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Porto, Portugal
Start your Camino at the iconic Sé Cathedral where pilgrims collect their first stamp. Explore the Ribeira waterfront and fuel up on a Francesinha before hitting the trail. Stock up on supplies and get your pilgrim passport (credencial) here.
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Vila do Conde, Portugal
A charming coastal town about 27km north of Porto, often the first overnight stop on the Coastal route. Visit the impressive Convento de Santa Clara and get your credencial stamped. The town has good albergues and seafood restaurants along the waterfront.
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Póvoa de Varzim, Portugal
A lively seaside resort town just a short walk north of Vila do Conde. The coastal promenade is beautiful and the town has a strong fishing heritage visible at the harbour. Great spot to enjoy fresh grilled fish before continuing north.
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Esposende, Portugal
A quiet coastal town at the mouth of the River Cávado, roughly 18km from Póvoa de Varzim. The route here offers stunning Atlantic ocean views and dune walking through natural park landscapes. Cross the old bridge over the Cávado for a memorable photo stop.
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Viana do Castelo, Portugal
One of the most beautiful cities on the Portuguese Camino, sitting at the mouth of the Lima River. Climb up to the Basílica de Santa Luzia for panoramic views and stamp your credential in the historic old town. Try the local papas de sarrabulho stew to refuel after the long stage.
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Caminha, Portugal
A picturesque fortified border town where Portugal meets Spain across the Minho River. The medieval Praça do Conselho is one of the finest squares in northern Portugal — don't miss the Gothic clock tower. Take the small ferry across the Minho into Spain to continue the Coastal route.
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A Guarda, Spain
Your first stop in Galicia after the ferry crossing from Caminha. Climb Monte de Santa Tegra to see ancient Celtic ruins (castro) with sweeping views over the Minho estuary. Fresh percebes (barnacles) and pulpo are local Galician specialities to try here.
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Baiona, Spain
A stunning coastal town famous as the first European port to receive news of Columbus's discovery of America in 1493. Walk the historic castle walls (Castelo de Monterreal) for incredible Atlantic views. The old town has excellent tapas bars and a welcoming pilgrim albergue.
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Vigo, Spain
The largest city on the Coastal Camino, offering a good resupply point and rest day if needed. The Casco Vello (old town) and the famous Rúa das Ostras oyster street are must-visits. The route bypasses much of the urban sprawl via scenic coastal paths and the Cíes Islands viewpoints.
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Redondela, Spain
A key junction town where the Coastal route merges with the Central Portuguese Camino. The dramatic 19th-century railway viaducts towering over the town are a defining Camino image. From here the trail follows the classic Camino Portugués inland toward Santiago.
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Pontevedra, Spain
One of the finest medieval old towns in Galicia and a highlight of the final stretch to Santiago. Wander the perfectly preserved granite plazas and visit the Basílica de Santa María la Mayor. Stock up here — it's one of the last larger towns before the final push to the cathedral.
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Caldas de Reis, Spain
A small spa town known for its thermal hot springs — perfect for soaking tired pilgrim feet. The town sits along the River Umia and has a calm, welcoming atmosphere with good albergues. This is typically the last overnight stop before arriving in Santiago de Compostela.
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Santiago de Compostela, Spain
The magnificent end point of the Camino — arrive at the iconic Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela and collect your Compostela certificate. Attend the Pilgrim Mass and witness the famous Botafumeiro incense burner if timing allows. Celebrate in the lively old town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) with fellow pilgrims over Galician wine and octopus.