With routes winding through France, Spain, and Portugal, walking Camino presents many enticing choices, each offering its own breathtaking scenery, enchanting cultural activities, and delicious regional foods.
In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular Camino routes: from the Arles Way, the Classic French Way, and the Le Puy Camino in France, to Spain’s Camino del Norte, Via de la Plata, and Camino Ingles, and finally, the Camino Portugues and its coastal variant in Portugal. We’ll explore what makes each route special, who it’s best suited for, and what you can expect along the way.
Whether you’re a first-time pilgrim or exploring the ways of the Camino on a repeat visit, this guide will help you choose the best Camino to walk.
While you are with us, be sure to browse our Camino Walking Tours.
French Camino Routes
The Arles Way (Chemin d’Arles)
The Arles Way, also known as the Chemin d’Arles, is one of the lesser-known routes in France but it posses a fantastically long history. Starting in the Roman city of Arles, it traverses through picturesque Provence and the rugged Pyrenees.
This route is ideal for pilgrims seeking the revitlizing pleasures of nature and diverse scenery. Expect challenging climbs and fewer amenities, making it perfect for experienced hikers who enjoy remote, scenic paths.
If you want to undertake the Arles Way with expert guidance, book our Arles Way Tour.
The Classic French Way (Chemin de Paris)
The Classic French Way leaves from Paris, passing through the lush Loire Valley, and joining the Camino Francés in Spain. This route is dotted with spectacular historical and cultural landmarks, including medieval cathedrals and castles. It suits pilgrims who appreciate an even split of urban and rural experiences. Though long and challenging, this routes gives walkers ample opportunities for rest and sightseeing. Check out our French Way Tour.
The Le Puy Camino (Chemin du Puy)
The Le Puy Camino is one of Europe’s most popular Camino routes, starting in the town of Le Puy-en-Velay. Known for its stunning landscapes, it takes you through the volcanic plateau of Velay, medieval villages, and rolling countryside. This route is well-marked and offers good infrastructure, making it suitable for both novice and seasoned pilgrims. Expect a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage at every turn.
Spanish Camino Routes
Camino del Norte
The famous Northern Way hugs the northern coast of Spain, offering stunning coastal views of the Bay of Biscay. This route starts in the bustling city of Irún and winds through lush green landscapes, charming fishing villages, and historic cities like San Sebastián and Bilbao. It’s known for its challenging terrain with frequent ascents and descents, making it ideal for experienced hikers and those who like the prospect of a physical challenge.
Explore our very own Self-Guided Camino del Norte.
Via de la Plata
The Via de la Plata, or Silver Route, is the longest Camino route in Spain, stretching from Seville in the south to Santiago de Compostela. Featuring lots of exciting Roman historical sites, this path traverses through the heart of Spain, going through regions like Extremadura, Castile, and León. Pilgrims will encounter a mix of arid landscapes, ancient ruins, and historic cities such as Mérida and Salamanca.
Camino Ingles
Those looking for a shorter and less crowded route can opt for the English Way that begins in the northern ports of Ferrol or A Coruña. Historically, this was the route taken by English and Irish pilgrims arriving by sea. Starting in Ferrol offers a full 118-kilometer journey, qualifying for the Compostela certificate. The path weaves through Galicia’s lush, rolling hills and charming hamlets, providing a peaceful, intimate pilgrimage experience. This route is well-marked and offers adequate infrastructure, making it accessible to beginners and those with limited time.
Despite its shorter length, the Camino Ingles captures the essence of the Camino spirit.
Portuguese Camino Routes
Camino Portugues
The Camino Portugues is the second most popular route to Santiago, starting from Lisbon and passing through other major Portuguese cities like Porto and Coimbra. If you’ve always dreamed of exploring the enchanting beauty of Portugal, this is a fabulous way to see many of the country’s highlight destinations.
Coastal Camino Portugués
The Coastal Camino Portugués follows Portugal’s stunning Atlantic coastline from Porto to Santiago. Pilgrims will enjoy breathtaking ocean views, sandy beaches, and charming seaside towns. Learn more about our Coastal Camino Portugués.
Full Camino Portuguese
Want a Camino route that is truly epic? Walk the Full Camino Portuguese, encompassing the entire journey from Lisbon to Santiago. Covering around 600 kilometers, it provides a comprehensive pilgrimage experience through Portugal’s historic sites and regions of green, natural beauty. This route is ideal for committed pilgrims seeking a particularly immersive Camino adventure! There’s nothing like the satisfaction you will feel at the end of it.
This brings the overview of our favorite Camino routes to a close. We hope you’re feeling inspired and ready to set off on your own adventure. Any questions? Please get in touch.
