The Camino de Santiago, as shown by the statistics from recent years, is a journey that many pilgrims choose to undertake during a Jacobean Holy Year. And the next Holy Year will be in 2027, when a large influx of pilgrims is expected across all the Jacobean routes. If you’re thinking about experiencing the Camino in all its spiritual, cultural, and social richness, now’s the time to start preparing.
The Cathedral of Santiago, destination of every pilgrim and heart of Christianity during the Holy Year
What is the Jacobean Holy Year?
The Jacobean Holy Year is celebrated whenever July 25th, the feast of Saint James the Apostle, falls on a Sunday. This only happens around 14 times per century — every 11, 6, 5, and 6 years — making it a rare and unique opportunity for pilgrims. It is only during the Compostela Holy Year, which usually begins on the night of December 31st of the previous year, that the Holy Door of the Cathedral of Santiago is opened and pilgrims can obtain the plenary indulgence. The last Holy Year was in 2021 (extended exceptionally through 2022 due to the pandemic), and the next will be in 2027, followed by 2032 and beyond.
What makes Xacobeo 2027 so special?
During a Holy Year, the city of Santiago de Compostela and all of Galicia are transformed. It’s not just about the surge in pilgrims — there’s also a rich calendar of cultural, social, and religious events promoted by the Church, the Xunta de Galicia, and the Jacobean Council. According to the Council itself, Holy Year 2027 will be declared an Event of Exceptional Public Interest. Preparations for Xacobeo 2027 are already underway, aiming to enhance pilgrim hospitality, improve infrastructure, and deliver a decentralized, sustainable, and inclusive cultural program.
Aerial view of the Cathedral and the Obradoiro Square
Which Camino de Santiago routes can you walk during the Holy Year?
During a Holy Year, many pilgrims choose longer stages, such as the full French Way from Roncesvalles or the Portuguese Coastal Way from Porto. However, the most popular routes tend to attract the highest numbers during a Holy Year:
- French Way from Sarria.
- Portuguese Way from Tui.
- Portuguese Coastal Way from Vigo.
- Primitive Way from Oviedo.
- Northern Way from Ribadeo.
- English Way from Ferrol.
- Finisterre and Muxía Way as a spiritual extension after reaching Santiago.
Pilgrims walking the Camino during the Holy Year
What are the benefits of doing the Camino in a Holy Year?
Besides the physical and spiritual benefits of walking the Camino, a Holy Year brings added advantages:
- Earn the Plenary Indulgence by meeting the established requirements.
- Experience a unique atmosphere of fellowship, celebration, and spirituality.
- Attend special events: concerts, exhibitions, theatre, interfaith gatherings, and more.
- Pass through the Holy Door of the Cathedral, one of the Camino’s major milestones.
- Watch the Botafumeiro swing through the Cathedral and embrace the Apostle.
The Botafumeiro in flight during a Holy Year
How to get ready for Xacobeo 2027?
Even though it’s still two years away, 2025 and 2026 are ideal for training, researching routes, and booking early. A high demand is expected, just like in 2021–22, so it’s a good idea to:
- Choose the right route for your fitness level and available time; it’s best to prepare in advance according to the route’s duration.
- Book your accommodation and transport early. Decide if you’ll travel independently, by bike, with your school, or in an organized group.
- Consider organized packages that include services like luggage transfer, bed & breakfast accommodation, on-route assistance, and the pilgrim’s credential, so you can receive your Compostela in such a special year. Reach out to experts like us — we’ll help you plan every step of the way.
Pilgrims planning their Camino
Live the Holy Year 2027 with us!
Aside from the significance of the Holy Year itself, there are many more reasons to walk the Camino de Santiago. At Viajes Camino de Santiago, we’re already preparing special packages for the Jacobean Holy Year 2027, with new routes, cultural experiences linked to Xacobeo 2027, and personalized support so you can live this milestone in an unforgettable way. Ready to be part of history? Holy Year 2027 will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Camino at its fullest. Join us on the Camino de Santiago during the Holy Year 2027!
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