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Read on to explore popular routes of the Camino de Santiago for all skill levels and find your perfect adventure in Spain and beyond with a Camino route tailored just for you.
The Camino de Santiago, known as “The Way,” begins in Spain and is a collection of trails throughout Spain and other parts of Western Europe leading to Santiago de Compostela. Instead of a single route, various official Camino de Santiago routes have something for everybody—from seasoned trekkers to newbies. The route choice will depend on your interests, current physical conditioning, and the time you have to make the trek. This introduction to the most popular routes of the Camino de Santiago will help you find the right one for yourself.
The Diversity of the Camino de Santiago
Unlike most trail hiking in the traditional sense, the Camino de Santiago is a system of routes that all lead to Santiago de Compostela. These trails developed over the centuries and were traveled by millions of pilgrims from different parts of Europe. So, if you are looking for a journey of self-discovery, an adventurous challenge, or the best culture that the world has to offer, there is a Camino route tailor-made for you.
Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. Photo by samael334 via iStock by Getty Images
Overview of the Main Routes
Four main routes of the Camino de Santiago lead to Santiago de Compostela. Below is a review of each route.
1. Camino Francés
Popularity: The most popular route and the one with the most tourists.
Distance: Approximately 800 km (500 miles) journey from the northwestern French town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Santiago.
The Camino Francés winds through vineyards and medieval towns. Photo by Shawn Williams via iStock by Getty Images
Highlights:
Burgos and León are two cities filled with several medieval architectural sites
A very social environment with possibilities for interaction with other pilgrims
The Cathedral of Santiago and the Cruz de Ferro are some of the highlights
Best For: Wild, inexperienced hikers and anyone searching for a well-maintained path surrounded by an active community.
Pilgrims walk over the 13th-century bridge over the Orbigo River in Leon, Spain. Photo by Ikonya via iStock by Getty Images
2. Camino Portugués
Popularity: A less popular but more peaceful option beginning in Portugal.
Distance: About 620 km (385 miles) from Lisbon, or a shorter 260 km (160 miles) from Porto.
Highlights:
Beautiful villages and cities found in Porto and Tui
Gentle hills, as well as magnificent forests and pastoral scenery
Best For: Individuals who want a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere or interactions with fewer people.
Camino Portugués is a quieter trail through Portugal. Photo by Vicenfoto via iStock by Getty Images
3. Camino del Norte
Popularity: Beautiful views with a challenging but rewarding coastal path.
Distance: About 825 km (512 miles), starting at Irún and ending in Santiago.
Highlights:
Impressive sights of the Bay of Biscay
Coastal villages and breathtaking natural scenery
Quieter, less developed, non-touristy environment
Best For: Beach lovers and hikers who want the beach and mountains.
Camino del Norte. Photo by police via iStock by Getty Images
4. Camino Primitivo
Popularity: The most ancient and most challenging path.
Distance: Approximately 320 km (200 miles) from Oviedo to Santiago.
Highlights:
Isolated yet spellbinding scenery
A strong sense of isolation and rawness
First of the Camino routes, holding great historical value
Best For: Skilled trekkers aspiring for isolation and conditions that are physically strenuous.
Camino Primitivo is the oldest route of the Camino de Santiago. Photo by kb79 via iStock by Getty Images
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Route
Several factors must be considered when choosing the best route for your trek to Santiago de Compostela.
Find the best route for exploring the Camino de Santiago. Photo by wagnerokasaki via iStock by Getty Images
1. Fitness Level
The Camino incorporates various terrains, including the flat, expansive plains of the Camino Francés and the high hills and peaks of the Camino Primitivo.
Novices may prefer the less strenuous paths of the Camino Portugués, while seasoned trekkers will probably enjoy the challenges of the Camino del Norte.
2. Time Obligation
The duration of your pilgrimage can also significantly differ:
Full routes, such as the Camino Francés, will take 4 to 6 weeks.
Shorter sections, such as the last 100 km of any of these routes, could comfortably be achieved in a week.
3. Types of Experience
Social: It is great to meet new friends along the way on the Camino Francés.
Cultural immersion: You can enjoy and learn about the local cultures more on the Camino Portugués and del Norte.
Meditation: For peace and quiet, the best route would be Camino Primitivo.
Find Your Way and Begin the Journey
You will experience the journey of a lifetime, whichever route you decide to take. If it is the narrative of the Camino Francés that pleases you the most, the calmness of the sights along the Camino Portugués, the splendid views from the shore on the Camino del Norte, or even the peacefulness of the Camino Primitivo, your course of travel will be one to remember forever.
Start planning today to begin your first step, leading you closer to this age-old pilgrimage. The Camino is already waiting for you!
We also invite you to explore Wander With Wonder for more of our favorite things to do while you’re in Europe.
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