500,000 People WALKED into this Spanish Town in 2023 - Would you walk this far?
What is Camino de Santiago?
Also known as the Way of Saint James, Camino de Santiago is an ancient pilgrimage trail that established itself in the Middle Ages.
The Camino de Santiago winds through mountain ranges, forests, rolling hills, and vineyards as well as a range of urban and rural landscapes! The final goal is to reach the sacred city of Santiago de Compostela by any of the diverse routes you take through the country.
How long do you have to walk?
While the complete route stretches to about 500 miles, the Camino de Santiago offers a range of adventures depending on which path you choose to walk. If you decide to walk the entirety, you’ll need at least 30 days to finish the pilgrimage.
The most popular route is the Camino Frances, running about 800 kilometers from the charming French town of Saint-Jean-Pied-DE-Port to the majestic Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
How Much Does it Cost to Walk the Camino?
Most pilgrim budgets fall in the range of $30-60 per day. A 30-day walk would cost you around $900-1800 and if you need appropriate gear and items to make the journey easier, it could cost you another $300-600!
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Nestled at the base of the Pyrenees in southwestern France, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port serves as the traditional starting point for the Camino Frances.
The medieval city gate, Porte Saint-Jacques, welcomes pilgrims to embark on their journey with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It's a place where history and natural beauty intertwine, setting the perfect tone for the adventure ahead.
Roncesvalles
Just across the Spanish border, Roncesvalles is steeped in historical and spiritual significance. Known for its impressive collegiate church and ancient hospital, this small village has been a beacon of hospitality for pilgrims for centuries.
Pamplona
Famous worldwide for the Running of the Bulls during the San Fermín festival, Pamplona is a vibrant city rich in history and culture.
Logroño
As the capital of La Rioja, Logroño is renowned for its excellent wine and culinary delights. Pilgrims are often drawn to Calle Laurel, a bustling street lined with tapas bars offering local specialties.
Burgos
Burgos is home to the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of Saint Mary, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Spain’s most iconic churches.
Leon
León, with its stunning Cathedral of Santa María, known for its breathtaking stained glass windows, is a highlight on the Camino.
Astorga
Astorga is a gem on the Camino, known for its unique blend of Roman history and modernist architecture. The Episcopal Palace, designed by the famed architect Antoni Gaudí, stands out as a whimsical, fairy-tale-like structure.
Villafranca del Bierzo
Surrounded by vineyards and lush mountains, Villafranca del Bierzo offers a picturesque setting with a rich medieval history.
Portomarín
Portomarín, rebuilt on a hill to avoid flooding by the River Miño, is known for its impressive Church of San Nicolás, which was moved stone-by-stone to its new location.
Arzúa
Arzúa, famous for its delicious local cheese, Arzúa-Ulloa, is the penultimate stop before Santiago de Compostela.
Santiago de Compostela
Finally, your journey comes to an end at Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia in northwest Spain. The city’s medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with narrow winding streets, beautiful squares, and vibrant markets.
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