The Portuguese Camino: The Soulful Route Changing the Way We Travel

A Different Way to Walk Spain

More than 499,000 pilgrims completed the Camino de Santiago in 2024 — nearly a quarter walked the Portuguese Way. Far from the crowds of the French route, this soulful path is changing the way people travel: slower, deeper, and more connected.

Where the Journey Begins

Most pilgrims start in Oporto (Portugal) or Tui (Spain), crossing bridges, vineyards and medieval towns on foot. Each day reveals new landscapes — from coastal stretches kissed by the Atlantic to ancient Galician forests where silence becomes sacred.

Two Cultures, One Path

What makes the Portuguese Camino unique is the blend of two cultures. In Portugal, warm hospitality and codfish (bacalhau) fill the table. In Galicia, it’s octopus, oysters, and Albariño wine, seasoned with the sea breeze and centuries of heritage.

The Final Stretch Through Arcade

Before reaching Santiago, many pilgrims make a meaningful stop in Arcade, a quiet coastal village where the Camino meets the sea. Known for its world-class oysters, historic bridge, and peaceful charm, Arcade adds a global flavor to the route — connecting cultures, languages, and generations of travelers.

Final thought:

The Portuguese Camino isn’t just a way to get to Santiago — it’s a path that invites reflection, connection, and rediscovery. A soulful route that reminds us that the journey itself is the destination.