day. If you find yourself unable to do so, you have two options: start training, do shorter stages, or join an organized group trip which has a support vehicle.
If you’re interested in training but unsure where to start, we recommend checking out our article on Training for the Camino de Santiago.
As you know, there isn’t just one route for the Camino de Santiago, and moreover, there’s no obligation to complete it within a set timeframe. To qualify for the Compostela, the minimum distance required is 100 kilometers on foot or 200 kilometers if traveling by bike. In both cases, allowing at least one week should suffice to complete the journey in stages of 20 kilometers per day for walkers or 50 kilometers per day for cyclists.
The Camino de Santiago can be done at any time of the year, each season offering a unique experience.
High season: From the beginning of May to mid-October, this period sees warmer temperatures and a higher number of pilgrims, especially along popular routes like the French or Portuguese Camino. It’s ideal for those seeking to immerse themselves in the bustling pilgrim atmosphere and make new connections. If traveling during this time, we recommend booking accommodations in advance or exploring less crowded routes.
Low season: It includes almost the whole winter, from November to the end of February or early March, , the low season experiences minimal pilgrim traffic due to inclement weather, with many accommodations and services closed. If embarking on the Camino during this period, thorough itinerary planning and advance reservations are advisable.
Mid season: Encompassing the remaining months of the year, many consider this the optimal time for the Camino de Santiago. With mild temperatures, autumnal landscapes, and fewer crowds compared to the summer months, it’s a delightful period to savor the sensory experiences of the journey.
To receive your Compostela, upon arrival in Santiago, you’ll need to visit the Oficina del Peregrino, situated at Calle Carretas, nº 33.
To obtain the Compostela, you must fulfill three requirements:
- Undertake the Camino de Santiago for religious or spiritual reasons, or at least with a sense of seeking.
- Complete the last 100 km of any of the routes on foot or on horseback, or the last 200 km by bicycle until reaching Santiago.
- Collect stamps along the way on your Pilgrim’s Credential. While stamps from churches, hostels, monasteries, cathedrals, and other Camino-related sites are preferred, stamps from accommodations, businesses, town halls, bars, etc., will also be accepted. Your Credential should be stamped at least twice daily.
