How to Choose the Best Camino Route: Camino Francés vs. Camino Portugués vs. Camino del Norte
Welcome, pilgrim friends! Whether you’ve already walked the Camino or are just beginning to dream about it, I’m so glad you’re here.
Walking the Camino de Santiago is a journey like no other — a blend of physical challenge, spiritual reflection, and cultural immersion. One of the very first decisions you’ll face when planning your pilgrimage is choosing which route to walk.
With several historic paths leading to Santiago de Compostela, the three most popular options are:
Camino Francés (The French Way)
Camino Portugués (The Portuguese Way)
Camino del Norte (The Northern Way)
Each route offers its own flavor of landscapes, difficulty, culture, and crowd levels. The “best” Camino really depends on your goals, fitness level, and travel preferences.
Let’s dive into the details of each route to help you make an informed and heartfelt decision.
The Routes of The Camino de Santiago
Related Post: How to Get Your Pilgrim Passport and Compostela Certificate in Santiago
Routes for the Camino de Santiago
Camino Francés: The Classic Camino Experience
The Camino Francés is the most famous route, known as the traditional pilgrimage path. Starting in St. Jean Pied de Port, France, it stretches about 780 km (500 miles) to Santiago.
Why Choose the Camino Francés
Community Atmosphere:
This is the most social route, ideal if you want to meet fellow pilgrims from around the world.Excellent Infrastructure:
Plenty of albergues (pilgrim hostels), cafes, and waymarkers make it easy for first-time walkers.Rich History:
Pass through medieval villages, stunning cathedrals, and iconic towns like Pamplona, Burgos, and León.
Challenges
Crowded During Peak Season:
Especially in summer, popular stages can feel busy.Varied Terrain:
Includes mountain passes like the Pyrenees, flat stretches through the Meseta, and rolling hills of Galicia.
Best For
First-time pilgrims, social travelers, and those seeking the classic Camino experience.
Camino Frances Route Map
Camino Portugués: The Coastal Charm and Spiritual Reflection
The Camino Portugués begins in Lisbon or Porto, Portugal, following a 610 km (380 mile) journey from Lisbon or about 240 km (150 miles) from Porto. There are two main variants:
Central Route – More traditional, traveling through small towns and countryside.
Coastal Route – Scenic views along Portugal’s beautiful coastline.
Why Choose the Camino Portugués
Gentler Terrain:
Generally easier than the Camino Francés with fewer steep climbs.Less Crowded:
A more peaceful experience, especially outside of Porto.Cultural Blend:
Enjoy Portuguese and Spanish traditions, cuisine, and hospitality.
Challenges
Infrastructure Less Dense:
Fewer hostels than the Francés, so planning ahead is wise.Weather Factors:
The coastal path can be windy and rainy at times.
Best For
Pilgrims seeking tranquility, gentler terrain, and a blend of Portuguese and Spanish culture.
Camino Portugal Route Map
Internal Link Suggestion:
If you’re deciding on timing, you might also enjoy my post: “10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting the Camino de Santiago”
Camino del Norte: The Scenic Coastal Adventure
The Camino del Norte hugs Spain’s northern coastline for roughly 825 km (512 miles) starting in Irún, near the French border.
Why Choose the Camino del Norte
Breathtaking Scenery:
Walk along cliffs, beaches, and lush green landscapes with dramatic ocean views.Less Tourist Traffic:
Fewer crowds than the Francés, offering a more introspective journey.Charming Coastal Towns:
Visit places like San Sebastián, Bilbao, and Santander.
Challenges
Challenging Terrain:
Lots of ups and downs along the rugged coastline — more demanding physically.Variable Weather:
Northern Spain’s climate can be wet and unpredictable.
Best For
Experienced hikers and those seeking a scenic, physically challenging Camino.
Camino Norte and Camino Primitivo Routes Map
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How to Decide Which Camino Route is Best for You
When choosing your route, consider these factors:
Your Fitness Level
Beginners may prefer the Camino Portugués or shorter stages of the Francés.
Experienced hikers looking for a challenge might love the Camino del Norte.
Desired Experience
For a social journey, the Francés is ideal.
For peace and reflection, try the Portugués.
For natural beauty and adventure, go Norte.
Time Available
Francés: Plan 30–35 days for the full route.
Portugués: 10–25 days depending on starting point.
Norte: About 35–40 days for the full distance.
Season and Weather
Spring and fall are best for walking any route.
Summer can be crowded (Francés) or hot (Portugués).
Norte can be wet but stunning in spring and summer.
My Personal Take
As someone who deeply loves the Camino and its history, I believe each route has its own magic.
The Francés is the classic choice, rich with tradition and pilgrim camaraderie.
The Portugués offers a more meditative, peaceful walk with coastal beauty.
The Norte is breathtaking and wild, perfect if you crave both challenge and solitude.
If this is your first Camino, you can’t go wrong with the Francés or Portugués. If you’re seeking your second or third journey, consider the Norte for a completely different experience.
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Final Thoughts
Whichever route you choose, remember that the Camino is about the journey, not just the destination.
Take time to savor the landscapes, the food, the friendships, and the quiet moments of reflection along the way. Whether you walk the bustling streets of Pamplona, the serene paths of Portugal, or the rugged coastlines of the north, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of centuries of pilgrims before you.
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If you’re ready to begin planning your own pilgrimage, check out my post: “The Complete Packing List for the Camino de Santiago (What You Really Need).”
Blessings to you,
Renae