Which Camino to walk or bike?

Which Camino to choose

There isn’t just one Camino to reach the tomb of the Apostle Saint James. While the French Way (Camino Francés)attracts the highest number of pilgrims, history and tradition have given rise to several official Camino de Santiago routes across the Iberian Peninsula, all leading to the city of Santiago de Compostela.

When choosing your Camino route, several factors come into play: the number of days available, the time of year, and your personal preferences. Below, we describe each Camino route to help you decide which one best suits your needs.

¡Buen Camino!

The French Way - Camino Francés

(775 km./482 mi.) The French Way is by far the most popular and traditional route, chosen by around 70% of all pilgrims. It begins in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, on the French side of the Pyrenees, and crosses northern Spain to Santiago. Known for its scenic beauty, historical landmarks, and excellent infrastructure, this route is well-marked and offers reliable services along the way.

Is the French Way for you?

Perfect if you want the classic Camino experience
Ideal for all fitness levels thanks to its developed infrastructure
Diverse landscapes and climates: from mountains to rolling hills in Galicia
In summer, expect intense heat on the Meseta – start your days early
In spring, the pass from Saint-Jean may be closed due to snow – use the Valcarlos alternative
Very busy during peak season

Read more and see Map of Camino Francés

Want to walk Camino Frances? Find your ideal trip here

The Primitive Way - Camino Primitivo

(321 km./200 mi.) The Camino Primitivo is the oldest of all routes, starting in Oviedo (Asturias) and passing through Lugo before reaching Santiago. Though less frequented (around 4% of pilgrims), it is one of the most scenic and physically demanding routes, crossing remote mountainous terrain in Galicia and Asturias. Expect solitude, natural beauty, and minimal asphalt.

Is the Camino Primitivo for you?

The most physically challenging route: long stages, steep climbs
Best for experienced, fit, and mentally prepared hikers
Peaceful and authentic: very few crowds
Mountain climate: frequent rain, fog, and possible snow outside summer
Requires sturdy boots and waterproof gear

Want to walk Camino Primitivo? Find your ideal trip here

The Northern Way - Camino del Norte

(815 km./506 mi.) The Camino del Norte starts in Hondarribia or Irún, near the French border, and follows Spain’s northern coastline. Chosen by around 7% of pilgrims, it offers spectacular coastal landscapes, green mountains, and delicious Basque and Galician cuisine. Although it has fewer artistic landmarks than other routes, you’ll find architectural gems in towns like Mondoñedo. In summer, you can enjoy scenic beaches along the way.

Is the Northern Way for you?

Ideal if you love the sea, lush greenery, and great food
Medium difficulty: long stages with elevation changes
Humid and variable weather all year – bring good shoes and rain gear
Less crowded than the French Way
Great for moderately experienced pilgrims

Want to walk Camino del Norte? Find your ideal trip here

Portuguese Central Way - Camino Portugués Central

(242 km./150 mi.)

he Portuguese Central Way is the second most walked route, chosen by around 14% of pilgrims. Starting in Porto, it enters Galicia at Tui and continues through cities like Pontevedra, historic towns such as Padrón and Caldas de Reis, and charming villages. Some parts run along quiet roads, but it is well signposted and accessible.

Is the Portuguese Central Way for you?

Great for those seeking a balance of nature, culture, and comfort
Well-marked with good accommodation options
Generally mild climate with occasional rain, especially in Galicia
Suitable for beginners and those with limited hiking experience
Recommended in spring and autumn; summer is fine if you avoid the midday heat

Want to walk Camino Portugues? Find your ideal trip here

Portuguese Coastal Way - Camino Portugués por la costa

(Aprox 280 km. / 174 mi. from Porto) The Portuguese Coastal Way is one of the most scenic and refreshing Camino routes. Starting in Porto, it follows the Atlantic coast through fishing towns like Vila do Conde, Viana do Castelo, A Guarda, and Baiona, before joining the Central Way in Redondela.

This route has grown in popularity for offering a peaceful alternative with stunning coastal views, charming villages, and spectacular sunsets over the ocean. The trail includes boardwalks, sandy paths, forest trails, and quiet country roads. The climate is mild year-round, though wind and moisture are common outside summer.

Is the Coastal Way for you?

Perfect for lovers of ocean views, seaside towns, and seafood
Mild temperatures most of the year, but wind and humidity expected
Mostly easy terrain, with some variation
Great way to avoid summer heat in the interior
Bring a rain jacket – rain is common outside summer

Want to walk Camino Portugues? Find your ideal trip here

The Finisterre (Fisterra)– Muxia way - Camino Finisterre

The Camino to Finisterre and Muxía is the only route that starts in Santiago, often chosen as a spiritual extension to the pilgrimage. It's a peaceful path through rural Galicia, leading to the dramatic coastline known as A Costa da Morte.

You’ll walk through lush Atlantic forests, traditional villages, and landmarks like Ponte Maceira, considered one of the prettiest villages in Spain. Once on the coast, enjoy breathtaking views and unforgettable sunsets over the ocean – some say they are among the most beautiful in the world.

Is the Finisterre (Fisterra) Way for you?

Ideal for extending your Camino with a scenic, spiritual finale
Walks through rural landscapes and coastal scenery
Mild but unpredictable climate: expect rain, fog, and wind
Moderate difficulty with gentle ups and downs
A meaningful route for reflection and connection with nature

Want to walk Camino Finisterre? Find your ideal trip here

The English Way - Camino Inglés

(155 km./ 96 mi.). The English Way starts in either Ferrol or A Coruña (we offer the A Coruña option), once the main arrival points for pilgrims from Britain and Northern Europe. Though not as popular, it offers a quieter experience and is ideal for short trips.

The weather is mild even in summer, and the route passes through green Galician landscapes. Due to the short distance, cyclists are not eligible for the Compostela certificate, but walkers are.

Is the English Way for you?

Ideal if you have only 5–6 days for the Camino
Excellent for beginners
Cool, humid Atlantic climate year-round
Beautiful Galician scenery from the very start
Short and manageable stages, no major physical demands