Top 10 – Europe Party Cities
Discover the vibrant nightlife scenes of Europe's most fascinating cities and travel to remember-able destinations! From the vibrant beauty of London to the thrilling energy…
The Camino de Santiago is a network of ancient pilgrimage trails leading to the shrine of Saint James in northwestern Spain. As UNESCO observes, the Camino encompasses “a network of four Christian pilgrimage routes” with “cathedrals, churches, hospitals, hostels and bridges created for pilgrims” stretching roughly 1,500 km across northern Spain. Walking the Camino appeals to many for historical, spiritual, or personal reasons: modern pilgrims often describe the experience as a mix of physical challenge, cultural immersion, and quiet reflection. The simplicity of shared greetings exemplifies the Camino’s spirit – for instance, pilgrims commonly wish each other “¡Buen Camino!” (literally “good path,” a wish for a safe journey).
Route | Length | Duration | Highlights |
Camino Francés | ~800 km | ~30–36 days | Pyrenees, Burgos/León cathedrals, Meseta plains (historical hostels) |
Camino Portugués (Central) | 620 km from Lisbon (260 km from Porto) | 25–30 days | Douro valley, Portuguese coast, coastal towns |
Camino del Norte | ~800 km | ~38–40 days | Cantabrian coast views, lush forests, small towns; quieter trail |
Camino Primitivo | ~315 km | ~15–20 days | Steep mountain passes (Asturias), rural villages, least-traveled |
Camino Inglés | 120 km (Ferrol start) | 5–7 days | Coastal start, Galician countryside |
Via de la Plata | ~1,000 km | ~40–50 days | Southern Spain (Andalucía), historic Roman roads, very remote |
Pilgrims’ motivations can guide route choice: the French Way offers the richest infrastructure and variety (as it attracts ~66% of walkers), but its popularity means crowds. Cheaper landscapes like the Norte or Portuguese Ways provide solitude and beauty (the Portuguese Way was 2nd-most popular in 2024). Families and beginners often start on the popular routes (Frances or Portugués) for reliable services, while return pilgrims may explore alternatives.
Timing your walk is crucial. In general, spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October) are ideal on most routes: days are warm but not scorching, water sources are ample, and crowds are moderate. Summer (July–August) sees long hours and hotter temps – Meseta plains can reach 30–35°C, and accommodation fills up with holiday-makers. On the Via de la Plata (south Spain) mid-summer can be dangerously hot, so many avoid it July–August. Winter brings short daylight and, at higher altitudes, snow and ice. The Pyrenees pass (St-Jean-Pied-de-Port) can be closed in winter. Some coastal or low-altitude sections (Portuguese Way, Norte in winter) remain walkable year-round but risk frequent rain.
Month-by-month: Early spring (March–April) is drier; by May–June wildflowers bloom across fields. July–August are very busy, especially Holy Years (when July 25 falls on Sunday, as it did in 2021–22 and next in 2027). September–October often has the best weather (still warm, slightly fewer people). By late fall, some refugios begin closing, and early winter snowfall can block passes. Be prepared: carry rain gear even in summer, sunscreen for open stretches, and plan one short day after any Alpine crossing in the off-season.
Seasonal hazards include midday heatstroke on exposed plains, river crossings swollen in spring, and fog or wind on ridges. In general, local pilgrim offices and online forums update trail conditions; heavy storms or snow may temporarily detour you onto alternate tracks. With prudent choice of season and gear, most pilgrims encounter only benign weather.
Walking the full Camino Frances at a steady 20–25 km per day typically takes about 35–40 days. Many guidebooks (John Brierley, et al.) use 25 km as a standard day. Beginners might plan 20 km/day (reaching Santiago in ~40–45 days), while stronger hikers could average 30 km/day and finish in 30 days or less. It’s wise to build rest days or shorter walking days after mountainous stages.
For those short on time, there are sample “cheat” itineraries: for example, a 10-day Frances might cover the best landmarks (Saint-Jean to Pamplona, overnight train to León, then León to Santiago). Or a 7-day “Highlights” Camino might tackle Roncesvalles→Burgos (5 days), then León→Santiago by bus/train (1 day rest, 1 final trek). The key is identifying realistic daily mileage.
One of the most common shorter walks is the Last 100 km from Sarria. From Sarria to Santiago (100–115 km) can be done in about 5–6 days, covering ~20 km each day. This meets the pilgrim office’s rule to qualify for the Compostela. A typical breakdown:
1. Sarria to Portomarín: ~22 km.
2. Portomarín to Palas de Rei: ~25 km.
3. Palas to Arzúa: ~28 km.
4. Arzúa to O Pedrouzo: ~20 km.
5. O Pedrouzo to Santiago: ~20 km.
Pilgrims pacing more slowly (15 km/day) might take 30–40 days on the Frances, while very fit walkers (30+ km/day) could finish in under 30 days. The important point is consistency: even 10–12 miles per day will complete the Camino, but at a longer timeframe.
Preparing months ahead ensures fewer last-minute hassles:
The Camino caters to all budgets. Albergues (pilgrim hostels) are the traditional lodgings: communal dorm rooms costing roughly €7–€10 per night. These often include a blanket or bed roll. Many albergues operate on a “donativo” (donation) basis or fixed low fee. Staying in albergues is also how you make friends, though expect simple facilities and shared bathrooms. Note: most municipal albergues require showing your Credencial for a bed, and many have “quiet hours” after 22:00.
Alternatively, private hostels, pensiones, guesthouses, or hotels offer private rooms (including twin/double) for roughly €20–€80 per night. Hotels are comfortable but costlier. They may include breakfast and private bath. Reservations are generally not needed on low-traffic dates but high season (July–Aug) sometimes necessitates booking private rooms in advance, especially in small towns with only one inn. Many pilgrimage apps (WisePilgrim, Albergue finder, local office websites) allow checking availability. Note that some amenities (hot water, charging outlets) are more reliable in private lodgings.
Booking strategy: A common approach is to plan day distances and arrive in town by mid-afternoon, then either ask a hostel to reserve a spot or walk to the next one. Many pilgrims take a chance that beds remain and enjoy the flexibility. Those with fixed schedules (limited holiday time) may prefer to book private rooms or guided tour packages that include lodging. For mixed budgets, one can “mix and match” – dorm nights when crowded, private when available.
Luggage transfers: As noted, bag carriers are widely used. You can arrange transfers daily (e.g. pre-book with Correos or a private company, handing over bags in morning), or organize it by the night before. Providers like CaminoWays list sample costs (around €20 from Sarria). Prices depend on distance and are usually per bag. Check if your tour includes transfers.
The Camino is well marked. Yellow arrows on signs, posts, stones, and even painted on sidewalks will guide you. The scallop shell symbol (often on signs or mosaic tiles) is the route emblem. Generally, follow yellow arrows and shells, and the trails converge toward Santiago.
Digital tools: Most pilgrims use a combination of apps and maps. Popular apps include FarOut (formerly Guthook Guides), WisePilgrim All Caminos (free), and the Camino Ninja app, all of which provide detailed stage maps, elevation profiles and points of interest. Offline GPS maps are highly recommended (e.g. Maps.me or Gaia GPS) since phone signal can be patchy in mountains. Carry a GPS-enabled smartphone or a small GPS device.
Guidebooks: Many walkers still carry a printed guide. John Brierley’s Guide to the Camino de Santiago (or its Galician alternative Village to Village) is a classic; it breaks the route into traditional stages with distances and hostel info. Others like The Walker’s Guide to Santiago also help. These books often include stage maps, albergue lists, and tips. They can complement the apps, and are handy if batteries die. However, nothing beats the simplicity of following the trail markings in good weather.
The toughest part of the Camino is often the feet. Prevent blisters by starting with well-fitting boots/shoes and the right socks. As noted, liner socks (Injinji) and lubrication can make a big difference. If hot spots appear, address them immediately by putting on moleskin or tape. Follow typical foot-care rules: alternate socks if wet, air out feet every evening, keep toenails trimmed.
Carry a basic first-aid kit. Include blister pads or compeed, antiseptic cream, bandages, and some over-the-counter painkillers (ibuprofen or paracetamol). Tweezers can remove small splinters. For muscle aches, tape or a Theraband (resistance band) can help for stretches. A small sewing kit can repair gear if needed. The Camino has pharmacies in most towns, but not on remote stretches, so come prepared for minor issues.
Bring a combination of cash and cards. The local currency is the euro. Many rural albergues, bars and cafes only accept cash (they have no card machines). As a rule of thumb, keep about €50–100 in small bills for such places. You will find ATMs (“cajeros” or “bancomats”) in most towns; major routes like Frances have ATMs at least every 2–3 stages, but very remote villages may lack them. Plan withdrawals in larger towns to avoid ATM fees or empty machines (fees can be €3–8 per withdrawal).
For larger purchases (hotels, restaurants, train tickets), cards (Visa or MasterCard) are widely accepted. Many pilgrims carry a fee-free debit card (Revolut or similar) for easy withdrawals without charges. Small businesses sometimes take only cash (check before ordering). Tipping isn’t obligatory in Spain, but rounding up the bill (5–10%) in restaurants is appreciated if service was good. Always have a few euro coins and bills.
Communication: Spain has excellent mobile coverage in towns, but some trail sections have spotty service. Consider buying a local SIM card (e.g. from Orange, Movistar, or Vodafone) for cheap data and calls; 3–5GB is usually ample for maps and apps. If your phone is unlocked, an eSIM (such as Holafly) is also an easy option. Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafés but not everywhere en route, so download maps and guidebooks for offline use before losing signal.
Daily routines: Laundry can be done by hand at sinks or paid laundromats. Many albergues provide clotheslines (often free) or coin-operated washers/dryers (small fee, €2–4). Rapid-dry athletic clothes are a boon. Plan to wash clothes every 4–5 days (so your bag stays light). Showers are available in albergues (usually included; some may ask a small donativo). Carry flip-flops for showers and a small quick-dry towel. Battery or solar-powered chargers and an outlet adapter (EU type) will keep your electronics running. Most albergues have limited sockets, so charge devices early or when dining out.
Walking the Camino is also a cultural and historic journey. The French Way alone features numerous UNESCO sites. For example, the Gothic cathedrals of Burgos and León are listed World Heritage, reflecting the Camino’s medieval heritage. Historic bridges (e.g. Orbigo), Roman ruins (Astorga), and countless Romanesque churches dot the way. In Galicia, sites like the Monastery of O Cebreiro and the iconic Cathedral of Santiago itself blend pilgrimage history with living tradition. Keep an eye out for typical markers: stone crosses, painted shells on signposts, and the many artesanía shops selling carved wooden walking sticks and scallop-shell souvenirs.
One unmissable ritual is the Pilgrim’s Mass in Santiago’s cathedral. It is held daily at noon, often in Latin and Spanish, and on special feast days includes the swinging of the giant botafumeiro (incense thurible). The cathedral records your arrival – your name and origin are read out in the mass. On major feast days (and many Sundays), eight men (tiraboleiros) hurl the 53-kg Botafumeiro through the air (reaching up to 68 km/h) as an impressive rite. Attending Mass and seeing the botafumeiro (if scheduled) can be a moving conclusion to your journey.
Etiquette and language: Simple courtesies go far. Always greet fellow walkers and locals with “Buenos días”/“Buenas tardes” and say “Gracias” for kindness. Use the filled water springs, and refill your bottle without complaint (this maintains goodwill). When entering albergues or cafes, remove dusty boots at the door if requested. Silence or low voices in dorms at night (lights out ~10pm) is expected. Learn a few Spanish phrases: “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (how much?), “¿Dónde está el baño?” (bathroom?), and as noted, “¡Buen Camino!”. Non-Spanish pilgrims often carry small gifts (hand sanitizer, energy bars) to share. Remember to tread lightly on the earth – stick to way-marked paths to avoid erosion.
As for transformation, many pilgrims write of feeling changed by the Camino. Walking day after day brings time for inner reflection. Even simple interactions – a shared meal with a stranger, carrying someone’s pack for a while, or the view of a sunrise – can feel profound. Writer Marlon Vargas noted that “the exchange of Buen Camino is a concrete act of recognizing and sharing presence” on the path. Whether the change is spiritual, mental resilience, or simply confidence from achieving a long walk, most returnees say the experience stays with them long after the final shell. Some counselors even note the Camino can unearth unexpected emotions, so be open to them. Overall, the modus operandi on the trail is empathy and solidarity: pilgrims from all walks of life encourage each other’s steps, forming a temporary community.
The Camino is generally very safe. Incidents of violence are rare and most pilgrims walk alone or in small groups. Petty theft can occur (pickpockets in cities, or dorms if left unlocked). Simple precautions – don’t leave valuables unattended, use a money belt, lock your bag in dorms – keep risks minimal. Night walking: towns are usually safe to find lodging after dark, but avoid secluded forest sections off the marked trail. Emergency number across Spain is 112. In case of serious emergency, local villagers and hostels are very helpful; the pilgrim community has an unwritten rule of helping those in need.
Discover the vibrant nightlife scenes of Europe's most fascinating cities and travel to remember-able destinations! From the vibrant beauty of London to the thrilling energy…
Examining their historical significance, cultural impact, and irresistible appeal, the article explores the most revered spiritual sites around the world. From ancient buildings to amazing…
While many of Europe's magnificent cities remain eclipsed by their more well-known counterparts, it is a treasure store of enchanted towns. From the artistic appeal…
Precisely built to be the last line of protection for historic cities and their people, massive stone walls are silent sentinels from a bygone age.…
With its romantic canals, amazing architecture, and great historical relevance, Venice, a charming city on the Adriatic Sea, fascinates visitors. The great center of this…
