Everyone has their own favorite camino. Which the best one is really depends on what you are looking for or how much time you have. The best Camino de Santiago route ultimately depends on your personal preferences, physical abilities, and the experience you’re seeking. Here are some popular Camino routes to consider:

Camino Francés: This is the most traditional and well-traveled route, offering a diverse landscape and a wide range of accommodations. It’s ideal for first-time pilgrims and those seeking a social experience. 21 to 31 days

Camino Portugués: Known for its coastal and inland routes, the Camino Portugués is a scenic option with historical significance. It’s a good choice for those who prefer a bit less crowded path than the Frances. 10 to 15 days

Camino del Norte: This route follows the northern coast of Spain, offering stunning ocean views and a bit more challenging terrain. It’s suitable for experienced hikers and individuals who appreciate natural beauty. 25 to 35 days

Camino Primitivo: As the oldest Camino routes, the Camino Primitivo is characterized by its rugged terrain and unspoiled landscapes. It’s a great option for adventurous pilgrims seeking a less-traveled path. 10 to 14 days

Other less popular Caminos: Via de la Plata, Camino Sanabres, Camino Ingles, Camino de Invierno, Camino Olvidado, Camino Vasco, Camino San Salvador are just some of the many alternative routes.

When choosing the best Camino de Santiago route, consider factors such as distance, difficulty, scenery, and the type of experience you hope to have.

Walking the Camino is not quite as cheap as you would expect. The exact figure for the total cost of walking the Camino de Santiago, can vary greatly depending on individual preferences and circumstances. However, many pilgrims budget around €25-50 per day for a modest but comfortable pilgrimage experience. A bed in an Albergue will cost from €10 to €25 a night, and eating a Menu del Dia or Pilgrims Menu will set you back another €10 to €15.

The credential, also known as the “pilgrim’s passport” or “credencial del peregrino” in Spanish, is a document that serves as both a record of your journey and a means of identification along the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes.The credential contains your personal details, including your name and nationality. It serves as a form of identification, especially when staying in pilgrim accommodations (albergues) along the Camino.
You can obtain a credential from various sources before starting your Camino journey. These include pilgrim associations, churches, hostels, tourist offices, and some online resources such as Casa Ivar.

Remember to pack as lightly as possible, prioritizing essentials and versatile items. It’s also helpful to check the weather forecast for your planned route and season to adjust your packing list accordingly. Additionally, keep in mind that laundry facilities are available at most all albergues or hostels.
Please see the packing list section and check list below.

It’s essential to choose footwear that you feel comfortable walking in for extended periods. Some pilgrims prefer the support and protection of boots, while others opt for the lightweight comfort of trail runners. But always consider factors like the weather forecast, terrain conditions the time of year you’re walking, and the specific route you’re taking when making your decision. In the winter and rainy seasons, and the Camino Primitivo, boots are probably a better choice.
Make sure there’s enough space as your feet may swell during long days of walking. A good idea is to upsize a bit. Depending on your foot shape and arch support needs, you might benefit from using aftermarket insoles as they usually provide extra support and comfort.

The length of each stage can vary depending on the specific route taken and the starting point of the day, but on the Camino Frances and Norte they generally range from around 15 to 20 kilometers. Some stages can be shorter or longer depending on the terrain, accommodations available, and individual preferences of the pilgrim. On the Via de la Plata the stages tend to be longer ranging from 20 to 30.

The Frances is 790 Km – 490 Miles from SJPP and typically take about 30 to 40 days to walk
The Portuguese da Costa and Central are about 350 km and take 10 to 14 days.
The Camino del Norte is 850km – 513 Miles and takes about 35 to 43 days
The Via de la Plata is 1007 km – 620 Miles and takes about 45 to 55 days
The Camino Primitivo is 315 km – 195 Miles and can be done in 12 to 18 days
The Ingles is 120 km – 75 Miles and takes 5 to 7 days to walk

Many people choose to walk shorter sections of the Camino instead of the entire route. Most Spaniards start their Camino Frances in Sarria 113 km or Portugués in Tui 116 km.