Which Camino de Santiago route is best for beginners?

The Camino Portugués or Camino Inglés are best for beginners. Both offer easier terrain, shorter distances, and good infrastructure while still providing an authentic pilgrimage experience.

How long does it take to walk the Camino Francés?

The Camino Francés takes 30-35 days to complete, covering 800km from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France to Santiago de Compostela. Most pilgrims walk 20-25km per day.

What is the most beautiful Camino route?

The Camino del Norte is considered the most scenic, following Spain's dramatic northern coastline. However, it's also the most challenging due to constant elevation changes.

Which Camino route is least crowded?

The Camino Primitivo is the quietest route, offering solitude and authentic Spanish rural experiences. It's also the most challenging, requiring good hiking experience.

Can you get a Compostela certificate on all Camino routes?

You can earn a Compostela on all main routes except Finisterre (which starts from Santiago). You need to walk the last 100km or cycle 200km and collect stamps in your credential.

Camino de Santiago Routes 2025: Complete Comparison Guide

Compare all major pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela - from the classic Francés to the challenging Primitivo

Last Verified:January 11, 2025

Source: Oficina de Acogida al Peregrino, Santiago ↗

We regularly verify this information against official sources. Always check official websites for the most current details before travel.

Camino de Santiago pilgrims walking through Spanish countryside

Choose Your Pilgrimage Path

Six distinct routes, each offering unique challenges, scenery, and cultural experiences on the way to Santiago

800km - 90km routes5-35 days walkingEasy to Very Challenging

Total Routes

Major pathways

Shortest Route

Days (Inglés)

Longest Route

Days (Norte)

Daily Budget

€20-50

Average range

Filter & Sort Routes

Daily Budget

€30-75

Accommodation

Medium

🎯 Essential Planning Tips for All Routes

Before You Start:

•Train for 2-3 months - Build up to daily 20km walks with a loaded backpack
•Get your Credencial - Pilgrim passport from local associations or cathedral
•Book first night - Especially important in high season (June-September)
•Learn basic Spanish - Essential for rural areas and emergency situations

While Walking:

•Start early - Leave albergues by 6-7 AM to secure beds and avoid heat
•Collect stamps daily - Need 2 per day for last 100km to earn Compostela
•Listen to your body - Rest days prevent injuries and burnout
•Embrace the community - Share meals and stories with fellow pilgrims

📅 Best Times to Walk Each Route

✅ Recommended Seasons

April-June: Perfect weather, wildflowers, comfortable temperatures
September-October: Cooler weather, harvest season, fewer crowds
March & November: Quiet period, unpredictable weather, limited services

⚠️ Challenging Seasons

July-August: Very hot (40°C+), extremely crowded, premium prices
December-February: Cold, rain/snow, many albergues closed
Holy Years: Pilgrim numbers can triple (next: 2027)

📊 Quick Comparison Chart

Route	Distance	Days	Difficulty	Crowds	Budget
Camino Francés	800km	30-35 days	Moderate	Very Busy	€25-80
Camino Portugués	620km	25-30 days	Easy	Busy	€20-60
Camino del Norte	825km	32-38 days	Challenging	Moderate	€30-90
Camino Primitivo	320km	13-16 days	Very Challenging	Quiet	€25-70
Camino Inglés	120km	5-7 days	Easy	Moderate	€25-65
Camino de Finisterre	90km	3-4 days	Moderate	Moderate	€30-75

Ready to Begin Your Camino Journey?

Choose your route and start planning the adventure of a lifetime

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