Portuguese Way
The 2nd busiest route of the Camino de Santiago
From Lisbon, it draws a line from south to north that passes through important Portuguese cities and towns, such as Santarém, Coímbra, Oporto, Barcelos, Ponte de Lima, and Valença do Miño, until it crosses the international bridge over the Miño River and enters Galicia through the town of Tui. Already in Galician lands, the route runs through the entire province of Pontevedra until it reaches the city of the Apostle.
Journey to Santiago de Compostela from Portugal
8 days / 7 nights
7 days / 6 nights
7 days / 6 nights
7 days / 6 nights
All the information about the Portuguese Way
Why choose the Portuguese Way?
This is one of the most historic and most traveled routes, a perfect itinerary for any pilgrim. It offers one of the smoothest routes among all the Jacobean routes.
The Camino is designed for enjoyment, learning about the different Portuguese and Galician cultures, and immersing yourself in exciting natural and rural landscapes. You will enjoy admiring the ancient forests and millenary crossroads, following in the footsteps of other pilgrims who, like you, have walked this route since the Middle Ages.
What to see on the Portuguese Way?
- City of Lisbon
- Templar Castle and Convent of Christ – Tomar
- Monumental Complex of Buçaco – Mealhada
- Tui Cathedral
- City of Pontevedra
- Sampaio Bridge
- Church of Santiago Apóstol – Padron
- Collegiate Church of Iria Flavia
- Monasterio Benedictino de Samos
- Ruinas del antiguo pueblo de Portomarín
- Catedral de Santiago de Compostela
Where to start the Portuguese Way?
The Portuguese Way starts in the Portuguese capital. From here to Santiago de Compostela, it covers approximately 600 kilometers. If you want to complete the entire route, you will need at least one month to cover the 27 stages.
Undoubtedly, it will be a spectacular adventure during which you will immerse yourself in the culture and history of Portugal until you reach the land of Galicia. These two sister lands share many similarities.
Porto is the city par excellence to start the Portuguese Way. From this point, the presence of the Camino becomes more evident as we find better signposting and a variety of services offered to pilgrims.
From Porto to Santiago de Compostela, you have 240 kilometers ahead of you, which you can comfortably cover in 12 stages.
If you have little time to do the Portuguese Way, Tui is the perfect place to start. From this point, you only have to travel 120 kilometers to Santiago de Compostela, perfect for a one-week holiday. The Galician section of this route has everything you need to enjoy an extraordinary experience: the best gastronomy of the estuaries, designation of origin wines, beautiful landscapes of vineyards and fields, and a wealth of history and monuments.
Map of the Portuguese Way
Stages of the Portuguese Way
History of the Portuguese Route
The Portuguese Way began to develop in the Middle Ages, taking advantage of the river, sea, and land routes traced by the Romans and Muslims. Its origin may be, according to some historians, in a political path of reconquest and expansion of the kingdom of León. However, when Portugal emerged as an independent kingdom of Castile and Leon, there were already two consolidated routes linking the cities of Coimbra and Santiago, one by land and the other by sea.
The river and maritime routes were the most used since they allowed for faster movement. However, sometimes these routes could not be used due to big storms, so land routes began to take hold. Undoubtedly, the great event that consolidated the overland itinerary of the Portuguese route was the pilgrimage of Isabel of Portugal, known as Rainha Santa, in the 14th century. In her will, the queen earmarked a large sum for the maintenance and development of pilgrims’ hospitals in the Kingdom of Portugal, which meant a significant improvement in the pilgrimage routes and their infrastructures.
Another aspect that helped to consolidate the Portuguese Camino de Santiago was the presence of the Order of the Knights of St. James in Portugal. This order defended the border of Extremadura and offered protection to the pilgrims, making the Camino much safer.
The pilgrims who made this journey were mostly Portuguese, but there were also a large number of European pilgrims from different nations.
Finally, we can speak of a period of decline of the Portuguese itinerary and a subsequent resurgence. This new boom took place at the end of the 20th century, practically parallel to that of the French Way. Thanks to the efforts of public institutions and associations of pilgrims from Galicia and northern Portugal began to signalize, recovering the route known as the Central Way. Soon after, other itineraries were added, such as the Portuguese Way along the Coast and the Inland Way, as well as other alternative routes. The success of this revitalization was such that the Portuguese route has become the second most frequented itinerary of the Camino de Santiago, after the French Way.
Frequently asked questions about the Portuguese Way
The Portuguese Way has become increasingly popular in recent years, positioning itself as the second most traveled route after the French Way. Although it does not reach the same level of traffic as the French route, it is still a busy option, especially from Porto or Tui. At these points, you will find a constant flow of pilgrims, especially during the high season (spring and summer).
One of the reasons for its growing popularity is that it is an accessible route with less physically demanding stages. In addition, it offers excellent infrastructure for pilgrims, with numerous hostels, hotels and services at each stage.
If you are wondering which route is easier between the Portuguese Way and the French Way, the answer depends on several factors. However, in general, the Portuguese Way is considered more accessible for most pilgrims.
The Portuguese Way has flatter and gentler terrain, especially on its most popular stretch from Porto to Santiago de Compostela. The stages are less demanding and the climate is more moderate, an ideal option for those looking for a less physically challenging route.
On the other hand, the French Way, although more famous and with a highly developed infrastructure, presents stages with greater unevenness, especially in the first sections that cross the Pyrenees and some mountainous areas in the provinces of León and Galicia. Although it is an incredibly popular route full of history, the physical effort is greater, so it requires better physical preparation.
The Portuguese Camino de Santiago is one of the longest routes of the Camino de Santiago, with about 620 km generally divided into 27 stages. Therefore, divided like this, it takes 27 days to complete the Portuguese Camino de Santiago on foot.
Each stage would be the distance you travel in one day, from the starting location to the end of the walk, where you will spend the night. The stages can vary in distance and difficulty, and it is important to note that they can be adjusted according to your pace and physical condition. Some pilgrims choose to divide certain long or difficult stages, or lengthen those that are shorter or easier to walk. It all depends on having a place to sleep.
The Portuguese Way, although it is one of the longest routes, with 27 stages and 620 kilometers from Lisbon, is not considered very difficult. Of all of them, there are two stages considered difficult, due to their distance and relief: stage 20 between Ponte de Lima and Rubiães, and stage 19 between Barcelos – Ponte de Lima.
The Portuguese Camino de Santiago begins in the city of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal.
Throughout its approximately 620 kilometers, the Portuguese Way is divided into the following 27 stages:
- Lisboa – Alpriate (21,7 km)
- Alpriate – Vila Franca de Xira (18,8 km)
- Vila Franca de Xira – Azambuja (20 km)
- Azambuja – Santarém (33 km)
- Santarém – Golegã (30,7 km)
- Golegã – Tomar (31,3 km)
- Tomar – Alvaiázere (31,7 km)
- Alvaiázere – Alvorge (22,7 km)
- Alvorge – Cernache (26,1 km)
- Cernache – Coimbra (11,3 km)
- Coimbra – Sernadelo (24,8 km)
- Sernadelo – Águeda (23,5 km)
- Águeda – Albergaria-a-Velha (15,8 km)
- Albergaria-a-Velha – São João da Madeira (28,8 km)
- São João da Madeira – Grijó (19 km)
- Grijó – Oporto (15,1 km)
- Oporto – Vilarinho (26,5 km)
- Vilarinho – Barcelos (27,3 km)
- Barcelos – Ponte de Lima (34,5 km)
- Ponte de Lima – Rubiães (17,4 km)
- Rubiães – Tui (19,1 km)
- Tui – O Porriño (18,7 km)
- O Porriño – Arcade (23 km)
- Arcade – Pontevedra (12 km)
- Pontevedra – Caldas de Reis (21 km)
- Caldas de Reis – Padrón (18,6 km)
- Padrón – Santiago de Compostela (24,3 km)
This division can be modified, depending on the preferences and possibilities of each person, always taking into account having a place to spend the night.
In all the routes and stages of the Camino de Santiago there is a lot of beauty, nature and heritage. Of course, all this, between dozens of kilometers, with sections and stages that are easier to travel and others that are more complicated. The latter are characterized, above all, by having large slopes and, sometimes, accumulating many kilometers of ascent.
Below we want to inform you of the most commented stages and climbs due to their physical demands on the Portuguese Way. Some of them, for many, are part of the hardest stages of the Camino de Santiago.
- Codesal – Alto da Portela Grande de Labruja
If the Portuguese Way is quite flat and accessible for any pilgrim, it is not exempt from some climbs. In Portugal, on stage number 20 between Ponte de Lima and Rubiães, walkers face the Alto de A Portela Grande in Labruja. In 4.2 km of distance you climb about 300 m between forests and beautiful landscapes in a short stage but with a demanding challenge.
- Barcelos – Ponte de Lima
This is one of the longest stages (34.5 km) of the Camino Portugues and without a doubt one of the hardest. The section between Barcelos and Ponte de Lima is famous for its length and steep slopes, especially near Portela. The unevenness and length of the stage make this journey a real challenge, even for the most experienced pilgrims.
Some stages of the Portuguese Way stand out for their natural beauty, historical richness and cultural significance. Below, I present a selection of the most beautiful stages of the Portuguese Way:
- Tui – O Porriño
This stage marks the entrance to Galicia from Portugal, crossing the Tui International Bridge. Here, the Camino takes you through lush forests and quiet country lanes. The city of Tui, with its cathedral fortress, offers spectacular panoramic views of the Miño River and is a perfect place to start this beautiful stage.
- Pontevedra – Caldas de Reis
One of the most beautiful stages of the Portuguese Way, this section combines the best of Galician nature. You will pass ancient stone bridges, green valleys and crystal clear rivers. Furthermore, upon arrival in Caldas de Reis you are rewarded with its natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing your muscles after a day of walking.
- Valença do Minho – Tui
Although this stage can be considered part of the border between Portugal and Spain, it offers spectacular views along the Miño River. Valença do Minho, with its impressive fortress, is a place of great beauty and historical value. Crossing the International Bridge to Tui is an experience that many pilgrims describe as magical.
- Redondela – Pontevedra
This stage takes you through lush eucalyptus forests and green fields, offering a charming contrast to the small villages you will find along the way. In addition, Pontevedra is one of the most beautiful cities in Galicia, with a well-preserved historic center and a vibrant cultural life.
- Caldas de Reis – Padrón
Known for its tranquility and natural beauty, this stage takes you through the greenest landscapes of the Portuguese Way. The journey between Caldas de Reis and Padrón is a delight for the senses, with numerous streams and old mills that line the road. Padrón is famous for being the place where, according to tradition, the boat that transported the remains of the Apostle Santiago arrived.
- Padrón – Santiago de Compostela
The last stage of the Camino Portugues is one of the most exciting and moving. As you approach Santiago de Compostela, the landscape becomes increasingly spectacular. The Galician hills accompany you throughout the journey, culminating in the majestic Cathedral of Santiago, where many pilgrims complete their trip with a mix of emotions.
Among all of them, choosing the most beautiful stage can be subjective and very personal, since it depends on the tastes and preferences of each pilgrim. However, one of the most valued stages and that is frequently highlighted for its natural, scenic and historical beauty is the one that goes from Pontevedra to Caldas de Reis. Among the reasons why it is considered the most beautiful, we highlight:
- Natural Landscapes: This stage crosses lush Galician forests, trails surrounded by vineyards and agricultural fields. The tranquility and greenery of the surroundings provide a comforting experience deeply connected to nature.
- Medieval Rivers and Bridges: Along the way, pilgrims cross crystalline rivers on ancient stone bridges, such as the famous Lérez River Bridge, which adds a historical and picturesque touch to the journey.
- Galician Villages: The route passes through small villages that preserve the traditional Galician essence, where pilgrims can enjoy the local hospitality and the rich gastronomy of the region.
- Hot Springs in Caldas de Reis: The stage ends in Caldas de Reis, known for its natural hot springs, which have attracted visitors since Roman times. It is the perfect place to relax after a day of walking.
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