An inside look at walking the best trails of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago

If you're dreaming of walking the Camino de Santiago but want a quieter, greener, and culturally rich alternative to the French Way, the Portuguese Camino (Camino Portugués) is a perfect choice.

Whether you prefer to explore on your own with maps and support, or join a small guided group, this route offers something for every type of walker. In this blog, we're sharing an inside look at some of the most scenic and memorable stretches along the Portuguese Central and Coastal Routes—all filmed during our own walking tours in the Portuguese Camino. From the Roman roads of Ponte de Lima to the spiritual serenity of the Ruta da Pedra e Auga, here are the trail highlights that will make you fall in love with the journey.

The Portuguese Way has been used by pilgrims since the 12th century, shortly after the discovery of the tomb of St. James in Santiago. It gained popularity as devotion to the apostle spread throughout the Iberian Peninsula. Portuguese royalty and clergy helped maintain the route, building churches and pilgrim hospitals along the way.

Today, it’s the second most popular Camino route after the French Way—favored for its varied landscapes, cultural richness, and authentic local charm. Pilgrims can choose between the Central Route, which runs inland through villages and rolling farmland, or the Coastal Route, which hugs the Atlantic before veering inland toward Santiago. Below you'll find a description of some of our favourite parts of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago:

Walking tour in the portuguese camino de santiago - Ruta da Pedra e da Auga

1. Starting in Style: Porto’s Vibrant Energy

The journey often begins in Porto, Portugal’s northern gem, known for its historic center, iconic bridges, and riverside wine cellars. From here, you can choose to follow the Central Route or the scenic Coastal Route.

Before setting out, pilgrims should visit the Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)—not only to admire its Romanesque architecture but also to pick up the all-important Credencial del Peregrino (pilgrim passport). This document is essential if you plan to receive the Compostela certificate upon reaching Santiago.

📋 To get your Compostela:

You must walk at least the final 100 kilometers (starting around Tui on the Central Route or Vigo on the Coastal route).
You must collect at least two stamps per day (sellos) in your pilgrim passport during the last 100 km.
Stamps are available at churches, albergues, cafés, and local businesses along the way.

As you leave Porto, the yellow arrows guide you through historic neighborhoods and into the open countryside. Whether you’re walking solo or with a group, it’s an exciting beginning.

Wallking tour in the Portuguese Camino de Santiago: yellow arrows

2. Into the Hills: Ponte de Lima & Serra da Labruja

A few days in, you’ll reach Ponte de Lima, one of Portugal’s oldest and most picturesque towns. With its Roman bridge, flower-filled gardens, and lively market square, it's a true gem of the Central Route. This is a great place to rest, recharge, and enjoy the unique charm of northern Portugal.

Just beyond lies the Serra da Labruja—a steep and rugged hill that marks the most challenging ascent on the Central Route. But don’t worry: the climb is well worth the effort. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views, quiet forests, and a real sense of achievement.

3. A Spiritual Pause: Ruta da Pedra e Auga

Near Caldas de Reis, the Camino intersects with the Ruta da Pedra e Auga (Route of Stone and Water)—a magical trail following a forested river path dotted with old mills and small waterfalls. It’s part of the Spiritual Variant, a scenic detour steeped in tranquility and nature.

This path is ideal for a slow, reflective walk. You’ll hear only birdsong and flowing water—far from roads and cities. It’s also a great place to take a break, enjoy a picnic, or stamp your credencial at a rural chapel.

4. Urban Charm: Pontevedra’s Old Town

Back on the main path, the city of Pontevedra welcomes pilgrims with open arms. Its pedestrian-friendly old town is a joy to explore—full of shady squares, tapas bars, and centuries-old churches. The Church of the Pilgrim Virgin (Iglesia da Virxe Peregrina), shaped like a scallop shell, is a must-visit.

Pilgrims often stay overnight here, resting and connecting with others. It’s a great spot to enjoy local Galician food—think octopus (pulpo), empanadas, and Albariño wine.

5. The Final Stretch: Arrival in Santiago de Compostela

The final days of the Portuguese Camino pass through eucalyptus forests, rolling farmland, and sleepy hamlets. With every step, anticipation builds.

When you finally enter Santiago de Compostela, the emotion is real. Pilgrims gather in the Praza do Obradoiro to stare up at the grand cathedral, often cheering, crying, or hugging new friends.

To receive your Compostela:

Head to the Pilgrim’s Office near the cathedral (Arrúa das Carretas).
Present your stamped credencial.
Your name will be entered in the day’s pilgrim log, and you’ll be handed the famous certificate of completion.

Guided or Self-Guided? Choose Your Own Camino

Whether you prefer to walk independently with support or join a small, friendly group, Live Love Hike offers both self-guided and guided tours along the Portuguese Camino.

🟢 Our Self-guided "Walking Tour on the Portuguese Camino: Last 100km to Santiago de Compostela"

Pre-booked accommodation with breakfast in charm hotels from Vigo to Santiago on the last 100km of the coastal variant of the Portuguese Camino
Daily luggage transfer, transfer from Porto to Vigo at the start of the tour and transfer from Santiago de Compostela back to Porto
Route notes, access to our online app for navigation, and 24/7 support;

🔵 Our guided Walking Tour in the Portuguese Camino - a taste of the Central, Coastal and Spiritual routes

Local guide walking with you in a small group in the best parts of the Central and Coastal Camino, including parts of the Central, Coastal and Spiritual variants
Cultural insights, curated stops and all transfers during the tour
All logistics, meals and experiences handled for you locally with an experienced local guide, for the best service possible

Both options emphasize sustainability, comfort, and authenticity—so you can focus on the journey.

Ready to Walk the Portuguese Camino?

From Porto to Santiago, each step is filled with meaning, beauty, and discovery. Whether you’re walking for faith, reflection, or fun, the Portuguese Camino offers an unforgettable experience.

👉 Browse our Walking tours in the Portuguese Camino de Santiago Camino
📩 Have questions? Get in touch with our travel planners using the form below:

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An inside look at walking the best trails of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago

If you're dreaming of walking the Camino de Santiago but want a quieter, greener, and culturally rich alternative to the French Way, the Portuguese Camino (Camino Portugués) is a perfect choice.