Walking the Portuguese Camino

The Camino de Santiago is one of the best-known pilgrimages in the world. Dating back to 800 AD, pilgrims originally made the journey for religious reasons, and while spirituality and religion is still the motivation for some, many others take on the Way for the challenge, the views, and the history.
 

Technically, you can start the Camino anywhere on the European continent, but today when people talk about the Camino they are usually talking about one of the popular marked routes in Spain and Portugal.
 

The Portuguese Way, or the Portuguese Camino, is one of the most beloved pilgrimage experiences in Europe, attracting nearly 100,000 visitors per year–second only to the French Way, which encompasses many of those routes through Spain.
 

A part of El Camino de Santiago, or the Way of Saint James, the Portuguese Way draws pilgrims from around the world on a scenic route from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela, a city of approximately 100,000 residents in northwest Spain, near the Atlantic coast. Pilgrims follow paths marked with gold-toned scallop shells set into blue milestone markers with painted yellow arrows.
 

The journey ends at the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, home to the tomb of Saint James, one of the apostles and the first martyr of Jesus Christ.
 

To help you plan your own pilgrimage, we created this Portuguese Camino de Santiago guide with the following chapters:
 

• Why Walk the Portuguese Camino?
• What’s a Compostela?
• Portuguese Camino de Santiago: The Popular Routes
• How Many Miles is the Portuguese Camino de Santiago?
• Top Sights Along the Portuguese Camino de Santiago
• Local Events
• The Best Time to Walk the Portuguese Camino
• What to Pack for the Portuguese Camino
• How to Train for the Portuguese Camino
• Budget: How much does it cost to walk the Portuguese Camino?
• Safety on the Portuguese Camino

The Portuguese Way, like the rest of the Camino de Santiago, is not a single route, but rather a network of treks that all eventually converge and reach Santiago de Compostela.
 

For the most ambitious trekkers, the full Portuguese Way starts in Lisbon. The portion of the trek from Lisbon to Porto is approximately 228 miles–a definite challenge! Many pilgrims begin in Porto instead, a more manageable 160 miles from their goal.
 

From Porto, there are three main routes, which share a path for the first couple of miles before diverging. The Central Route is an inland path that takes you through small towns and forests, while the Coastal Route keeps you closer to the Atlantic coast, and the Litoral Way follows the coast even more closely, often including walking on boardwalks. The routes reconverge at Redondela, and all those on the Portuguese Way conclude their pilgrimage into Santiago together.
 

For those looking for enough of a taste of the Camino to receive their Compostela, many travelers choose to depart from Tui, Spain. This starting point allows pilgrims to join the last approximately 70 miles of the Camino, qualifying for their certificate and experiencing some of the best of the Camino perfect for those on a tighter schedule.
 

There is one other path of the Portuguese Camino to consider, the Spiritual Variant. This slight detour is said to follow the final journey of the remains of the Apostle Saint James from Jerusalem to the Iberian Peninsula. It begins just north of Pontevedra, on the Central Route, and concludes in Padrón. The Spiritual Variant includes a boat ride from Vilanova de Arousa to Pontecesures, where pilgrims on this route rejoin the Central Route to conclude their journey to Santiago de Compostela.
 

Whichever route of the Portuguese Way you follow, you'll find substantial infrastructure for pilgrims. Hikers can take advantage of restaurants' menú del Peregrino (Pilgrim’s Menu), route markers, stamp bestowers, and albergues (pilgrim hostels), all of which support a trekker’s journey.

Festas da Ascensión

The Festas da Ascensión in Santiago de Compostela is a lively celebration held each May to mark the Feast of the Ascension. The city comes alive with processions, traditional music, dance, and local food, filling the streets with color and energy. For pilgrims arriving during this time, it offers a unique chance to experience Galician culture, witness centuries-old traditions, and join in the festive spirit that transforms the city into a vibrant celebration.
 

The Saint James Festival

The Saint James Festival, or Festas de Santiago, is celebrated every July 25th in Santiago de Compostela to honor the city’s patron saint. The week-long event features religious ceremonies, parades, traditional Galician music and dance, and fireworks that light up the historic center. For pilgrims and visitors alike, it is a lively and unforgettable way to experience local culture while celebrating the legacy of Saint James.
 

São João Festival

Porto's largest event takes place on June 23rd. Celebrations include fireworks over the Duoro River, street parties, and the unique tradition of playfully tapping people on the head with plastic hammers.

The Portuguese Camino can be visited year round, with weather conditions varying depending on the region, elevation, and season.
 

The most popular time to hike the Portuguese Way is the spring, from April to June, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are lush and green. Temperatures are comfortable for long walking days, and most accommodations are open.
 

Walking in the summer, July and August, can be hot, especially in inland areas, and some sections of the Way may be crowded.
 

Early fall, from September to October, is another excellent time of year for the Camino. The summer heat eases but the sea stays warm, and the harvest season brings a special charm to the local towns and villages. Crowds are also smaller, making it easier to find places to stay.
 

In the winter, you may find fewer albergues are open, but hotels often offer cheaper rates in this off-season. Be prepared for rain and shorter daylight hours during this time of year.

Footwear

Comfortable hiking boots or trail running shoes are essential for the Camino! Make sure that your footwear are broken in and comfortable before your trip to help minimize blisters. Don't let these get lost in transit--wear them on the plane or have them in your carry on to prevent an uncomfortable trek in brand new boots!
 

Daypack

A small backpack is ideal for carrying water, snacks, sunscreen, extra socks, blister bandaids, and other small essentials on the trail. Don't forget a reusable water bottle for hydration as well!
 

Protection from the Elements

Be sure to check out the weather before embarking, and pack accordingly. Having rain gear including a jacket and gaiters can make rainy day walks way more pleasant. Look for a versatile trekking and hiking shell that will keep you dry but still breathe.

The cost of the Portuguese Way depends on factors including length of the trip, season, and accommodation choices.
 

A common recommendation is to budget around $60 USD per day for basic food and accommodation. The Pilgrims' Menu, available at many restaurants, provides a discounted prix fixe menu with an appetizer, salad, main course, dessert, and beverage. Most hotels provide breakfast.
 

Explore's 8-day Walking the Portuguese Camino tour takes care of all the logistics for you, ensuring the best possible experience on the trail and beyond, with an expert guide leading the way. For more details and current rates, click here.

The Portuguese Way is considered very safe, with well-marked paths, friendly towns, and a supportive pilgrim community along the way. As with all travel, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take the normal precautions against petty theft, like keeping your valuables secure.
 

It's a good idea to carry a charged phone, share your daily plan with others, and stick to main routes. In rural areas, be prepared for stretches without shops or services, and always carry water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit.
 

Weather can also affect safety. Wet trails can be slippery, and summer heat can be intense. Dressing appropriately, wearing the proper footwear, and monitoring forecasts will help prevent injury.