The Coastal Camino Portugués
Journey from Porto to Santiago de Compostela on a fully guided pilgrimage along the Atlantic coast, where spectacular scenery, rich culture, and the timeless spirit of the Camino await.
"Andaspain provides the attention to detail that made my experience great. I would not hesitate to use their expertise and I highly recommend them."
Overview of the Camino Portugués
The Camino Portugués Coastal Route is one of the most spectacular ways to experience the Camino de Santiago. Over 271 km (169 miles) and 16 days, you will follow the Atlantic coastline from Portugal into Spain, walking through charming fishing villages, historic towns, sandy beaches, and the lush countryside of Galicia before arriving at the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
Where the Coastal Camino Portugués goes
Your adventure begins in Porto, one of Portugal’s most vibrant and beautiful cities, before heading north along the coast. Along the way, you will visit memorable destinations such as Viana do Castelo, Vigo, Pontevedra, and Padrón, each offering its own unique history, culture, and traditions. The Coastal Route became popular after Queen Isabel of Portugal made the pilgrimage in the 14th century and today remains a favorite among pilgrims seeking a quieter, more scenic alternative to other Camino routes. Boardwalks, ocean views, peaceful beaches, rolling hills, and verdant forests combine to create an unforgettable walking experience.
What you will eat on your tour
Food is always one of the highlights of any Camino journey, and this route showcases the very best of both Portugal and Galicia. Our pilgrims consistently tell us that the cuisine is one of the most memorable aspects of their experience. Enjoy regional specialties such as fresh seafood, bacalhau, pastel de nata, Galician-style octopus, local cheeses, and crisp Albariño wines. We take care of most meals throughout the tour, including some gourmet picnic lunches, while also providing recommendations whenever you have the opportunity to explore on your own.
Where you will sleep
Our accommodations are carefully selected for their comfort, character, quality of service, and proximity to the Camino. Whenever possible, we choose traditional manor houses, historic properties, and locally owned hotels that reflect the culture and architecture of the region. After each day on the trail, you can look forward to a peaceful and comfortable night’s rest.
What your tour includes
This is a fully supported walking tour of the Camino de Santiago. We handle all luggage transportation, allowing you to enjoy the walk without carrying heavy bags. Our support vehicle also meets the group at strategic points throughout the day, providing water, snacks, and access to any essentials you may wish to keep in a day bag.
Most importantly, your Andaspain guide(s) will be with you every step of the way. Our passionate, bilingual Camino experts are dedicated to ensuring your journey is seamless, enriching, and memorable from beginning to end.
Receiving the Compostela
Your pilgrimage concludes in the Plaza del Obradoiro, where you will receive your Compostela certificate from the Pilgrim’s Office before celebrating your achievement with a farewell dinner in Santiago. Whether you are drawn by the spectacular coastal scenery, the rich culture of Portugal and Galicia, or the transformative spirit of the Camino, this fully guided pilgrimage offers an unforgettable journey across two countries and along one of Europe’s most beautiful walking routes.
Day 1: Arrive in Porto
Distance: Tour Start
Tour Start
You will meet your guides at your hotel in Porto for a welcome meeting. You will have the opportunity to meet your fellow group members and ask any questions about your pilgrimage. You will then take a private guided tour of the city of Porto before heading to dinner at our favorite restaurant in town.
Overnight: Porto
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Walk Porto to Boa Nova Lighthouse
Distance: 14.8 km / 9.2 mi
Today, we will walk from Porto to the Boa Nova lighthouse via the Senda Litoral, or coastal path. We begin at the foot of the cathedral, making our way down to the Douro River and following it until we reach the Atlantic Ocean. We then turn northward into the bustling port of Matosinhos, complete with a drawbridge through the docks. Eventually, we arrive at the lighthouse, one of Portugal’s tallest at 46 meters (150 ft) high. Finally, we shuttle to our accommodation in Vila do Conde.
Overnight: Vila do Conde
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3: Walk from Boa Nova Lighthouse to Povoa de Varzim
Distance: 23.7 km / 14.7 mi
The senda continues along the coast, passing sandy beaches, boardwalks, and the quiet seaside town of Lebruge. As we move forward, we’ll encounter a prehistoric castro and a secluded chapel before making our way through rolling dunes to the beach. Next, we pass through Vila do Conde, a town known for its impressive boat-building heritage, before completing the final few kilometers to Povoa de Varzim.
Overnight: Vila do Conde
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4: Walk from Povoa de Varzim to Esposende
Distance: 22.7 km / 14.1 mi
This morning, we’ll walk along miles of scenic boardwalks, as the shoreline gradually becomes wilder. The trail then veers inland, winding through country lanes and lush, green fields before bringing us back to the coast in the charming seaside resort of Esposende, renowned for its excellent surf. The beach, backed by low dunes, is framed by the historic 17th-century São João Baptista Fort and the striking red metal tower of the Esposende lighthouse.
Overnight: Viana do Castelo
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: Walk from Esposende to Viana do Castelo
Distance: 26 km / 16.1 mi
Today marks a change as we leave the Senda Litoral behind and head inland over hills and ridges, through quaint villages, past numerous chapels, and along ancient stone pathways. On the way, we’re treated to some stunning vistas. Our destination, Viana do Castelo, is a gem of a town, rich in maritime history, with much to explore. The Church of Misericórdia stands out as one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Portugal.
Overnight: Viana do Castelo
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Walk from Viana do Castelo to Caminha
Distance: 27 km / 16.8 mi
Today, our route takes us along forest tracks and cobblestone lanes bordered by high stone walls, before a short climb that leads us to Vila Praia de Âncora. We’ll pause for a rest among the rocks at Praia de Moledo, where we can enjoy the expansive views of Santa Tecla in Spain ahead. This marks the last Portuguese town on our Camino, so let’s raise a glass of vinho verde, the local white wine, to celebrate our journey so far. Tomorrow, we cross into Spain!
Overnight: Caminha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Walk from Caminha to Viladesuso
Distance: 23.3 km / 14.5 mi
A short boat ride across the mighty River Minho marks the start of our Spanish adventure. Once on the other side, we climb to the Santa Tecla castro, an impressive archaeological site rich in history. From there, we descend into the town of A Guarda. The trail then follows a scenic walking path along the rugged, dramatic coastline, passing the 12th-century Monastery of Oia. Continuing on, we reach the village of Viladesuso, where we’ll take a shuttle to our accommodation.
Overnight: Baiona
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8: Walk from Viladesuso to Nigrán
Distance: 21.8 km / 13.5 mi
We begin the day with stunning ocean views. The trail then splits and we head slightly inland and uphill along picturesque pathways and ancient stone roads. We’ll pause for lunch in the charming, historic town of Baiona, famous for its connection to Christopher Columbus. Afterward, we journey back in time along the old Roman road known as the Camino Real, crossing ancient bridges as we continue to our destination.
Overnight: Baiona
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Walk from Nigrán to Vigo
Distance: 18.6 km / 11.6 mi
Today, we embrace the hills, with their breathtaking views, tiny chapels, and charming old bridges and fountains. It’s hard to believe that we’re nearing Galicia’s largest city, the bustling port of Vigo. Upon arrival, we’ll experience the lively contrast of its vibrant streets and settle into an evening among the lively plazas and elegant buildings. The old quarter retains its strong maritime charm, providing a striking contrast to the modern amenities of the city’s marinas.
Overnight: Vigo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10: Walk from Vigo to Arcade
Distance: 20.4 km / 12.7 mi
We escape the bustling city onto the Senda da Auga, a peaceful trail of wide dirt paths and country lanes, offering stunning views of the vast Ría de Vigo estuary. After a steep descent, we reach Redondela, where we join the Central Portuguese Camino. The town is famous for its 19th-century viaducts. We then move on to the charming estuary town of Arcade, known as the oyster capital of Galicia. This is a perfect spot for a refreshing dip in the waters by the old Pontesampaio bridge.
Overnight: Pontevedra
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11: Walk from Arcade to Pontevedra
Distance: 12.8 km / 7.9 mi
Today, the Camino Real takes us to Santa Marta, where we walk alongside the River Tameza into the city. Pontevedra thrived during the 15th and 16th centuries as a bustling port and sardine fishing hub. As we enter the historic center, designated a Historic Artistic Site in 1951, we are greeted by the stunning 18th-century Virgen Peregrina Sanctuary, a shrine dedicated to the city’s patron saint. Here, we will take a tour of the city.
Overnight: Pontevedra
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 12: Walk from Pontevedra to Caldas de Reis
Distance: 22 km / 13.8 mi
Today offers a peaceful walk through serene and secluded countryside, following the railway line. The forest paths, lined with eucalyptus and pine, provide a calming atmosphere, perfect for slipping into the rhythm of simply walking—nothing else matters. We arrive in Caldas de Reis, a town famous for its healing thermal waters. Settled by the Celts and Romans, who named it Aquis Celenis, it’s the perfect place to embrace the tradition of soaking weary feet in the steaming waters of the lavadero, a traditional stone wash house.
Overnight: Caldas de Reis
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Walk from Caldas de Reis to Padrón
Distance: 18.4 km / 11.4 mi
Today is a peaceful day of walking, with a few hills, charming forest paths and country roads. Our arrival in Padrón marks an important milestone on the Camino, as this is where the story of Saint James in Iberia began. We’ll take some time to explore, including climbing the narrow 126-step path behind the Convent and Fountain of Carmen to Santiaguiño do Monte, a shrine built on the very rocks where Saint James first preached and performed his first miracle. Padrón is also renowned for its small green peppers, fried whole in olive oil—a truly addictive treat!
Overnight: Caldas de Reis
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 14: Walk from Padrón to Lugar de Adrán
Distance: 17.4 km / 10.8 mi
As we return to Padrón, we will embark on a gentle trail that offers our final, up-close view of rural Galician life. We will pass by an impressive baroque sanctuary at Esclavitud, before climbing through pine forests and country roads. There will be a couple of short stretches of main road leading to the beautiful village of Rúa do Francos, surrounded by ancient oak trees and home to one of the oldest crosses in Galicia.
Overnight: Parada de Francos
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 15: Walk from Lugar de Adrán to Santiago de Compostela
Distance: 8.9 km / 5.5 mi
Today marks the end of your pilgrimage! Congratulations! This afternoon, you will arrive at km 0 in the famous Plaza del Obradoiro. While you check in to the hotel, your guide will head to the pilgrim’s office to get your Compostela certificate. We will then regroup for a private guided tour of the Cathedral before heading to our last celebratory dinner at our favorite restaurant in old town Santiago
Overnight: Santiago de Compostela
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 16: Tour End
Distance: Tour End
Tour End
If today is not Sunday or a holiday, we will offer a guided visit to one of the most popular destinations in Santiago de Compostela, the Mercado de Abastos. This local market has been selling delicious vegetables, fruits, meats, fish and many other local products since 1874.
Finally, it’s time to say good-bye to our Camino family. We hope that you walk away with a great sense of accomplishment, lifelong friendships, and many treasured memories. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for experiencing this magical journey with us at Andaspain and we look forward to seeing you back on the Camino someday.
Extra nights on request.
Meals: Breakfast
What’s included on your tour
- 15 nights’ accommodation
- All breakfasts, 7 lunches and 9 dinners, including wine and other drinks (While we guarantee the number of meals provided, the schedule outlined in the daily itinerary issubject to change based on restaurant availability, weather, and other factors)
- Guided city tours of Porto and Pontevedra
- Guided tour of the Cathedral de Santiago
- Water and snacks along the way
- Luggage transport (limited to one 23 kg / 50 lb piece of luggage per person)
- English and Spanish speaking guide(s)
- The Pilgrim’s Credencial, or Pilgrim’s Passport, and scallop shell
- Camino Portugués Guide Book
What’s not included
- Travel to the start of your tour or from its end
- Meals and drinks not included in your tour
- Extra items purchased on your behalf by your Andaspain guide
- Guide gratuity (265 EUR/person/guide is suggested)
- Additional activities not outlined in the What’s Included section
Highlights of the Coastal Camino Portugués
- Guided city tours of Porto and Pontevedra.
- Guided tour of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
- Being a part of the Camino! You will be walking with people from all over the world all heading to the same place – one of the things that make the Coastal Camino Portugués so special.
- Walking in two countries and crossing the border by boat! The landscape, architecture, language, cuisine, and climate change as you move northwards and into Spain.
- The many monuments, chapels, churches, and cathedrals marking the way, from the magnificent 12th-century cathedral of Porto to the Misericórdia in Viana de Castelo and the Santuario de la Virgen Peregrina in Pontevedra.
- The wild Atlantic Ocean as your travel companion for much of the way with enormous white sand beaches and rocky inlets.
- Arriving at the Plaza de Obradoiro to see the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, along with the familiar faces of all the other pilgrims who have, like you, walked hundreds of miles to get there!
Facts about your tour
- Trip Duration: 16 days / 15 nights
- Walking Distance: 271 km / 169 mi
- Departure City: Porto
- Arrival City: Santiago de Compostela
- Tour Availability: Guided group tour with fixed trip dates
- Accommodation: Excellent hotels, casas rurales, pazos and manor houses
- Transportation: Van or bus (depending on group size)
- Language: English
- Guides: English, Portuguese and Spanish-speaking Camino experts
- Walking Hours: 6-8 hours per day
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Compostela?
After walking at least the Last 100 Kilometers of the Camino de Santiago, walkers can apply for a Compostela certificate issued by the Archdiocese of Santiago de Compostela at the Pilgrim’s Office.
Can I add extra nights to my trip?
It is certainly possible for you to reserve additional nights in hotels before and after your trip. If you are traveling at a busy time of year or to popular destinations (such as Santiago de Compostela), it’s best to reserve beforehand. We can help if you need advice or assistance booking a room – just let us know.
How flexible is the itinerary?
We want to ensure that you have the best experience possible. For this reason, some of the activities outlined on the itinerary are weather dependent. If weather interferes with our original plan (a picnic lunch, for example), we will do another comparable activity, such as eat lunch together at a restaurant. If you would like to expand the itinerary with additional activities, please get in touch with us and we will see if it is possible to do while on your guided group trip. For completely customizable itineraries, we offer both private guided tours and self-guided tours.
How difficult is The Camino Coastal Portugués?
This part of the Camino is very well marked and follows mainly forest trails, paths between villages and some secondary roads. While you will be mostly on the coast, there are some hills as we go inland towards Santiago de Compostela. A reasonable level of fitness is necessary. The distances we plan for you are the same as the typical stages of the Camino.
What is the weather like in Galicia?
The north of Portugal and Spain does not experience the scorching temperatures typical of the central and southern region. This area has an oceanic climate with mild temperatures and regular rainfall.
Who are our guides?
Before becoming guides, everyone at Andaspain was a pilgrim. In fact, most of us spent a few years on the Camino before setting out to help others do the same. We consider the Camino de Santiago a life-changing experience, and our aim is to share it with you. All our guided walking tours are led by qualified and bilingual guides.
I would prefer to walk less each day, what can I do?
All of our guided tours include van support so if you ever feel too tired to walk, you can shuttle ahead to the lunch spot or your hotel. However, if you would prefer a tour at a different pace, we would be happy to customize a self-guided or private group tour for you.
What is the typical size of the guided group tours?
Our guided group tours are available from 6-15 participants and the number of guides we allocate per tour depends on the group size. We strive to have one guide per every 7-8 participants.
Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risk and Release
This document contains a complete release of liability. Read it carefully before agreeing below.
The undersigned understands and agrees that the travel to foreign countries including remote and underdeveloped areas and related activities that I have chosen to take and engage in with Andaspain LLC and its affiliates are potentially hazardous and dangerous activities and carry a significant risk of serious personal injury, death, or property damage. I also know that there are natural, mechanical and environmental conditions and risks which independently or in combination with my activities may cause property damage or severe or even fatal injuries to me or others.
In consideration of Andaspain LLC and affiliates agreeing to permit me to participate in the travel, hiking, sightseeing, walking and related activities and other good and valuable consideration, I agree that I am responsible for: (a) my safety while participating in activities undertaken with Andaspain LLC and its employees, and (b) providing, utilizing, and maintaining all equipment necessary for the safe enjoyment of my participation in such events and specifically acknowledge that the following persons or entities including Andaspain LLC, or its employees, agents, representatives and subcontractors or affiliates are not responsible for my safety.
By agreeing to this Acknowledgment and Assumption of Risk I acknowledge that I understand that any and all risk is expressly assumed by me, and all claims are expressly waived in advance. Additionally I understand completely and fully the terms and conditions and agree to be bound by them.
Andaspain LLC strongly encourages participants to purchase travel insurance including trip cancellation coverage.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
If you have to cancel your trip, we require the cancellation in writing. We will calculate the refund, where due, based on the day we receive your written cancellation.
The following charges will apply.
Cancellations received 121 or more days prior to trip start date: 10% of trip price
Cancellations received 120 – 91 days prior to trip start date: 15% of trip price
Cancellations received 90 – 61 days prior to trip start date: 50% of trip price
Cancellations received 60 days or less prior to trip start date: 100% of trip Price
Andaspain LLC reserves the right to cancel any of our trips due to insufficient participants – our minimum number of participants is four.
If Andaspain LLC has to cancel a trip for any reason, including insufficient number of participants, the full amount you paid to us will be refunded to you.