What is the Camino de Santiago?
The Camino de Santiago or the Way of St.James is a network of pilgrimage routes to the tomb of Apostle St. James (Santiago in Spanish) in Santiago de Compostela. Walking the Camino is a lifetime experience. One of the best things about it is that anybody can do it. You don't have to be an experienced hiker or good athlete to walk it.
We have the Camino de Santiago resource page where you can find all our posts dedicated to the pilgrimage. It's easy to navigate as all the posts are grouped by the topic.
As of May 2026, we've completed 12 Camino routes and several connecting and alternative routes. If you have just started planning the Camino you can follow our 10 easy steps that will help you to plan your walk.
Watch our YouTube video about things to know before walking the Camino de Santiago
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What is the Camino de Santiago?
The Camino de Santiago is a network of pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela, a city in Galicia, Northern Spain. It's believed to be the burrier place of the remains of the Apostle St. James. The history of the Camino de Santiago goes back to the 9th century when Spanish King Alfonso II completed the first-ever pilgrimage from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela. Nowadays this route is known as the Camino Primitivo.
Camino de Santiago has many different routes from short 120-kilometers trails to long and challenging 1000-kilometers routes. Depending on how much time you have, what you want to see, and how far you want walk you can choose any of the existing routes.
Why is the Camino so important?
The Camino de Santiago is one of the oldest pilgrimage routes in Europe. It has been walked by millions of people over the centuries. The final point of the pilgrimage, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, is one of the three Christian temples built over the tomb of one of the twelve Apostles. People who walk the Camino for religious reasons see it as the way to seek penance and forgiveness.
If you get overwhelmed at the beginning of your Camino planning and have many questions that need to be answered we created a dedicated post answering many FAQs about the Camino de Santiago.
Many routes of the Camino de Santiago
The Camino de Santiago is not a single route, as some people think referring to the most popular route - Camino Frances. It's a network of routes. You can start walking to Santiago from anywhere in Europe but outside the established Camino de Santiago routes it will be difficult to find a good infrastructure for pilgrims; accommodation, route markings, etc.
There are several established routes of the Camino. They start in different places in Spain and Europe and end in Santiago de Compostela.
Camino Frances (the French Way) - the most popular route. In 2024 47% of all pilgrims walked this Camino. The French route starts in Saint Jean Pied de Port, a small French town near the border with Spain. The total distance is 790 km. 65% of pilgrims who completed the route walked the last 100 km from Sarria.
Camino Portugues (the Portuguese Way) - the second popular route. It starts in Lisbon but most people start their walk in Porto or Tui. Total distance from Lisbon is 644 km, from Porto 243 km, 274 km, or 280 km, depending on the route you take, 119 km on the route from Tui. There are three routes from Porto; the Coastal route, the Litoral Way, and the Central route.
Camino del Norte (the Northern Way) - this route is very beautiful but has a lack of infrastructure for pilgrims especially in terms of budget accommodation. The Northern Way is a great alternative to the French Camino. I've walked both and liked the scenery on the Camino del Norte more. The route starts in Irún, a small Spanish town on the border with France. The total distance of the Camino is 825 km.
Camino Primitivo (the Original Way) - one of the lesser-known Camino routes, about 5% of the pilgrims. It’s relatively short, 321 km. It’s considered to be one of the toughest routes due to many steep ascents and descents. The Camino Primitivo starts in Oviedo, Spain.
Via de la Plata (the Silver Way) - one of the longest Camino routes in Spain, about 1000 km. It's one of the least walked routes, only 2% of pilgrims walk it. It’s not the best route to walk as the first Camino due to prolonged stages and great distance.
Camino Inglés (the English Way) - a shorter route, 120 km. It starts in Ferrol, Spain. 5,5% of pilgrims walk. It’s probably the best option for those who want to get a taste of the Camino before embracing a longer walk.
There are many lesser-known Camino routes in Spain. All these routes combined are walked by less than 1% of the pilgrims. You can imagine how little infrastructure they have.
There is one special route Camino Finisterre-Muxía, unlike the other routes, it starts in Santiago de Compostela and goes to Finisterre and Muxía, two coastal towns in Galicia. People usually walk it after completing one of the other Camino routes.
You can find more details on route options in our post on the Best routes of the Camino de Santiago.
How long does it take to walk the Camino de Santiago?
The time required for completing the Camino de Santiago depends on the route. It can be from 4 days on the Camino de Gran Canaria to 45+ days on the Via de la Plata. The most popular route the Camino Frances takes on average between 30 and 35 days to complete. If you don't have time to complete one of the longer routes and still want to get the Compostela Certificate you can walk a 100 km on any Camino route.
If you want to complete one of the longer routes of the Way of St.James but don't have enough time you can split it into parts and walk them over a couple of years.
Where does the Camino start and end?
The starting point of the Camino depends on the chosen route. All Camino routes start in different cities across Spain, some in other European countries. All routes end in one place - Santiago de Compostela. There are only two exceptions: the Camino de Gran Canaria which is on the Canary Islands and the Camino Finisterre-Muxia which starts in Santiago de Compostela.
Santiago de Compostela is a great city with many things to do. If you have a couple of days after finishing the Camino I recommend spending them there.
How hard is to walk the Camino?
The Camino de Santiago is a challenging route, especially for first-timers who have never done a multi-day walk before. It's physically demanding to walk on average 20-25 km daily for weeks. Even if you walk one of the shorter routes or do only a 100 km it's still difficult. I would recommend doing some training for the Camino de Santiago.
On longer routes (from our experience) besides physical exhaustion you can get emotionally burned out. Just imagine getting up every day packing your stuff in a backpack, walking for 6-8 hours, sleeping every night in a different place often in a shared room with strangers. Of course, it's a unique experience, and the challenges that we overcome form a part of it.
How many hours a day do you walk?
You walk 20-25 km/12,4-15,5 mi per day on average. If you take an average walking speed of 5 km/3,1 mi per hour it'll give you 4-5 walking hours a day. Add to that an hour or two because you usually stop on the way to drink coffee, eat lunch, etc. Be ready to spend on the road between 6 and 8 hours a day. Some people walk slower some faster. Even on the same Camino route walking time may vary depending on the landscape; in the mountains (due to ascents and descents), you walk slower than on the plains.
What is the best month to walk the Camino de Santiago?
The best months for doing the Camino depend on the route you choose, some routes are great in summer e.g. Camino del Norte, Camino Primitivo - it's nice and warm, with no rain. On some Caminos, the summer heat is unbearable e.g. Via de la Plata, and the Lisbon to Porto part of the Portuguese Camino - it's scorching hot, dry with no shadow to hide.
The busiest time for most of the routes is May, June, July, and September. These summer months have the best weather for walking. If you want to escape crowds plan the walk for end of September beginning of October. We love walking the Camino that time of the year. It's still warm and sunny but less crowdy.
For walking the Camino de Santiago completely off-season between November and March, the French Camino is probably the best. There is more infrastructure, some albergues are open all year round.
Weather-wise winter is not the best time it can rain quite a lot and temperatures drop below 0C. Some mountain passes might be closed.
What do I need for walking?
Anybody can walk the Camino de Santiago. You don't need any special documents or permits. All you need is a pair of good shoes and a comfortable backpack for the Camino. Of course, you'll have to do some planning and preparation.
The only special thing you need for the Camino de Santiago is a Credential (pilgrim's passport) - a small book that contains your information (name, country, birth date, etc.) with special spaces for stamps. IYou collect stamps from albergues, churches, restaurants, and bars on the route. At the end of the Camino you go to the Pilgrim's Reception Office in Santiago de Compostela with your Credential with stamps. There you can get the Compostela certificate for completing the pilgrimage.
How much does the pilgrimage cost?
Walking the Camino is usually cheaper than going on a normal holiday. The cost depends on how much comfort you need. The cheapest way to walk the Camino is;
- to stay mainly in public (municipal) albergues
- to make food
- not to go out a lot
If you stick to these rules your Camino budget will be as little as 25 Euros per person per day.
Camino de Santiago one week cost, per person
- Accommodation - 10 Euro x 7 days = 70 Euro per week, per person
- Food shopping - 10 Euro x 7 days = 70 Euro
- Eating out (optional, you can buy all food in supermarkets) - 10 Euro x 7 days = 70 Euro
- Laundry - 5 Euro, can be divided between 2 or more people
- Other - 10 Euro
Total; 225 Euro pp. per week or 33 Euro pp. per day, plus transport to get to the Camino and back home. For a comfortable walk, I suggest budgeting 35 Euro pp. per day. If you cut off on eating out you can do it for 175 Euro pp. per week or 25 Euro pp. per day.
You can find more details on the cost of walking the Camino including money-saving tips, a detailed explanation of what you can get on 25, 35, and 50 Euro per day, and a comparison of the cost of different routes in our post The cost of walking the Camino de Santiago.
Do I have to carry my backpack?
If you don't want to walk with a big backpack every day it's possible to arrange backpack delivery on the Camino. Your backpack gets picked up in the morning from your hotel and dropped off in the afternoon at your next accommodation place. Several companies offer luggage transfer services on the Camino de Santiago. The Spanish post office Correos is the main one, they cover most Camino routes. The price is around 7 Euros per backpack per stage.
Travel insurance for the Camino
Walking like any other outdoor activity involves a risk of getting an injury or losing some of the gear. It's recommended to have travel insurance for the Camino de Santiago. Though Camino is not a high-altitude hike through remote areas it's still a physically challenging experience and injuries are quite frequent. It makes the walk less stressful when you know you're covered in case of any unpredictable emergencies.
World Nomads travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers, with coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
How to plan the Camino de Santiago?
These simple steps will help you in planning and preparing for the walk.
Choose which route you want to walk. Don't be afraid to choose an off-the-beaten-track route, base your choice on what you'd like to see and experience.
Book your plane, train, bus ticket, etc.
Start training for the Camino.
Check packing recommendations and make sure you have all the essentials e.g. comfortable shoes, a good backpack, etc. Don’t leave shoe shopping till the last moment, you’ll need some time to get used to new shoes.
Get the Credential in your country or check if you’ll be able to get it at the starting point of your Camino route; some albergues, cathedrals, or information offices sell them.
Make a draft of your walking itinerary (stages) based on distances. You don't have to stick to it but it's nice to have some sort of a walking plan.
Buy travel insurance that covers the period of the walk.
When you have everything ready pack your backpack and try to walk 10-15 km with it. If it feels too heavy reconsider your luggage and leave unnecessary stuff at home. It's important to pack light for the Camino to make your walk easier.
One of my main Camino de Santiago tips is don’t stress out - as pilgrims say “The Camino provides”. Everything will work out in the end and you'll be fine.
Where do pilgrims stay?
Hostels for pilgrims are called albergues. They can be municipal (public) or private. The municipal albergues are run by the municipality with the help of volunteers. Private albergues belong to a person or organization. In high season municipal albergues on the popular routes fill up quite quickly if you want to get a spot you must be there before 1 pm and wait in the queue. Even if you don't get a spot there will be one or two private albergues where you can stay for 5-7 Euros more.
There are albergues for a donation they can be private or public. They don't have an established price, and pilgrims donate as much as they want. Donation albergues are only for pilgrims with Credentials, they can't be booked.
Of course, there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses on the Camino. It works out a lot more expensive to stay in private every night, especially on longer routes. We try to stay in private at least once or twice a week to have better rest.
Municipal albergues
- The average price is 10 Euros per person.
- They are exclusively for pilgrims (you need a Credential to stay there).
- Can’t be booked, first come first serve principle.
- Check-in usually starts between 1 pm and 3 pm.
- Check out by 8 am the next morning.
- Don't allow to stay for more than one night.
- Usually, have disposable bedding included or for 1 Euro extra.
- Normally have a kitchen, sometimes without utensils or cutlery.
- Usually, they are quite big.
Private albergues
- Price 15-20 Euros.
- Not only for pilgrims but the majority of people who stay there are pilgrims.
- They can be booked in advance through online booking system or over the phone.
- Normally open for check-in from 1 pm.
- Check out before 9 am-10 am.
- Allow staying as long as you want.
- Usually have better facilities than public albergues.
- Disposable bedding is included, some places have normal bedding.
- Usually have a kitchen.
- Normally they are smaller than public albergues.
How do I find albergues on the Camino?
You don't have to worry about it. The way to municipal albergues is always marked, just follow the arrows and you will end up at the albergue. Most private albergues have indications pointing their way (they want you to find them), some might be slightly off the route but usually, they are located pretty close to the Camino.
In the peak season (May, June, and September) if you want to stay in a specific private albergue (because it’s very nice or somebody recommended it to you, etc.) it’s better to book it in advance.
Find more information on accommodation on the Camino in our comprehensive post Albergues on the Camino de Santiago.
What is the food like on the Camino?
It's not a problem to find places to eat on the Camino. Most routes, especially the more popular ones, have plenty of restaurants and bars. Menu del Día or Pilgrim's Menu is the most popular meal. It's a set menu that includes salad or soup, a main dish (meat, chicken, fish), wine/water/cool drink to choose from, bread, coffee, or dessert. The menu costs 12 Euro on average and it's usually a big meal. Many restaurants, bars, and private albergues serve it for lunch.
Many bars and cafes offer breakfast. It's usually a cup of coffee with a sandwich or pastry and a glass of orange juice. In some places, you can find a big breakfast with eggs and bacon but it's not typical in Spain.
Tapas or pinchos are very popular in Spain. Tapas or pinchos can be anything; a small portion of paella, a little sandwich, a piece of tortilla, etc. Some bars give tapas for free with your drink, and some charge extra, usually 2-3 Euro. Pinchos are typical for Northern Spain (the Basque County, Navarra). You always pay for pinchos, the price is 3-6 Euro.
The main problem on the Camino is if you are on a specific diet e.g. vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, etc. In big cities, you find restaurants serving vegan or vegetarian menus but in smaller places, it might be difficult. The best option is to find a place with a kitchen where you can cook.
The food on the Camino de Santiago is a part of the experience. I recommend trying some of the traditional Spanish dishes and going out for tapas at least once.
How do I find the route?
All established Camino de Santiago routes are well-marked from the start to the end. The routes are marked with yellow arrows and yellow scallop shells painted on sidewalks, tiles, walls, poles, etc. In Galicia, the route markers show the distance left to the cathedral in Santiago.
We rarely had a problem finding the way. A couple of times in big cities we lost the trek because the route sometimes is marked with metal scallop shells on sidewalks, but usually, it’s very easy to follow.
Is it safe to walk the Camino?
I’ve walked four different Camino routes alone and never felt unsafe. I walked out of big cities through so-called industrial areas, through forests, fields, and along beaches. The most unpleasant for me is walking on or along the road. I just don’t like it when I hear a car or even worse a truck approaching from behind but even when I had to walk on the road it never felt like a car would drive over me.
The main “danger” on the Camino is theft, especially in big cities. Don’t leave your valuable stuff unattended anywhere; albergues, restaurants, picnic spots, etc.
Camino de Santiago planning resources
- Make sure to choose the best Camino route for you | Many routes of the Camino de Santiago - choose the right one |
- How to pack for the Camino? | Camino de Santiago packing list |
- Join the international Camino community | Camino de Santiago forum |
- Find out what churches and cathedrals on different Camino routes held masses for pilgrims | Mass on the Way |
Questions or Comments?
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The pretty half of Stingy Nomads, responsible for all our land adventures (hiking, climbing, walking the Camino) and following them write-ups. Alya loves walking since she was a child, she prefers to walk 1000 km with a backpack rather than to do a 10 000 km road trip (actually any road trip). Alya is a big fan of Latin America, the Spanish language, and dancing. Every time we go away she desperately misses our dog Chile.
Walking the camino in 2024.
Hola! We are leaving from SJDPP on July 4th walking to Santiago! We are excited to get to Pamplona during the Running of the Bulls but worried about finding a place to stay. Do you know if it's impossible to get a room at the Albergue in Pamplona during that time? If so, do you have a recommendation of planning around that but still enjoying a day there? Thanks so much!
Hello Debby. Thank you for the comment. I would strongly recommend booking accommodation in Pamplona in advance if you're going to be there during the running with the bulls even. The city gets oversaturated with tourists. The public albergue is exclusively for pilgrims and it is quite big and it's very likely to be open but I've heard that some people get a Credential in Pamplona and pretend to be pilgrims in order to be able to stay in the public albergues because it's very cheap. Since they don't really walk the Camino they'll be there a long time before you and will take all the spots. There are plenty of private albergues/hostels in Pamplona. We have a detailed post on the walking stages of the Camino Frances. https://stingynomads.com/camino-frances-walking-itinerary/ In the second paragraph of the post you can find a downloadable PDFs; one contains walking stages with distances and the second one contains a list of places to stay on the Camino. You can use them to plan your walk and book accommodation.
Buen Camino
I love your site and all the practical tips. I’m coming in April to walk from Sarria to Santiago. I’m trying to figure out the best way from Lisbon airport to start my trip (I’ve got business there beforehand). Trains take forever...Car rental seems a waste to drive up, park for a week and drive back...There are driving services advertised (car plus driver for the day) - are these safe/reliable. Thanks.
Hello Sanjay. Thank you for the comment. We have never used a driving service in Portugal we usually take buses or drive ourselves (we live in Portugal). We took a direct bus to get back from Santiago to Lisbon once after completing the Camino de Santiago. It was a long journey though. There are no direct flights from Lisbon to Santiago. You can fly with one connection in Madrid but it's still much quicker, 3h30min - 4 hours. Iberia Airlines has the best flight options from Lisbon to Santiago with a layover in Madrid. From Santiago, you can take a bus to Sarria.
As for private shuttles, you can try SunTransfers. It seems like a big and reliable company though we personally have never used them.
Good luck
Hi! Thank you so much for sharing your amazing journey! We’re interested in walking the Portuguese Camino coastal route but we only have 9 days…we’re thinking that we can possibly take a bus to skip a stop? Are there any legs of the walk that are less scenic or can be enjoyed by bus or train vs walking?
Thank you!
Meghan
Hello Meghan. Thank you for the comment. If you want to get the Compostela certificate for completing the Camino de Santiago you'll have to walk at least the last 100 km to Santiago de Compostela which on the Coastal Route is from Vigo. In this case you can start in Porto and walk to Castel da Neiva or Carreço (Portugal) then take a bus to Vigo and from there continue to Santiago. You walk the first 3-4 days and the last 5 days. If you're not to worried about the Compostela certificate and more interested in the scenery then I would suggest walking the first part from Porto to Caminha (5 days) and from there take a bus to Redondela or Pontevedra and continue to Santiago (3-4 days).
Buen Camino
Hello!
My sister and I are 29 and want to walk the Camino de Santiago. We work in the schools so we have the months of June until the first week of August off. We want to walk between 3-5 days and then spend the rest of the trip sight seeing to other places. We love to eat and see the cultural and people of each place. We love to hike but are also concerned with safety and if we should get a group to travel with? What routes would you recommend and do you have any other feedback or info for what we are looking for? Thanks for all you do 🙂
Hello Christina. Many solo female travelers walk the Camino de Santiago solo I'm sure you and your sister walking together will be safe. I've walked a few Camino routes alone and had no safety issues. If you want to walk for only 3-5 days and spend the rest of your holiday sightseeing, I suggest you walk the Coastal Route of the Portuguese Camino from Porto. Here is a detailed post on the route https://stingynomads.com/portuguese-coastal-camino-stages/. It's a beautiful route along the coast. Summer is the season for the Camino so there will be many other pilgrims you don't have to worry about safety. The rest of the time you can spend exploring Portugal and Northern Spain. I would recommend booking tickets and accommodation in advance June - July is the peak season for traveling in that part of Europe.
Buen Camino
Need to decide which route is right for us older, but pretty fit backpackers, ages 65 and 70. Your site seems to have great info. Look forward to reading more, to see what's best.
Hello Annette. We're glad you're finding our blog helpful. If you have any questions regarding the Camino de Santiago and its routes we'll be happy to help you.
Cheers
Hi,
Thanks so much for all your great info! I am going to do a week or 2 of the french route starting around the 21st October. Do you think the mountain range around O Cebreira will be too cold/dangerous for unexperienced hikers at this time? I have read about snow and blizzards - I will be with one other hiker so not alone although neither of us are experienced. We initially considered starting from Sarria but we would like to incorporate a few more challenging days and have a bit more experience in the mountains so are thinking of starting from either O Cebreira or Villafranca del Bierzo (as this includes the ascent too if I understand correctly). It would be great to get some advice on whether you think this is reasonable at this time of year. Thankyou 🙂
Also, I have seen buses from Santiago de Compostela on monbus.es but there is only 1 bus a day, are there other buses/options to get to the above villages from there? Our flight doesnt get in early enough for us to make the bus on the day we land, but we would like to get started that day if possible.
Thanks!
Hello Isabella. Thank you for the comment. I don't think it'll be too dangerous to walk the Camino de Santiago from O Cebreiro at the end of October there won't be any snow yet. It's possible that it'll be cold and rainy there. I think it's doable but it's very likely the weather will be unpleasant.
As for buses even during the peak season there are very few bus options to O Cebreiro it's very possible that there is only one bus a day. You could try to get to Ponferrada first and from there take a taxi to Vila Franca for example. I don't know what time you arrive but I would recommend starting walking in the morning as but stages from Ponferrada and from O Cebreiro are quite challenging and you don't want to walk in the dark. I understand that you want to add a more challenging part to your Camino walk but given the circumstances I think starting the Camino from Sarria might be the best option.
Buen Camino
Great info! I have reviewed many of your artices and am ready to do the Portuguese route (combo coastal/central) in late Oct/early Nov starting in Porto, which I see from your info takes 12-14 days. I would like to have 1-2 days in Porto and 1-2 days also in Lisbon after the camino. I'm coming from the US and it looks like flying in/out of Lisbon would be best. Do you have any recommendations on a good itinerary for the whole trip? I could plan for up to three weeks total. Should I fly into Lisbon, go straight to Porto see sights 1-2 days, hike, then get from Santiago back to Lisbon for 1-2 days before flying home? What are best ways to get from Lisbon to Porto and Santiago back to Lisbon, in your opinion? And what are the must-see things in Porto, Santiago, and Lisbon for the brief days I'll be in each? Thank you for any suggestions.
Cheers!
Hello Jennifer. Thank you for the comment. I think the best will be to buy a return flight to Lisbon. Once you're there you can take a bus/train to Porto. Oriente Bus and Train station in Lisbon is just 2 metro stations away from the airport. It's easy and quick to get there. it takes around 3 hours to get from Lisbon Oriente to Porto by bus or train. For bus tickets check the FlixBus website they have the lowest tariffs. Train tickets can be bought on the official Portugal railway website https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en/buy-tickets. Buses are a bit cheaper than trains.
You can stay in Porto for a couple of days to rest and get over jet lag. And then start walking the Portuguese Camino de Santiago. It'll take you around 2 weeks to arrive in Santiago de Compostela. After completing the Camino you can spend 2 days in Santiago. It's a beautiful city. Here is our post on things to do there https://stingynomads.com/santiago-de-compostela-things-to-do/. From Santiago, you can take a direct bus to Lisbon. It's about 9 hours to get there. ALSA bus company has direct buses so check their website for tickets and itineraries. There are no direct trains from Santiago to Lisbon. The time that is left until your flight you can spend in Lisbon. We like staying in the Parque das Nacoes area of the city. It's a modern beautiful area close to the airport with a bus and a train station, a big mall, and many things to do. It's easy to get around Lisbon using the metro. If you want to stay close to the city center then Alfama, Chiado, or
Bairro Alto are the best areas.
We don't have posts on things to do in Porto and in Lisbon but we're working on them. In a month or so you'll be able to find them on our website.
Cheers
@Jennifer, maybe see you on the Camino, I’ll be doing the same ish dates.
@Dale,
Cool! What route will be taking? I haven't yet totally decided my plan. Thinking of maybe Coastal at first then cutting over to the Central mid-way.
Do you have any info on The Italian routes. Your Portuguese information was a god send. I used it for all my planning.
Hello Vicky. Thank you for the comment. What Italian routes are you talking about? The Via Francigena? If so we haven't done it yet. It was planned for 2020 but we had to postpone it. We're planning to walk it in the nearest future though.
Cheers
Hi I am interested in walking the Camino
Hi! This is a great overview, and the details on the individual trails are very helpful. Do you have a comparison of which routes require the least road walking? I always prefer trails to roads so my decision on which route to do would include the factor of road walking.
Thanks!
Hello Matt. Thank you for the comment. Do you mean road walking with traffic or rather waking on hard surfaces (sidewalks etc.)? There is not much road walk on any Camino de Santiago route. The worst one is on the Camino del Norte from Gijon to Aviles. If you want a route that is close to a hiking trail with walking on a footpath a lot then the Camino Primitivo is the best one to do. Here is the detailed post on the route https://stingynomads.com/camino-primitivo-stages/ The route goes over the mountains and through the forest. We really enjoyed the route it's the most in-nature Camino route in Spain and Portugal.
Buen Camino
Plan on doing the Camino del Norte route in late October. Is this a good time to do this route? I prefer cool weather and not to be too crowded. Also when doing the walk just to confirm it's going to be at your own pace and time correct? I mean one can start the walk at early morning or after lunch? I suppose this isn't a group tour kind of thing wherein there's a set of schedule one has to follow.
Hello, John. We walked the Northern Camino de Santiago starting on the 1st of October and for the first 2 weeks, we had nice weather. From mid-October, it started raining and rained pretty much every day. One thing to consider with the Camino del Norte is that some albergues close for the off-season. We have two detailed posts on the Camino del Norte that will be helpful in your planning https://stingynomads.com/northern-way-camino-de-santiago/ and https://stingynomads.com/camino-del-norte-stages/.
You can walk at your own pace as far as you want there are no set rules or itineraries for the Camino de Santiago. There are suggested itineraries that you can adjust according to your needs.
Buen Camino
Hi, thanks!
1. If I prefer interesting views/ sightings to monotenous and more "boring" stages, which parts of the French camino would you advice me to skip with a ride/bus?
2. When finishing a day's walk, is there usually enough time left to see the local village, church etc? do pilgrims usually skip these sightings, or stay extra days to enjoy them?
I'm 27, usually fit but kinda slow and not a pro hicker. I come from abroad so I need to plan my approxiamte number of days for the route in advance
Hello, Noam. Thank you for the comment. We have two detailed posts on the French Camino de Santiago https://stingynomads.com/french-way-camino-de-santiago-guide/ and https://stingynomads.com/camino-frances-walking-itinerary/ where you can find information about the stages including which parts of the route I didn't enjoy that much and recommend skipping if you don't have enough time. I know most pilgrims who skip a part of the Camino Frances usually omit the Meseta part from Burgos to Leon. In my opinion, it's not the most scenic part of the route but some pilgrims really enjoy it.
Most people usually finish the day by lunchtime. If you walk 20-25 km per day and start walking at about 8am. You have the second half of the day for sightseeing but shopping, making food, laundry, etc. take some time as well. Sometimes you're just tired after the walk and don't feel like walking around. 20-25km a day doesn't sound much but if you walk for several weeks it adds up and you do feel quite tired especially if you have never done any long-distance walking. Some people who have enough tie stay for an extra day in the main cities along the route e.g. Pamplona, Burgos, Leon, or Astorga. It's up to you to decide if you rather skip some parts and stay for an extra day in the cities along the route to do sightseeing.
I'm sure as a 27-years-old you'll be fine on the Camino there are many pilgrims over 60 that complete the route.
I hope it helps in your planning.
Buen Camino
Hi - Looking at doing a route in Sept - likely late sept possibly early Oct. Maybe part of the Portuguese route? I will build up my walking before then. Just wanted to ask - do people really not book accommodation? Will I really just be able to turn up each day and find some? I have looked at "tours" but think I would like to do this on my own and decide each day how far I wish to walk etc that day - but just wary of being caught out with nowhere to stay. Also do I need cash to pay for things? thanks
Hello, Rosemary. Thank you for the comment. Some people don't book accommodation some do it all depends on what accommodation you're going to stay in and when you're planning to walk the Camino de Santiago. If you're going to stay in public albergues they can't be booked in advance they work on the first-come-first-serve principle. Private albergues and hotels can be booked in advance. In some small places where there are few accommodation options, it's better to book something to make sure you'll have a place to stay.
The end of September - the beginning of October is not the busiest time on the Camino I don't think you have to book your accommodation a long time ahead. We don't always book accommodation but when we want to stay in private we do a day or two ahead. Most people walk the Camino de Santiago without a tour company. We have a detailed post on the Portuguese Camino where you can find PDF files with places to stay and walking stages that will be helpful to plan your walk https://stingynomads.com/camino-portugues-stages/.
Public albergues accept only cash, and most private albergues, hotels, restaurants, and shops accept cards. You'll need some cash but not a lot. There are ATMs in every town along the route getting cash won't be a problem.
Buen Camino
I have friends in their early 70s that are doing this now. They have gotten me interested. I would like to do this someday in memory of my son who we lost to suicide at age 14 and to raise awareness for suicide prevention, and also for my own healing. I am not Catholic, but am a very strong Christian with a deep faith. I am 65 and have some health issues (arthritis and diabetes). Would it be possible for someone to do this while eating low carb without having to cook meals daily? I see that there are walks that are easier for seniors and at a slower pace. Do you recommend this? I have put this on my bucket list. Thank you.
Hello, Cathy. Thank you for the comment. I'm very sorry to hear about your son. It's terrible to lose a child to suicide!
You don't have to be Catholic or even Christian to walk the Camino. Nowadays many people walk it for different reasons including healing after losing a loved one. I'd recommend for you the Camino Frances from Sarria https://stingynomads.com/camino-frances-sarria-santiago-walk/ and the Camino Portuguese from Tui https://stingynomads.com/camino-portugues-stages/#Day_7_ValencaTui_-_Porrino_19km. Both routes are about 100 km. You can split the route into small stretches (10-15 km a day). There are many places to stay and restaurants along both routes you won't have a problem finding accommodation.
As for eating low-carb without cooking it is possible breakfast might be a bit tricky as it's usually coffee with a croissant or a sandwich but you can just buy yogurt at a shop. For lunch, you can order a menu del dia, a set meal and for dinner make something or buy ready-made salad that you can find in most shops (vacuum-packed). We often buy them on the Camino. In Spain, they eat a lot of vegetables and in Galicia, you can find fresh seafood and fish.
Camino de Santiago is definitely worth your bucket list. I'm sure you'll be able to complete it.
Buen Camino
Hi, I suddenly have a week free in my schedule and have no time to plan, can travel immediately. I did Hadrian's Wall last year and fit(ish) 50yr old man. I am thinking of flying late Saturday LGW to Santiago and catching a bus / train(?) say 150km's out and walking back 25km's a day (6 days). In which case, which route is best / best catered for by public transport for outbound journey. I would stay in Santiago Saturday night but I read that Sunday everything is closed? Can you help, I will probably stay each evening in a hotel . . . .
Hello, Jamie. If you have 6 days to walk the Camino de Santiago I'd suggest walking the last part of the Camino Frances from Sarria. It's about 115km you can do it over 5 days and have one extra day in case you need it. Check our detailed post on the route https://stingynomads.com/camino-frances-sarria-santiago-walk/. In the post, you can find information on how to get to Sarria, a walking itinerary, a list of accommodations, etc.
On Sundays, some shops are closed but hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets are open. Buses and trains run every day. The route from Sarria is quite popular there will be plenty of places to stay and to eat. Don't worry about everything being closed.
Buen Camino
Hi there. Love your blog. Planning to walk the Camino probably from late Sept-early Oct. Is this a good time weather wise and off season? I only have around 14 days free in between my other plans overseas. Will be flying in from Madrid. Whats the best place to start? Im a fit 67 yrs old gym junkie. I did the 5 days Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu in Sept.2019, a very tough trek. Since then, Covid and a knee operation, havent done any hiking. I guess I will start to do more walking soon. Can you suggest any tour operators? Iam travelling alone and will need private hotels or air bnb. Thank you. Cheers from Down Under.
Hello, Elfleda. Thank you very much for the comment. I assume you're talking about the Camino Frances? There are many different Camino de Santiago routes across Spain and weather conditions vary. I walked the Camino Frances in Septemberthe weather was good but the first half of the month was very busy and quite hot in the part of La Meseta. I think the second half of September - the beginning of October will be less busy and the weather will be still good.
If you have only 2 weeks you can start in Astorga. The total distance from Astorga to Santiago de Compostela is 267km, 19 km an average walking distance per day if you walk it in 2 weeks. It's easy to get to Astorga from other big Spanish cities by bus or train. If it's too much for your knee to walk an average of 19 km every day for two weeks you can shorten the Camino and start in Ponferrada. The total distance from Ponferrada to Santiago is 215km, an average of 15km per day if you walk it in two weeks. The only part that I'd be worried about because of your knee problem is the pass in O Cebreiro. It's a very steep and long ascent (900m) with a subsequent descent (1000m) the next day.
The last part of the Camino Frances is very popular with many hotels and guesthouses along the route it won't be a problem to find private accommodation. We have never used any company to plan or book our Camino walks. I can't recommend anybody. You can do it yourself. We have a detailed post with walking stages for the Camino Frances https://stingynomads.com/camino-frances-walking-itinerary/ and the last part from Sarria https://stingynomads.com/camino-frances-sarria-santiago-walk/. In these posts, you can find PDF files with places to stay and walking stages that you can use for planning your itinerary and booking accommodation.
We've done the Salkantay trek as well it's a very beautiful route.
Buen Camino
Hi! Is it realistic to plan to walk in early morning/afternoon and working on your laptop into the night at the albergues? Is these mobile service all along the route? Thanks!
Hello, Vlad. Which Camino route are you planning to walk? If one of the popular routes e.g. Camino Frances, Camino Portugues, Camino del Norte then yes, there is phone reception throughout these routes and many albergues (mostly private) have wi-fi. It's possible to combine walking and working online if your daily distances are below 30km otherwise walking will take a big part of your day. We always work on the Camino but sometimes it can be difficult to find a quiet place in albergues. I find it's much better for working to stay every once in a while in private.
Buen Camino
Hi. I would like to walk the camino portugues from Lisbon. I am a marathon runner so i was hoping to make a marathon a day which is about 42km. I have approximately 14 days for the walk. But i saw on the web that this route is for nearly a month. Is possible to walk more and finish earlier? Thank you. I found so many helpful info here!! You do a great job!
Hello, Iva. Thank you for the comment. It takes a month to walk the Camino de Santiago from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela if you walk 25km a day on average. If you can do 40km+ per day you'll be able to finish it in two weeks. You can walk/run as far as you want or can every day. We met several trail runners on different Camino routes who completed 1-month routes in a couple of weeks. We have a detailed post on the Portuguese Camino from Lisbon it might be helpful for your planning https://stingynomads.com/camino-fatima-walk-lisbon-porto/.
Buen Camino
@Stingy Nomads, Thats great! Thank you so much for reply and help. You are amazing!
Hi! This is such a wonderful overview. I would love to do the trail end of may 2022, but I have only a week and plan on flying into Madrid.
What part of trail would you suggest?
Thank you!
Hello, Nadia. Thank you for the comment. You can walk the last 100 km on any Camino de Santiago route, it takes 5-6 days to complete. We have a detailed post on walking the last 100 km to Santiago de Compostela https://stingynomads.com/camino-de-santiago-last-100-km/. As an option you can walk a shorter route e.g. the Camino Ingles, the whole route can be done in 5-6 days https://stingynomads.com/english-way-camino-de-santiago-stages/. The end of May is a good time for walking the Portuguese Camino you can start in Tui, about 110 km from Santiago de Compostela.
Buen Camino