Camino de Santiago Portugués Tours

We are proud to offer guided and self-guided tours on the Camino Portugués. While less traveled than the Camino Francés, the Camino Portugués offers the same Camino experience with the added value of walking in two countries (Portugal and Spain), each with their own distinct culture and language. You’ll also be walking in the footsteps of Saint James as tradition believes he preached in the town of Iria Flavia, on the current Camino Portugués.

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Camino de Santiago Portugués Tours

Camino Portugués Coastal Tour

Full service guided tour on the Camino Portugués coastal route

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Camino Portugués Tour

Full service guided tour on the Camino Portugués route

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A Kinder (Gentler) Camino Portugués Tour

Guided tour on the Camino Portugués route with shorter walks

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A Fresco Start Camino Portugués Tour

Self-guided tour on the Camino Portugués inland route

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A Fresco Start Camino Portugués Coastal Tour

Self-guided tour on the Camino Portugués coastal route

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Pilgrims on the Coastal Camino Portugués

Discover Spain and Portugal on the Camino Portugués

The breathtakingly picturesque Camino Portugués, also known as the Portuguese Way, offers a unique experience for those planning to walk the Camino de Santiago. Although this route receives less pilgrims than the more popular Camino Francés, it is just as captivating.

There are two official Camino Portugués routes to Santiago de Compostela, and both start in Porto. The Interior Camino Portugués Route follows the trail north, crossing into Spain at the medieval town of Tui. This route is shorter and was the preferred option for Portuguese pilgrims over the centuries. The Coastal Portugués Route travels north along Portugal’s Atlantic coast before crossing into Spain at A Guarda.

Both routes guarantee a remarkable experience in Portugal and on the Camino de Santiago. Now it’s up to you to decide which one whets your appetite more; or perhaps walk them both!

Camino Portugues Route Map

Are you a bit nervous? Traveling to a foreign country to walk for a couple of weeks is daunting, no matter how many books and web forums you’ve read. You want more than just an Orientation Packet sent to you in the mail – you want a LIVE person to answer your questions and help you take those first steps on your journey.

FAQs About the Camino Portugues

What is the Camino Portugués?

The Camino Portugués is a well-traveled pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela that originates in Portugal. It is steeped in history, as pilgrims have walked this path since the Middle Ages to honor Saint James. The route is popular for its variety of landscapes, including quaint historic towns, rural farmland, forested paths, and coastal scenery (if choosing the Coastal Route). It is suitable for walkers seeking a quieter experience while still offering plenty of camaraderie amongst fellow pilgrims.

There are two main routes on the Camino Portugués:

The Interior Route: This trail follows the historic Roman road, passing through towns like Porto, Ponte de Lima and Tui.
The Coastal Route: This trail follows the Atlantic Ocean, offering seaside views and passing through towns like Porto, Viana do Castelo and Vigo.

How long is the Camino Portugués?

The total distance depends on your starting point:

Porto to Santiago (260 km / 160 miles):
- Starting in Porto, this is a popular starting place for many pilgrims on the Camino Portugués. The path is well-marked and offers two options: the Interior Route, or the Coastal Route.
Tui to Santiago (120 km / 75 miles):
- This is the shortest and most accessible option, meeting the minimum 100 km required to earn the Compostela certificate. It’s a perfect option for those with limited time, but who would still like to experience the Camino.

Where does the Camino Portugues Start?

The Camino Portugués has multiple starting points depending on the pilgrim’s preference:

Porto:
- Porto is the most popular starting point, offering a more manageable distance while still providing a rich experience of both Portugal and Spain. From here, pilgrims can choose between:
  - The Interior Route: Takes you inland, passing through medieval towns and picturesque countryside. On our Camino Portugués Tour, we start in the Roman founded market town of Ponte de Lima.
  - The Coastal Route: Follows the Atlantic coastline with beautiful beaches and ocean views. On our Camino Portugués Coastal Tour, we start. in the historic medieval town of Viana do Castelo.
Tui:
- Located just across the Portuguese-Spanish border, Tui is the gateway to the last 100 km of the Camino. This option is ideal for those who have time limitations, but would like to request their Compostela certificate and experience the Camino.

How many days to walk the Camino Portugues?

The number of days depends on the starting point and pace:

From Lisbon (620 km):
- This takes about 25-30 days, walking an average of 20-25 km per day. It’s a significant commitment, but the experience is deeply rewarding as you traverse the entirety of Portugal.
From Porto (260 km):
- Walking from Porto typically takes 10-14 days. If you choose the Central Route, expect to pass through historic inland towns. The Coastal Route can take slightly longer, as it may include detours to seaside villages.
From Tui (120 km):
- Walking from Tui takes 5-7 days. This route is ideal for first-time pilgrims or those with limited time. It’s a straightforward walk through scenic Galician countryside, with plenty of albergues (pilgrim hostels) along the way.