Summary of the Camino de Santiago Routes
A common myth about the Camino de Santiago is that there is “one route.” People often ask if you “started from the beginning.” However, they are typically referring to the Camino Frances, the most classic and popular route but certainly not the only option.
If you want to be truly authentic, you should start your Camino from your own doorstep. This is what the original pilgrims would have done since they didn’t have the luxury of airplanes and trains to transport them to the so-called beginning of the route.
Consequently, there are numerous routes to cater to the diverse origins of modern pilgrims. You don’t even need to begin your journey in Spain. Some routes extend as far as Poland, passing through Germany, Holland, and France before entering Spain. You can initiate your pilgrimage wherever is most convenient for you. However, it is worth noting that some routes attract more travelers than others.
You may also be curious when to embark on your Camino de Santiago adventure. It is advisable to avoid winter, summer, and Easter, as these times can be particularly challenging.
Most Popular Routes Within the Iberian Peninsula
- Camino Frances
This is the most famous and popular Camino de Santiago route. Enjoy the finest cuisine in the best city for tapas in Spain, and explore the magnificent cathedrals of Burgos and Leon, where the tapas are often complimentary.
Cities: Pamplona, Logroño, Burgos, Leon, and Ponferrada - Camino del Norte
This route offers a wonderful alternative to the Camino Frances. Delight in the unique Basque and Asturian cuisines as you journey along the northern coast. Upon reaching Oviedo, you can switch routes and join the Camino Primitivo.
Cities: Irun, San Sebastián, Bilbao, Santander, and Oviedo - Camino Aragones
This route features a different initial leg that connects with the Camino Frances midway. It suits those traveling from Barcelona, allowing an earlier start. However, the starting point in Jaca can be somewhat difficult to access for many pilgrims.
Cities: Logroño, Burgos, Leon, and Ponferrada - Camino de la Plata
The longest and most challenging Camino starts from Seville. Many stretches cover nearly 20 miles, so fitness is essential for this route. It’s wise to avoid this path during the summer when temperatures soar.
Cities: Seville, Caceres, Salamanca, Zamora, and Ourense - Camino Ingles
The shortest Camino de Santiago route begins in A Coruña or Ferrol, historically the route taken by English pilgrims arriving by boat to Spain.
Cities: A Coruña and Ferrol - Camino Portugues
Launch your journey in the remarkable city of Porto.
Cities: Porto and Pontevedra - Camino Primitivo
This compact route begins in Oviedo and serves as an alternative ending point to the Camino del Norte.
Cities: Oviedo and Lugo - Camino Fisterra
This route acts as an alternative ending to the pilgrimage, leading you from Santiago de Compostela on to Fisterra—often referred to as the “end of the earth.”
Cities: None. Just small Galician villages.
