Camino de Santiago

The Portuguese Camino

A Journey Through Time, Faith, and Landscape

The Portuguese Camino:
An Ancient Road with International Soul

To understand the true international reach of the Portuguese Camino, one must look beyond maps—this is a route woven into the spiritual and cultural fabric of the Iberian Peninsula. Its significance grew particularly from the 12th century onwards, following Portugal’s independence. But its path predates even that, built upon the bones of the Via XIX, a Roman road from the 1st century AD that once linked Braga to Astorga via Ponte de Lima, Tui, Pontevedra, Santiago, and Lugo.

From medieval monarchs to modern wanderers, the Portuguese Camino continues to unite travellers from across the world with a shared purpose: to reach Santiago de Compostela—and perhaps, something deeper.

A Pilgrimage Fit for a Queen (and a King)

Pilgrims of every era have walked this route, but some left their mark more visibly. In the 14th century, Queen Isabel of Portugal, revered as the “Holy Queen”, made the Camino and offered her crown at the altar of Saint James. She was later buried in Coimbra, her pilgrim’s staff by her side. In 1502, King Manuel I of Portugal walked from Lisbon to Santiago, later commissioning a perpetual lamp to burn in the cathedral as a symbol of his devotion. Their example helped build the enduring tradition of pilgrimage in Portugal—a tradition that lives on today.

Modern Ways to Walk the Portuguese Camino

Tui to Santiago: A Classic Final Stretch

This 7-day route is the most popular way to experience the Portuguese Camino, covering the last 100 km required for the Compostela. Starting just across the border in Tui, pilgrims walk through O Porriño, Redondela, Pontevedra, Caldas de Reis, and Padrón, finishing at the great Cathedral of Santiago. A perfect introduction for first-time pilgrims.

Baiona to Santiago: The Scenic Coastal Route

Beginning in the lovely Galician town of Baiona, this route joins the coastal variant of the Portuguese Camino, offering sea views, quiet paths, and the chance to follow a lesser-trodden road. Fewer crowds, fresh Atlantic air, and a peaceful energy make this route a favourite for many repeat pilgrims.

Porto to Santiago by Bike: Pedal Your Pilgrimage

For the active traveller, cycling the Portuguese Camino from Porto to Santiago combines the beauty of the inland towns with the satisfaction of covering more ground each day. Ideal for those with limited time, or who simply prefer two wheels to two feet. The infrastructure is improving yearly, with bike-friendly stops and smoother stages.

Looking Ahead: Hybrid Pilgrimage Options

Some pilgrims may wish to combine cycling and walking—for instance, cycling from Porto to Tui, then walking the final stage to earn the Compostela on foot. This kind of hybrid experience is something we are currently looking into—keep an eye on this space for future announcements.

Why Choose the Portuguese Camino?

The Portuguese Camino offers a more peaceful, reflective alternative to the French Way. Pilgrims pass through vineyards, olive groves, coastal paths, and historic cities, each town leaving its imprint on the soul. Architectural gems line the way: the Romanesque cathedral in Tui, the Baroque churches of Pontevedra, the healing waters of Caldas de Reis, and the ancient stone bridge in Ponte de Lima.

Culinary Delights to Fuel Your Journey

The Portuguese Camino not only offers a rich tapestry of history and culture but also gives pilgrims a chance to savor Portugal’s exquisite culinary offerings. From savory dishes to sweet treats, here are three must-try foods that will fuel your journey.

Bacalhau à Brás
While bacalhau (salted cod) might seem like a staple on every Portuguese menu, Bacalhau à Brás stands out as one of the most beloved dishes. It’s a comforting and hearty meal made with shredded salted cod, thin fries, scrambled eggs, and a touch of parsley. It’s a perfect meal to replenish your energy after a long day’s walk, and you’ll find it served in many cafés and taverns along the route.
Pastéis de Nata (Custard Tarts)
No visit to Portugal would be complete without indulging in a Pastel de Nata, the iconic custard tart. With a crispy, flaky pastry shell and a rich, velvety custard filling, these little treats are a pilgrimage of their own! Traditionally served with a dusting of cinnamon, Pastéis de Nata are perfect for a quick breakfast snack or an afternoon pick-me-up. Found in bakeries all across the route, they’re a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Francesinha
If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, consider trying the Francesinha. This indulgent sandwich, native to Porto, is made from layers of bread, steak, ham, and sausage, all smothered in a rich, spicy tomato and beer sauce. It’s then topped with melted cheese and often served with crispy fries. This dish is a true comfort food, offering a satisfying meal after a full day of walking.

Sweet Treats and Pastries

In addition to Pastéis de Nata, Portugal is renowned for a variety of delightful pastries and desserts:

Bolinhos de Bacalhau (Codfish Cakes): Another variation of bacalhau, these crispy codfish cakes are a popular snack and perfect for a quick nibble during your journey.
Toucinho do Céu: A rich almond cake, Toucinho do Céu has a heavenly texture and is often served during special occasions. Made with almonds, sugar, and egg yolks, it’s a treat worth seeking out on your journey, particularly in the northern regions of Portugal.
Queijadas de Sintra: These small, sweet cheese tarts from Sintra are a regional delicacy made with cheese, eggs, and sugar, creating a creamy, indulgent pastry. They’re another excellent option for pilgrims looking for something sweet along the way.

Portuguese Wines

Portugal’s wine culture is rich and varied, with a tradition of producing world-class wines. Along the Portuguese Camino, pilgrims have the opportunity to try some exceptional varieties:

Vinho Verde: Light and refreshing, Vinho Verde is a white wine from the north of Portugal, particularly popular in the Minho region. Slightly effervescent, it pairs beautifully with seafood and lighter dishes.
Port Wine: While not directly along the Camino, Portugal’s famous Port Wine is a must-try for those exploring the northern regions. With its rich, sweet flavour and high alcohol content, it pairs wonderfully with desserts like Toucinho do Céu or Queijadas de Sintra.
Douro Red Wines: If you prefer red wine, the Douro Valley is known for its rich, full-bodied reds made from indigenous Portuguese grape varieties. These wines are known for their depth and complexity and are perfect when paired with hearty meals like Francesinha.

Practical Tips for Pilgrims on the Portuguese Camino

The Portuguese Camino offers a combination of beautiful landscapes, spiritual moments, and rich culture, but it’s also important to be well-prepared. Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your journey:

Distance and Duration: The full Camino route from Porto to Santiago spans approximately 240 km, usually completed over 10 days. Expect varied terrain, from cobbled streets to forest paths, so be sure to wear comfortable, well-broken-in shoes.
Hydration and Sun Protection: The weather can get quite warm during the summer months, so it’s essential to carry plenty of water and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Starting your walking day early in the morning or later in the evening can help you avoid the midday heat.
Luggage Transport: If you’ve accumulated some souvenirs or extra items along the way, consider using a service like sendmybag.com to send them home instead of carrying them on the trail (affiliate link – I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you). It’s a great way to avoid additional weight while still bringing home unique items from the route.

A Little Afterthought…

If you happen to come across them during your pilgrimage, don’t miss the chance to try Hojaldres de Astorga—these delicious pastries are so sweet and sugary, they might just require a well-deserved break! Best saved for those with a hearty appetite for sugar (and not ideal for diabetics, unless they enjoy living life on the edge!), Hojaldres are a true treat for those looking to indulge in something uniquely Spanish. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you about the sugar rush!

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Camino de Santiago

The Portuguese Camino

A Journey Through Time, Faith, and Landscape