14-Day / 13-Night Moderate (Coastal to Central Route via Tui)📜

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to vibrant Porto, famed for its rich history, striking architecture, and world-renowned Port wine. Nestled along the Douro River, its colorful old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, brimming with charm and character.

Leaving your hotel in the centre of Porto, take the metro or a bus to the coastal town of Matosinhos. From there, start your walk with a crossing of the Ponte Móvel de Leça drawbridge. Soon, you reach the golden sands of Leça da Palmeira, where the sea breeze and ocean views begin to shape the rhythm of your walk. Along the way, you pass landmarks such as the Boa Nova Lighthouse, the Chapel of São Paio, and remnants of Iron Age settlements at Castro de São Paio. The path meanders through the fishing villages of Labruge and Vila Chã, each offering cozy cafés and peaceful spots to rest your feet and soak in the local charm. From here, the route transitions through suburban stretches, gradually revealing the Vila do Conde, a historic town with a riverfront promenade and medieval architecture.

From Vila do Conde, you follow quiet streets to Póvoa de Varzim, a lively town with beaches and cafés. The route now follows the Atlantic coast on quiet boardwalks past inviting beaches, sand dunes and pine groves. After Aguçadoura you turn inland for a change of scenery. You might miss the coastal breeze, but get a chance to enjoy woodlands, farms and quiet Apúlia. The final stretch crosses the Cávado River near Fão, leading into Esposende, a peaceful town with a riverfront promenade, lighthouse, and echoes of its shipbuilding past.

The Camino heads inland along cobbled village streets, passing albergues, churches and chapels before joining a scenic woodland path beside the River Neiva. A climb leads to Igreja de Santiago in Castelo do Neiva, the oldest verified Camino site outside Spain. Forests give way to the villages of Chafé and Anha, each with charming churches. After a steep ascent and long descent, you cross the River Lima and arrive in Viana do Castelo, a vibrant coastal town rich in history with a must see hilltop basilica you can access via Portugal’s longest funicular.

This lovely stage begins in the urban heart of Viana do Castelo but quickly transitions into a charming blend of winding village lanes and gently undulating forest paths that hug the hillside. The way is consistently well-marked, guiding you through serene woodland and offering frequent glimpses of the Atlantic and distant mountains. There are several inviting spots to pause, with the riverside restaurant at Cabanas being a standout — perfect for a scenic rest and refreshment. As with the previous day, ample water points provide safe, drinkable water throughout the route, making it a comfortable and rewarding walk.

This long day offers a lot of rewarding experiences. From the beautiful beach at Vila Praia de Âncora, you follow the coast to the pretty little seaside town of Moldedo. As you approach Caminha, Portugal’s picturesque border town, you are welcomed by breathtaking and panoramic views of the Rio Minho and Santa Tecla Mountain, where Portugal meets Spain.

Staying on the Portuguese side of the river, the route now heads inland through quiet villages and forested paths, with occasional views of the Minho River and the hills of Galicia across the border. The terrain is varied but gentle, with well-marked trails and peaceful countryside. Highlights include tranquil stretches near Lanhelas and Seixas, and the approach to Vila Nova de Cerveira, a town known for its art scene, riverside gardens, and medieval center.

Leaving Vila Nova de Cerveira, the Camino winds gently along the banks of the Minho River, tracing the natural border between Portugal and Spain. The path is serene and mostly flat, passing through quiet hamlets and stretches of riverside greenery. As you approach Valença, the imposing fortress walls signal the final Portuguese stop before crossing into Galicia. The international bridge offers a symbolic and scenic transition, with sweeping views of the river below. On the Spanish side, Tui welcomes pilgrims with its medieval charm, cobbled streets, and the striking Cathedral of Santa María, perched above the town. It’s a contemplative and picturesque stage, marking the end of one country and the beginning of another.

For many pilgrims, the Camino Portuguese hike from Tui to O Porriño is a gentle and scenic introduction to the Camino’s rhythm and offers peaceful walking through medieval streets, quiet forests, and small villages. Beginning in the charming town of Tui, you pass landmarks like the cathedral and cross into a mix of countryside and wooded paths. Near Orbenlle, the trail splits, you can take a shorter industrial path or follow a more scenic and recommended route along the river. The journey finishes in O Porriño, a welcoming town with beautiful architecture and plenty of places to rest. Overnight in Tui, after a short transfer.

Leaving O Porriño, after a short morning transfer, the route continues through a mix of urban outskirts and quiet countryside. The path climbs gently toward the village of Mos, where pilgrims often pause at the chapel of Santiaguiño before tackling a steeper ascent. From the top, the trail descends through forested paths and small hamlets, offering scenic views of the valley and glimpses of Redondela in the distance. The final stretch leads into the town itself, where the central and coastal Camino routes converge, making it a lively spot with plenty of pilgrim energy. Redondela’s charming streets and welcoming atmosphere make it a satisfying end to this stage.

A scenic and varied stage that blends forest paths, Roman roads, and coastal views. Leaving Redondela, the trail climbs steadily through quiet neighbourhoods and wooded hills, offering glimpses of the Vigo estuary. After reaching the coast again at the lovely town of Arcade, pilgrims cross the historic Ponte Sampaio bridge. The route then climbs again and winds through peaceful countryside and shady forests, with occasional chapels and pilgrim shrines along the way. Near Pontevedra, you can choose between the main road or a more tranquil riverside path through Tomeza. The stage ends in the lively city of Pontevedra, known for its charming old town, the Roman bridge of Ponte do Burgo and the scallop-shaped Church of the Pilgrim Virgin.

A scenic, peaceful and reflective hike, winding through quiet countryside, mossy forests, and small Galician villages. Leaving the city, the path follows old Roman roads and rural lanes, gradually transitioning into green corridors lined with stone walls and shaded by trees. A highlight is the optional detour to the waterfalls at Barosa. The stage ends in Caldas de Reis, a charming spa town known for its thermal springs and riverside setting. Many pilgrims enjoy dipping their feet in the warm waters – a simple but memorable reward after a day on the trail.

Passing through peaceful villages like Carracedo and San Miguel de Valga, the route leads through scenic countryside and woodland paths. You pass historic churches, and rustic water mills, with occasional cafés offering a welcome break. The last section follows the River Sar into Padrón, home to the Igrexa de Santiago and the legendary Pedrón stone, marking the spot where the boat carrying St James’ remains is said to have landed.

The final, slightly longer stage of the Camino Portuguese from Padrón to Santiago de Compostela is both emotional and symbolic. The path begins with quiet rural lanes and historic churches, including Iria Flavia, a site deeply tied to the legend of Saint James. As you continue, the route gradually shifts from countryside to urban outskirts, with stretches of pavement and gentle climbs. Though not the most scenic part of the Camino, the anticipation builds with every step. Eventually, the spires of Santiago’s cathedral come into view, and the trail leads you into the heart of the city through bustling streets and historic gates. Reaching the Praza do Obradoiro and standing before the cathedral is a moment of reflection, joy, and accomplishment—a fitting end to your pilgrimage.

There are regular flights from Santiago Airport as well as bus and train services from Santiago to other Spanish cities and airports. Full details provided upon booking.