Camino Portugues is one of the spiritual routes to Santiago de Compostela. The Camino Portugues is the second most popular Camino de Santiago after the French Way, about 19% of all pilgrims or 52 200 people walked this Camino in 2019. The total distance of the Camino from Porto to Santiago depends on the route you choose; the Coastal Route – 280 km, the Central Route – 260 km. Another option is to start walking from Lisbon then the total distance to Santiago is about 630 km.
In this post, we’ll discuss different route options and the advantages and disadvantages or every route. In the second part of the post, you’ll find a detailed itinerary for the Central Route of the Portuguese Camino from Porto to Santiago de Compostela.
The Portuguese Camino route overview
- Distance – 260 km (Central Route), 280 km (Coastal Route)
- Number of days – 12-14 days
- Starting point – Sé Cathedral, Porto, Portugal
- Finishing point – Obradoiro Square, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Walking ground – asphalt, cobblestone, wooden boardwalks
- Average cost – 25-30 Euro pp. per day
- Accommodation – albergues, hotels, guesthouses
- Route marking – yellow shells and arrows
Different route options of the Camino Portuguese
I know how it’s when you want to do a walk and realize that there are several routes that end at the same places. Which one to choose? – was our question when we were planning our Portuguese Camino walk.
First, you have two options to start the walk in Lisbon or in Porto. We started in Lisbon there were some things that we really liked and some not that much on the route.
If you start the Camino in Lisbon then the total distance to Santiago is 616km. It’s possible to do a detour and walk through Fatima, it adds about 25km to the route. The main difficulty we faced there is lack of infrastructure for pilgrims, sometimes it was difficult to find accommodation, once in Caxarias, we were offered to sleep in church storage on the floor because all rooms in the town were occupied.
I must say the walk from Lisbon is beautiful but if you prefer to have a comfortable and easy walk we’d suggest starting in Porto. If you feel like walking more you can do one of the other Camino de Santiago routes e.g. Camino Primitivo, Camino Ingles, or walk to Finisterre. If you like a challenge and prefer to go off the beaten track then start the Camino in Lisbon.
The Portuguese Camino from Porto – route options
Second, decide which route you want to take from Porto; there are three different route options;
Caminho Central (Central Route) – 260km from Porto to Santiago, goes inland all the way.
Caminho da Costa (Coastal Route) – 280km from Porto to Santiago, follows the coast (except the first day from Porto) till Redondela where joins the Central Way.
Senda Litoral (Litoral Trail) – distance is more or less the same as the Coastal Route. From Porto, it follows the coast till Vila do Conde after goes the same way as the Coastal Route with the main difference the Litoral literally sticks to the coast. It merges with the Central Route at Redondela.
Which route to follow from Porto?
The Central Route
Advantages; 1. it has a better infrastructure; more albergues, more towns, more restaurants, and shops. 2. If you’re more into history and architecture you’ll enjoy the Central Route there are more old towns and cities on the way. 3. It’s shorter (not sure if everybody will consider it as an advantage), you’ll need less time to complete it. 4. It’s a better option to walk in bad weather conditions e.g. strong wind, heavy rain. 5. For those who are going to use a backpack shuttle service, it is cheaper by 1 or 2 Euro per stage to transfer backpacks on the Central Route.
Disadvantages; 1. This is the busiest route, 70% of pilgrims on the Camino Portuguese walk this route. 2. The area it goes through is more developed and touristy.
The Coastal Route
Advantages; 1. Walking along the coast is always an advantage (at least we think so). 2. Only 30% of all pilgrims take this route. 3. Better chances to see a more authentic non-touristy part of Portugal.
Disadvantages; 1. If it’s very windy and rainy it’ll be an unpleasant route to walk. 2. Less infrastructure, I mainly refer to albergues though for us it was a problem only once in Vigo where there are no albergues only hotels/hostels.
If you decide to walk this route check our detailed post The Portuguese Camino Coastal Route walking stages.
The Litoral Way (Senda Litoral)
First of all most pilgrims leave Porto following this Route, it’s the best way to walk out of the city and skip walking along the busy highway leading to the airport. You can read in some guidebooks that it’s better to skip the first stage from Porto because you walk through industrial areas, they refer to walking out of the city following the Central Camino or Coastal Route, not the Litoral. On the first day no need to make a decision which way to choose you can start along the coast and see how much you like it.
All the advantages and disadvantages are the same as for the Coastal Route. Only one extra thing this route is not marked very well (except for the first day) but it’s easy to walk you just go along the coast/beach.
Download Camino Portuguese Walking Routes map
A great option is to combine the Coastal route with rural areas and even add to this some mountain scenery. Start in Porto following the Coastal Route and continue on it till Caminha (the end of the Portuguese part) from there walk to Valença to get to the Central Route. Then take the Variante Espiritual, an optional route from Pontevedra that goes over the mountains and joins the Central route in Padrón. This way you combine all possible routes of the Camino Portugues and walk through areas with different scenery; sea, fields, and mountains. Plus you skip the Spanish part of the Coastal route that has a lack of albergues, particularly in A Ramallosa and Vigo.
Travel insurance for the Camino Portuguese
Walking like any other outdoor activity involves a risk of getting an injury or losing some of the gear. It’s always recommended to have travel insurance when you go away. The Portuguese Camino de Santiago is not an exclusion. It’s not a high altitude wild hike through remote areas it’s still a physically challenging experience that involves a long walking distance, carrying a heavy backpack, walking asphalt, and cobblestone it’s not rare for pilgrims to get injuries from small blister problems to bigger knee or shin splints issues.
Make sure you will be able to get medical assistance any time you need it. It’s quite handy to have insurance in case of a gear or device break/loss you can always claim it back. It makes the walk less stressful when you know you’re covered in case of any unpredictable emergencies.
Note! If you have European Health Insurance Card you don’t need any extra medical insurance for Spain.
The best months for walking the Portuguese Camino
If you want to skip crowds and have good weather May and September will be your best options. If you rather want to walk alone go off-season, April and October are good months, you can be lucky with the weather and there will be very few people. Winter months are not the best it gets cold and rainy, some albergues are closed. June is the beginning of the high season for this Camino but it’s still not too busy yet and already nice and warm. July and August are the most popular and the hottest months, it’s important to start walking early to skip the heat of the day.
Accommodation on the Camino route
Hostels for pilgrims on Caminos de Santiago are called “albergues”.
Albergue is a kind of hostel, don’t expect any luxury, the only difference only pilgrims are allowed to stay here.
To prove you’re a pilgrim you need to show your Credential, you get a stamp at every albergue you stay.
There two types of albergues; municipal, run by the government, cheaper, can’t be booked ahead, price between 5-6 Euro pp. Private albergues – belong to a person or company, more expensive, between 10-12 Euro pp, usually with better facilities, can be booked in advance over the phone or online booking services.
Each albergue has dormitories with bunk beds, shared bathroom/toilet, kitchen, some have washing machine and wi-fi.
Municipal albergues accept only cash.
Bed bugs problem – after completing two Caminos we didn’t have bedbugs once. It’s an advantage of walking the Camino at the beginning of the season, most albergues do “big cleaning” before the season starts. We saw some pilgrims using bedbug spray we’ve never tried it but looks like it works.
Some people asking if it’s worth carrying a tent with I’d say “No“. You can stay in albergues for 5-6 Euro most campsites will charge you the same or even more for camping (wild camping is illegal in Spain), plus you have to carry so much extra luggage; a tent, mattress, cooking stuff, etc.
For more details on accommodation on the Camino, the pros and cons of staying at albergues, tips, etc. check our detailed post Albergues on the Camino de Santiago.
Practical info for the Portuguese Way of St.James
For this Camino we used the Camino Portugues guide book by John Brierley, it contains all the necessary information and maps, small, light, and easy to use.
Every pilgrim needs a Credential – a small book with your name that gets stamped at every albergue you stay. The credential is a pilgrim’s ID. You can buy it from the official Credential distribution office in your country or in Se Cathedral in Porto.
For the last 100 km to Santiago de Compostela, you need two stamps a day in order to get the Compostela at the Pilgrim’s Office, we were there in June 2019 and they confirmed this information.
There is an hour difference between Portuguese (GMT+1) and Spanish time (GMT+2), Spain is one hour ahead. When you cross to Spain don’t forget to change the time.
Both countries use the same power outlets – Europlug. You might need an adapter.
Tap water in Portugal is very good, locals are proud of the water quality. In Spain, in the beginning, we bought bottled water but later were told that tap water is fine here as well. Though sometimes you could taste strong chlorine, try first if it’s not good then buy bottled water.
We were surprised how many people in Portugal speak good English compared to Spain but there is always somebody who can translate or explain.
In Spain, many supermarkets and shops are closed on Sundays, public holidays and in the afternoon.
In both countries, you can buy medicine with a prescription in English from your doctor back home even if it’s just an email, not the original.
Buy local SIM card, both Portugal and Spain have similar packages from Vodafone valid for 30 days; Portugal – 3Gb data, 300 minutes local phone calls, plus SMS – 15 Euro. Spain – 2Gb data, 200 minutes local phone calls, SMS – 15 Euro (when we ran out of data we still could use it for FB and Twitter). Both worked great, we used it a lot for uploading photos and video, Whats-app, etc. and it was more than enough. Plus it’s very handy if you want to phone and book an albergue.
The route marking is very good, it’s always easy to follow, there are yellow arrows every 100m or so.
Bring a pouch or a foldable backpack to carry valuables (money, passport) with when leaving an albergue, usually, there are no lockers.
Health tips for walking the Camino
Walking the Camino is a physical challenge don’t push yourself trying to follow guide book or somebody’s itinerary, take your time, move your pace.
If you feel very tired or unwell take a day off or at least walk shorter distances you want to arrive in Santiago healthy. We heard some stories of people pushing themselves for the whole Camino and once they reached Santiago they got terribly sick so take care of yourself.
Many pilgrims on the Camino have problems with their feet, mainly blisters.
To prevent blisters
- pack 2 or 3 pairs of merino wool socks, they are the best for hiking.
- during the walk every time your feet get wet from sweating take off a wet pair and put on dry socks. You can hang wet socks from your backpack to let them dry meanwhile.
- you know your feet and where you usually get blisters, plaster these areas before you get one.
Social life on the Portuguese route
You meet people all the time there are many pilgrims who walk alone some of them don’t really want the company but many will be happy to find somebody to walk with. Albergues have a very social vibe especially in the evening, people cook and eat together, make friends, give tips, show photos, etc. There are people from all over the world; Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa you’ll be able to find somebody who speaks your language, belongs to the same age group, or have similar interests. If you can’t find a walking buddy go and walk the Camino alone you’ll see how many great people you’ll meet on the way.
Luggage delivery service on the Camino Portuguese
If you want to make your walk easier or have some back issues and can’t carry a heavy bag every day you can use a backpack delivery service. There are several companies that can deliver your backpack or suitcase for every stage between your accommodation. Check Pilbeo (the Central Route), Way to Santiago (both Central and Coastal Routes) and Correos (the Central Route from Tui) they do luggage transfer on the Portuguese Camino. You can use the delivery for the entire route or for some stages. One stage costs 5 Euro per backpack.
It’s important to remember that usually it’s not allowed to deliver luggage to public albergues on the Camino. These albergues can’t be booked in advance and they won’t keep a bed for you even if your backpack is delivered there. Private albergues and hotels along the route have no problem with luggage delivery.
Portuguese Camino cost
Portugal is a bit cheaper than Spain but in general prices in both countries are similar. Accommodation and shopping will cost more or less the same. Public transport, especially trains are cheaper in Portugal, e.g. a train ride (normal train, economy class) from Lisbon to Porto, 310km, will cost you from 25 Euro. In Spain, for the same distance, you pay from 30 Euro.
Eating out is cheaper in Portugal, a set menu in a local restaurant will cost you 8 Euro when in Spain it is from 10 Euro up. Our main disappointment when we crossed to Spain was coffee, in Portugal, you pay 0,60 Euro for Americano, in Spain, it’s double, between 1-1,20 Euro. Probably the only thing is more expensive in the Portuguese part is backpack transfer service, 2 Euro more per stage than in Spain.
If you stay at albergues and buy food in supermarkets your average Camino cost will be between 15-20 Euro per person per day. If you stay at albergues and eat in a restaurant at least once a day, go out for a beer, or stop a couple of times for coffee be ready to spend between 25-30 Euro daily pp. If you prefer to stay in hotels rather than albergues add to it 10-15 Euro pp.
Portugal
- Accommodation – municipal albergues – 5-6 Euro per person, private albergues – 10-12 Euro pp. Hotels from 15 Euro pp.
- Eating out – Menu do Dia, a set lunch that includes a starter, main dish with sides, drink and coffee or dessert – from 7 Euro pp.
- Food shopping – 6-8 Euro pp per day
- A cup of coffee (Americano) – 0,60 Euro
- A beer in a bar – 1 Euro.
- Laundry – washing 2 Euro per load.
- Backpack delivery service (optional) – 6-7 Euro per backpack per stage.
Spain
- Accommodation – municipal albergues – 5-6 Euro per person, private albergues – 10-12 Euro pp. Hotels from 20 Euro pp
- Eating out – Menu del Dia; starter, main dish, drink (usually house wine), coffee or dessert – 10 Euro.
- Food shopping – 6-8 Euro pp per day
- A cup of coffee (Americano) – 1-1,2 Euro
- A beer in a bar – 1-1,2 Euro
- Laundry – washing – 3 Euro per load, drying – 1,5-3 Euro per load.
- Backpack delivery service (optional) – from 5 Euro depending on a stage and route you take.
What to pack for the Camino?
Make sure not to pack too much and bring only necessary stuff. We’ve met many people who had to reconsider their backpack content after the first day on the Camino. You really don’t need much and you always can buy anything you need way there are shops, supermarkets, and pharmacies along the way. If you’re planning on using luggage delivery service then it doesn’t matter you can pack as much as you want.
We have a detailed post Camino de Santiago packing list where you can find our recommendations on what to pack for the Camino for men and women for different seasons.
Books to read on the Camino
What can be better than after a long day of walking climb in bed and read your favorite book!? We’d definitely recommend picking the one you’ll definitely have time for reading. Here are our top picks books for the Camino Portugues;
- The Pilgrimage by Paulo Coelho.
- Journey to the Alcarria; Travels through the Spanish countryside by Camilo Jose Cela.
- Ordinary Magic; Promises I Kept to My Mother Through Life, Illness, and a Very Long Walk on the Camino de Santiago by Cameron Powell.
- Steps Out of Time, One Woman’s Journey on the Camino by Katharine Soper.
- Blanket of Stars: Thru-Hiking the Camino de Santiago (Travel Adventures Book 1) by C.V. Lockhart.
- Walking to the End of the World: A Thousand Miles on the Camino De Santiago by Beth Jusino.
- Camino de Santiago: To Walk Far, Carry Less by Jean-Christie Ashmore
Useful apps for walking the Camino Portuguese
- Portuguese Way Premium. Cost US$4, available for Android and Apple.
- Camino Assist Pilgrim Santiago. Free download, available for Android and Apple.
- Buen Camino de Santiago. Free download, available for Android and Apple.
- Wisely + Camino Portugues; a Wise Pilgrim guide. Cost US$6, available for Android and Apple. We haven’t used it but I saw many unhappy users complaining about the app, I’d recommend reading the reviews before buying it.
The Central Route of the Portuguese Camino – walking stages
Our main tip for the Camino don’t underestimate it, you might be a fit person but walking long hours in the heat with a heavy backpack is different from running or training in the gym. Start slower, don’t walk long distances in the beginning and you’ll be fine. Plus when you walk too fast or too far you don’t have enough time to stop, take photos, enjoy a cup of coffee with a beautiful view.
Porto, the beginning of the walk
Porto is an amazing city I’d definitely recommend to stay here for a couple of days before or after the Camino. Walk around its narrow cobblestone streets climbing up and down the hills, try famous wine, take a boat ride along the Douro River and enjoy the local cuisine. Porto is one of my favorite European cities since the first time I came here.
Tours and activities in Porto
If you have a couple of extra days in Porto before starting the Camino walk there are many activities and tours you can do here to explore the city and its surroundings.
- Porto 3-hour guided tour
- Porto City Train Tour, River Cruise & Wine Cellar
- From Porto: Douro Valley, Wine Tasting, and Cruise
- Fado Show with Port Wine
- Guimarães and Braga Full-Day Tour from Porto
Places to stay in Porto
There are several albergues/hostels in the city including one municipal albergue N.S. do Rosario de Vilar 7,5 Euro pp. We stayed at private Albergue de Peregrinos do Porto, for donations, a nice, clean, and very social place close to the metro station. Facilities; hot water shower, wi-fi, kitchen, washing machine. Located quite far from the cathedral, to get there you have to use the metro.
If you rather prefer to stay your first night in a more comfortable place there are many options in Porto for different budgets, but my advice is to stay walking distance from the center.
- Budget | Supernova | Travel & Live Porto Hostel | Porto Spot Hostel |
- Middle price | Oporto Bonjardim Residence | 12 Short Term | MyStay Porto Bolhão |
- High-end | Feels Like Home Santa Catarina Prime Suites | BessaHotel Baixa | Catalonia Porto |
Day 1. Se Cathedral, Porto – Labruge, 23km
Se Cathedral – Foz do Douro – Matosinhos – Lavra – Labruge
As I mentioned before most people who start walking from Porto regardless of which route they walk on the first day following the Senda Litoral (Litoral Way) to get out of the city. It means on the first day instead of following the Central Route that goes through the industrial area and outskirts of Porto following busy roads you walk along the coast, past beaches and small seaside villages. This way is a bit longer than just following the Central Route from Porto but is much nicer and beautiful. It will add about 7km to your total distance, no worries our itinerary doesn’t have very long walking days. We really enjoyed this part, it felt more like a beach than a walking holiday.
Some people prefer to take a tram to get from Se Cathedral to Foz do Douro the beginning of the promenade. We walked from the cathedral we went down to the Douro river and followed it. On the first day most of the time you walk on wooden boardwalks which is much better than asphalt or cobblestones. There are many restaurants and cafés on the way where you can enjoy breakfast or lunch with a sea view.
Labruge
We’d suggest stopping here, and not to make your first day too long like a guide book suggest to walk 33km all the way to Vila do Conde. No need to punish yourself and destroy your feet especially if you walk in mid-summer when it’s hot. The town itself is 1km inland from the coast. There is a sign on the trail pointing to the albergue.
- Municipal albergue – yes, for donation. Albergue Santiago Labruge – 3 rooms, 24 beds, kitchen, cold water shower, wi-fi.
- Private albergue – no
- Hotel, guest house – yes
- ATM – yes
- Restaurant, café – yes
- Shop – yes
- Pharmacy – yes
Places to stay in Labruge
- | Parque de Campismo Orbitur Angeiras (about 1 km before Labruge)| Casa da Praia Guest House |
*Many people asked us about alternative accommodation options (private rooms with facilities) we decided to add accommodations options along the route that are available in the booking system it might be useful for some of you for planning the walk.
Day 2. Labruge – Rates, 23km
Labruge – Vila Chã – Vila do Conde – Arcos – Rates
The first part of the day a beautiful walk along the coast till Vila do Conde from where you turn off the Coastal Route and follow a trail that goes inland and joins with the Central Route at Arcos. Walking by the sea on the first day gives you an idea about the Coastal route and if you like it you can stick to it instead of going to the Central Way. Vila do Conde is a very nice and beautiful town with charming narrow cobblestone streets, the Cathedral, and the impressive aqueduct de Santa Clara it’s on the way to Arcos.
Rates
A beautiful medieval town that grew around the monastery with interesting historical part; Monastery of Rates, the main square, a couple of churches and chapels, a clock tower.
- Municipal albergue – yes, for donation. Albergue de Peregrinos – 30 beds, hot water shower, kitchen.
- Private albergue – no
- Hotel, guest house – yes
- ATM – no
- Restaurant, café – yes
- Supermarket – yes
- Pharmacy – yes
Day 3. Rates – Barcelos, 16km/Tamel, 25km
Rates – Pedra Furada – Pereira – Bacelinhos – Barcelos or Tamel (San Pedro de Fins)
After joining the Central Route you’ll start seeing more pilgrims on the Camino. You can make this day short, stay in Barcelos and do some sightseeing around or walk 9km further to Tamel to make your next walking day to Ponte de Lima shorter. It might sound better to stay in Barcelos but be ready to walk the next day 34km all the way to Ponte de Lima as there are not many accommodation options before.
Barcelos
Barcelos – a beautiful city, originally a Roman settlement that expanded a lot in the 15th century. There are some very interesting sights to see here; Ponte de Barcelos – 14th-century bridge, Tower of Barcelos, a church of Senhor da Cruz, church Matriz de Barcelos. The city is well-known for its pottery it’s the home of famous Galo de Barcelos (Rooster or Barcelos) or Portuguese Rooster – one of the most popular symbols of Portugal.
- Municipal albergue – no
- Private albergue – yes, only 26 beds, donation. Albergue de Barcelos – 3 rooms, kitchen (stove, microwave, fridge), hot shower, wi-fi.
- Hotel, guest house – yes
- ATM – yes
- Restaurant, café – yes
- Supermarket – yes
- Pharmacy – yes
Places to stay in Barceloc
- Budget | Residencial Kuarenta&Um |
- Middle price | Casa de S. Sebastião | Barcelos Way Guest House | In Barcelos Hostel & Guest House |
- High-end | Art’otel Barcelos |
Tamel (San Pedro de Fins)
Note! there is nothing here except an albergue bring food with you. Albergue Casa da Recoleta, municipal, price 5 Euro pp. Facilities; kitchen, hot shower, wi-fi, 4 dormitories, 41 beds.
Day 4. Barcelos/Tamel – Ponte de Lima, 34km/25km
Barcelos/Tamel – Balugães/Cossourado – Vitorino dos Piães – Facha – Ponte de Lima
If you start in Barcelos and go all the way to Ponte de Lima it’ll be a long walking day but you can split it into two and walk to Vitorino dos Piães, 16km, there is a private albergue and a couple of hotels (check below for booking) or Facha, 23km, there are a couple of hotels there (none is in booking).
Ponte de Lima
A nice and relatively small place compare to Barcelos though it has a long history, the oldest town in Portugal by the way, and some interesting sights to see; Ponte Romano (The Roman bridge over the Lima river) that gave the name to the town, Old Chain Tower, Matriz church, Botanical garden Paço do Marques, church of Santo Antonio da Torre Velha. There are many accommodation options in the town.
- Municipal albergue – yes, 5 Euro. Casa do Arnado – 60 beds, kitchen, wi-fi, opens late between 4-5pm.
- Private albergue – yes
- Hotel, guest house – yes
- ATM – yes
- Restaurant, café – yes
- Supermarket – yes
- Pharmacy – yes
Places to stay in Ponte de Lima
- Budget | Old Village Hostel |
- Middle price | Graciosa Guest House | Casa Cardeal Saraiva | My House |
- High-end | Arc My Otel | Alma da Vila |
Day 5. Ponte de Lima – Rubiães, 20km
A nice and short day of walking mostly through the forest with a long uphill stretch that starts at 10km, from 100m to 400m over 4km, make sure to have enough water with. There is a café at Revolta before the climb where you can have lunch and fill your water bottle.
Rubiães
A very small cozy town with quite a lot of infrastructure for pilgrims.
- Municipal albergue – yes, 5 Euro. Escola – 34 beds, hot shower, kitchen, wi-fi, opens at 1.30 pm.
- Private albergue – yes
- Hotel, guest house – yes
- ATM – no
- Restaurant, café – yes
- Shop – yes
- Pharmacy – no
Places to stay in Rubiães
- Budget | Albergue Constantino AL |
- Middle price | Pensão Repouso do Peregrino |
Day 6. Rubiães – Valença/Tui, 20km
Rubiães – Cossourado – Pedreira – Valença – Tui
Today it’s mostly down-hill walking in the first half of the day till the Roman bridge (Ponte Romano) and then quite flat all the way to Valença/Tui there you can decide to stay the night in Portugal (Valença) or to cross the bridge over the Minho river and stay in Spain (Tui). Crossing the river don’t forget to change the time, Spain is 1 hour ahead of Portugal. There is no official border crossing, both countries are members of the EU.
In Valença/Tui you might see more pilgrims than before on the Camino. Many people start walking the Portuguese Camino from here because both towns are just over 100 km from Santiago. The last 100 km is the required walking minimum on the Camino for getting the Compostela.
Valença
Both cities have good infrastructure for pilgrims, many accommodation options, restaurants, etc. There are some interesting sights to see. Valença has beautiful medieval fortress Fortaleza de Valença, the old town is located behind the walls. Both have cathedrals, churches, chapels, and museums.
- Municipal albergue – yes, 5 Euro. Sao Teotonio – 84 beds, 4 rooms, hot shower, kitchen, opens at 1.30pm.
- Private albergue – no
- Hotel, guest house – yes
- ATM – yes
- Restaurant, café – yes
- Supermarket – yes
- Pharmacy – yes
Places to stay in Valença
- Budget | Hostel Bulwark |
- Middle price | Alojamento da Vila | S. Gião House | Residencial Portas do Sol |
- High-end | Hotel Lara | Casa do Poço |
Tui
- Municipal albergue – yes, 6 Euro. Albergue de Peregrinos – 36 beds, hot shower, opens at 1 pm.
- Private albergue – yes, many
- Hotel, guest house – yes
- ATM – yes
- Restaurant, café – yes
- Supermarket – yes
- Pharmacy – yes
Places to stay in Tui
- Budget | Albergue Pallanes | JACOB’S HOSTEL TUI | Ideas Peregrinas |
- Middle price | Hostal Albergue Villa San Clemente | EntrePontes | Aparthotel O novo Cabalo Furado |
- High-end | LA SIGRINA HOSTAL | Parador de Tui |
Day 7. Valença/Tui – Porriño, 19km
A short and easy walking with not many places to stop for coffee or lunch, the first place will be after 10km at Orbenlle, it’ll be a short detour as the new alternative trail turns right just before it. We’d recommend to follow it, it goes left about 300m after a stone Camino sign that marks 106km to Santiago. The old route goes through Poligono Industrial (Industrial area), the new trail completely skips it and goes through the forest. At about 3km before the town there is one more split, go left following the river the right trail goes along the road.
Porriño
A small industrial town with a nice historical center.
- Municipal albergue – yes, 6 Euro. Albergue de Peregrinos – 50 beds, hot shower, kitchen, opens at 1 pm.
- Private albergue – no
- Hotel, pension – yes
- ATM – yes
- Restaurant, café – yes
- Supermarket – yes
- Pharmacy – yes
Places to stay in Porriño
- Budget | Albergue Rincón del Peregrino | Senda Sur | Alojamiento Camino Portugues |
- Middle price | Apartamento Bacelo | Casa Lolita |
- High-end | Apartamento Centro Porriño |
Day 8. Porriño – Redondela, 17km
Porriño – Torroso – Redondela
A short day of walking with a hill to climb, Conte Cornedo, about 200m but over more than 5km. After that down to Redondela. There are a couple of bars/restaurants on the way where you can have lunch. At Redondela both Central and Coastal Routes join you might see slightly more pilgrims.
Redondela
- Municipal albergue – yes, 6 Euro. Casa de Torre – 44 beds, hot shower, kitchen, washing and drying machine, opens at 1 pm.
- Private albergue – yes
- Hotel, pension – yes
- ATM – yes
- Restaurant, café – yes
- Supermarket – yes
- Pharmacy – yes
Places to stay in Redondela
- Budget | Albergue Avoa Regina | Santiago de Vilavella |
- Middle price | A Casa da Herba | A Casa da Lucera |
- High-end | Alvear Suites |
Day 9. Redondela – Pontevedra, 20km
Redondela – Cesantes – Arcade – Pontevedra.
Some uphill but it is over a long distance so the incline is not a very steep climb. There are several bars on the way where you can refill water and have lunch. This day offers quite a bit of road walking but the roads were not very busy. A couple of kilometers before Pontevedra on the right side of the road there will be sign River Trail, follow it, the distance is the same as walking along the road and it’s nicer for walking.
Pontevedra
A very nice town with a beautiful historical center, amazing cathedral, cobblestone streets, churches, many bars, and restaurants. A nice town for chilling and going out.
- Municipal albergue – yes, 6 Euro. La Virgen Peregrina – 56 beds, hot shower, kitchen, washing and drying machine, opens at 1 pm.
- Private albergue – yes
- Hotel, pension – yes
- ATM – yes
- Restaurant, café – yes
- Supermarket – yes
- Pharmacy – yes
Places to stay in Pontevedra
- Budget | Slow City Hostel Pontevedra | Acolá Hostel |
- Middle price | Apartamentos Pontevedra | Hotel Alda Estación Pontevedra |
- High-end | Rias Bajas |
Day 10. Pontevedra – Caldas de Reis, 23km
After Redondela the Camino splits again you can follow the main route to Caldas de Reis or take Variante Espiritual (Spiritual Way) and go over the mountains to Armenteira. Check for more details and stages for the Spiritual Route. Both routes join again in Padrón.
Caldas de Reis
A nice small town with hot springs, churches and old Roman ruins. If you have a chance we’d suggest to visit one of the balnearios (spa centers) and relax in the springs, e.g. El Acuña or el Dávila.
- Municipal albergue – yes, 6 Euro. Posada Dona Urraca – 5o beds, hot shower, wi-fi, opens at 1 pm.
- Private albergue – yes
- Hotel, pension – yes
- ATM – yes
- Restaurant, café – yes
- Supermarket – yes
- Pharmacy – yes
Places to stay in Caldas de Reis
- Budget | A Senda | Albergue Agarimo | Pensión Río Umia |
- Middle price | Estrella Do Camiño | Alojamiento Caldas de Reis |
- High-end | Casa Herreria |
Day 11. Caldas de Reis – Padrón, 20km
A nice and easy walk past a couple of smallish towns with several bars on the way. Some people prefer to walk further this day in order to make the last day to Santiago shorter. There are many albergues and hotels on the stretch between Padrón and Santiago it won’t be difficult to find accommodation.
Padrón
Padrón is not a big but nice town. The highlight of the town is the beautiful square in front of the cathedral with trees plated on both sides of it, their branches forming almost a tunnel above the square.
- Municipal albergue – yes, 6 Euro. Albergue de Peregrinos – 46 beds, hot shower, wi-fi, opens at 1 pm.
- Private albergue – yes
- Hotel, pension – yes
- ATM – yes
- Restaurant, café – yes
- Supermarket – yes
- Pharmacy – yes
Places to stay in Padrón
- Budget | Cruces de Iria | Albergue Rossol B&B |
- Middle price | Apartamento Landra | Hotel Rosalía |
- High-end | Santiaguiño |
Day 12. Padrón to Santiago de Compostela, 25km
Some people from our albergue started walking that day at 5 am to be able to attend the Pilgrim’s Mass in the cathedral at 12 am. The first part of the day it’s flat mostly through the forest, the second part has a couple of hills to conquer, but all this is nothing compared to the excitement and happiness you experience approaching the Cathedral. If it’s your first Camino you’ll see how thrilled you’ll be when you put down your backpack at the Obradoiro Square in front of the Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela.
We’d suggest booking accommodation in advance especially in months of July and August, the peak season for the Camino. There are many albergues, hostels, hotels, and apartments in Santiago for any budget.
If you have time and strength you can continue walking from Santiago de Compostela to Finisterre – a beautiful 3-4 day walk with beautiful forest and sea scenery. If you don’t have time to walk to Finisterre you can do a day bus tour from Santiago to Finisterre and Muxía.
Accommodation on the route
- Iria Flavia | Pension Grilo | Camiño Portugues |
- A Esclavitude | A Casa da Meixida | Casa Grande da Capellania |
- Angueira de Suso | Pensión HK |
- Picaraña | Pensión Glorioso | Pensión Rural para Peregrinos “AREAL” |
- Milladoiro | Piso Milladoiro | Lorienne | Hotel PAYRO |
Santiago de Compostela, the end of the Portuguese Camino
Now it’s time to relax after a couple of tough walking weeks and spoil yourself staying in a nice place, you deserved it after sleeping in dozens of albergues with shared everything! There are many options in Santiago the most difficult is to choose the right one for you. In the peak season, I’d recommend booking your accommodation in Santiago in advance the best and the most central places might be fully booked.
There is one special place in the city for pilgrims – Hospedaria San Marín Pinário Seminario Mayor. The place has been hosting pilgrims since the 16th century. Nowadays it’s an expensive hotel but they have special budget rooms for pilgrims. These rooms are quite small and modest but they’re private and have an attached bathroom. The location of the place is amazing, right next to the Cathedral. A single room costs 25 Euro, a double room 35 Euro. You have to book it at least a couple of weeks in advance. You can do it via e-mail. They reply quickly. As an option you can stay in one of the renovated rooms, it’s more expensive but more comfortable, these rooms can be booked online.
Places to stay in Santiago
- Budget | Blanco Albergue | Santiago KM-0 | Albergue Seminario Menor |
- Middle price | Pensión Mar Azul | Nest Style Santiago | Hotel Miradoiro de Belvís |
- High-end | Hotel Praza Quintana | San Francisco Hotel Monumento | Hotel Palacio del Carmen |
Tours and activities in Santiago de Compostela
If you have a couple of days before your return flight you can explore Santiago de Compostela and its surroundings, there are many tours and activities in the city.
- Cape Finisterre & Costa da Morte Day Tour from Santiago
- Full-day Rias Baixas Guided Tour from Santiago
- Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and Museum Guided Tour
- Santiago: Gastronomic Night Tour
Getting the Compostela in Santiago
Every pilgrim that walked 100km or more to Santiago can get a Compostela – an accreditation of pilgrimage to the tomb of St. Jacob. During the Pilgrim’s Mass, they mention in the prayer the pilgrims that arrived that day in Santiago and registered at the office for their Compostelas according to their country of origin e.g. 50 pilgrims from Spain, 30 pilgrims from the US, 10 from Australia, etc.
To get the Compostela;
- go with your Credential to the Pilgrim Office in Santiago.
- wait in the queue, it can take anything between 30min. and 3 hours depending on the number of pilgrims.
At the Pilgrims’ Office you can get the Certificate of Distance as well it’s similar to the Compostela paper but it includes more details; the name of the Camino you walked, when and where you started and total distance walked. The Certificate costs 3 Euro. You can buy a Tubo (cardboard tube) to put your Credential and Certificate in to make sure they won’t tear or get dirty.
Botafumeiro ceremony in the Cathedral de Santiago
Unfortunately, it takes place only on special religious occasions, here is the complete list of the celebrations. Apparently, Botafumeiro is an expensive ceremony and the cathedral can’t afford to do it every day or even once a week. It’s possible to arrange it for 400 Euro. It doesn’t matter how many people pay for it only you or a group of 50 the ceremony will take place during the Pilgrim’s Mass and will be public. So if you’re 10 or more people it’s not that expensive. You have to book it beforehand for a specific day when you’re planning to be in Santiago.
I’ve seen Botafumeiro once and it’s something to experience especially if you just completed your pilgrimage! Important! No photo or video footage is allowed during the Mass even if you pay for Botafumeiro you can’t take photos. To make a booking write to [email protected].
Portuguese Camino final thoughts
It was our first Camino de Santiago though we’d done many hikes before the Camino is a completely different experience. It was our longest uninterrupted hike and we didn’t know what to expect. The great thing about any Camino is that anybody can do it no matter how fit or unfit you’re, just choose your pace and daily distance and you’ll be able to reach Santiago, it might take you one or three weeks but who cares!
People walk the Camino with different intentions and reasons; for some, it’s a pilgrimage with a religious background, some want to have some time to think, some people like us just like hiking, for others it’s a great and budget way to see a country and hundreds of other reasons.
Regarding our Camino choice; first of all, we didn’t want to walk a very crowded way so not the French Way; second, we started in mid-May which is a good time for walking in this region it was already warm but not too hot. Third, the Portuguese route goes through the parts of Spain and Portugal that we haven’t been to. We did like this walk and it inspired us to do more Caminos de Santiago in the nearest future. Buen Camino!
Camino Portuguese planning resources
- Combine walking the Portuguese Camino with the Camino Fatima | Camino Portuguese and Camino de Fatima from Lisbon |
- Find useful tips for planning the Camino | The best Camino de Santiago tips |
- Find out about another beautiful walking route in Portugal
| The Rota Vicentina detailed guide & itinerary | - Learn which churches and cathedrals on the Camino hold Masses | Masses on the way |
- Make sure to try some traditional Portuguese dishes | Top 20 must-try food in Portugal |
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Your maps and route explanations were extremely helpful to me.
Hello, Genevieve! Thank you very much for the feedback!
Buen Camino!
CAMINO LISBONA-ANTIAGO: LITHORAL WAY
I WOULD LIKE TO DO IT WITH MY MTB. IS IT FEASIBLE? ARE THERE MANY SPOTS WERE I’LL HAVE TO PUSH OR LIFT MY BIKE?
ALSO, DO YOU KNOW OF A GUIDE DETAILING THE TRIP ON MY BICYCLE?
THANK YOU
Hello, Floriano! We’ve seen some people cycling from Lisbon the route is quite flat mostly on the gravel road through fields you can easily cycle it. There was one steep ascent but you could cycle it on the road instead of the trail. The Litoral Way starts in Porto and goes along the coast cycling there is not a problem. On the Portuguese Camino most of the time, you can follow the same route from walking and cycling you can use one of the Camino Portuguese guide books and just combine stages to adjust distances the way it suits you the best.
Buen Camino!
We have booked travel to complete the Camino from Porto in July. When do you recommend reserving hostels by? Would you use booking.com?
Hello, Sara! We always use booking.com if you check the itinerary part of this post you’ll find suggested accommodation options for every day.
Buen Camino!
Hi there,
Thanks for the great info. We are thinking about walking the Camino starting from Lisbon. We are from Canada and are thinking of starting the beginning of March 2021. Do you think there will be accommodations available that time of year? I know the weather won’t be as good as in May, but that’s fine with us. More concerned about everything being open and finding places to sleep and eat.
Hello, Wendy! Thank you for the comment! The part of the Camino from Lisbon to Porto has overall less accommodation especially albergues than the second part from Porto to Santiago. Public albergues usually open in April. In biggish towns, you’ll be able to find hotels or guest houses, in small villages bars/restaurants often rent a room or two these will be the best places to look for accommodation. We have a detailed post on the Portuguese Camino from Lisbon where you can find more information on accommodation along the route. In the worst case of scenario if there is nowhere to stay you can always catch a bus or call a taxi and ask to drop you at the nearest hotel. I hope it helps!
Buen Camino!
Great resource. You should walk from Lisbon. There are some great views, not as many pilgrims and the weather is fantastic. Maybe when you are able to travel again.
Hi, David! Thank you for the comment! We’ve walked the Portuguese Camino from Lisbon through Fatima and have a detailed guide on it.
Cheers!
That is a perfect and amazing article guide! So many great advices and life-saver information, I am deeply grateful to You for this tremendous work🙏
Wish You stay well and all the best and beautiful adventures💛
Thank you very much for your comment, Diana! We’re glad you’ve found our article useful! I hope in the nearest future we all will be able to walk the Camino!
Stay safe!
Hi Am planning to start walking from Porto On April 1st.
Given the near Pandemic virus, could you kindly advise as to whether to wait until next year or go in 4weeks In short, how safe is it to shRe accomodation?
I fly from Auckland NZ direct to Lisbon by Qatar airlines.
Many thanks
LLove your blog 😊😊💕
Hello, Bernadette! Thank you for the comment! As for now, there are no people infected with the virus in Portugal the country itself is safe for travelling. The main risk you run is the flight, Doha is a huge hub with thousands of people from all over the world I’d recommend using a mask all the time you’re at the airport and washing hands/using hand sanitizer often. We flew to Nepal via Dubai about 2 weeks ago there were many people wearing masks at the airport. If you feel it’s too dangerous to travel now then better postpone the trip. We had to change our plans we were planning to go to the North of Itlay in April but decided not to. We’re staying in Nepal for an extra month instead but we’re still going to Portugal in May to walk the Camino again.
Buen Camino!
Beautiful work- just want to say “Obrigada!” for sharing it all!!
Thank you so much. This is a fantastic resource! we have done 2 other parts of the Camino and loved both previous trips! (Sarria to Santiago and Pamplona to Logrono).
Hello, Rita! Thank you for the comment! I walked the Camino Frances from St.Jean in September and really enjoyed the route. The Portuguese Camino is a great route as well!
Cheers!
Thank you for the wonderful website and information. It has been a valuable resource as we plan our Portuguese Camino trip for May 2020. I would like to take the detailed daily trek guide with me, but I am not able to copy it or save i from the website. How can I get this information in a file I can save? Thank you again!
Hello, Elaine! Thank you for the comment! Sometime in February, we’ll have to add downloadable PDF files to all our Camino posts.
Buen Camino!
Heya, your blog is super-useful, I love how it is full of the needed information. I was trying to find the printable version, is there already link anywhere? Many thanks, Monika
Hello, Monika! Thank you very much for the comment! We’re planning to make PDFs for our Camino posts in a month or two. We don’t have enough time to do it right now as we’re busy trekking in Nepal.
Cheers!
Hey I am planning to walk the Camino Portuguese Central route in May 2020 too and starting a little out of LIsbon. What a great resource this website and information is. THANK YOU.
Marianne
Great information….Thanks. Is it difficult to book private accommodations ahead. Dorm life is not for my wife and I and we are willing to pay for the privacy. I wonder if that is realistic for the whole trip.
Tony….Very realistic. We found places on booking.com for our other Camino. Make sure the places are close to the trail to avoid unnecessary walking but there are always taxis. Only issue is if you book in advance, you need to keep to your itinerary. Luggage services are readily available to get pieces from one hotel to another.
Hi Nomads
Great blog. Going in mid June from Porto. Really looking forward to it after reading your no nonsense advice. Keep up the good work. Bom camino
Hello, Philip! Thank you very much for the feedback! I’m sure you’ll enjoy the walk. We’re planning to walk the Portuguese Camino in May again, we really like it!
Buen Camino!
Thanks for the great resource, it’s very useful!
Somebody who is not a hardcore hiker, for us 260km from Porto will probably be too much? Or what do you think? Is there a good option to, for example, fly into Portom spend a couple of days there to acclimatize (northeners here) and then travel by train/bus to a closer point, to make the travel less by, say a 100km? Any advice on a good (interesting) starting point? Or should I consider the French Way instead? Thanks!
Hello, Yuri! Thank you for the comment! Many people walk the Portuguese Camino starting from Valenca/Tui, it’s about 120km from Santiago. You can get to Valenca by bus from Porto, it takes 2h30min., price 11 Euro. Tickets can be bought online, check Rede Express website, there are several daily departures.
Buen Camino!
Thank you for the quick reply. You guys are an amazing asset. I think we’ll fly to Porto and try to decide how much we want to walk based on our condition and the weather, etc.
Any opinions on how tough the whole journey from Porto would be on an averagely fit person, in july?
It might be quite hot in July we never walk the Camino July-August because of the heat. I’d recommend choosing the Coastal Route rather than the Central. You’ll have to start walking early in order to be finished by midday to skip the heat. You can make your stages shorter as well if you feel like it.
Greetings. Do you think is it worth to go to walk the camino when you feel lost in daily life? Is it possible to find the answer when on the way? The most important thing is that is it worth to resign the job to walk the camino？
Hello, Knox! I don’t think we can help you with this it’s your personal decision. We met people on the Camino that were lost, between two jobs, didn’t know what to do with their lives, people who lost beloved ones, etc. I believe it does help first of all because you have a lot of time to think, to talk to other people, you might meet someone who’s been through the same struggle and can give you advice. As for quitting your job, I’d rather try to take a longer leave unless you really hate it and very sure you don’t want to do it anymore. You always can quite after the Camino.
Good luck!
Hi, did you purchase any self-guide/ guided package online? As I searched through Internet, I could see there’s number of packages offered at slightly different which includes accommodation, meals, luggage transfer etc. Is it a must to purchase one of those? Or actually just start the journey without any guided package?
Hello, Guinevere! We’ve never used any package tour on any Camino route. The route is very self-explanatory, it’s marked all the way, there are many accommodations along the Camino and many people walking it we’ve never felt that we needed any assistance with booking accommodation, finding food etc. Most of the people walk it on their own and everybody manages it just fine. I don’t think those packages include a guide you will be walking on your own anyway just everything will be booked ahead which is not always good it makes you less flexible and more dependant on the itinerary. I hope it’ll help to make up your mind.
Buen Camino!
Hi This looks amazing We will be a group of 6 travelling in mid October. I would love any more info you could offer. We have decided the coastal route may be too windy in October so we will do Porto to Santiago the Central route unless you think otherwise.
Many thanks
Ana
Hello, Ana! The Coastal Route might be windy in October but you can decide on the way based on the weather, the first day to walk out of Porto it’s better to take the Senda Litoral which goes along the coast. I’m sure you’ll enjoy the walk!
Buen Camino!
Thank you so much for this site; it’s an amazing resource! My dad and I are going to go from Porto to Santiago this coming March. I’m a public school teacher, so we have to fit it mostly into my spring break, so we’re flying into Porto on a Friday and leaving Santiago 9 days later. We are hoping to bike much of the trail, so we can fit it all in easily, but it’s been difficult to find resources for renting bicycles. Do you have any leads? Thank you!
Hello, Emily! Thank you for the comment! We’ve never rented bikes in Portugal or Spain not sure how it works it might be a bit difficult I guess you’re supposed to return the bikes to the same place you rented them from (usually you leave a deposit) not sure if it works like with renting a car that you pick it up in one place and drop it off somewhere else. I can suggest you checking out Bicigrino website, they arrange cycling tours on the Camino they might have more insides.
Buen Camino!
Hi, great site guys. I didn’t catch the information about the elevation gain on the routes from day to day. Is this in your guide written? thank you
Hello, Renata! Our guide doesn’t have elevation gain for every day but from what I remember the route was pretty flat most of the days.
Buen Camino!
Renata, Google Maps shows the elevation. Just get directions between the two places, and then just look at the bottom, below the routes they offer. Hope that helps!
First of all, many many thanks for your website and the information you provide. I’ve completed el Camino Portugues last week, combining as you suggest all the different caminos from Porto. I/We started on the Litoral, then continued on the Costal to get back in on the interior before going back west on the Espiritual. I do a lot of long-distance walking and this was my 4th camino this year (after walking la Rota Vicentina/Fishermen Way in Portugal, el Camino dos faros in Galicia and the James Herriot’s way in England). I go quite fast so it took me less than most people but I have found the information you kindly offer very helpful indeed. Please continue with the good work.
Giovanni Cirulli (Harrogate, UK)
Hello, Giovanni! Thank you for the comment! I’m currently busy with my fourth Camino this year Camino Frances, we walked the Rota Vicentina in May (both routes the Fishermen’s Trail and the Historical Route) as well as the Via de la Plata and the Camino Ingles and really want to walk the Camino de los Faros next year.
Enjoy walking and safe travels!
Ha! I know the feeling…I’ve just booked to do Santiago – La Coruna in December! Unfortunately I can’t go to Ferrol as I only have 3 days and I’ll fly back from La Coruna to the UK. Still, I am sure it will be fun!
Your blog is so informative! I’m heading to Porto from Canada on Monday and I’m beyond excited! I’ve been reading and rereading your posts since I’ve decided to take this journey. My hope is not to use my phone or any apps (I’ll use it of course for pics and in case of an emergency). I have Brierley’s guide book. Will I have a problem finding an albergue if it’s not in the guide?
Thanks again for all the helpful info!
Hello, Kim! Thank you very much for the comment! Don’t worry about albergues, most of them are in the guide book (we used it too). It’s not difficult to find albergues, municipal albergues are usually right on the Camino there is always a sign pointing the way, private albergues always have banners or signs along the route too. I’m sure you’ll enjoy the walk!
Buen Camino!
I woudl like to go to Satiago from Porto (the Senda Litoral along the coast) wity my daughter.(11years). You recommended the course for 12 Days. However I have 10days only. Could you please advise me what course would be good and where to stay? Your any comments would be great help for us. Many Thanks :))
Hello, Peter! I would recommend you, to take a bus to Rates (for example) and start walking from there this way you can follow the existing itinerary and your daughter won’t have to walk 27-30km a day I’m not sure but such distances can be too long for an 11-year-old.
Buen Camino
I am hoping to do the Camino Portugues. I am living in Porto now. I have two questions: 1, how do you get you passport stamped if you stay in hotels? 2. How safe is this camino for single women? I would probably walk in November or May. Thank you! I’m glad I doscivered yuo blog.
Hello, NatBee! Thank you for the comment!
1. Many hotels on the route have stamps as well as many restaurants and cafes along the route and some tourist information offices so I’m sure even if you don’t stay in albergues you’ll be able to get a least one stamp a day. Just remember for the last 100km it’s better to get two a day but again it won’t be a problem.
2. We saw women and young girls walking alone, the route goes through nice areas nothing doggy so I’d say it’s pretty safe. We walked the Portuguese Camino in May and it was wonderful; nice weather, not too hot, it was busy in a nice way not too many people. I think May is a good time. Not sure about November in Portugal but in Spain when we walked to Finisterre we got a lot of rain in November weatherwise May is better.
Cheers!
Thanks for your blog. I’am planning to do the camino Portugues next saturday, starting in Valencia.
Is my first experience (long hike) and i’m sure that all the information shared in your blog will be very useful.
Hello, Luis! Thank you for the comment! I’m sure you’ll enjoy the walk on the Portuguese Camino. Just remember don’t push yourself too hard, take you time and don’t pack your backpack heavy.
Buen Camino!
thank you so much for the amazing info. it has really helped me make decisions on my porto route. I walked the last 100 on the Frances way but this time will be walking from porto. so excited. your blog is by far the best I have come across
Hello, Michelle! Thank you for the comment! I’m sure you’ll enjoy the Coastal Route.
Buen Camino!
Great site. Thanks for sharing. We don’t have the time to do the complete trail but are planning to do the last 100km in March of 2020. Would you suggest starting from Tui or Baiuna? Also we will be coming from the states where do you suggest flying in to?
Thanks again for your site
Hello and thank you for all the great information you provide. I am devouring it all! 🙂
I am planning to walk from Porto to Santiago in late September and I having troubles planning my return flight. I am planning on doing a mix of the coastal and the central routes and I am giving myself 13 days altogether. I would fly out from Santiago on Day 14. Do you think that is enough or shall I add another day or two to keep things more relaxed? Or do you recommend staying an extra day at the end in Santiago? I live in the lower Alps and I am a good walker if that helps. Thank you for your input. All the best.
Hello, Valerie! Thank you very much for the comment! We always stay in Santiago for at least a day after we finish walking, usually the day you arrive there are many things to do like getting the Compostela, going to the mass, etc. and you don’t really have time to see the city. The historical center is not very big but it’s beautiful worth having a day to explore it. If you have time I’d suggest to have one or two extra days not because you won’t make it in 13 days but in case you really like a place or a town and want to stay there longer. If you finish and still have a couple of days left in Santiago you can always do a trip to the coast and visit Finisterre and/or Muxia.
Buen Camino!
Very, very informative nomads. Easy to follow and extremely relevant. You’re guessing our potential questions before we even ask them!
Thank you for all your effort here.
David (UK)
Hello, David! Thank you very much for the comment! We’re glad you find our post helpful! Enjoy the walk and Buen Camino!
Hi guys. Thanks so much for all the great information regarding the camino’s. We are looking to head over from Australia in May 2020 to do the Camino de Santiago. We were going to head into Portugal after that. Is there any problems with going from Santiago to Porto using the coastal route instead of the opposite? We will actually go all the way to Finisterre, but can come back to Santiago to continue on. Thanks for any feedback
Hello, Debbie! Thank you for the comment! We actually met several pilgrims walking from Santiago to Porto for some reason it’s quite a popular thing to do, most of them kept walking after finishing another route in Santiago. I don’t think there will be any problem with albergues you just can show them your Credential with stamps and explain that you’re walking it the other way around. I’m not sure the route is marked everywhere both ways (we did see some arrows pointing the opposite direction) but I’m sure you won’t get lost there will be plenty of other pilgrims on the route.
Buen Camino!
Thanks so much for this! Two questions: is it easy or well marked to get back on the Camino Central from Vila do Conde? I can’t see any connecting paths on my map. I hope to leave Porto along the river and then do the Central Route. Also, is it necessary to call ahead and reserve beds in albergues in advance? I leave on May 30th and want to be sure I have somewhere to sleep. Thanks so much.
Hello, Emily! Thank you for the comment! The Camino Portuguese is well-marked everywhere, the route from Vila do Conde to the Central Route goes past the aqueduct, if I’m not mistaking the split is at the cathedral. If you have any doubts you can ask locals they always help but I’m sure it won’t be difficult to find the way. As for booking albergues you can book only private albergues or hotels, public albergues can’t be booked ahead they work on principal first come first serve. We walked this route in May and always could find a place to sleep. If there are no spots in public albergues you always can find a private one, it’s more expensive between 10 and 12 Euro. We’re busy walking the Camino Ingles, on May 30th we’re finishing in Santiago)
Buen Camino!
This is super helpful! Many thanks! Can’t wait to hit the road tomorrow.
Hello, Emily! Thank you very much for the comment! We’re glad it was helpful! We’re finishing the English Way tomorrow in Santiago de Compostela, very excited to be there again!
Buen Camino!
My wife and I want to do the Camino in early Sept and want to do 7 days. Trying to decide between the Portuguese or Spanish route for a week. Porto looks nice but can we get to Santiago in a week?
Hello, Ron! There are many different routes to Santiago you can choose any route and don’t walk the entire Camino but the last 150-200 km or so to make it in 7 days. To get the Compotela certificate you have to walk at least 100 km so it’s up to you where to start. If you want to walk a shorter route I can suggest the Camino Ingles it’s 120 km will take you 4-5 days and after arriving in Santiago you can continue for 3 more days and do the Camino Finisterre.
You won’t make it in 7 day to Santiago from Porto but you can start walking from Tui which is about 6-7 walking days from Santiago. Another option is to start in Porto (it’s a nice walk along the coast), walk to Barcelos, 3 days then take a bus to Redondela and from there continue to Santiago, another 4 days which makes 7 days in total.
Buen Camino!
Thanks for an excellent blog. I would like to do a shorter walk (like 7 days instead of the 12 days (due to my limited walking capacity). What options do I have? Is it possible to do some middle sections by bus or train?
Hello, Aliya! Thank you for the comment! As I understand you’d like to walk by the sea in this case I’d suggest to start from Porto on the Litoral Way, in one week you’ll probably reach A Ramallosa or Vigo where you can end the Camino. It’s very easy to get from Vigo to Santiago there is regular bus and train service. After Vigo the route goes inland all the way till Santiago. If you want to actually walk into Santiago I’d suggest to do the first part from Porto to Castelo do Neiva or Carreco (3 or 4 days) then take a bus to Redondela and walk from there to Santiago, another 3-4 days. I’m not sure about buses and trains for the middle section you’ll probably have to do one or two switches on the way.
Buen Camino!
I just came home from hiking Via de la Plata. I have been doing Camino Francais and Camino del Norte. Now I am looking for a shorter, not too crowded and not to hilly Camino. Thanks to your blog! Camino Portuguese seems to have just what I am looking for! I am 77 years, and that is the reason why I am looking for something more suitable for a 78 years old woman. The only thing I have had problems with is hard surfaces. That kills my feet. Is it possible to avoid that to a great extent? Hopefully! Kerstin
Hello, Kerstin! Thank you for the comment! Good job on Via de la Plata! How was the Via de la Plata? Did you walk the whole route from Seville in one go? We were busy with it a couple of days ago but after Merida decided to change the scenery a little bit. Now we’re in Portugal starting the Fisherman’s trail of the Rota Vicentina tomorrow, it’s a 10-day hike along the coast in the south of Portugal.
The Portuguese Camino does involve a lot of walking on the asphalt though on the Coastal route in the beginning there are some stretches on the boardwalks which is much nicer than cobblestones or asphalt. Hope it helps!
Buen Camino!
Thanks for the comments! Yes, this time I walked all in one go. Have been walking it in sections some years ago. I took bus twice due to too long distances ( 33+47km). Otherwise I hadn’t any problems. The whole Via del la Plata is wonderful. Many different landscapes. Can you suggest some other Camino with little asphalt? I hope to be able to walk next year… Nobody knows…. Regards Kerstin
The only Camino we’ve done that didn’t have much asphalt was the Camino Primitivo but it goes through the mountains there are many ascend and descend on the route sometimes quite steep and long. We’re two day into the Fisherman’s Trail of the Rota Vicentina in the south of Portugal and absolutely love it there is no walking on the asphalt at all most of the time you walk on the beach or on the footpath, the scenery here is breathtaking. From what we’ve seen in the first two days it might become our favorite walking route in this part of Europe. This route has nothing to do with the Camino de Santiago but for walking it’s an amazing route. Walking distances are quite short as well average 20-22 km per day so it’s a really good alternative to the Camino de Santiago.
Cheers!
Excellent blog and website — highly informative.
I’m looking for advice. I’ve enjoyed a fair number of long hikes including caminos in France, Switzerland, Italy, Spain and — the reason for this message — lastly the Camino Portugues.
But I’ve developed untreatable arthritis in my feet. I walked from Lisbon to Porto last year, intending to get as far as Santiago de Compostela, but the pain made that last 250 km impossible.
But I’d really like to finish one more hike before I get on a bike (nowhere near as enjoyable for me!). From last year’s experience I think there may be days when I have to reduce my distance from my standard 20-25 km down to maybe 10 km. Do you think I’ll be able to find enough accommodation if I’m forced to walk only around 10 km a day?
Thanks for any advice you can give.
Hello, Mike! Thank you for the comment! On the Portuguese Camino from Porto there are quite a lot of accommodation options, I’m not sure if you’ll be able to find an albergue at every 10km but there will be hotels and guesthouses, there are definitely more accommodation options on this part of the Portuguese Camino then on the part from Lisbon to Porto. We have a PDF file with stops on the route, distances and facilities for the Portuguese Camino you can get it through our pop-up subscription form.
Buen Camino!
Great — thank you.
Thank you for all the information…I am planning to arrive in Porto at the begining of May. You think its duable to make the trip to santiago in half the time that you describe?!
Regards from Malta
Hello, George! I don’t know how far you can walk a day, the total distance is 260km we suggest 12 days for the route if you do it in 6 days instead you’ll have to walk about 45km a day. If you’re fine with walking that distance daily it’s doable but you’ll miss out quite a bit on the way.
Buen Camino!
Hi – I want to thank you so much, this is the best blog I have copied ALL of your advice and I can’t wait to walk my first Camino starting early September. I really appreciate all of the thought you have put into this, including tips like how to leave Porto by going along the beach and even tips like if there is wifi at the Albergue! One question about day 9 where you say a “couple of kilometers before Redondela…sign for River Trail” did you mean a couple of KM before Pontevedra because Redondela is the starting point of the day.
Hello, Madeleine! Thank you very much for the feedback! We’re glad our post was helpful! On day 9 it should be Pontevedra of course, it was a typo, I changed it, should be right now.
Buen Camino!
Hello, what are the best options for traveling from santiago back to porto/lisboa?
Hello, Lynette!
We took a direct bus from Santiago to Lisbon it was quite a long bus ride basically the whole day with several stops. As I know there is not a direct train from Santiago to Porto or Lisbon you can catch a train to Vigo and switch there for another train to Porto, it will be faster, from Vigo to Porto it’s about 2h20min. and from Santiago to Vigo between 1h and 1h30min. (depending on the train). If you buy train tickets online beforehand it might be relatively cheap (35-40 Euro), you can do it on RENFE site (the official Spanish railway site). Note! When buy train tickets make sure that you arrive and depart in Vigo from the same train station, there are two, trains to Porto usually depart from VIGO GUIXAR.
Buen Camino!
Hi,
Thx for the amazing advice on the Camino, specially the stages. Walking the Portuguese way next year! Was a one-man show, that grew into 5 pax, after I shared your info. It’s the best!!
Hello, Charmaine! Thank you very much for the feedback! I’m sure you and your friends will enjoy the Portuguese Camino! If you have any questions later we’ll be happy to answer!
Buen Camino!
Hello! I plan to go on the Portuguese Camino next May following your itinerary. How easy/difficult is it to cross from the coastal route to the central route (Labruge to Rates). Are the signs easy to follow? Most apps that I have downloaded only show strictly the central or coastal route with no options of mixing the two up. TIA for the advice!
Hello, Stacia! The route from Labruge to Rates is marked, there are many people walking that part, in fact, most people who walk the Central route walk along the coast from Porto to Labuge and from there turn inland, I’m sure in May there will be quite a few people going that way.
Buen Camino!
Hello
Looking to do this from Porto mid March. Will accomodation be a problem with places still closed?
Hello, Liezl! Most albergues on the Camino de Santiago open in mid March but even if some public albergues will still be closed you’ll be able to find private albergues to stay.
Buen Camino!
Hi
We’re planning on walking the Portuguese Coastal Camino route in mid April beginning in Porto . Understand this time of the year will be shoulder season , any further detail on weather much appreciated.
Hello, Chris! Thank you for your question! We walked the Coastal Route in the beginning of May and had very nice weather; warm and no rain at all. In April you have more chances of rain, temperatures will be lower around 15°C average though nights will be quite chilly around 9°C.
Buen Camino!
Thank you! Your blog is just what I was looking for… hoping to head off in September.
Hello, Kim! Thank you very much for your comment! We’re glad our blog was helpful!
Buen Camino!
Thank you for posting this invaluable information. Planning a Pilgrimage next June and I am printing your daily itinerary. Loved the packing list.
Hello, Michelle! Thank you for your comment! We just finished the Camino Finisterre-Muxia and really enjoyed it though the weather wasn’t always great. Hope you’ll enjoy the Portuguese Camino, June is a great month to walk it.
Buen Camino!
Hello-
I found your information very good.
Would you possibly have a day by day suggested itinerary for following the Senda Litoral Coastal route the entire way to Santiago?
It would be very much appreciated;)
Cheryl
Dear, Cheryl! We have a whole post about the Coastal Route of Camino Portuguese with a day by day itinerary and many details. Please, check “related posts” at the end of this article or go to the home page there is a section Camino de Santiago where you can find all posts.
Good luck!
Swedish pilgrim that is leaving tomorrow for the Senda Litoral on Camino Potogues. Found your blog and really like the information. Will use your daily stages a guide. Thank you for sharing!
Hello, Caroline! Thank you very much for your comment! We’re happy that you found our blog helpful. Enjoy the walk!
Buen Camino!
So happy to discover your blog…walking the portugese way next year! Thanks for all the info!
Hello, Helena! Thank you for the comment! We’re glad you enjoyed our post! Hopefully it will help you in planning.
Buen Camino!
Fantastic resource!