Camino Francés Tours
(French Way)

The Camino Francés spans approximately 780 kilometers (485 miles) from start to finish. This length makes it a full journey across northern Spain, from the foothills of the French Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. Along the way, it traverses four autonomous regions of Spain: Navarre, La Rioja, Castile and León, and Galicia, each with its own unique culture, architecture, and cuisine. Pilgrims who complete the full route often consider it not just a physical accomplishment but also an emotional and spiritual journey.

The starting point of the Camino Francés is Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a small and charming town in the French Pyrenees. Its name means "Saint John at the Foot of the Pass," reflecting its location at the base of the Pyrenean mountain range. This town is the traditional starting point for pilgrims because it marks the beginning of the challenging climb over the Pyrenees into Spain. From there, the route leads into Spain, passing through notable cities like Pamplona, Burgos, and León, before reaching Santiago de Compostela.

Walking the entire Camino Francés typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, depending on individual pace and the number of rest days taken. Most pilgrims walk an average of 20–25 kilometers (12–15 miles) per day, which is a manageable distance for those in reasonable physical condition. For those short on time, it's also common to walk only a section of the route. The last 100 kilometers, starting in Sarria, is the minimum distance required to earn the Compostela certificate.