When they talk to you about the Way of St. James, this is the second busiest route and is experiencing strong growth in pilgrims, both the Central Way and the one that comes from the Coast. Within this, there are some stages that we consider more interesting and we are delighted to explain them to you so that you can get to know them better before embarking on them.
We know that this experience will be unique and one that you will remember forever. We will help you experience this “adventure” your way and assist you with planning your Way based on our extensive experience.
You can start the Way at any location along the route and finish it wherever you wish, whether in Santiago de Compostela or another town along the Way – it’s up to you.
When they talk to you about the Way of St. James, this is the second busiest route and is experiencing strong growth in pilgrims, both the Central Way and the one that comes from the Coast. Within this, there are some stages that we consider more interesting and we are delighted to explain them to you so that you can get to know them better before embarking on them.
We know that this experience will be unique and one that you will remember forever. We will help you experience this “adventure” your way and assist you with planning your Way based on our extensive experience.
You can start the way in any town along the route and finish it the same way.
You can start the Way wherever you want, in Santiago de Compostela or in another town along the Way – you decide.
Most of the route runs through our neighboring country (Portugal).
The Jacobean cult has had in the Portuguese Way, a fundamental territory to understand the true international dimension of the phenomenon of pilgrimages. This route gained relevance from the 12th century, after Portugal's independence, where the flow of pilgrims to the North of the Peninsula was establishing cultural, economic, and spiritual ties, across borders. Its layout inherits old roads and paths, such as the Via XIX, built in the 1st century AD, which connected Braga with Astorga, through Ponte de Lima, Tui, Pontevedra, Santiago, and Lugo, and was one of the most important Roman roads. Due to the pilgrimage to Santiago, a significant part of its road network was configured from South to North, taking into account the Way of St. James, so throughout it. A long Way, about 650 Kms, from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela that millions of pilgrims have traveled, to kneel before the Apostle's tomb, equivalent in distance and historical importance to the French Way, the Northern Way, or the Via de la Plata. From Porto (Central Way), it moves inland through towns like Barcelos, Ponte de Lima, and Valença do Minho, from where it enters Galicia through Tui, already in Spain, continues through Porriño, Redondela, Pontevedra, Caldas de Reis, Padrón, where the ancient "Pedrón" is kept, and finally, Santiago.
There are numerous reasons for us to make our pilgrimage to Santiago via this historic route, among which we cite the most important:
It’s a journey through the history of the culture of Spain and Portugal, so close yet so far in many aspects, with countless common ties that have produced an interaction of knowledge, traditions, and historical events of enormous importance in the course of history.
Now that you know what this route offers for the pilgrim, you might be envisioning the journey in your head. It sounds very beautiful, and the truth is that it is, but for an excellent experience, it is essential to plan the Portuguese Way:
Best Time to Walk the Portuguese Way
The choice of the best time to walk the French Way depends on various factors such as climate, the influx of pilgrims, and personal preferences. Traditionally, the busiest months are from May to September, taking advantage of the warmer climate and the longer days. However, each season has its own characteristics.
It's an ideal time for many. The landscape comes to life, with green fields and wildflowers. The temperatures are pleasant, although there may be rain. The influx is moderate, which allows for a quieter experience.
Although it is the high season, with more pilgrims on the way and greater activity in towns and cities, you should also consider the high temperatures.
Similar to spring in terms of weather, autumn offers a landscape with ochre tones and cooler temperatures. There are fewer pilgrims, allowing for a more introspective and peaceful experience.
It is the least crowded time. Some sections can be challenging due to cold, snow, or rain. However, it is ideal for those seeking solitude and reflection. It's crucial to check the availability of accommodations as many close during this season.
The distance to be covered varies significantly depending on the pilgrim and their planning. On average, you should walk between 20 and 25 kilometers per day, although you will always decide what you want to do. It's important to take into account the terrain conditions and the weather. Some stages can be more challenging due to steep terrain or adverse weather conditions, which could reduce the distance covered in a day. Planning ahead, taking these variables into consideration, ensures a more comfortable and satisfying experience. Finally, flexibility is key. Each pilgrim should adjust the daily distance according to their needs and abilities, ensuring a memorable and enriching journey.
The Portuguese Way is a safe itinerary for pilgrims thanks to good signage, established infrastructure, and the presence of other walkers and locals, who can help, guide, or advise you on any needs you may have. However, as with any trip, it's important to take certain precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, mainly knowing the places you will pass through and the emergency phone numbers of each country (usually 112), as well as having one of the numerous guides and applications that provide extensive information on the route to follow. The route is well marked with the famous yellow arrows, scallop shells, and other types of signs, minimizing the risk of getting lost.
Although you decide your Way, the stages you take and the route will depend, to a large extent, on the time you have available to do it, the final destination, and the kilometers you want to walk per day.
As a guide, the “usual” stages tend to be 20 to 25 Kms per day.
However, there are some “typical” routes that the majority of pilgrims usually take, to some extent, because they coincide with localities that have acceptable services, both for accommodation and for food, health, etc.
We mention some of the most common stretches. that are usually done, depending on what was previously explained:
From Porto to Tui (8 days)
From Tui to Santiago de Compostela (7 days)
*You can design your route as you wish, both in terms of distance per stage and days on the Way.
Just like if you do the Way on foot, there are no totally defined stages if you want to do the Way by bicycle, as it will depend on what was previously exposed for the walking routes.
As a general rule, cyclists tend to do stages of 40/60 Kms per day.
We will mention some of the most common stages:
Stage 1: Porto to Barcelos (52 Kms)
Stage 2: Barcelos to Tui (74 Kms)
Stage 3: Tui to Pontevedra (52 Kms)
Stage 5: Pontevedra to Santiago de Compostela (64 Kms)
In case you still have doubts, we will answer the most common questions regarding the Portuguese Way:
It covers approximately 250 kilometers, starting in Porto, from Tui it is 117 Kms, and from A Guarda it is 155 Kms until reaching Santiago de Compostela. This translates into a wide variety of landscapes. from mountains and plains to forests and picturesque towns.
The most common starting points are Tui, followed by Porto. These localities mark the beginning, from which they depart towards Santiago, from this ancient route that attracts pilgrims from all over the world, offering a unique mix of history, culture, and spirituality before embarking on the journey towards Santiago de Compostela.
All this will depend on the time that each pilgrim wants to spend on the Way and if they wish to obtain “la Compostela”, which requires having walked, at least, the last 100 Kms of the Way of Santiago.
You only need your passport or ID card, especially if you are traveling from outside the Schengen Area.
It is also advisable to carry a health insurance card to cover any health eventualities during the trip.
Previous training is advisable, especially if you are not used to long walks. Starting a regimen of regular walks weeks before the trip helps prepare the body, reducing the risk of injury and fatigue during the journey. This training improves physical endurance and allows testing and adapting to the footwear and equipment you will use.
Beyond physical preparation, mental attitude and the ability to adapt and enjoy the experience are equally important.
On the Portuguese Way, pilgrims have a wide variety of accommodation options. The most traditional are the pilgrim hostels, which offer basic facilities at economical prices. These can be public or private, with shared dormitories and often kitchens and common areas.
In addition, there are hostels, guesthouses, country houses, and hotels for those seeking more comforts and privacy. In some localities, you can also find rural houses and bed and breakfasts, providing a more intimate and cozy experience.
It is essential to carry light and functional luggage. Include:
Comfortable clothing suitable for different climates, preferably quick-drying.
Well-fitted hiking shoes are crucial.
Do not forget a waterproof jacket, cap, and sunscreen.
Also, carry a refillable water bottle, snacks, a basic first aid kit, and a flashlight or headlamp.
Yes, it is possible to do the Portuguese Way both by bicycle and on horseback. The bike route is a popular option for those looking for a different experience or have less time. They allow covering greater daily distances, although they require proper physical preparation.
However, special planning is needed regarding routes, accommodations, and logistics for the transport and care of the bicycle or horse.
To obtain the Compostela, you must have traveled at least the last 100 kilometers on foot or horseback, or 200 kilometers by bicycle. During your trip, use the Pilgrim’s Credential to get stamps at each stage, showing your progress.
Once in Santiago, present your stamped Credential at the Pilgrim’s Office. There they will verify your stamps and, if you meet the requirements, they will give you the Compostela.
