Starting in the vibrant city of Porto, the Portuguese Central Camino winds its way north through historic towns, rural villages, and rolling countryside, offering a more traditional inland experience compared to the coastal path. Pilgrims pass by landmarks such as the Romanesque church of Rates, the charming town of Barcelos—famous for its rooster symbol—and the medieval quarter of Ponte de Lima, one of Portugal’s oldest towns.
The Camino isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people walk to meet a goal. Others want to slow down and soak in the scenery. Knowing what drives you helps set the right pace and path — and helps you avoid frustrations along the way.
“Everyone walks the Camino differently — that’s part of what makes it unique.”
This guide lays out a few common “types” of Camino walkers — and at the end, you’ll find a short quiz you can take to see which style fits you best.
Walking the Camino de Santiago is often described as a life-changing experience. The route is famous for its friendliness, hospitality, and longstanding traditions. Despite its reputation as one of the safest long-distance paths in Europe, it’s still wise to take basic steps to prepare for the trip. Below, we’ll discuss personal safety tips, share some statistics on crime along the route, and highlight best practices to ensure your Camino remains a positive journey.
The Camino de Santiago is not just a journey for the soul but also a cultural adventure, filled with rich traditions, unique art, and historical treasures. Among these gems is Azabache, or jet stone, a material steeped in history and craftsmanship that has become synonymous with Santiago de Compostela and the pilgrimage.
One of the most common questions we get at Hike the Way is: “What do I do with my luggage on the Camino?” When you’re walking the Camino de Santiago, especially as an older adult, you want to enjoy the journey without the burden of carrying heavy bags. Luggage transportation services have become a fantastic solution, helping pilgrims carry only what they need for each day’s journey and leaving the rest to be handled by professionals.
Embarking on the Camino de Santiago is a journey like no other, and choosing the best time to go can elevate your experience. One of the first things pilgrims consider is when to embark on this unforgettable journey. Weather along the Camino can significantly shape your experience, with each season presenting unique challenges and rewards. However, as seasoned pilgrims and travelers know, weather can be unpredictable—especially in recent years with noticeable climate shifts.
Many travelers ask about using their American phones while walking the Camino de Santiago. There are two components to using your phone abroad: (a) Making phone calls, (b) Using your data plan for internet access, emails, messaging and social media.
It’s well known that U.S. telecom providers charge high fees for overseas usage, which may lead to a surprise on your bill when you get home.
There are two options to help you stay connected on your phone while keeping your costs under control: