Variations of this tour
About the Route
The Caminho da Costa, as the route is called, is a wonderful alternative to the traditional Portuguese Camino. The journey from Porto to Santiago is approximately 259 km, with no major climbs. You will walk along trails, small country roads, beaches, and through charming small towns.
The average daily distance is about 12 km, with the longest stage being 18 km and the shortest just 7 km, meaning that some days will be more demanding than others.
Easy cancellation up to 35 days before departure
This tour is covered by our special easy cancellation policy up to 35 days before departure.
Itinerary
You will begin your Camino walk towards Santiago de Compostela in beautiful and colourful Porto, with its UNESCO-listed old town, picturesque riverside, and, of course, as the home of port wine. Experience the best of Portuguese hospitality in this vibrant city before starting your walk along the Caminho da Costa.
Hotel (example): Hotel Porto Trindade or Hotel Neya Porto
To avoid the busy suburbs around Porto, you will be transferred to the wide, golden beach in Labruge. From here, a beautiful and varied coastal walk awaits, where you follow the sound of the Atlantic Ocean and pass dunes, small fishing villages, and dramatic cliff-lined shores.
The route heads north along Portugal’s wild coastline, offering plenty of opportunities to stop at a beach café or dip your toes in the water along the way. The day ends in the historic town of Vila do Conde, situated at the mouth of the River Ave. Here you can discover the impressive old aqueduct, the medieval Santa Clara Monastery, and the charming harbour that reflects the town’s rich maritime history.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Leave Vila do Conde with a final glance at the beautifully carved parish church in Manueline style – a masterpiece of Portuguese Renaissance architecture. The route then leads you north to the lively seaside and fishing town of Póvoa de Varzim, where you once again meet the fresh Atlantic breeze.
From here, you follow the coast all day, mostly along scenic wooden boardwalks and quiet backroads that wind through dunes and small communities. The sound of the waves will be your companion as you pass fishing boats and small cafés with ocean views. The day ends in the charming village of Apúlia, known for both fishing and agriculture, where you can experience a more traditional and tranquil side of Portugal.
Hotel (example): coming soon
From Apúlia, you leave the sound of the ocean waves behind and head inland, where the route winds through small woodland areas and lush market gardens cultivated by local farmers. You will notice the landscape shifting from coastal scenery to peaceful green paths.
Along the way, you cross the wide estuary of the River Cavado, a protected nature reserve rich in birdlife and beautiful wetlands. This is the perfect place to pause and enjoy the views over the water and the serene surroundings.
The route then leads you into Esposende, a charming coastal town, where you pass through quiet residential areas before continuing along the town’s historic main street lined with shops, cafés, and reminders of its maritime past. Here, you can experience both everyday local life and the town’s history up close.
Hotel (example): coming soon
As you leave Esposende, you take a final look at the rolling waves of the Atlantic – a beautiful farewell to the coast for the day. The route then turns inland again, leading you along quiet paths and small country roads surrounded by green fields and wooded areas.
Along the way, you cross the idyllic River Neiva, a peaceful spot where the water meanders through the rural landscape – perfect for a short break or a photo opportunity.
Today’s walk ends in style at your charming country house accommodation. Here, you can enjoy the authentic atmosphere, relax in tranquil surroundings, and recharge for the next day’s stage with good food and warm local hospitality.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Today’s stage begins in a beautiful, peaceful landscape, where you follow small roads through charming villages and green fields. The pace is relaxed, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views and greet the locals along the way.
As you approach Darque, the route gently descends through the town’s cosy streets. From here, one of the day’s highlights awaits: crossing the wide River Lima on a long metal bridge. The bridge offers magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the river’s calm estuary – a perfect spot to pause and take photos.
The day ends in Viana do Castelo, one of Portugal’s most beautiful small towns. Here you will find a wealth of restaurants, inviting cafés, and a medieval centre with narrow cobblestone streets, historic churches, and lively squares. It’s the perfect place to relax, explore the town’s rich history, and savour the local cuisine – an unforgettable ending to today’s walk.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Today’s route begins with a gentle ascent out of Viana do Castelo, leading you through small villages and quiet stretches of green woodland. Here you’ll experience the rural charm of Portugal up close – with small stone houses, fields, and eucalyptus forests carrying a fresh scent in the morning sun.
Along the way, a single but noticeable hill awaits, mostly covered by forest. The climb is gradual, but still gives the feeling of reaching a small mountain pass on your pilgrimage – rewarded with peaceful surroundings and beautiful nature.
After the summit, the route descends again towards the coast, ending in the relaxed fishing and seaside town of Vila Praia de Âncora. Here you reunite with the Atlantic Ocean, with wide beaches, charming fishermen’s houses, and small cafés where you can unwind after your walk and perhaps enjoy a freshly caught fish dish for dinner.
Hotel (example): coming soon
This beautiful stage begins with a stunning coastal walk towards Moledo, a charming little town known for its wide sandy beach and breathtaking views of Spain across the river. Here, you can enjoy the fresh Atlantic breeze and watch the waves rolling onto the shore – a perfect spot for a break or a coffee by the water.
From here, the route takes you through an old pine forest, where the cool shade and calming scent of the trees offer a pleasant contrast to the coastal scenery. The path then follows the estuary of the River Minho, which forms the border between Portugal and Spain. You arrive in the historic town of Caminha, with its charming medieval centre, lively squares, and inviting cafés.
When you are ready, the journey continues across the River Minho by ferry (weather permitting). The crossing is a small pilgrimage experience in itself, giving you views of both Portugal and Spain from the water. On the Spanish side, the route begins with a gentle climb towards the Galician coastal town of A Guarda, known for its fishing harbour, Celtic settlement on Monte Santa Trega, and vibrant Spanish atmosphere.
Hotel (example): coming soon
This is one of the most beautiful stages of the entire route. From A Guarda, you follow the coastline through a dramatic and untouched landscape, where the Atlantic waves crash against the cliffs and the views are wild and rugged. The magnificent scenery, with steep rocky shores and open horizons, gives you the feeling of being far off the beaten track – here there is peace, fresh sea air, and space for reflection.
The day ends in the small coastal village of Oia, famous for its impressive old monastery, dramatically situated right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Overlooking a small bay, the monastery creates a unique atmosphere with its rich history and breathtaking location. Here, you can enjoy the silence, listen to the waves, and feel the spiritual heritage that countless pilgrims before you have experienced on this beautiful stretch.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Today’s stage begins with a lovely off-road section close to the sea, where you follow paths along the crashing Atlantic waves and enjoy views of cliffs and surf. This part of the route feels wild and free, with fresh ocean air and small trails winding through low scrub and rocky formations.
From here, the route joins the coastal road through Mougás, a small and peaceful seaside village where you can take a break at a local café or simply enjoy the ocean view from the roadside.
Next, a climb awaits along an old pilgrims’ path that winds its way uphill through the landscape. Along the way, you can feel the presence of history – countless pilgrims have passed this way before you.
The reward for the climb is a long, gentle descent, where you slowly catch sight of the beautiful coastal town of Baiona. The town offers a charming harbour, quaint old streets, and a wealth of tapas restaurants – perfect for a well-earned dinner after today’s walk. Here, you can soak up the lively Galician culture while relaxing and reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Today’s walk begins as you leave Baiona and its suburbs, heading into more rural surroundings where the landscape opens up to fields, small farms, and peaceful paths. It’s a beautiful contrast to the town’s lively harbour area and tapas bars.
One of today’s highlights comes when you cross an old stone bridge surrounded by a fascinating local legend – a perfect spot to pause, take a photo, and imagine the many pilgrims who have crossed here before you. The bridge leads you into A Ramallosa, a small town with a distinctly historic atmosphere.
The final kilometres wind through a fragrant eucalyptus forest, where tall trees provide shade and a special sense of tranquillity. The trail ends at the busier main road near Corujo, marking the end of today’s stage.
From here, we arrange a transfer that takes you back to your hotel in Baiona for the night. This way, you can enjoy your evening in the charming coastal town without worrying about logistics – ready for the next day’s stage.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Today’s stage begins comfortably with a transfer from Baiona back to the point where you finished yesterday’s walk.
Leaving the main road, you make your way through small villages and rural surroundings, experiencing authentic Galician life with stone houses, small fields, and friendly locals who warmly greet pilgrims.
Before reaching the outskirts of Vigo, a pleasant green oasis awaits: Parque de Castrelos. Here, the Camino follows paths through lush parkland, with old trees, well-kept gardens, and gently flowing streams. It’s a welcome break from urban life, offering a chance to enjoy nature and recharge.
Finally, the route takes you right to your hotel in Vigo, where you can relax after the day’s walk. You may also wish to explore Galicia’s largest city, with its lively restaurants, shops, and vibrant maritime atmosphere.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Today’s stage begins with a chance to experience more of Vigo, Galicia’s largest city. You walk along the bustling main shopping street, surrounded by shops, cafés, and the vibrant city atmosphere, before the route leads you through quieter residential neighbourhoods where you can sense the daily rhythm of this coastal city.
Leaving the city behind, the character of the route changes completely. You follow a quiet backroad, sometimes unpaved, winding uphill through hillside villages surrounded by green meadows and traditional stone houses. Along the way, you are rewarded with spectacular views over the Vigo estuary, where the distinctive floating mussel farms are a beautiful example of Galicia’s maritime heritage.
A pleasant forest section offers shade and peaceful walking among eucalyptus and oak trees. Finally, a steep descent through lush nature brings you down to Redondela, a charming Galician town known for its beautiful viaducts, lively squares, and inviting cafés – the perfect place to rest your feet after a rewarding day on the Camino.
Hotel (example): coming soon
From today, you follow the classic Central Camino all the way to Santiago, bringing a wonderful sense of being “on the trail” of countless pilgrims before you.
Today’s stage is short and pleasant – perfect for taking things at a relaxed pace. You leave Redondela, a town full of life and history, and follow paths that lead you up a wooded hillside. Here, you walk surrounded by eucalyptus and oak trees, enjoying birdsong and the shade of the tall canopy.
After the gentle climb, the route descends into the beautiful riverside town of Arcade, set on the banks of the Vigo estuary. Here, you have plenty of free time: take a stroll along the waterfront, admire the views of the bridges and river, or treat yourself to the town’s famous fresh oysters at a local restaurant.
A perfect day to unwind, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the Camino’s simple pleasures at a slower pace.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Today’s walk begins with a small historical adventure: you leave Arcade by crossing an old and historically significant stone bridge that has seen countless pilgrims over the centuries. Here, you can almost hear the echo of medieval footsteps as you watch the river glisten beneath you.
From there, a gentle ascent begins along old cobblestone paths winding through rolling landscapes and woodland. You walk among lush meadows, small farms, and fragrant eucalyptus, with birdsong and tranquillity turning the journey into a meditative experience.
A peaceful descent leads you to the small chapel of Santa Marta, a serene spot in the greenery – perfect for a pause and a moment of reflection.
From here, the route makes a beautiful detour into Pontevedra. You follow the River Tomeza, where the paths run alongside wooded streams and lush vegetation. This enchanting ending to the day’s stage leads you into Pontevedra – a lively and charming town known for its beautiful, car-free historic centre filled with cafés and welcoming squares.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Today’s stage begins in the heart of Pontevedra, where you leave the charming medieval centre by crossing a sturdy old stone bridge that has, for centuries, connected the town’s neighbourhoods and guided pilgrims onwards to Santiago. Here, you get one last glimpse of the narrow streets and welcoming squares before bidding farewell to the lively atmosphere of the city.
Shortly after passing the railway line, the landscape opens up and you find yourself in true Galician countryside. The paths lead you through green, peaceful terrain, past the historic church of Santa Maria de Alba, where you can take a break and enjoy the quiet, spiritual ambience.
From there, the route makes a steady, gentle climb through open fields and small nature-lined paths until you reach the village of San Amaro – a quiet and traditional Galician stop along the Camino. Here, today’s walk ends, and we arrange a transfer to take you back to Pontevedra for the night, so you can enjoy the evening in this charming town with its tapas bars and cosy cafés.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Today’s walk begins with a transfer back to San Amaro, where you step once again onto the historic Camino trail. From here, the route descends towards the River Barosa, passing through lush green landscapes filled with small paths and open fields. Along the way, you’ll notice many stone crosses (cruceiros) scattered across the countryside – a classic sign that you are drawing closer to Santiago de Compostela and the pilgrims’ ultimate goal.
You then follow the River Lamas for a short while, where the path winds alongside the gentle water and through small woodland areas, before reaching the entrance to the Rio Barosa Natural Park. Here, the scenery is particularly beautiful and dramatic, with small waterfalls and old mills that tell the story of the area’s past.
From there, the route continues along quiet country roads and through agricultural areas, where you’ll pass vineyards, vegetable gardens, and traditional stone houses. The day’s walk ends in the charming spa town of Caldas de Reis, famous for its warm, sulphur-rich springs. Here, you can finish the day by soaking your feet in the thermal pools – a classic Camino experience and a delightful reward for your efforts.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Today’s walk begins as you leave Caldas de Reis via a medieval stone bridge, where you can sense the centuries of pilgrims who have taken the same steps before you. From there, you follow the River Bermaña, with the path winding through a particularly scenic landscape of lush meadows, small woodlands, and gently flowing water.
After a few road crossings, the route continues with a steady, gentle ascent into the Valga forest. Here, you walk among tall trees, birdsong, and the fresh scent of the woods – a peaceful section of the Camino that invites reflection and calm. From the higher ground, you are rewarded with fine views over the surrounding countryside before the path descends towards the village of San Miguel de Valga, a traditional Galician community with stone buildings and a village church.
Along the way, it’s well worth stopping in Infesta to admire the intricate carvings on the old stone cross (cruceiro) – an important pilgrim symbol and a fine example of local stone craftsmanship.
Finally, you cross the river via the bridge at Pontecessures, where the landscape changes once again, and follow the River Sar into Padrón. This charming town is steeped in legend and historical references to the arrival of the Apostle James in Galicia by boat – making it one of the most famous places on the entire Camino. Here you’ll find churches, monuments, and small squares where history can almost be felt in the air – a truly special ending to today’s stage.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Today’s stage offers a journey through the architectural contrasts of history and the charm of beautiful Galician villages. First, you arrive in Iria Flavia, where the Romanesque church is one of the highlights of the Camino. Here, you can feel the centuries of pilgrimage and the deep local history – an atmosphere of peace and spirituality set amid the green countryside.
Further along the route, you encounter a very different expression at the Church of Our Lady in A Esclavitude. Rich in Baroque details and religious ornamentation, it stands as a striking architectural counterpoint to the simpler Romanesque style of Iria Flavia. Here, you get a glimpse of the religious passion and artistic richness that characterise Galicia’s churches.
You then continue through small villages, where stone houses and flower-decked balconies create a warm and welcoming picture of the Galician landscape.
Today’s walk ends in Parada de Francos, a charming little village known for its beautifully decorated stone cross (cruceiro) and its impressive ancient oak trees that cast their shade over the village centre. It’s a place steeped in tradition and tranquillity – perfect for an overnight stay where you can relax, enjoy the silence, and gather energy for the final stretch of your Camino to Santiago.
Hotel (example): coming soon
Your final stage on the Camino begins in the peaceful Galician countryside, where the morning light falls on green fields and small stone houses. You follow paths through a beautiful woodland, where tall trees form a green tunnel and birdsong creates an almost meditative atmosphere. Here, you feel both anticipation and calm – this is your last day as a pilgrim.
After the quiet forest walk, the path begins to climb towards Milladoiro, a traditional point where pilgrims get their first magical glimpse of the towers of Santiago Cathedral in the distance. For many, it’s an emotional moment – proof that the goal is truly within reach.
To enter the city, you first descend towards the River Sar, crossing into the lowlands before making one final, gentle ascent into Santiago de Compostela.
The arrival is unforgettable: you enter the medieval centre via the lively Rua Franco, surrounded by old stone houses, restaurants, and the buzz of life, following the flow of pilgrims towards the ultimate destination. And then – suddenly – the square opens up, and the Cathedral of Santiago stands before you in all its splendour. It’s a moment filled with joy, relief, and pride at having completed your Camino.
Hotel (example): coming soon
After breakfast, it’s time to check out and begin your journey home – but we recommend taking some time to wander and experience this gem of a city. Small, vibrant, and steeped in history, its UNESCO-listed old town can feel truly enchanting. Santiago de Compostela is not only a destination for pilgrims; locals and students also fill the streets, adding to the city’s lively atmosphere.
Pictures from the trip
Prices and dates
Price includes
ACCOMMODATION
- 20 nights in carefully selected hotels (2–3 stars – always with private bathroom/toilet)
FOOD & DRINK
- Breakfast every day
HIKING
- 19 days of walking (approx. 259 km in total)
- Detailed daily route descriptions (maps, route notes, information on relevant tourist attractions, and important phone numbers – in English)
- Pilgrim’s passport
TRANSPORT
- Luggage transport from hotel to hotel
- Transfer from the hotel in Porto to Labruge (where the walk begins)
- Transfer from Corujo to Baiona (day 11) and back to Corujo again (day 12)
- Transfer from San Amaro to Pontevedra (day 16) and back to San Amaro again (day 17)
OTHER
- 24-hour local and international service hotline for the duration of the tour
- Access to the route in our GPS app, which also works offline (one access per person)
- This is a packaged holiday and is therefore covered by The Travel Guarantee Fund - See which benefits this means for you - click here
GENERAL
- Transport to/from Porto and Santiago de Compostela
- Handling fee EUR 20
- Any local tourist taxes at the hotels
REQUIRED AND PAYABLE LOCALLY
- Ferry crossing to Spain (approx. €5)
OPTIONAL
The following can be selected on the booking form when you book the trip
- Half board (18 dinners, excluding drinks)
- Extra nights before, after, or during the tour
- Airport transfers to/from the accommodation
Practical Information
The price is based upon two people sharing. It is also possible travel alone in a single room. Simply choose "1 person" in the booking form and it will automatically add the single room surcharge.
On this tour you will be on your own supplied with maps, route descriptions and luggage transfers. That means that your time is your own and you have plenty of time to enjoy the stages in your own pace.
Check the price quickly
You can quickly check the price of your desired trip without having to fill out any forms. Here’s how:
- Click on the "Calculate Price" button (you’ll find it in the "Dates and Prices" section) – this will take you to the first pages of the booking form
- Select your preferred date, number of people, room distribution, any extra nights, and any available add-ons you may want
- See the price
Get a quote
If you would like a flight included, or changes made to the trip, you can request a customized offer by clicking the "Get Quote" button at the top of the page. Remember to describe in detail what changes you would like.
The booking process
When you book the trip, we will begin booking hotels and arranging all the practical aspects of your tour. This process typically takes 5–8 working days, but in some cases it may take longer for certain bookings. If you arrange your own transportation, we recommend waiting until we have confirmed your booking before making any arrangements.
Dates
If you can select a date in the trip calendar (in the booking form), then this is a possible start date. We regularly update our trips with sold-out dates; these dates will then appear in red/grey and cannot be selected.
The flights to/from Porto are not included in the price. You can easily find a suitable flight via a flight booking engine such as Momondo or Skyscanner.
Notice: we recommend that you book with us and wait for the confirmation before you book your flights.
Get a quote
If you prefer that we handle your flight, then we would be happy to arrange this for you. You simply book a quote below the map on this page and we will return with a quote as soon as possible (usually within 48 working hours). Please note that we add a handling fee of 45 euro to each flight and this means that the flight will be cheaper if you book it yourself.
For the accommodations, handpicked family-run hotels and guesthouses have been selected for their character and warm hospitality. The standard is 2-3 star tourist class. The hotels are centrally located in the cities and close to the Pilgrim Route. In rare cases, it may be necessary to book accommodation further from the route, but in these cases, transfers will be included so that it does not affect the hiking program.
In the tour itinerary, you can see examples of the hotels we most often use on the tour.
The standard package includes daily breakfast. The breakfast offered will depend on the hotel. Continental breakfast is the norm. A usual setup will be a breakfast buffet that includes fruit, bread, pastries, cheese, cold cuts, coffee, tea and juice. If there is a special breakfast product that you are used to having, then we recommend that you bring it or buy it at the local supermarket.
The dinners availble in the hotels will usually be a "pilgrim menu", where you can choose between three starters, three main courses and a dessert. The starters usually include soup, salad or fish. The main courses are usually fish or meat with fries, potatoes and bread. As a rule, there is the possibility of a vegetarian dish. For dessert, for example cheesecake, creme caramel or ice cream.
The food will vary depending on the area, as each area has its own seasonal and local dishes and specialties. For example, fish will be more common in Galicia, the northern coast and the Portuguese coastal regions rather than in the inland areas.
Regarding lunch, we recommend that you either buy it at the local store in your accommodation city or stop in the cities along the route to buy basics like water, snacks, fruit, etc. You can also eat at small cafés along the way.
Your route description will include guides to water posts and eateries.
Luggage transfer is included on this tour. Upon arrival at the first hotel you will be given luggage tags along with the rest of the welcome package. You fill out the luggage tags and put them on your bags where they will remain for the duration of the tour.
Your luggage is picked up from the hotel lobby around 9am every morning and will arrive at your next hotel at 6pm at the latest (often long before that). If there are any special exceptions to the luggage transfer you will be notified upon arrival.
Luggage transfer includes one bag per guest and the bags can weigh 20kg each.
This journey has difficulty level 2
Grade 2
Easy hiking on reasonably good trails. The day walks will last 4-6 hours in hilly terrain. Anyone in good physical condition can participate. Your luggage will be transported and you only carry a light daypack. Requires comfortable footwear such as trekking shoes or hiking boots.
Read more about our grading system here.
On this tour, you will receive the following documents:
Upon booking
Immediately after booking this trip, you'll recieve a pre-booking-email where you can get a complete overview of your booking. Once the tour is confirmed you get a confirmation email from us along with practical information about the tour.
One month before departure
You will receive a hotel list and final travel documents.
Upon arrival at the first hotel
You'll receive the welcome pack, which contains everything you need for the trip. There will be route descriptions, maps, luggage tags and specific local vouchers. The documents are in English.
Notice: On some tours it is necessary to either print the documents yourself or to bring them electronically.
We recommend taking out travel insurance that covers at least illness, accident, repatriation, lost holiday, luggage and liability. As a customer, you are responsible for taking out the necessary travel insurance to cover these costs.
Before taking out insurance, you should check whether you are already covered by travel or cancellation insurance through your home insurance company, credit card or similar - please note that there may be differences in insurance coverage.
After booking this trip, you get access to various discount schemes.
A hiking holiday on the Portuguese Camino from Porto to Santiago offers varied temperatures during the spring, summer, and autumn months. The spring months, March, April, and May, offer mild temperatures between 13-22 degrees, with moderate rainfall and mild wind conditions. In the summer months, June, July, and August, the temperature rises to 22-30 degrees. Since there can be particularly hot days, we recommend that on these days you start the day's stage early to avoid the midday heat. Rainfall is rare in these months, and there will be light wind conditions, which can feel like pleasant breezes. The autumn months, September and October, offer pleasant temperatures between 18-25 degrees, rainfall increases slightly compared to other periods, and wind conditions remain mild.
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"We look forward to making your holiday dreams come true"
