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If you thought that the Camino de Santiago was a single route, you are not alone. It is a common misconception. But the reality is much richer and more surprising: there are dozens of different routes leading to Santiago de Compostela, from multiple starting points and with unique itineraries. Some are historic, others more recent, and all share the same destination and pilgrim spirit.
What exactly is the Camino de Santiago?
Although the name is singular, the ‘Camino de Santiago’ is actually a network of routes that pilgrims have travelled for centuries to reach the tomb of St James the Apostle. As they say, there are as many routes as there are pilgrims, because each person can start from their own doorstep if they wish.
However, to facilitate logistics (accommodation, signage, reception points), main routes have been established that are now recognised, signposted and documented.
What makes a journey the Camino de Santiago?
It is not enough for a route to lead to Santiago de Compostela for it to be considered the ‘Way of St James’. There are historical, cultural and functional criteria that determine whether a route forms part of the recognised Jacobean routes.
1. Historical documentation of the passage of pilgrims
One of the main requirements is that there must be written or archaeological evidence of pilgrims passing through over the centuries. This documentation may include:
- Royal or ecclesiastical letters mentioning pilgrimage routes.
- Chronicles or diaries of medieval travellers.
- References in codices such as the Codex Calixtinus, considered the first guide to the Camino (12th century).
- Inscriptions in churches or monasteries that provided assistance to pilgrims.
For example, the Primitive Way has been documented since the 9th century, thanks to the journey of King Alfonso II the Chaste from Oviedo to Santiago, which gives it exceptional historical legitimacy.
2.Existence of traditional places of refuge
The network of pilgrim hospitals and religious shelters is another key indicator. In the Middle Ages, pilgrims needed assistance and protection. Religious orders, such as the Benedictines or the Knights Hospitaller, established reception points in strategic locations, such as:
- Roncesvalles (French Way)
- Santo Domingo de la Calzada
- Monastery of Oseira (Vía de la Plata)
- Sobrado dos Monxes (Northern Way)
These structures not only provided shelter, but also legitimised the route as part of the sacred path to Santiago.
3.Continuing tradition of pilgrimage
The third criterion is continuity over time. Some routes, although historic, fell into disuse and are now being revived. Others have maintained a constant flow of pilgrims over the centuries, reinforcing their recognition.
For example, the Portuguese Way was used intensively from the 12th century onwards by Portuguese kings, nobles and commoners, and has maintained that tradition to this day. That is why it is one of the most recognised routes today.
4. Presence of Jacobean heritage
Churches dedicated to Saint James, stone crosses, shells embedded in walls, and paths marked with yellow arrows are visible indicators of the Jacobean legacy. The denser this heritage, the more historical legitimacy the route has as part of the Way.
How many official routes are there on the Camino de Santiago?
Currently, there are more than 50 routes recognised as part of the Camino de Santiago in Spain. At European level, there are hundreds of Jacobean routes that converge on Santiago from countries such as France, Portugal, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland and even Scandinavia.
Not all routes have the same historical significance or current use. Some have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, such as the French Way or the Northern Ways. Others, although less well known, remain active thanks to the efforts of local associations.
There are also recently recovered routes or those with little infrastructure, which do not reach Compostela directly but lead to other main routes.
The most well-known routes of the Camino de Santiago
French Way: The Most Popular and Monumental Route
The French Way is without a doubt the most iconic itinerary of the Camino de Santiago. Chosen by over 60% of all pilgrims each year, its story is deeply interwoven with the origins of the Jacobean pilgrimage.
- Starting point: It begins in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, on the French side of the Pyrenees, and crosses into Spain via Roncesvalles (Navarre) or Somport (Aragón). Both routes converge at Puente la Reina, from where the unified trail continues west to Santiago.
- Route: It passes through Navarre, La Rioja, Castile and León, and Galicia, linking historic cities such as Pamplona, Logroño, Burgos, León, and Ponferrada.
- Heritage: It was the first Camino route to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1993). Along the way, pilgrims encounter a wealth of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque art—from the Cathedral of Burgos to the medieval bridge in Puente la Reina.
- Advantages: It is the best signposted route, with an extensive network of hostels, services, support points and a vibrant pilgrim community. Ideal for first-timers and those seeking a richly cultural and social experience.
Northern Ways: Beauty Between Mountains and Sea
The Northern Routes are a group of coastal and mountain paths offering breathtaking scenery and a more solitary, physically demanding experience. All were collectively declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2015.
Coastal Way (or Northern Way)
- Route: Starts in Irún (Gipuzkoa), following the Bay of Biscay coastline through the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia.
- Highlights: Mild yet rainy climate, alternating between coastal villages and mountain paths.
- Perfect for: Those looking for peace, lush greenery, and a route less affected by mass tourism.
Primitive Way
- Route: Starts in Oviedo, crossing the mountainous heart of Asturias and Galicia.
- Historical note: The oldest documented Camino route, first walked by King Alfonso II the Chaste in the 9th century.
- Level: Physically demanding but with great spiritual and cultural depth.
Basque Interior Way
- Route: Connects Irún with Santo Domingo de la Calzada, linking up with the French Way.
- Interest: An inland historical route offering scenic stretches through Álava and La Rioja, traditionally used to avoid the coastline.
Lebaniego Way
- Route: From San Vicente de la Barquera to the Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana, home to the lignum crucis relic.
- Spiritual significance: A separate pilgrimage route that also links with the Northern Camino.
Portuguese Way: From Lisbon or Porto to Santiago
The Portuguese Way is the second most-travelled Camino route and one of the fastest growing in popularity in recent years.
- Variants:
- Central Route: From Lisbon or Porto, passing through cities like Coimbra, Ponte de Lima, Tui, and Pontevedra.
- Coastal Route: From Porto northwards along the Atlantic coast, eventually merging with the central route.
- Inland branches: From Braga or Viseu, connecting to the main route.
- Advantages:
- Mild climate.
- Well-developed infrastructure, especially in Galicia.
- Cultural crossover between Portugal and Spain.
- Perfect for those short on time: starting in Tui covers the minimum 100 km needed for the Compostela certificate.
Which Camino Route Should You Choose?
Choosing your Camino route is both a personal and exciting decision. There’s no single “correct” option—it all depends on your time, interests, fitness level and the kind of experience you want. However, some routes are especially suitable for first-timers due to their accessibility, services, and natural or historical appeal.
First Time Walking the Camino? Start Here
For a first pilgrimage, it’s generally best to opt for easy, well-marked routes with plenty of support. These are two of the most popular:
French Way: A Timeless Classic
It’s no coincidence this is the most famous route: 2 in every 3 pilgrims choose it. The French Way offers everything you’d expect from the Camino experience: rich history, architecture, abundant hostels and a welcoming, social atmosphere.
Pressed for time? Starting in Sarria (114 km from Santiago) is ideal. You’ll meet the minimum distance requirement for the Compostela and enjoy sharing your journey with many others doing the same for the first time.
Portuguese Way: Gentle, Green, and Growing
The Portuguese Way, particularly in Galicia, is perfect for those seeking a more relaxed walk. Starting in Tui, right at the Spanish-Portuguese border, you’ll follow peaceful trails through vineyards, forests and charming villages.
It’s also growing in popularity, with improving infrastructure and excellent signage—great for those wanting a quieter path without sacrificing comfort.
Fewer Crowds, More Adventure: Alternative Routes
Prefer solitude, physical challenge, and mountainous landscapes? These lesser-known paths offer an authentic and profound Camino experience:
Primitive Way
The oldest—and arguably toughest—of all Camino routes. Starting in Oviedo, it winds through rugged terrain and steep valleys, offering incredible natural beauty and a sense of historical connection. Ideal for those seeking authenticity, silence, and effort.
Via de la Plata
A long and solitary route from Seville to Santiago (over 1,000 km), crossing the heart of inland Spain. Sparse villages, long distances between stops and extreme summer heat make it a challenge—but one full of introspection and unique scenery.
Camino del Salvador
Looking for a short but intense route? The Camino del Salvador links León to Oviedo, cutting through the Cantabrian Mountains. In just 120 km, it delivers dramatic landscapes, remote villages and spiritual depth. Ideal for experienced pilgrims or adventurous first-timers.
