Where does the Camino de Santiago start and end? All the answers

The Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St. James, is one of the most famous pilgrimage routes in the world, attracting travelers and spiritual seekers alike. But one of the most common questions asked by prospective pilgrims is: Where does the Camino de Santiago start and end? The answer is both simple and complex, depending on the route you choose, your personal goals and your starting location.

This article will provide a detailed overview of the main starting and ending points of the Camino de Santiago, help you understand the various routes, and guide you in choosing the one that fits your journey best. Whether you're planning to hike or bike the Camino, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know before you begin.

Regardless of where your journey begins, nearly all routes of the Camino de Santiago end at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, northwestern Spain. This cathedral is said to house the remains of Saint James the Apostle, making it a sacred destination for Christian pilgrims since the 9th century.

Santiago de Compostela is more than just a religious landmark; it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a vibrant city that offers rich history, impressive architecture, and a welcoming atmosphere for pilgrims from all over the world.

Some pilgrims choose to continue past Santiago to Finisterre or Muxía, coastal towns once believed to be the "end of the world." These locations offer a powerful sense of closure and reflection.

The Camino doesn't have a single starting point. Instead, it consists of a network of pilgrimage routes leading to Santiago de Compostela. Here are the most popular starting points for each major route.

• Start: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, France;
• Distance: 780 km;
• Duration: 30-35 days (walking).

This is the most popular and well-established route. Starting at the foothills of the Pyrenees, the Camino Francés crosses northern Spain through varied landscapes, from the wine-rich region of La Rioja to the high plains of Castile and Léon.

• Start: Lisbon or Porto, Portugal;
• Distance: 620 km (from Lisbon), 260 km (from Porto);
• Duration: 25-30 days (from Lisbon), 10-14 days (from Porto).

The Portuguese Way follows the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula, offering a mix of coastal and inland experiences. It’s less crowded than the Francés route but equally rich in culture and scenery.

• Start: Irún, Spain;
• Distance: 825 km;
• Duration: 30-35 days.

This scenic coastal route is perfect for those seeking a quieter and more challenging journey. The Camino del Norte offers stunning views of the Bay of Biscay and lush, green landscapes.

• Start: Oviedo, Spain;
• Distance: 320 km;
• Duration: 12-15 days.

Known as the oldest route, the Camino Primitivo is rugged and mountainous, ideal for experienced hikers. It later merges with the Camino Francés before reaching Santiago.

• Start: Seville, Spain;
• Distance: 1,000 km;
• Duration: 40-50 days.

This is the longest Camino route and follows an ancient Roman road. It’s perfect for those wanting solitude and a deep dive into Spain’s historical and rural heartlands.

Each Camino route offers a unique experience. Your decision should depend on:

• Time available;
• Physical condition;
• Preferred landscapes (coastal, mountainous, rural, urban);
• Desire for solitude vs. social interaction;
• Cultural interests (Romanesque churches, medieval towns, wine regions, etc.).

If you’re short on time or prefer a less intense experience, consider starting at Sarria on the Camino Francés. It’s the minimum distance (100 km) required to earn the Compostela, the official pilgrim certificate.

Traditionally, the Camino is walked, but biking has become increasingly popular. Cyclists must complete at least 200 km to receive the Compostela.

Biking Pros:

• Faster pace allows for covering longer distances in less time;
• Less wear and tear on the body (though it still requires stamina);
• Access to more remote and less crowded accommodations.

Walking Pros:

• Stronger sense of community with fellow pilgrims;
• More time for reflection and connection with nature;
• Easier access to certain paths and trails.

A successful Camino journey involves thoughtful preparation:

• Train beforehand (especially for longer routes);
• Choose the right season: spring and fall are ideal;
• Pack light: carry essentials only;
• Reserve accommodations ahead during peak seasons.

Whether you choose to go solo, with friends, or through a guided tour, preparation ensures a meaningful and rewarding experience.

Ready to begin your Camino adventure? At Authentic Trails, we specialize in self-guided hiking and biking tours along the Camino de Santiago. Our curated experiences provide you with the freedom to explore at your own pace, supported by expert planning and local knowledge.

🚴 Camino de Santiago Self-Guided Bike Tour
Ride from Portugal to Santiago on quiet countryside roads and forested paths, passing through historic towns and rural villages. Includes GPS routes, daily luggage transfers, and boutique stays.

🏃 Camino de Santiago Self-Guided Hike Tour
Walk the iconic Portuguese Way with flexibility and comfort. This route blends cultural heritage, scenic trails, and regional cuisine, ideal for independent travelers seeking authentic experiences.

🍽️ Seafood & Paradores Route to Santiago Wine and Food Lovers self-guided bike tour
A gourmet twist on the Camino! Cycle along the Galician coast, tasting fresh seafood and local wines, while staying in historic Paradores and charming guesthouses. A perfect blend of flavor and scenery.


Walking or biking the Camino de Santiago is more than just a journey, it’s a personal experience woven with history, culture, and quiet moments of discovery.

Whether we start in Portugal or further afield, the Camino offers a path to slow down, connect with the land, and embrace the rhythm of purposeful travel. With self-guided tours from Authentic Trails, we can experience this legendary route with the freedom to explore at our own pace and the support of local expertise.

Whenever and however we choose to begin, the Camino welcomes us, with every step or pedal stroke bringing us closer to something meaningful.