The Portuguese Way - From Porto
Coastal route
The Portuguese Way > The Portuguese Way - From Porto (Coastal route)
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The Portuguese Way for the Camino de Santiago from Porto through the coast is a beautiful and scenic route that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. This route is known for its charming fishing villages, sandy beaches, and delicious seafood.
Along the way, pilgrims can visit historic landmarks such as the Bar-style Matriz Church and the Romanesque-style Santiago Church. The Portuguese Way is a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone seeking adventure and spiritual growth.
3/5
Difficulty
Porto
Start
260 Km
Distance
13
Nights
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Favourable months to travel
Peak season
Shoulder season
Off season
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BASIC PACKAGE
LUXURY PACKAGE
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This package includes:
Nights in hostels and rural houses with breakfast
Travel
insurance
24h assistance
Room with private bathroom
Welcome pack with digital credential
Route itinerary
Free cancellation
up to 15 days before
You deserve a break, enjoy it in the best way possible.
Walk the same route but with better accommodations thanks to our selection of high standing hotels.
Read more info about our accommodations and how our team handpicked the best venues.
This package includes:
All the basic package services
+
Luxurious accommodations
Instead of hostels and rural houses
Transfer to hotel
If your accommodation deviates
slightly from your itinerary.
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Itinerary
Stage 1
Porto - Povoa de Varzim
27 km
The journey starts where the standard Portuguese Way does, though soon diverges with two different paths; one along the coast, also called the litoral way and another inland, also called the mainland way. Leaving Porto's outskirts, we will traverse coastal regions and beaches until we arrive at Povoa de Varzim.
Povoa de Varzim - Esposende
Stage 2
22 km
Our litoral way continues along the picturesque coastline, bringing us to beautiful beaches and quaint coastal villages.
Esposende - Viana do Castelo
Stage 3
24 km
Today's trek from Esposende to Viana do Castelo is mixed with rural trails and paved streets. Crossing its iconic bridge brings us into the town of Viana do Castelo.
Viana do Castelo - Vila Praia de Áncora
Stage 4
19 km
A tranquil walking day awaits. If time permits and weather conditions are favorable, you might enjoy a refreshing swim upon reaching Vila Praia de Ancora.
Vila Praia de Áncora - A Guarda
Stage 5
13 km
Today marks our entrance into the northern Spanish region of Galicia after exploring Portugal for several days. To continue on this part of the journey, you should reserve a spot using Xacobeo Transfer at www.xacobeotransfer.com or by calling +34 613011226. For those desiring a longer walk today, Oia is an option for extending your trek.
A Guarda to Baiona
Stage 6
33 km
This long stretch can be split into two shorter sections with a stopover in Oia situated midway between A Guarda and Baiona.
Baiona– Vigo
Stage 7
23 km
You embark from Baiona, a quaint town celebrated for receiving the first reports of America's discovery. The caravel Pinta arrived here upon its return from the new world. Journeying from Baiona will expose you to Nigrán's scenic beaches and breathtaking views of the Cíes Islands. Approaching Vigo, Galicia’s largest city, the scenery will change to an urban landscape.
Vigo - Redondela
Stage 8
16 km
From Vigo to Redondela, enjoy the stunning views of Vigo Estuary off to your left. The walk is shorter and less strenous, and even if you feel tired, you can always go for a swim as the Portuguese coastal way gives you plenty of beach and water bodies to do so.
Redondela – Pontevedra
Stage 9
19,8 km
Reaching Pontevedra signifies roughly the midpoint of your journey on the Portuguese Camino to the Santiago de Compostela. The city greets you with its historic core, winding alleys paved with cobblestones, and a mix of Romanesque and Gothic structures like the Church of La Peregrina — dedicated to an influential figure in Jacobean culture — as well as Santa María la Mayor Basilica, Leña Plaza, and Pontevedra Museum which showcases a broad array of art spanning from prehistoric times up to modern works.
Stage 10
Pontevedra – Caldas de Rei
21,5 km
As you depart Pontevedra via the historic Burgo Bridge, delight in stunning vistas over Lérez River and its landscape. Passing through Barro towards Caldas de Reis, make sure not to miss exploring Barosa River Natural Park’s captivating mills and waterfalls nestled deep in Galician nature — an ideal rejuvenation point before concluding your pilgrimage.
Caldas de Rei – Padrón
Stage 11
18,6 km
Your journey today meanders calmly through hamlets dotted along this section of Galicia. Padrón emerges importantly as both the first land spotted by Saint James’ ship carrying his remains and home to notable writers like Rosalía de Castro and Camilo José Cela.
Stage 12
Padrón - Santiago de Compostela
24,6 km
This final leg of this Camino Portugues Coastal is the lengthiest so starting early is prudent. It initiates through bucolic settings similar to earlier stages but gradually merges into urban landscapes nearing Santiago. Upon arrival in Santiago remember to visit the Pilgrim’s Office with your Pilgrim Passport should you seek issuance of your “Compostela” or Pilgrim Certificate.
Congratulations!
Frequently asked questions
Q
What is the Pilgrim's Credential?
The pilgrim's credential is essentially a pass that you'll need to collect stamps on if you wish to receive the Compostela certificate. It's also required for staying in the network of hostels along the Camino de Santiago. When you book with us, we’ll take care of it!
Find more information concerning your “Compostela” here.
Q
What should you do upon arriving in Santiago de Compostela?
Upon arrival, it's common to request the Compostela certificate. To do so, you must have walked at least 100 km (62 miles) or cycled 200 km (125 miles). It's also a tradition to attend the Pilgrim's Mass at the Santiago Cathedral. Afterwards, you'll have plenty of time to explore the city.
Q
How many stages does the Camino de Santiago have?
The number of stages on the Camino de Santiago can vary depending on whether you're walking or biking. Typically, walking stages are about 20 kilometers each (12.5 miles), while biking stages are around 50 kilometers (31 miles). The terrain and the pilgrim's physical condition also affect the division of stages. While each route can be broken down differently, some common stage suggestions are: 33 for the French Way, 28 for the Portuguese Way, 12 for the Portuguese Coastal Route or 5 for the English Way.
Q
If I add extras to my Camino de Santiago trip, will I keep the same itinerary?
Adding extras to your Camino de Santiago trip might change your itinerary. Depending on your specific requests, we can adjust your itinerary to better suit your needs. We also consider weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Adding extras may allow you to enjoy more days at hotels or other accommodations along the way. Contact us to tailor your trip perfectly to your preferences.
Q
Is it safe to travel alone on the Camino de Santiago?
Yes, many pilgrims choose to walk the Camino de Santiago alone and find it a deeply spiritual experience. Making friends along the way is also common. If walking solo, it’s wise to travel when other pilgrims are around to avoid isolation. During mountain stages, especially in bad weather, it's advisable to walk with others. If you prefer not to go alone, you can join an organized group.
Q
Which Camino de Santiago route is the easiest?
The Camino routes through Portugal are often considered the easiest. Both the Central Portuguese Way and the Portuguese Coastal Way are very manageable, as they feature minimal elevation changes.
Q
Can families with children, older people, and couples Do the Camino de Santiago?
Absolutely! Families with children, older individuals, and couples can all enjoy the Camino de Santiago. Each year, we see many diverse groups making the journey together. While age and group type are not barriers, they do require some thoughtful planning. For families with children, it's essential to be cautious on smaller, unpaved sections of the route. Designing your trip with these considerations in mind will ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone. Contact us for personalized tips and advice.
Q
How many kilometers do you walk per day?
Daily stages should ideally range between 20 to 25 kilometers (12.5 to 15.5 miles), though this can vary based on the difficulty of the stage and the pilgrim's physical condition. An estimated time could be between 4.5/5 hours of walking.
Tips
"Our family had an unforgettable experience with Welcome Camino! It was the perfect way to explore northern Spain and truly embrace the magic of the Camino de Santiago."
Carmen & Cristobal