The Coastal Route of the Portuguese Camino - a 2026 guide
The Coastal Route is one of the trails of the Portuguese Camino from Porto. The total distance of the route is 274 km/170 mi. It starts in Porto and goes along the coast till Vigo. It merges with the Central Route in Redondela. In 2025 a half of pilgrims who completed the Portuguese Camino walked the Coastal Route. The Portuguese Camino is getting increasingly popular, and many pilgrims choose this route as an alternative to the Camino Frances.
Despite the name only 30% of the route (between Porto and Redondela) is along the coast. If you want to walk by the sea as much as possible the Litoral Way (80% along the coast) might be a better option.
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Coastal Route PDFs
To make your planning easier we created downloadable PDF files for the Coastal Route of the Portuguese Camino. One file is with walking stages from Porto to Santiago de Compostela. One has a list of places to stay (municipal and private albergues, hotels, and guesthouses) along the route.
- Portuguese Camino Coastal Route - walking stages PDF Download
- Portuguese Camino Coastal Route - places to stay PDF Download
Portuguese Camino planner
You can use our free Portuguese Camino planning tool. Combine routes, add the Spiritual Variant, choose the daily distance, and a starting point get a customized itinerary with recommended places to stay.
GPX files of the route
If our PDFs and GPX files helped you plan your Camino, consider buying us a coffee ☕ — it’s a small gesture that means a lot and helps us keep creating quality content for fellow pilgrims!
The Coastal Camino - route overview
- Distance – 274 km/170 mi
- Number of days (stages) – 12-15 days
- Starting point – Sé Cathedral, Porto, Portugal
- Finishing point – Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, Spain
- Difficulty level – moderate
- Total ascent – 3990 m
- Total descent – 3716 m
- Walking surface 155 km/96 mi - asphalt/tar; 29 km/18 mi - cobblestones; 65 km/40.3 mi - footpath/gravel road; 24 km/15 mi - boardwalk; 1 km/0.6 mi - beach.
- Walking along the coast - 77.5 km/ out of 274 km/170 mi. The last 86 km/53.4 mi to Santiago are inland on the Central Route.
- Average cost – 30 euros per person per day if staying in albergues, from 50 euros pp. if staying in hotels.
Travel Insurance for the Camino
Walking like any other outdoor activity involves a risk of getting an injury or losing some of the gear. The Portuguese Coastal Camino is not a high-altitude hike through remote areas but it's still a physically challenging experience. Light traumas like blisters, knee pain, shin splints, etc. are quite common. Read more about Camino travel insurance or get an instant personalized quote from two companies right here. And decide which one works best for you.
World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.How long is the Coastal Route?
The total distance of the Coastal Route from Porto to Santiago (Porto - Vigo - Redondela - Santiago) is 274 km/170 mi. It takes 12-15 days on average to complete the route. If you incorporate the Litoral Way into your walk the total distance will be around 280 km/173 mi. The stages stay the same but your daily distances might vary.
How to combine the Coastal and Central Route?
You can easily combine the Coastal and Central routes. There are two places along the Coastal Route of the Camino Portugues where pilgrims can switch to the Central Route.
- Vila do Conde - about 30 km from Porto (the second stage for most pilgrims). There is a route from Vila do Conde to Rates, that connects the Coastal Camino/Litoral Way with the Central Route.
- Caminha - about 107 km from Porto (the fifth stage for most pilgrims). The connecting route from Caminha goes along the Minho River to Valença where it merges with the Central Route.
There is another split on the Portuguese Camino after Redondela. From Pontevedra, there are two routes: the Spiritual Way and the main route of the Portuguese Camino.
If you want to know the difference between the two routes you can read our detailed post where we compare the Coastal and Central Route.
What is accommodation like on the route?
Like any other Camino de Santiago route the Coastal Way has public and private albergues, hotels, guesthouses, and a couple of campsites along the route.
Albergues are hostels for pilgrims. They usually have dormitory rooms with bunk beds and shared ablution facilities. Albergues can be public (run by a local municipality) and private.
Comparing public (municipal) and private albergues
| Features | Public albergues | Private albergues |
|---|---|---|
| Only for pilgrims | yes | no |
| Need a credential to stay | yes | no |
| Can be booked ahead | no | yes |
| Can stay as long as you want | only 1 night | yes |
| Price | 10-12 Euro | 20 Euro |
| Accept backpack delivery | usually no | yes |
Public albergues are the cheapest accommodation option on the Camino de Santiago. To stay in public albergues you'll need a Credential.
You can find public (municipal) albergues on the Coastal Route in
- Labruge (1st stage)
- Vila Chã (1st stage)
- Vila do Conde (2nd stage)
- Póvoa de Varzim (2nd stage)
- Aguçadoura (2nd stage)
- Marinhas (3rd stage)
- Castelo do Neiva (4th stage)
- Viana do Castelo (4th stage)
- Caminha (5th stage)
- A Guarda (5th stage)
- Vigo (8th stage)
- Redondela (9th stage)
The campsites on the Coastal Portuguese Camino can be found in
- Labruge
- Vila Cha
- Caminha
- A Guarda
- Baiona
- A Ramallosa
- Vigo
The cost of walking
The Portuguese Camino can be done on a different budget from 30 to 50+ Euros per person per day depending on how much comfort you need. The average cost of walking the Coastal Route is 35-45 Euro per person per day. We have a detailed post on the cost of the Portuguese Camino where you can find a lot of information for planning your estimated Camino budget.
Walking the Camino Portugues with 30, 40, and 50+ Euro per person, per day
| 30 Euro | 40 Euro | 50+ Euro |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ||
| Public albergues, 10 Euro | Private albergues, 15-20 Euro | Private room, from 50 Euro pp. |
| Food | ||
| Cooking, 10 Euro | Eating Menu del Día, 10-12 Euro | Eating out twice a day, 20-25 Euro |
| Backpack delivery (optional) | ||
| 7 Euro | 7 Euro | 7 Euro |
| Extra (entrance fees, coffee, laundry, etc.) | ||
| 8 Euro | 8 Euro | 8 Euro |
What to pack for the Camino?
It's important to remember not to overload your backpack, make sure to bring only the necessary stuff. The two most important items to bring are good walking shoes and a comfortable backpack.
If you're planning on using a backpack delivery service (see the next paragraph) then you can pack as much as you wish.
For more details on what to pack for the Coastal Portuguese Camino for men and women for different seasons read our packing list for the Portuguese Camino post.
Best guidebooks
I believe Camino de Santiago guidebooks by John Brierley are the best. We used his A Pilgrim’s Guide to the Camino Portugués Lisbon – Porto – Santiago: including Camino Central, Variente Espiritual, Camino da Costa, & Senda Litoral on the Coastal Route and it was very helpful.
Looking for some interesting reading on the Camino? See our reviews of some of the Top Novels on the Camino de Santiago.
Coastal Route apps
- Camino Ninja. One of the pilgrims' favorite apps. Free. Available for Android and Apple
- Portuguese Way Premium. Free. Available for Android and Apple.
- Buen Camino de Santiago. Free. Available for Android and Apple.
Luggage transfer
If you don't want to walk with a heavy backpack you can use one of the luggage transfer services on the Camino. Tuitrans, Correos, and Pilbeo offer luggage delivery on the Coastal Route of the Portuguese Camino.
It works very easily a car picks up your backpack at your hotel or albergue in the morning and drops it off at your next accommodation place by lunchtime. The service costs 7 Euros per backpack per stage. If you decide to use the delivery service keep in mind that you'll have to stay in private albergues or hotels. Public albergues usually don't accept backpack delivery.
If you have some extra luggage that you won't need on the Camino you can send it directly to Santiago de Compostela using one of the above companies.
Porto, the beginning of the route
Porto is an amazing place to reserve a couple of days before or after the Camino to explore the city.
Tours & Activities in Porto
If you have extra time to stay in Porto before you start walking the Camino you can do a tour or a guided walk to discover this beautiful city.
- Porto Historic City Center walking tour
- Fado Show with Port Wine
- Douro Valley Wine Tour Including Lunch and River Cruise
- Half Day - Private TukTuk All Around Porto
Places to stay in Porto
There are many albergues in the city including one municipal albergue N.S. do Rosario de Vilar and one private albergue Albergue de Peregrinos do Porto.
If you rather stay in the center there are several options from hostels to luxury hotels depending on your budget.
- Low-end | CATS Porto Hostel | Onefam Ribeira |
- Mid-range | Portuense Alojamento Local | A Portuguesa Guest House |
- High-end | Maria da SÉ Historic House |
How to walk out of Porto: Coastal vs Litoral route?
You can walk out of Porto following the Litoral Way or the Coastal Route. Both routes start from Se Cathedral. The main difference is that the Litoral Way follows the coast from the beginning when the Coastal Route goes inland till Vila do Conde. Both routes merge in Vila do Conde and from there continue along the coast.
I've walked both routes and prefer walking out of Porto following the Litoral Way. It's a lot more scenic than the first stage of the Coastal Route. We have a detailed post on the 3 different routes of the Portuguese Camino from Porto.
The distance on the Litoral Way to Vila do Conde is longer than on the Coastal Route; 33 km/20.5 mi vs 29 km/18 mi. I'd suggest stopping in Labruge (24 km/15 mi) or Vila Cha (26 km/16 mi) instead of walking to Vila do Conde.
We have a detailed post comparing the Litoral Way and Coastal Route.
Coastal Route walking stages
Stage 1. Se Cathedral, Porto to Vila Chã, 26 km/16 mi
Porto - Matosinhos - Lavra - Labruge - Vila Chã
- Distance – 26 km/16 mi
- Time – 5-6 hours
- Accumulated ascent – 242 m
- Accumulated descent – 273 m
- Walking surface – 15 km/9.3 mi – asphalt; 10 km/6.2 mi – boardwalks; 1 km/0.6 mi – cobbled
- Walking along the coast - 23.5 km/14.6 mi are along the Douro River and coast
It’s a beautiful walking stage along the river and later the coast with plenty of restaurants and cafes.
The described stage is technically the Litoral Way, not the Coastal Route but most pilgrims (including myself) choose this route to walk out of Porto.
The first sage on the official Coastal Route from the Cathedral to Vila do Conde is inland. The route exists. It’s well-marked but the scenery is not as spectacular as on the Lirotal Way. In my opinion, the only reason to choose it is the distance. From Se Cathedral to Vila do Conde on the Coastal Route is 29 km/18 mi and on the Litoral Way is 32.5 km/20 mi.
Challenges
The route marking on the first 10 km/6.2 mi from the Cathedral is non-existent. It’s not difficult to find the way, just follow the river till you get to the information office in Matosinhos (10 km) from there you can follow the yellow arrows.
Relatively long distance for the first day on the Camino. There are towns and places to stay before Vila Chã you can shorten your first walking day.
Highlights
- Se Cathedral in Porto, the starting point of the Coastal Route.
- Walking along the Douro River
- Walking along the coast and past beautiful beaches
Stage 1 route description
0-6 km/0-3.7 mi along the Douro River. You can take the famous yellow tram (#1 and #18) for the first 5.5 km/3.4 mi. It follows the same route as the Camino. Passeio Alegre is the name of the tram stop where you get off.
6 km/3.7 mi – São João Baptista da Foz Fortress and Barra do Douro Lighthouse
10.5 km/6.5 mi – Tourist Information Office in Matosinhos. They sometimes sell Credentials. You can get a stamp here. From there the route is well-marked. Some pilgrims get to Matosinhos by bus or metro train. Bus #500 and metro line A go from Porto to Matosinhos. If you do so you can easily walk to Vila do Condo which is 22 km from Matosinhos.
10.5–13 km//6.5-8 mi – the Camino goes inland through Matosinhos. It is the only part of the stage where you have to pay attention to the Camino signs.
11.7 km/7.2 mi – go over the bridge Ponte móvel de Leça to the other side of the river.
13 km/8 mi – the information office where you can get a stamp.
From 13 km/8 mi you walk along the coast to Vila Cha.
15 km/9.3 mi – the beginning of the boardwalks. From here the walk is almost entirely on boardwalks.
20 km/12.4 mi – a big supermarket (ALDI, 400 m away from the boardwalks)
24 km/15 mi – Labruge, a small beach town with cafes, guesthouses, and a municipal albergue 900 m away from the Camino route. You can stop here instead of walking another 2 km/1.2 mi to Vila Chã. Then your next day's walk will be 20 km/12.4 mi instead of 18 km/11 mi. It's a good option if you don't want to stay in the public albergue as accommodation options are quite limited in Vila Chã.
Places to stay in Labruge
- Parque de Campismo Orbitur (1 km/0.6 mi before Labruge)
- Blue Beach Apartment – Caminhos de Santiago (1 km/0.6 mi before Labruge)
- Casa da Praia Labruge
- Municipal Albergue de S.Tiago (900 m inland away from the Camino)
26 km/16 mi – Vila Chã, another small beach town with two or three restaurants and guesthouses. The municipal albergue in Vila Chã is about 800 m from the coast and the Camino route. There are not many accommodation options in the village if you walk another 1.5 km/0.9 mi to Mindelo Beach you'll find more places.
Places to stay in Vila Chã
- Municipal Albergue de S.Mamede in Vila Chã
- Parque do campsimo in Vila Chã
Places to stay in Mindelo, 1.5 km/0.9 mi past Vila Chã
Stage 2. Vila Chã to Aguçadoura, 18 km/11 mi
Vila Chã - Vila do Conde - Póvoa de Varzim - Aguçadoura
- Distance – 18 km/11.1 mi
- Time – 4-5 hours (moving time)
- Accumulated ascent – 119 m
- Accumulated descent – 116 m
- Walking surface – 7.7 km – boardwalk; 4 km - tar road; 6 km – cobblestones; 300 m – sand
- Walking along the coast - 12 km/7.4 mi out of 18 km/11 mi
It’s a relatively short and easy walking day with plenty of places to stop for coffee and lunch.
From Villa Chã the marked route goes parallel to the coast through the town but you can walk along the sea on the boardwalk from the start. After 2 km/1.2 mi the marked route continues on the boardwalk.
At 6 km the Camino trail turns inland across the bridge. It takes you through the towns of Vila do Conde and Póvoa de Varzim and returns to the coast at 12 km/7.4 mi.
Challenges
- Short parts of the boardwalk are covered in sand you walk on dunes which is more tiring
- Walking through the cities (Vila do Conde and Póvoa de Varzim) between 6 km/3.7 mi and 12 km/7.4 mi.
Highlights
- A beautiful walk along the coast between Vila Chã and Vila do Conde
- The historical center of Vila do Conde
- A picturesque coastal walk between Espozende and Aguçadoura
Stage 2 route description
0-6 km/0-3.7 mi - walking along the coast on the boardwalk
2.5 km/1.5 mi - Mindelo, a bar and a cafe
4.8 km/3 mi - Praia do Árvore, hotels, restaurants, cafes, a shop
5.6 km/3.4 mi - a restaurant
6 km/3.7 mi - the Coastal Route turns inland
6-12 km/3.7-7.4 mi - the route goes inland. It’s possible to continue along the coast. After crossing the bridge in Vila do Conde go to Avenida do Brasil.
7.5 km/4.6 mi - Vila do Conde. It’s a big town with many cafes, shops, restaurants, hotels, and a public albergue. From Vila do Conde you can switch to the Central Route of the Portuguese Camino and walk to Rates following the river or the aqueduct route.
7.5-12 km/4.6-7.4 mi on the Litoral Way (along the coast). From Vila do Conde to Póvoa de Varzim the Coastal Route goes inland. It’s possible to continue along the coast. After crossing the bridge in Vila do Conde get to Avenida do Brasil and continue walking along the coast. You’ll see Camino signs again on the promenade in Póvoa de Varzim. Note! You have to go through Vila do Conde to cross the river.
11 km/6.8 mi - Póvoa de Varzim. It is another big town with cafes, shops, and hotels.
12-18 km/7.4-11 mi - the Camino goes along the coast.
18 km/11 mi - Aguçadoura, a small beach town with a public albergue, a couple of guesthouses, shops, and restaurants.
Places to stay in Aguçadoura
Stage 3. Aguçadoura to Marinhas, 18 km/11 mi
Aguçadoura - Praia Estela - Apúlia - Fão - Esposende - Marinhas
- Distance – 18 km/11 mi
- Time – 5 hours
- Accumulated ascent – 81 m
- Accumulated descent – 72 m
- Walking surface – 6 km/3.7 mi – boardwalk; 4.7 km/2.9 mi - tar road/asphalt; 5.4 km/3.3 mi – cobblestones; 2 km/1.2 mi – footpath
- Walking along the coast - 7 km/4.3 mi out of 18 km/11 mi.
It’s another easy and short walking day on the Coastal Route. The first half is on the boardwalk along the beach, the second half is inland except for the walk on the promenade in Esposende.
Challenges
- Nothing, in particular, an easy walk along the beach and through towns with no hills or walking on the sand.
Highlights
- A beautiful walk along the beach between 0 km and 4 km.
- A beautiful small church in Apulia
- The small historical center of Fao
- The historical center and the promenade in Esposende.
Stage 3 route description
0-4 km/0-2.4 mi - on the boardwalk along the beach
4 km/2.4 mi - a bar and a route split. The left route continues on the boardwalk close to the coast, the right route goes inland. Both routes join after about 1,2 km. It’s recommended to take the left route and stay on the boardwalk. The right route goes along the road.
7.5 km/4.6 mi - a small church where you can get a stamp. Apulia, is a small town with a private albergue, guesthouses, cafes, restaurants, and shops.
7.5-12 km/4.6-7.7 mi on the Litoral Way. You can walk from Apulia to Fão along the coast instead of going inland through the forest. In Apulia go to Avenida da Colonia, and continue along the coast till Rua Capital Jorge Larcher. Turn right at the Rua and head to the bridge. The coastal route from Apulia to Fão is 1.5 km longer than the official Coastal Route.
8.7-10.3 km/5.4-6.4 mi - walking on a footpath through the forest.
11 km/6.8 mi - a small church where you can get a stamp. Fão is a small town with a couple of hostels, restaurants, cafes, and shops
11.5 km/7.1 mi - a metal bridge across the Cadavo River
12 km/7.4 mi - a cafe
12.8 km/7.9 mi - Hotel Rio Cavado/restaurant
13 km/8 mi - Esposende, a bigger town with hostels, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, bars, and ATMs.
13-14.5 km/8-9 mi on the Litoral Way. In Esposende the Camino goes inland through the town for 1.5 km. You can continue walking along the coast. At the runaround after Hotel Mira Rio continue walking along the river and the cycling road (soon you’ll see a boardwalk). You’ll start seeing the Camino signs again after 1.5 km.
14.5-15.5 km/9-9.6 mi - walking along the coast
15 km/9.3 mi - Aparthotel Pinhal da Foz, Hotel Suave Mar
16 km/10 mi - a restaurant, the Coastal Route turns inland
17.5 km/10.8 mi - Vila Ribeiro Guesthouse
18 km/11 mi - Public Albergue in Marinhas. There is a shop, a pharmacy, and a couple of restaurants near the albergue. There is a tap with drinking water outside.
Places to stay in Marinhas
Stage 4. Marinhas to Viana do Castelo, 21 km/13 mi
Marinhas - Castelo do Neiva - Chafé - Viana do Castelo
- Distance – 21 km/13 mi
- Time – 5 hours
- Accumulated ascent – 346 m
- Accumulated descent – 361 m
- Walking surface – 7.5 km/4.6 mi - tar road/asphalt, 8 km/5 mi – cobblestones, 5.5 km/3.4 mi – footpath
- Walking along the coast - 0 km, the entire stage is inland
The walk today from the start to the end is inland. Unlike the previous 3 stages that are flat, today's walk has some ascents and descents. In one day you total ascents more than in the first three days combined.
Challenges
- Several ascents and descents along the route
- Walking on hard surfaces e.g. cobbled stones which are tougher on your feet
- Walking on the sidewalk along a busy road for the last 2 km/1.2 mi to Viana do Castelo
Highlights
- A spectacular forest with a river between 6.4 km/3.9 mi and 7.7 km/4.7 mi. One of the most beautiful forest walks on the Portuguese Camino.
- Several beautiful churches where you can get stamps
- A nice forest walk between 9.2 km/5.7 mi and 10.6 km/6.5 mi
- The historical center of Viana do Castelo
Stage 4 route description
Between 3 km/1.8 mi and 5 km/3.1 mi, there are several cafes and small shops
Between 6.4 km/3.9 mi and 7.7 km/4.7 mi - walking on a footpath through the lush green forest next to the river
8 km/5 mi - Public albergue Don Nausti, Castelo do Neiva
9 km/5.5 mi - the church of St.Iago where you can get a stamp
9.2-10.6 km/5.7-6.5 mi - a nice forest walk
10.5 km/6.5 mi - a food stop
13.5 km/8.3 mi - a cafe
16 km/9.9 mi - the small town of Anha with restaurants, cafes, a couple of hotels, and a shop
18.5-20.5 km/11.5-12.7 mi - walking along a busy street with many cars
20 km/12.4 mi - the Eiffel Bridge across the Lima River
21 km/13 mi - The Public Albergue of Viana do Castelo. The Albergue is about 500 m away from the historical center.
Places to stay in Viana do Castelo
Stage 5. Viana do Castelo to Caminha, 28 km/17.3 mi
Viana do Castelo - Carreço - Vila Praia de Âncora - Caminha
- Distance – 28 km/17.3 mi
- Time – 6-7 hours
- Accumulated ascent – 391 m
- Accumulated descent – 385 m
- Walking surface – 16.5 km/10.2 mi - tar road/asphalt, 8.5 km/5.2 mi – cobblestones, 3 km/1.8 mi – footpath
- Walking along the coast - 4 km/2.4 mi out of 28 km/17.3 mi are along the coast
It’s a long and challenging walking day with several ascents and descents. You often can see the sea but not from close by. The route goes through peaceful towns, small villages, forests, and fields. The Camino gets to the coast after Vila Praia de Âncora.
Challenges
- A long walking day, over 28 km/17.3 mi
- Several ascents and descents
- Walking on hard surfaces (tar roads, cobblestones) for most of the day
Highlights
- Narrow cobbled streets with high stone walls in the first half of the walk
- 6th-century convent Sao Joao de Cabanas, 30min. walk Carreço
- 14 km/8.6 mi - a wonderful cafe in the middle of the forest with outside tables and chairs
- A beautiful forest in the middle part
- The historical part of Vila Praia de Âncora
- The walk along the coast between 20.5 km/12.7 mi and 24.5 km/15.2 mi
- The historical center of Caminha
Stage 5 route description
The Camino route loops around Viana do Castelo. The easiest way to get from your accommodation place to the route is to walk to Igreja dos Santos Martires and continue on Rua Dom Moises Alves Pinho.
0-4 km/0-2.4 mi - the route goes through the town and neighborhoods
4-10 km/2.4-6.2 mi - the Camino passes small villages and fields
10 km/6.2 mi - Carreco, a small town with a private albergue Casa do Adro, a shop, an ATM, and cafes.
11 km/6.8 mi - our favorite Albergue on the Coastal Route Casa do Sardão
Between 12 km/7.4 mi and 13 km/8 mi - walking through a beautiful forest
14 km/8.6 mi - a wonderful cafe in the forest by the river with good coffee and nice desserts. It’s a perfect place to stop for a light lunch or coffee.
17 km/10.5 mi - a bar
18 km/11 mi - Vila Praia de Âncora, a town with hotels, restaurants, shops, and cafés.
20.5-24.5 km/12.7-15.2 mi - a beautiful walk along the coast and past several beaches
24.5 km/15.2 mi - the route turns inland and goes through the town of Moledo
25.5-27.3 km/15.8-17 mi - a long straight stretch on the sidewalk along the road
28 km/17.3 mi - Caminha. The end of the Portuguese part of the Coastal Route. From Caminha you can continue on the Coastal Route or switch to the Central Route. To cross from Caminha to A Guarda (Coastal Route) pilgrims can use a boat. Instead of continuing on the Coastal Route and taking a boat, you can walk from Caminha to Valença/Tui and do the last 100 km from Tui to Santiago on the Central Route.
Places to stay in Caminha
Stage 6. Caminha (Portugal) to Viladesuso (Spain), 21 km/13 mi
Caminha - A Guarda - Oia - Viladesuso
- Distance – 21 km/13 mi
- Time – 5-6 hours
- Accumulated ascent – 375 m
- Accumulated descent – 360 m
- Walking surface – 11 km/6.8 mi - tar road/asphalt; 10 km/6.3 mi – footpath/gravel road
- Walking along the coast - 14 km/8.6 mi out of 21 km/13 mi
It's a beautiful walking day that starts with a boat ride across the river, then the Coastal Route goes through the forest to Caminha, and after the town continues along the coast.
First, you take a boat to the other side of the Minho River. There are several departures scheduled throughout the day depending on tides. You can buy a ticket and find departure times online. Tickets can be purchased at the pier as well. The price is 9 euros per person, 10 euros per person with a bicycle. The ride is around 10 minutes.
After a short boat ride you arrive at the pier in A Pasaxe. Keep in mind the time difference, Spain is 1 hour ahead of Portugal. Once you’re on the other side of the river it’s 1 hour later than in Caminha.
Challenges
- A steep ascent from A Pasaxe (the pier)
- It’s a relatively easy walking day mostly along the coast with short parts along the road on the cycling route with coastal views.
Highlights
- A beautiful forest walk from A Pasaxe
- The historical center and beaches in A Guarda
- The spectacular coastal scenery from A Guarda
- The Monastery of Oia
Stage 6 route description
0-2.2 km/0-1.3 mi - the route climbs up
1.2-2.2 km/0.7-1.3 mi - a beautiful forest walk
3 km/1.8 mi - A Guarda, a small beach town with a public albergue, hotels, restaurants, and shops
3-5 km/1.8-3.1 mi - walking through the town
4 km/2.4 mi - a public albergues
5 km/3.1 mi - Praia de Area Grande, a small sandy beach. The Coastal Route and the Litoral Way merge there.
5.2 km/3.2 mi - a restaurant
8-9.6 km/5-6 mi - on a cycling route along the road
11 km/6.8 mi - Portecelo, a small town with hotels and restaurants. Loft As Casetas Peregrinos has excellent reviews.
12.5 km/7.7 mi - Casa Alicia holiday house
14 km/8.6 mi - A Marinha guesthouse
17 km/10.5 mi - Oia, a small beautiful town with a famous monastery
20 km/12.4 mi - Viladesuso, a small coastal town stretched along the road with hotels and restaurants. Loft Oia hotel
20.7 km/12.8 mi - Hotel/restaurant Glasgow, Albergue Caminho Portugues
21 km/13 mi - Albergue da Estrela
Stage 7. Villadesuso to A Ramallosa, 19 km/11.8 mi
Viladesuso - Mougas - Baiona - A Ramallosa
- Distance – 19 km/11.8 mi
- Time – 5-6 hours
- Accumulated ascent – 344 m
- Accumulated descent – 362 m
- Walking surface – 15.5 km/9.6 mi - tar road/asphalt; 3.5 km/2.2 mi – footpath/gravel road
- Walking along the coast - 9 km/5.5 mi
It is a short and easy walking day with several ascents in the second half of it. Unfortunately, if you follow the official Coastal Route you walk inland most of the day. If you want to walk along the coast at 8 km/5 mi continue following the cycling road instead of turning inland.
Challenges
- Several steep ascents in the second half of the day
Highlights
- Beautiful coastal views
- A picturesque forest walk between 8 km/5 mi and 9.5 km/5.9 mi
- The historical center of Baiona
- The Old Bridge at the entrance to A Ramallosa
- The historical center of A Ramallosa
Stage 7 route description
2.6 km/1.6 mi - Aguncheiro Albergue/cafe
4 km/2.4 mi - a campsite/restaurant O Muiño
7 km/4.3 mi - Soremma hotel/cafe, camping Mougas
8 km/5 mi - a right turnoff, the Camino route goes over the hill
8-19 km/5-11.8 mi on the Litoral Way. You can continue walking along the coast on a cycling route to Baiona. The distance is about the same as on the official Coastal Route with no hills. In Baiona you can follow Avenida Montreal to Ladeira Beach. From the beach continue on Avenida Praia Ladeira to A Ramallosa. If you choose this route your entire walk will be along the coast without the hills.
8-9.5 km/5-5.9 mi - a beautiful forest walk with a steep ascent
11 km/6.8 mi - a restaurant
14 km/8.6 mi - Baiona, a coastal town with a nice historical center, many bars and cafes
17.5 km/10.8 mi - Sabaris, a neighborhood
19 km/11.8 mi - A Ramallosa, a nice town with beautiful beaches and a promenade along the river
Placesto stay in Sabaris/A Ramallosa
- Albergue Playa de Sabaris
- Hotel Vasco Da Gama
- Hospedaria Paso Pias (they have a special price for shared rooms, not available for online booking)
Stage 8. A Ramallosa to Vigo, 21.5 km/13.3 mi
- Distance – 21.5 km/13.3 mi
- Time – 5-6 hours (moving time)
- Accumulated ascent – 381 m
- Accumulated descent – 345 m
- Walking surface – 13.5 km/8.3 mi - tar road/asphalt; 8 km/5 mi – footpath/gravel road
- Walking along the coast - 0 km the entire stage is inland
This stage of the Coastal Route is not my favorite. The entire route goes inland you get to the sea only in Vigo. You walk bits and parts through the forest but most of it you walk through towns, neighborhoods, and next to roads.
I’ve walked this stage twice following two routes and prefer the Litoral Way over the Coastal Route. It goes along the coast, offers breathtaking scenery, and less walking through industrial areas and near busy roads. For me, the advantage of the Coastal Route is that it’s better marked.
Highlights
- A forest walk between 10 km/6.2 mi and 12 km/7.4 mi
- A beautiful waterfall at 11 km/6.8 mi
Challenges
- Walking along a busy road between 12 km/7.4 mi and 14 km/8.6 mi
- Walking through the city for 4 km/2.4 mi at the end of the stage
- The lack of route marking in Vigo
Stage 8. Route description
After 1 km/0.6 mi you’re out of the town, walking in the forest.
From 1 km/0.6 mi to 12 km/7.4 mi the Coastal Route goes through the forest and villages/towns, sometimes along the road.
1.6 km/1 mi - a bar
4 km/2.4 mi - a cafe, a restaurant
8 km/5 mi - Albergue San Xurxo, a cafe
Between 10 km/6.2 mi and 12 km/7.4 mi walking on a footpath through the beautiful forest.
11 km/6.8 mi - a route split, the left route goes to the road, the right route continues through the forest
11.3 km/7 mi - a small waterfall
11.6 km/7.2 mi - another route split; the right route goes to an Albergue in Freixo (which is 5 km/3.1 mi away from the Coastal Route), and the left route continues to Vigo
12-14 km/7.4-8.6 mi - the Camino goes on a sidewalk along a busy road
14 km/8.6 mi - left turn, you’ll see the Camino sign
14.3 km/8.8 mi - right turn at the small red bridge, follow the river
14.3-17.5 km/8.8-10.8 mi - along the river through the forest and then the city
17.5-21.5 km/10.8-13.3 mi - through Vigo
Places to stay in Vigo
Stage 9. Vigo to Redondela (the Central Route), 16.5 km/10.2 mi
- Distance – 16.5 km/10.2 mi
- Time – 4-5 hours (moving time)
- Accumulated ascent – 203 m
- Accumulated descent – 210 m
- Walking surface – 11.5 km/7.1 mi - tar road/asphalt; 5 km/3.1 mi – footpath/gravel road
- Walking along the coast - 8 km/5 mi (between 5 km/3.1 mi and 13 km/8 mi) beautiful coastal views from the route
The last 100 km on the Coastal Route start in Vigo so there might be more people on the route.
It’s a short and easy walking stage. The most difficult part is to find the Coastal Route in Vigo as there are very few Camini signs in the city. The easiest is to get to Rua de Urzaiz from your accommodation place and follow that street till the end (the last part is pedestrian). At the end turn left to Rua de Toledo (you’ll see yellow arrows). From there you can follow the Camino signs.
Challenges
- Finding the Camino route in Vigo
- No place to stop for coffee or food once you’re out of Vigo till you reach Redondela
Highlights
- The historical part of Vigo
- Spectacular views of the coast, the bay, and the bridge from the route
- A beautiful waterfall in the forest
- The historical part of Redondela
Stage 9 route description
0-3 km/0-1.8 mi - through the city
5-13 km/3.1-8 mi - on a slope of the hill with beautiful views of the coast
9 km/5.6 mi - a picturesque waterfall in the forest
14 km/8.6 mi - the beginning of a steep descent
16.5 km/10.2 mi - Redondela. Here the Coastal Route merges with the Central Route. Expect to see a lot more pilgrims.
Places to stay in Redondela
Stages 10-13. Redondela to Santiago
You can follow our itinerary from Redondela to Santiago HERE.
Coastal Route planning resources
- The Portuguese Camino de Santiago – a detailed guide
- Comparing the Coastal and Central Route of the Portuguese Camino
- Coastal vs Litoral Way of the Portuguese Camino
- The Spiritual Variant of the Portuguese Camino
- How to switch from the Coastal Route/Litoral Way to the Central Route in Vila do Conde?
- Switching from the Coastal Route to the Central Route in Caminha
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.
Great info thanks! Helped a lot when we did the camino ingles in June 2023, our first camino. Planning this one for June 2024 and am someone who is quite the novice and easily gets lost so your website is very much appreciated:)
Hello Jenny. Thank you very much for the comment. If you have any questions regarding the route we'll be happy to answer them. The Coastal Route is beautiful I'm sure you'll enjoy the walk.
Buen Camino
Is it possible to do a 6 day walk on the coastal route?
Hello Sharon. Thank you for the comment. Yes, you can choose any part of the Coastal Route and walk only 6 days. If you want to get the Compostela certificate for completing the Camino you'll have to walk the last 6 days (last 100 km) to Santiago.
Buen Camino
Hola! I am scheduled to do Camino Portuguese the second week of December 2023. I know its winter and everything gets limited at this time of the year. Can you please give me a suggestion on who to use for luggage transfer service starting in Porto to Santiago!
Gracias,
Edwin
Hello Edwin. Thank you for the comment. I'm not sure if any of the companies offer luggage transfer service that time of the year since there are very few pilgrims it's not worth for them to stay open. There is a section on the post "luggage transfer service on the Coastal Route" where you can find names of the companies that offer luggage transfer and links to their websites. You can contact them and inquire if they are open in December.
The second half of December is the holiday time in Spain and Portugal you might find many places including hotels and restaurants in smaller towns closed. I would suggest to check the availability of accommodation for your chosen dates.
Buen Camino
Good grief, that's an amazing and detailed post. Thank you. I am planning a Camino Portuguese for mid November. Having grown up in Canada, I enjoy walking in colder weather and I run in the woods year round, regardless of rain, cold, snow. I am leaning toward the coastal route, but in your post you said that for rainy and windy days, the coastal can be a nightmare. And in looking at the historical weather patterns, it looks like about 50% of the days in the coastal cities have wind and rain. So for a mid November walk, do you think I should opt for the central route? Or maybe just try the coastal and, if the weather is truly a nightmare, just take an uber/taxi over to the inland route?
Also, I think the link to your Buy Me a Coffee (above, in this post) is dead and I can't find it elsewhere on the site. Can you repost it? You deserve at least a coffee for this!
Hello. Thank you for the comment. I would suggest walking out of Porto following the Litoral Way (the one that goes along the coast from Porto) if you want to walk along the coast. If the weather is bad you can switch to the Central Route in Vila do Conde (2nd day) and walk to Rates and from there continue on the Central Route. If the weather is fine after the first day you can continue on the Coastal Way. You can switch to the Central Route later in Caminha. There is another connecting route from Caminha to Valença from where you can continue on the Central Route.
We have detailed posts on the connecting routes between the Coastal and the Central Route of the Portuguese Camino as well as on the Litoral Way from Porto. You can find them here https://stingynomads.com/camino-de-santiago-resources/#The_Portuguese_Camino_de_Santiago_resources
The Buy me a Coffee link works for me though.
Buen Camino
Hi folks!
I'm planning to walk the Coastal route in just a few weeks, September 2023. (Although Ive been planning in the abstract for years, I bought the plane ticket kind of on a whim and now am earnestly doing research and planning.) Have you walked this route in September? How was the weather? Was it so crowded I should be concerned about making reservations for beds...or, in your experience, is September quiet enough that I won't have trouble finding a room?
Thanks for the useful guide!
Keli
Hello Keli. Thank you for the comment. September is usually a busy time on the Portuguese Camino especially the first part of it. I walked the Camino Frances in September and it was extremely busy but the Portuguese Camino is not as popular as the French route. There are usually fewer pilgrims on the Coastal Route then on the Central Route of the Portuguese Camino. I would suggest planning the walk ahead to see where you'll be staying overnight. If some places don't have public albergues and only one private albergues or a hotel then it's better to book accommodation in advance. If your itinerary works out the way that you get to stay in places with public albergues then you shouldn't worry about booking anything.
The weather should be good sunny and warm not too much rain. As for accommodation there are enough public (municipal albergues) those can't be booked. If you want to stay in private rooms I'd suggest booking them in advance though.
Buen Camino
Is the Fisherman’s Trail hilly please?
Also we’re wanting to send a small suitcase to Santiago. Would you recommend covering in plastic or is safe without?
The Fishermen's Trail is relatively flat sometimes you have to go down from the cliffs to the beach and ten up again but it's only a couple of days like that at the end of the route between Sagres and Lagos. The most of it is pretty flat.
If you're using one of the companies that does luggage transfer on the Camino it's not necessary to wrap your suitcase unless there is something really valuable in it then it's better to put a lock on it. I've seen many people sending their backpacks and suitcases and none of them was wrapped.
Cheers
Hello:) Thank you for your website!
I read both about the Fisherman trail and the coastal way from Porto to Santiago on your website. Unfortunately I have time only for one of the routes and I would like to know which of them offers an overall better experience especially when it comes to scenery.
I have walked the Camino Frances twice and loved it. I wouldn't mind walking another Camino, but I really want to see some beautiful seaside views.
Thank you!!
Hello Lihi. Thank you for the comment. In my opinion, the scenery on the Fishermen's Trail is more impressive as you walk along the cliffs, past many secluded beaches, small bays, etc. The area is not industrialized at all, there are no big cities, busy roads, etc.
The Coastal Route of the Portuguese Camino goes through more populated areas with some factories, roads, etc. The time of the year is quite important as well. It gets very hot in the south of Portugal it's not recommended to walk the Fishermen's Trail in July, August, and first half of September. April, May, June, and October are good months for hiking the Fishermen's Trail.
July and August are very busy months for both areas so it is not the best time for walking as there are many tourists, accommodation prices go up, etc.
The Fishermen's Trail is more of a hiking experience when you walk on a footpath through wilderness when the Portuguese Camino route is similar to the Camino Frances with walk through cities, towns, etc.
Cheers
Yes, I realize...but there's been so many missteps on this trip, this is the only time I have available this year. I'm sure I'll be back. One more question, I was just advised that my tour group doesn't offer ebikes to persons shorter than 165cm...or basically 5.4". I'm sure that ebikes exist for folks under that height. Any suggestions how to go about getting a shorter bike? I've been so looking forward to this trip and my boyfriend is under this height limit and is ready to throw in the towel. Any help (other than walking a shorter distance) would be helpful!
Are you going to cycle on e-bikes then? In your previous comment you say in brackets that it's not e-bike. Anyway we have never used e-bikes but I can see that they can be different sizes. Size S is for people between 158 to 165 cm. I've found this company in Vigo looks like they rent e-bikes of different sizes you can contact them and see if you can get a smaller bike https://tierraymarmultiaventura.es/e-bike/. I'm surprised that your tour company that you obviously pay money doesn't want to help you. I'm still a bit confused about your comment. What do you mean by "any help other than walking a shorter distance would be helpful". Are you going to walk the Camino, go by normal bicycle or e-bike?
Buen Camino
I will be travelling by bike (not ebike) from Vigo to Santiago (due to time constraints). For someone that doesn't ride a bike typically, will I be able to manage? Are there many hills?...I would like a pleasure ride...not a trudge.
Hello Gwen. Thank you for the comment. We haven't done that stretch by bike but keep in mind that you might have to cycle on the road from time to time and the area around Vigo has a lot of traffic. As for hills there will be one steep hill at the entrance to Santiago the rest is relatively flat. I'm not sure if you want to get the Compostela certificate for completing the Camino but if you do you have to cycle at least the last 200 km to Santiago de Compostela. You can get the certificate for the last 100 km only is you walk.
Buen Camino
Hi
I would like to do the costal route by bike. Is that acceptable. The area is so beautiful but I do not have the time available to do the full distance on foot
Regards
Ruth
Hello Ruth. Thank you for the comment. The Coastal Route of the Portuguese Camino can be done cycling. Most of the route goes on boardwalks and sidewalks wide enough for cycling. There are quite a few people nowadays who cycle the Camino.
Buen Camino
Do you recommend the Litoral route with the Spiritual route I clouded?
Hello Shirley. If you want to walk by the coast for as long as possible on the Portuguese Camino it's a good idea to combine the Litoral Route with the Spiritual Variant. The first time we walked the Portuguese Camino we did it that way. I just walked the Spiritual Variant again a couple of weeks ago and liked it a lot it's a very beautiful route and the boat ride is wonderful. You can find more information on the route here https://stingynomads.com/spiritual-variant-portuguese-camino/
Buen Camino
In the map from Porto the first day I think you have mistaken the coastal route which is blue on the map but red in the legends with the blue route
Hello Raymond. Thank you for the comment. There is no mistake on the map. There are 3 routes out of Porto on the Portuguese Camino: the Central, the Coastal, and the Litoral. The Litoral (blue color on the map) is the only route from Porto that goes along the coast. The Coastal Route (red color) and the Central Route (green color) go inland. You can find more details on these routes with infographic and explanation in this post https://stingynomads.com/camino-portugues-stages/
Buen Camino
This is a great site! Thank you so much, you've answered so many of my questions and offered so much information that I didn't even think of. I am so happy I found you!
Hello Tracey. Thank you for the comment. Enjoy the walk.
Buen Camino
If I plan to use a backpack delivery service, is a running vest can be used as a daypack? I am a long distance trail runner and love my running vest
Is it easy to get water refills alone the way?
Tap water in Portugal and Spain (at least in Galicia) is drinkable it won't be a problem to get a refill I can't guarantee that you'll be able to find it every 5 km or so though. There are plenty of bars and restaurants along the route it shouldn't be a big problem.
Buen Camino
What’s is your recommendation of a backpack delivery service?
Hello Mark. There is a section "Luggage transfer on the Coastal Way of the Portuguese Camino" in this post where you can find our recommendations and links to the companies' websites.
I am retiring from the US military and plan to walk the Camino Frances route, but in November. I read your article about there being limited places to sleep due to it being off season, unfortunately this may be the only time I can go, and feel its needed as I leave the military. Sort of a cleanse so to speak. I know you can go year round but am I setting myself up for misery? Which I don't mind some hardships, may make the whole experience even more enjoyable. Would be curious on your thoughts.
Hello Brett. Thank you for the comment. The Camino Frances has the most accommodation places open outside the season compared to the other Camino routes. If you don't mind the rain and cooler temperatures it's ok to walk the Camino in November. There will be significantly fewer pilgrims on the route but you'll meet people for sure especially if you stay in albergues. I'd recommend having good waterproof hiking shoes, a rain poncho, a rain cover for your backpack, and warmer clothes. I'm sure after doing military service the Camino walk won't be too tough for you.
Buen Camino
Thank you so much for ALL the helpful information you have organized for us! I love the detail route information you have provided. I am looking for the detail walking stages for Coastal (Porto), Central (crossing at Caminha), Spiritual Way, Santiago. Do you happen to have this?
Your information is a game changer, thank you!!
I would love to get your newsletter, please. I am walking in June! 🙂
Hello Kimberly. Thank you for the comment. You can find downloadable PDf files in the second paragraph of this post that contain walking stages and places to stay for the Coastal Route of the Portuguese Camino from Porto including the Spiritual Way. We have a detailed post on the Central Route where you can find PDFs with stages and places to stay. Here is the post - https://stingynomads.com/camino-portugues-stages/.
I hope these files contain enough details for you.
Buen Camino
My daughter and I are walking the Portuguese way soon, upon completion, what are the options of returning to Lisbon?
Hello Tom. A bus is the easiest way of getting back to Lisbon from Santiago after completing the Camino. There are direct buses that go all the way. It's quite a long journey but it's the best option. We took a bus from Santiago to Lisbon after completing the Portuguese Camino. There are no direct flights and no trains between the two cities.
Buen Camino
Hallo,
ich plane Anfang Mai die Küstenroute und den spirituellen Weg zu gehen. In Villanova hast Du empfohlen, per Boot nach Pontecesures zu fahren und diese Fahrt online zu buchen. Kannst Du mir die Seite nennen, über die ich das buchen kann?
Liebe Grüße
Susanne
Hello Susanne. It would be easier if you asked your question in English. We don't speak German. I understand you want to know the contact details of the company that does boat transfer on the Spiritual Way to book it in advance. Here it is https://app.mruta.com/la-barca-del-peregrino/reservation-now
Buen Camino
Pls send newsletter, we are doing the Coastal route May this year!