The Camino Portugués, or Portuguese Way, is a historic pilgrimage route that extends from Portugal into Spain, ultimately leading to Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. It is one of the most popular routes to Santiago, offering pilgrims diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and historical sites along the way.
The Camino Portugués traditionally begins in Lisbon, Portugal, although there are several starting points within Portugal depending on the route chosen. One of the main routes starts in Lisbon and follows the Portuguese coast northward, passing through towns and villages such as Santarém, Coimbra, and Porto. Another route, the Coastal Camino, follows the Atlantic coastline, offering stunning views of the sea and passing through seaside towns like Vila do Conde and Viana do Castelo.
After crossing the border into Spain, the Camino Portugués continues through Galicia, where pilgrims merge with the Camino de Santiago at the town of Tui. From there, the route passes through picturesque Galician countryside and historic towns like Pontevedra and Padrón before reaching Santiago de Compostela.
The Camino Portugués is known for its rich cultural heritage, charming landscapes, and warm hospitality along the way. Pilgrims have the opportunity to explore historic churches, sample local cuisine, and interact with fellow pilgrims from around the world. The journey culminates in Santiago de Compostela, where pilgrims receive their Compostela certificate and have the chance to attend the Pilgrim’s Mass at the majestic Santiago Cathedral.
Timeframe and Stages of the Camino Portugués from Lisbon
Timeframe and Stages of the Camino Portugués from Porto