Planning your first pilgrimage and wondering about timing? You’re not alone. I get this question constantly from readers preparing for their walk.
Here’s the honest truth: how long does the Camino de Santiago take depends on multiple factors. There’s no single answer that fits everyone.
In this guide, I’ll break down exactly what affects your walking time. You’ll learn about different route options, daily distances, and how to match a Camino to your schedule.
I’ll share realistic timelines for each major path and help you plan based on your fitness level.
I walked my first Camino with just two weeks off work. It taught me that smart planning beats rushing every time.
Let’s figure out which option works best for you.
What Affects How Long the Camino Takes?
Route selection makes the biggest difference. The Camino Francés takes 30-35 days while the Camino Inglés can be done in under a week.
The Portuguese route from Porto takes 10-12 days. Shorter doesn’t always mean easier. The Camino Primitivo covers only 320 kilometers but includes steep mountain terrain.
Most pilgrims cover 20-25 kilometers per day. This equals about 5-7 hours of walking. Some prefer 15-kilometer days. Others push for 30 kilometers. Both work fine.
Your fitness level impacts walking time. First-time pilgrims need longer to adjust. Flat terrain allows quicker progress. Mountain stages slow everyone down.
Rest days add to your total trip. Most pilgrims take 2-4 rest days on longer routes. Popular spots include León, Pamplona, and Porto.
How Long Does Each Camino Route Take?
Different routes require different time commitments. Here’s what to expect from each major path.
Camino Francés (French Way)
The most popular route takes 30-35 days to complete. Starting in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, you’ll cover 780 kilometers through northern Spain.
Many pilgrims walk shorter sections instead of the full route. Starting in Pamplona cuts the walk to about 25 days. Beginning in León reduces it to roughly two weeks.
The Francés offer the best infrastructure. You’ll find albergues (pilgrim hostels) every few kilometers and plenty of services along the way.
Last 100 km of the Camino Francés
Starting from Sarria takes about 5-6 days. This section covers exactly 115 kilometers, just enough to earn your Compostela certificate.
Most people walk 20-25 kilometers daily on this stretch. The terrain is moderate with some hills but nothing too difficult. This option works great if you’re short on time.
Expect crowds, especially during summer. The last 100 kilometers sees the highest foot traffic of any Camino section.
Camino Portugués
From Lisbon, plan for 25-27 days. This 610-kilometer route follows coastal and inland paths through Portugal and into Galicia.
Starting in Porto is more common and takes 10-12 days for 240 kilometers. The coastal variation adds stunning ocean views but extends walking time by a day or two.
Both options offer gentler terrain than the Francés. You’ll find good accommodations and fewer pilgrims than on the French Way.
Camino del Norte (Northern Way)
Expect 32-34 days for the full 825 kilometers. This coastal route starts in Irún near the French border and hugs Spain’s northern coast.
The Norte combines beautiful beaches with challenging hills. Daily stages average 24 kilometers but feel harder due to constant elevation changes. Plan extra time if you’re not a strong hiker.
Accommodations are less frequent than on the Francés. You’ll need to plan stages more carefully.
Camino Primitivo (Original Way)
The oldest route takes 12-14 days to complete. At 320 kilometers, it’s shorter than the Francés but significantly tougher.
Mountain passes and steep climbs make this route demanding. Daily distances stay around 20-23 kilometers, but the terrain requires more time and effort. Only attempt this if you’re comfortable with serious hiking.
The Primitivo connects with the Francés at Melide, about 50 kilometers from Santiago. You’ll walk through remote areas with stunning mountain scenery.
Camino Inglés (English Way)
The shortest official Camino takes just 3-4 days. Starting in Ferrol covers 120 kilometers. Beginning in A Coruña reduces it to 75 kilometers, but you won’t qualify for the Compostela from there.
Daily walks average 25-30 kilometers. The terrain is easy to moderate. This route suits people with limited vacation time who still want the pilgrim experience.
Fewer pilgrims walk the Inglés compared to other routes. You’ll find a quieter, more local atmosphere.
Camino Finisterre
This extension from Santiago takes 3-4 days. Covering 90 kilometers to the Atlantic coast, many pilgrims add this after reaching Santiago.
Tradition says the Camino ends where the land meets the ocean. The walk includes coastal views and small fishing villages. Daily stages run 20-25 kilometers over rolling terrain.
Via de la Plata
The longest route requires 36-40 days minimum. Stretching over 1,000 kilometers from Seville to Santiago, this path crosses southern and western Spain.
Many people walk just the last 100 kilometers instead. Starting in Ourense takes about 5-6 days and still earns the Compostela. The full route involves extreme heat in summer and long stretches between towns.
How Many Kilometers Do You Walk Per Day on the Camino?
Most pilgrims walk 20-25 kilometers each day. This takes 5-7 hours depending on terrain and your pace.
You’ll start early, usually between 6-8 AM. Most people arrive by early afternoon. This leaves time to rest, shower, and eat. Some stages run 15-18 kilometers. Others stretch to 28-30 kilometers.
Shorter daily walks work better for many people. Breaking long stages into two days reduces strain. First-time pilgrims benefit from starting slow. This prevents blisters and injuries.
You’ll spend more nights on the route, but the pace feels more comfortable.
Can You Walk the Camino in Stages Over Several Years?
Yes, you can absolutely complete the Camino in sections. Many people walk different portions over multiple trips.
The Compostela certificate remains valid regardless of how long you take. You can walk 100 kilometers one year, return later for another section, and still receive recognition.
Keep your Camino passport (credential) from each trip. Get stamps at albergues, churches, and cafes as you walk. When you complete 100 kilometers in a single stretch, present all your credentials in Santiago.
This works well for people with limited vacation time. Some pilgrims spread their Camino over five or six years. Start and stop wherever makes sense for your schedule.
Choosing the Right Camino Based on Your Available Time
Match your route to your vacation days for the best experience.
Less Than One Week
The Camino Inglés from Ferrol fits in 3-4 days. You’ll walk about 30 kilometers daily over easy terrain. This route qualifies for the Compostela despite its short length.
Alternatively, walk the last 100 kilometers of any route. Starting on a Wednesday in Sarria gets you to Santiago by Sunday or Monday.
10-14 Days
The Portuguese route from Porto takes 10-12 days. This offers the best balance of time, distance, and experience for most people.
You could also walk from León to Santiago on the Francés. This 12-14 day section includes Galician countryside and the excitement of approaching Santiago. The Camino Primitivo fits this timeframe if you’re a strong hiker.
2-3 Weeks
Three weeks opens up the full Camino Francés from Pamplona. You’ll walk about 680 kilometers through varied landscapes.
The Portuguese route from Lisbon also works well with rest days included. Consider the Camino del Norte if you want coastal views.
One Month or More
The full Camino Francés from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port takes 30-35 days. This gives you the complete experience with time for rest days and sightseeing.
Alternatively, tackle the Via de la Plata from Seville. You could combine routes too. Walk the Francés, then continue to Finisterre and find multiple paths.
Conclusion
How long does the Camino de Santiago take? Honestly, it depends entirely on you.
I learned this the hard way. My first Camino was rushed at two weeks. My second? A full month where I actually stopped to talk with locals and rest my feet. Both changed me, just differently.
Here’s my advice: start with your available time and choose a route that fits. Don’t squeeze a month-long walk into two weeks. The path isn’t going anywhere.
Planning your Camino? Tell me your timeline in the comments. I’d love to help you pick the perfect route..
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shortest Camino route you can walk?
The Camino Inglés from Ferrol is the shortest official route at 120 kilometers. You can complete it in 3-4 days and still qualify for the Compostela certificate.
Do you need to walk the entire Camino at once?
No, you can walk the Camino in sections over multiple years. Your credentials remain valid as long as you complete at least 100 kilometers in one continuous stretch.
How many hours per day do pilgrims typically walk?
Most pilgrims walk 5-7 hours daily, covering 20-25 kilometers. This includes time for breaks, photos, and stopping at cafes along the way.
What is the best Camino route for first-time pilgrims?
The last 100 kilometers of the Camino Francés from Sarria is ideal for beginners. It takes 5-6 days, has great infrastructure, and provides the full pilgrim experience.
Can you walk 30 kilometers every day on the Camino?
Yes, but it’s demanding. Walking 30 kilometers daily requires good fitness and proper preparation. Most pilgrims find 20-25 kilometers more sustainable for maintaining health and enjoying the experience.