Begin your Portuguese Camino from the coastal city of Vigo, where the route soon leaves the bustle of the waterfront behind and climbs toward wide views over the Ría de Vigo. Taken in shorter stages, this itinerary lets you enjoy the journey at a relaxed pace, with time to appreciate Redondela, Arcade, Pontevedra’s beautiful old town, the thermal town of Caldas de Reis, and Padrón, famous for its peppers and Camino traditions.
Enjoy the final stretch of the Portuguese Camino at a gentler pace, starting in Tui on the banks of the Minho River and walking toward Santiago through some of Galicia’s most welcoming towns and landscapes. With shorter daily stages, you’ll have more time to take in medieval bridges, leafy country lanes, Pontevedra’s beautiful old town, and Padrón, known for its famous peppers.
When people think of the Camino de Santiago, Madrid usually isn’t the first place that comes to mind. The Camino feels rooted in rural villages, long walking days, and quiet reflection — not in the heart of Spain’s busy capital.
But tucked away near Plaza de España is a little-known site with a deep connection to Camino history: the Convento de las Comendadoras de Santiago.
It’s a peaceful, meaningful stop for Camino pilgrims — whether you’re preparing to walk or reflecting after your journey.
If you’re thinking about walking the Camino de Santiago for the first time, you probably have a mix of excitement, nerves, and a few lingering questions. That’s completely normal.
The Camino is a unique trip—part adventure, part personal journey—and it’s not always easy to know what to expect until you’re actually there.
If you’re planning to walk the Camino de Santiago for the first time, one of the biggest questions is:
There isn’t just one Camino. There are multiple official routes across Spain and Portugal — each with a different landscape, level of difficulty, and overall feel.
For first-time pilgrims choosing the right route makes all the difference.
Let’s walk through the best Camino routes for beginners in 2026 and 2027.
Walk the Camino at your own pace during Spain’s total solar eclipse—a rare, shared moment that turns your journey into something you’ll remember forever. Galicia’s rural darkness is the perfect setting to contemplate the Perseids meteor shower as well, adding a quiet, awe-filled finish to your Camino days. Arrive in Santiago de Compostela, visit its incredible cathedral, and receive your completion certificate at the end!
A rest day in Burgos is a gift on the Camino — a chance to slow down, explore, and appreciate one of the most historic and elegant cities on the French Way.
Burgos is compact, walkable, and full of small surprises that make it perfect for a day off your feet (or at least fewer miles!). Here are a few of my favorite ways to spend a rest day in Burgos.