© José Manuel Guerrero · Fotografía propia · © Todos los derechos reservadosFirst steps
© José Manuel Guerrero · Fotografía propia · © Todos los derechos reservadosFirst steps
Walking the Camino de Santiago for the first time raises plenty of questions: which route do I choose? how many days do I need? where do I start? The good news is that there's no single right way to do it. This guide helps you make the first decisions so everything else falls into place on its own.
Updated on August 12, 2026
The Camino Francés is the best choice for most first-timers: it's perfectly waymarked, it has hostels and services at every step and an unbeatable pilgrim atmosphere. The Portuguese (from Porto) is comfortable and increasingly popular, and the English Way from Ferrol is ideal if you only have a few days.
If you're after mountains and solitude, the Primitivo and the Norte are more demanding and spectacular, but it's wise to have some experience before taking them on.
You don't have to walk an entire Camino. Many people do it in sections over several years, or walk just the final 100 km. From Sarria (on the Francés) you reach Santiago in about 5-6 days, the most common option for earning the Compostela with little time.
Reckon on 20 to 25 km per day if you're walking; adjust it to your fitness and the time you have. It's better to walk at an easy pace and enjoy it than to force marathon stages.
You'll need the pilgrim's credential to sleep in hostels and to request the Compostela on arrival. Get it from Jacobean associations, parishes or the hostel you start from.
Decide whether you'll sleep in hostels (cheaper and more sociable) or in guesthouses and hotels (more comfort), and whether you'll carry your backpack yourself or use a luggage transfer service between stages.
The hostels and lodgings on the most popular stages (Sarria, O Cebreiro, the last 100 km) fill up fast, especially in summer and during a Holy Year. Book ahead to secure a spot at the best price.
Frequently asked questions
The Camino Francés, for its waymarking, services and atmosphere. If you're short on time, the final 100 km from Sarria or the English Way from Ferrol are excellent alternatives.
At least the final 100 km on foot or on horseback, or the final 200 km by bicycle, reaching Santiago. That's why Sarria is the most common starting point on the Francés.
Yes, it's very common. You can complete sections on different getaways; just make sure you stamp your credential to prove the route, especially over the final 100 km.