Summer is one of the best times to do the Camino de Santiago. With pleasant temperatures and longer days, this season offers a unique experience for pilgrims. If you’re thinking of walking a Camino route this summer, there are several routes that stand out for their beauty, history, and the comfort of their summer conditions. Below, we present some of the best routes to do the Camino de Santiago in summer 2025.
Summer weather invites you to do the Camino de Santiago
Best Camino de Santiago Routes in Summer
As you may know, there are many Camino de Santiago routes to choose from. But when we talk about summer, it’s hard not to think about coast, beach, pools, and rivers. And indeed, Galicia has nearly 1500 km of coastline, countless fresh rivers, and shady forests. So, since we’re talking about coast, water, shade, and kilometers, here are our routes for doing the Camino de Santiago in summer 2025.
The French Way from Sarria
The French Way is the most famous route and the one that attracts the most pilgrims each year. While walking the entire route is an unforgettable experience, many people choose to start from Sarria as it is the closest point to Santiago where you can receive the Compostela.
This section of the Camino is ideal in summer, as the temperatures are more pleasant compared to other times of the year, and the green and mountainous landscape of Galicia offers a refreshing and lively environment. Additionally, the infrastructure for pilgrims is excellent, with plenty of hostels, bars, and restaurants at each stage. And yes, although there’s no beach, you’ll have the great Miño River in Portomarín, the Iso River in Ribadiso, many more streams, countless shaded forests, and many municipal pools at various stops.
In summer, don’t forget your swimsuit
The Portuguese Coastal Way
If you prefer a Camino with sea views and a more relaxed atmosphere, the Portuguese Coastal Way is a perfect option. This route starts in the Portuguese city of Porto and follows the Atlantic coast to Santiago de Compostela. A shorter option would be from A Guarda or even from Vigo.
In summer, the sea breeze makes the heat more bearable, while you enjoy the beautiful beaches and coastal landscapes. Along the way, you can taste local delicacies, such as the famous Galician seafood, and discover charming fishing villages that will take you back in time. Remember that in Padrón you can get the Pedronía, a very Jacobean Camino certificate!
Pilgrims enjoying the maritime and traditional landscape of northern Portugal on the Portuguese Coastal Way
The Finisterre and Muxía Way
The Finisterre and Muxía Way is one of the most exciting routes for those who want a complete Camino experience. Instead of ending in Santiago de Compostela, this route starts from the city and takes you to the end of the world, Finisterre, where pilgrims have arrived for centuries to complete their journey.
In summer, you’ll enjoy the beaches of the Costa da Morte and warm weather perfect for walking. The cliff and open sea landscape will accompany you throughout the journey, giving you a unique sense of freedom and connection with nature. Plus, you can get the Finisterrana and Muxiana, two very special pilgrim certificates.
The view of Finisterre Cape on a sunny summer day is a marvel for the eyes
The English Way from Ferrol
For those looking for a less crowded route but still rich in history and beauty, the English Way is a perfect option. This route, which starts in Ferrol, the City of the Sea, and heads to Santiago, is ideal in summer due to its peaceful setting and pleasant temperatures.
Although less known than other routes, the English Way offers a more intimate experience, where you can enjoy the Galician rural landscapes, medieval architecture, and the welcoming atmosphere of the small villages along the Rías Altas of Galicia.
On the English Way, you can enjoy the Rías Altas
Doing the Camino in Summer: Advantages and Disadvantages
We always insist that doing the Camino in summer has more advantages than disadvantages. Shall we take a look?
Advantages
- Longer days: More daylight hours to walk, allowing you to start early and do longer stages without worrying about the night.
- You’ll walk more leisurely: With more daylight, you can walk without hurry, rest, and enjoy each stop.
- More services: During high season, you’ll find more services open, such as bars, restaurants, and establishments, allowing you to rest and regain strength.
- You’ll meet more people: The Camino in summer is ideal for socializing, meeting like-minded people, and making lifelong friends.
- Local festivals: During summer, many villages celebrate patron saints’ festivals, food, and cultural events, adding an extra experience to your trip.
- Beaches, rivers, and municipal pools: Many routes offer access to beaches, rivers, and municipal pools where you can refresh yourself after walking.
- Less chance of rain: Summer has fewer chances of rain, making the journey easier without interruptions due to bad weather.
- Lighter backpack: With lighter clothing, your backpack will weigh less, making the Camino more comfortable on your back.
Pilgrims walking the Portuguese Way
Disadvantages
- Overcrowding: In summer, the Camino de Santiago fills with pilgrims, which can cause crowds on the trails and in accommodations.
- Higher demand for accommodation: With more pilgrims, hostels and accommodations may fill up quickly, so it’s important to make reservations in advance.
- The heat: High temperatures can be challenging, so it’s essential to stay hydrated and use sunscreen to protect your skin.
Pre-Trip Planning and Preparation
Doing the Camino de Santiago in summer requires proper preparation to ensure you enjoy the trip and are well prepared for the weather conditions. Here are some useful tips.
What to Take on the Camino in Summer
Among the things to bring on the Camino in summer, we highlight:
- Sun protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap or hat to protect yourself from the sun and take care of your health, especially on longer stages.
- Hydration: In summer, dehydration is a risk, so it’s essential to carry a water bottle and drink regularly. You’ll find bars and fountains to refill, but it’s a basic nutrition item to carry in your backpack.
- Basic first-aid kit: Carry a small first-aid kit with essentials like plasters, painkillers, and any medication for heat or indigestion.
Seek shade if you plan to rest during the stage
Best Clothing for the Camino in Summer
Regarding the clothing to wear on the Camino in summer, take note:
- Light and breathable clothing: Opt for clothes that allow you to sweat without feeling uncomfortable, such as technical materials that dry quickly.
- Proper footwear: A good pair of hiking boots or shoes is essential to avoid chafing or blisters, especially if you’re walking long stages every day.
- Comfortable spare clothes: Bring lightweight clothing to change into at the end of each stage and something more comfortable to rest in after walking. Remember, evenings and early mornings in Galicia can be a bit chilly, so bring something warm.
Things to Keep in Mind
Also, keep in mind the following:
- Accommodation reservations: During high season, hostels and accommodations can fill up quickly, so be sure to plan and make your reservations in advance.
- High temperatures: The hottest hours of the day are usually between 12:00 and 16:00, so if you can, it’s better to leave early or walk in the afternoon to avoid extreme heat.
- Respect for nature: Remember to respect the natural environment and follow the Camino’s rules to preserve its beauty and history.
Pilgrims and “bikegrims” live in harmony on the Camino
The Camino de Santiago in summer is one of the best ways to enjoy this unique experience, and it’s one of the best times to enjoy it, according to the Camino statistics. With good preparation and careful planning, you’ll be able to enjoy everything this incredible journey has to offer, without compromising your well-being or respect for the environment. And remember, with us, you have many options to do the Camino in summer: your way, in a Group, on bike, or with your dog… No matter how you do the Camino de Santiago, we want you to enjoy your pilgrimage this summer!
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