Camino de Santiago From Porto

Once you have arrived in Porto, make your way to the accommodation for check-in. The rest of the day will be at your leisure to explore Porto’s historic streets, enjoy riverside dining, relax in a local café, or browse shops for unique finds.

Porto, Portugal’s second city after Lisbon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its striking architecture, scenic riverside setting, and renowned port wine. A full day here offers a rich mix of culture and charm that leaves visitors eager to return.

Porto - Povoa de Varzim. Today you set off from Porto with a short transfer to Matosinhos, where your walking journey begins. You will follow the picturesque banks of the Douro River before reaching the Atlantic coast, where you will pass a series of inviting beaches. The path leads you along wooden boardwalks that cross low dunes and stretch across the shoreline, offering peaceful coastal views and a refreshing sea breeze. This first stage is pleasant and undemanding, with flat terrain and no major climbs, allowing you to ease into the rhythm of the trail while taking in the natural beauty around you.

Please note: You must leave your luggage in the lobby at each hotel or hostel by 8 AM. It will be transferred to your next stop, so you will not need to carry it during the trek.
Estimated travel distance and travel time: Approx. 25.4 km & 6 hrs

Povoa de Varzim - Esposende. This morning, you begin a day that offers a rich mix of landscapes and experiences. Your walk will take you along the scenic coastline, allowing you to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and open views, before you gradually head slightly inland. As the terrain shifts, you’ll encounter sections of paved road and asphalt, adding some variety to your journey. One of the highlights of the day will be crossing the tranquil Cádavo River, a peaceful stretch that marks your approach to the welcoming town of Esposende, where the day's walk concludes.
Estimated travel distance and travel time: Approx. 21 km & 5 hrs

Esposende - Viana do Castelo. After breakfast, you leave behind the coastal landscapes that have been your faithful companion until now and head inland towards the North Coast Natural Park. Your route takes you along the picturesque Neiva riverbed, offering a serene and refreshing change in scenery.

As you continue your journey, you gradually approach Viana do Castelo, a charming city known for its architectural charm and historical richness. A special highlight is the beautifully preserved old town, full of character and well worth exploring. Although today’s stage does not follow the coastline, the varied natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere ensure that it is no less scenic or enjoyable than your previous coastal paths.
Estimated travel distance and travel time: Approx. 25.1 km & 6 hrs

Viana do Castelo - Caminha. This morning marks your final full day in Portugal before you will cross into Galicia, and it begins with a choice that will shape your journey. You must decide whether to follow the yellow arrows that guide you inland along the official Camino route, or to take the less formally marked but equally rewarding coastal alternative.

Opting for the coastal path means walking alongside the beaches and the sea, with the soothing sounds of waves accompanying your steps. Although this route isn’t as clearly signed, it is straightforward to follow and offers a stunning backdrop without risk of getting lost.

Whichever path you choose, both will lead you to the quaint fishing village of Vila Praia de Âncora. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, this village boasts a lovely city beach and a scenic promenade that invites a relaxed pace. After a break or perhaps a leisurely stroll through town, you’ll continue on to your destination for the day: Caminha. Situated at the mouth of the Miño River, this historic town offers a fitting farewell to Portugal, blending rich heritage with riverside charm.
Estimated travel distance and travel time: Approx. 27 km & 7 hrs

Caminha - Ola. After breakfast, you begin a meaningful stage of your journey as you will leave Portugal and enter Galicia. To start, you will cross the Miño River—the natural border between the two countries—by ferry, which takes about 15 minutes. Ferry times vary with the tide, and there are typically no services on Mondays, though taxi boats are available with payment made locally, so planning is important.

Once in Spain, you will follow the coastal path with fresh sea views guiding your way. Soon, you will reach the fishing town of A Guarda, known for its colourful houses and rich maritime character. One of the key highlights is Monte de Santa Tegra, home to the remains of an ancient fortress dating back to the 4th century BC, offering insight into Galician history and striking views.

You'll then continue through the quiet village of Portecelo before arriving in Oia, where the impressive Cistercian Monastery of Santa María stands out as a cultural landmark. Today’s journey offers a memorable mix of natural beauty and historical significance.
Estimated travel distance and travel time: Approx. 16.6 km & 4 hrs

Ola (Portugal) - Boiona (Spain). Today begins with a coastal stretch, offering fresh sea air and open views, before leading you inland along a peaceful mountain path. The walk is pleasant and varied, revealing a different side of the landscape. As you arrive in Villa de Baiona, you’re rewarded with its charming old town and vibrant marina—two highlights that perfectly capture the spirit of this historic seaside town.
Estimated travel distance and travel time: Approx. 18 km & 4 hrs

Boiona - Vigo. Today you will set off along the picturesque Vigo estuary, making your way to Nigrán and continuing past the inviting beaches of Panxón, Patos and Samil. The route offers striking seascapes and fresh ocean breezes, though the day brings a challenge in the form of distance and elevation changes. An alternative inland path via Priegue and Coruxo leads to a scenic river trail, though its final stretch into Vigo, Galicia’s largest city, passes through a more industrial area and may lack the coastal charm of the main route.
Estimated travel distance and travel time: Approx. 27 Km official roads or 25 km along the coast & 6 hrs

Vigo - Redondela. You will depart from Vigo and follow the Senda da Traída das Augas, weaving through serene forests and tracing the estuary as you make your way to Redondela, where your journey joins the inland Portuguese Way. Before reaching the town, you will have the option to take a 5 km detour near Trasmañó to admire an impressive waterfall. This stage offers a peaceful and scenic transition, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty and quiet rhythm of the Camino.
Estimated travel distance and travel time: Approx. 16 km & 4 hrs

Redondela - Pontevedra. This morning you will leave Redondela heading towards Arcade, renowned for its oysters. Following the Vigo estuary, you will pass through lush forests before reaching the historic Ponte Sampaio on the way to Pontevedra.
Estimated travel distance and travel time: Approx. 19.6 km & 5 hrs

Pontevedra - Caldas de Reis. After breakfast, you set out along a calm and gentle path, trading the steeper climbs for flatter, more even ground. You will pass through a number of villages before arriving in Caldas de Reis, where those who wish can relax at one of the famous thermal spas.
Estimated travel distance and travel time: Approx. 21 km & 5 hrs

Caldas de Reis - Padron. This morning, your journey will take you through the most beautiful and varied landscapes, including vineyards, grain fields, the Bermaña valley, chestnut forests, and eucalyptus groves. In Padrón, you mustn’t miss the chance to sample the famous local peppers.
Estimated travel distance and travel time: Approx. 18.6 km & 4 hrs

Padron - Santiago de Compostela. After breakfast, today will make the last stage of the Camino as you cross the N-550 road several times, following the railway line towards Iria Flavia. You will then begin the climb to “O Milladoiro,” where the cathedral towers come into sight, marking your approach to Santiago. This final stretch blends the joy of arrival with the bittersweet feeling that this remarkable journey is ending.
Estimated travel distance and travel time: Approx. 24.3 km & 6 hrs

Today, enjoy your final breakfast at the accommodation. Depending on your departure time, you may have some time to explore, shop, or relax before heading to the airport for your onward flight. Safe travels!