The Camino Frances is the route of the Camino de Santiago par excellence. It is the most traditional and most popular route. The Camino Frances is the most well-known path in the world, to a large extent because it is recognised on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The Camino Frances crosses the north of the Iberian Peninsula from Saint Jean Pied de Port, the last French village, to Santiago de Compostela. A total of 760 kilometres divided into 33 stages of approximately 25 kilometres each.
Although at the end of the Camino de Santiago is, of course, the tomb of the apostle James the Elder, the beginning of the pilgrimage can be made from any point of the route. Each pilgrim chooses a starting point depending on the time he or she has or on their physical capacity.
Both Saint Jean Pied de Port and Roncesvalles, the first Spanish town on The Camino Frances, after passing through the Pyrenees Mountains, are considered as traditional starting points. However, Burgos, León, O’Cebreiro or Sarria are also common starting points among the pilgrims who travel along The Camino Frances.
In this guide of The Camino Frances, we will talk about the most important aspects of this route, as well as the main reasons why it is widely recognised as one of the most demanding for those who want to live an unforgettable experience.
We’ll specify what their stages are, how long they are and what points of interest are especially noteworthy. Follow closely if you want to know everything there is to know about The Camino Frances.
Why choose The Camino Frances?
The Camino de Santiago Frances
Without any doubt, if you had to highlight the main reason why it is worth choosing The Camino Frances is that of its popularity. Indeed, from all possible routes, The Camino Frances is the one that brings together more people.
This means that it is the most likely route to meet people who, in many cases could accompany us throughout our lives.
It must also be said that, as a consequence of the fact that it is the busiest, The Camino de Santiago Frances is the best prepared in terms of infrastructure, superior to the rest of the routes. It also has eight alternative routes with which we can put together a path to our liking.
It is also true that it is the one that has more hostels along its route and that, in general, more facilities are available. It is also necessary to say that it is the oldest one since its origin (like most suggested routes) responds not only to religious motives but also to commercial ones.
That’s why from the time of the early Middle Ages it became a busy and popular route throughout Europe. Thus, another point in favour of this route is its historical baggage represented by an urban, rural and cultural heritage that comes from several centuries ago.
Information about the The Camino de Santiago Frances route
The Camino Frances has a total distance of 760 km. It begins in Saint Jean Pied de Port and in the municipality of Roncesvalles, in Navarra. As we have said, The Camino Frances arose in the period we know as the early Middle Ages. Specifically, between the 9th and 10th centuries.
It all begins with the discovery of the tomb of the Apostle of Christ, James. Apparently, after his death, his disciples would have moved him from Jerusalem to a place called the Sacred Peak.
This was the beginning of a route that not only gathered the faithful who wanted to go to Santiago as a sign of penance or the quest to fulfill any promise they had made to the apostle.
It was also a trade route that made the whole of Europe prosper because it granted a relatively safe path in the turbulent times of the Middle Ages. This indicates that the route of The Camino de Santiago Frances is a route with a great Gothic and Romanesque heritage.
The quietest ways of The Camino Frances
If you do not know, we want to tell you that, when walking on a route linked to Santiago there are several alternatives. Of course, The Camino Frances is the most popular. However, we would like to clarify at this point which are the quietest ways by those who wish to take advantage of some of these unforgettable routes.
During its complete journey through the Iberian Peninsula, The Camino Frances crosses nine provinces of Spain: Navarre, Huesca, Zaragoza, La Rioja, Burgos, Palencia, León, Lugo and A Coruña. Throughout the journey, you can follow the traditional route or take alternative ones.
Basically, eight large alternative routes can be targeted. These are: Port of Ibañeta via Valcarlos, Cirueña via San Milán de la Cogolla, Burgos via Olmos de Atapuerca, Burgo via Santovenia de Oca, Carrión De Los Condes via Palencia and La Mansilla De Las Mulas via Vía Trajana.
Along The Camino Frances, pilgrims can visit Benedictine monasteries and Templar castles with Gothic and Romanesque styles. It will cross lush forests and rivers that whisper in its path. You will pass through numerous charming towns and be enveloped by medieval legends and Celtic magic.
Map of The Camino Frances to Santiago
Below, we have attached a map which would be necessary for The Camino Frances to Santiago:
Map of The Camino Frances
Profile of The Camino de Santiago Frances
Profile of The Camino Frances
The Camino Frances is highly difficult. This is due in large part to its unevenness and to the areas that it crosses where, if the climatic conditions are not favourable, it can become a hard passage. It has to be said that it also is very long.
It has a total altitude of 3000 metres, that is to say, along with its various stages we will encounter high mountain passes.
This information is especially relevant for people who want to take the Camino on a bicyclebecause it will require a high-intensity training programme before completing it.
There are, however, many incentives to do it because despite the challenge it implies it is an unforgettable experience that gives us wonderful landscapes and a very special connection with what surrounds us and with ourselves.
Infrastructure
Since it is the route that has more tradition, it is the itinerary of the Camino de Santiago that has better infrastructure and is better signposted.
It has a wide network of public hostels, private accommodation and accessible services. In addition, many of the provinces have improved signals in recent years.
At the same time, as it is the most famous itinerary, it is also the busiest. Fortunately, the route is quite long so that, although the rhythm of each person is very different, the presence of other pilgrims on the way does not spoil the religious or spiritual meaning for anyone.
It is true that, sometimes, due to the overcrowding of The Camino Frances, many pilgrims forget the essence of the Camino de Santiago, which is to enjoy the tour and enter a long-distance race for accommodation.
That means starting the day in the small hours or not enjoying the beautiful landscapes and urban areas that cross the route.
At this point, you should not forget that The Camino Frances has an extensive accommodation infrastructure. Both the network of hostels and the tourist accommodation are of the highest quality.
Enjoy the incredible experience of touring this medieval route should be the only concern of the pilgrim who chooses to make this itinerary of the Camino de Santiago. If you wish you can book with us and we will take care of all the travel logistics.
It must be said that this answer depends on several aspects. To know how long it takes to walk The Camino Frances, you first have to think that you can start from the point you choose.
At the same time, it will also depend on the kind of experience we want to live. For some people, enjoying nature is a priority, which makes them more recreational along the way and, consequently, take longer to complete a stage and all of the way in general.
It also depends on other factors such as age and physical endurance. On average, as seen above, the stages are about 25km. This is not to say that we have to complete them all. We can stop when we’re tired. However, that will add more stages and finally not be between 31 and 33.
Either way and as it is to enjoy, the ideal thing is that each pilgrim will mark his rhythm. At first, fatigue will be very noticeable. However, as we become more experienced it will be easier and we can walk longer distances without getting so tired.
As an estimate, we can say that each stage involves six hours of travel that in some cases can reach eight if more stops are made or we sit down to enjoy a specific environment. Thus, one of the main advantages of The Camino Frances and the Camino de Santiago, in general, is all the freedom they give us.
Best time of the year to complete The Camino Frances to Santiago de Compostela
While it is true that the Xunta de Galicia’s hostels are open all year round, it is also true that many private ones do not open for long periods of the year. That means that The Camino Frances and, in general, the Camino de Santiago is also seasonal.
Also, it must be said that in a time when there are not too many pilgrims will bring us advantages and facilities that we would not find in times of high occupancy.
Spring
Spring has the advantage of offering us beautiful views and rather benign weather because it is a climate that, in many sections, covers areas of oceanic climate with mild temperatures. The main disadvantage would be unstable weather, having more rain.
Summer
Summer is the most popular time of the year because it coincides with July 25th, the day of Santiago the Apostle, The city of Santiago’s celebration day par excellence. It will depend on what your preferences are because spring and autumn are seasons with very changeable weather, which always implies a risk.
Autumn
The autumn tints some places with wonderful colours where the majority of trees are deciduous. Browns, yellows and greens will be present all the way. It is certainly an ideal time to walk The Camino Frances to Santiago, although we must take into account unstable weather.
Winter
In winter we have the advantage that the road will not be very crowded or busy. This is especially important in the case of The Camino Frances, which is the busiest of all. In addition, we will be able to enjoy all the advantages that an unbeatable landscape environment has during this season.
Guide to places that you must not miss on The Camino Frances to Santiago
We want to talk to you now about the most beautiful and interesting places on The Camino Frances. They are corners, municipalities and landscapes that you cannot miss and that, surely, will make you love even more of the wonderful route of The Camino de Santiago from France. These places include points of interest, places to eat and places to sleep.
Points of interest
Puente La Reina
The Aragonese and Navarro route join in this wonderful medieval bridge that crosses the River Arga. It is one of the most important enclaves of The Camino de Santiago and, by extension, the whole history and the European cultures.
A long time ago there were two lands in which the pilgrims had to pay a sum of money if they wanted to continue their journey.
Estella
Estella is one of the most impressive villages in Navarre and one of the most important enclaves in the history of Spain. It was, in fact, the capital of that which came to be called the “Carlist Spain ” and a very important point during the homonymous wars of the nineteenth century.
Astorga
The municipality of Astorga, in León, requires a lengthy stop to enjoy its wonderful heritage. The Cathedral and the Episcopal Palace, the latter, work by Antoni Gaudí are two of the points that you cannot miss and that will certainly amaze you.
Ponferrada
Another of the most spectacular municipalities is also located in León. Its’ wonderful medieval castle stands out in what was the heart of the entire region of Bierzo.
Where to stay – The best lodgings
From Santiago Ways, we offer you the best variety in hotels so you can enjoy your deserved rest after the stages of The Camino de Santiago Frances. Everything, so you can be taken care of in the best possible way.
Where to eat – The best restaurants
Roncesvalles – Casa Sabina
Open from 7.00 am, this restaurant offers all-day dining. Several specialities at a very cheap price with an average price which is below 10 euros (for a full meal).
Astorga – La Peseta
In Astorga we find the restaurant La Peseta, a restaurant with a price somewhat higher than the other recommendations we give that, having said this, you won’t stop visiting it if you are going to walk The Camino Frances.
Arzúa – Casa Chelo
In the municipality of Arzúa, already very close to Santiago, is the Casa Chelo restaurant, with fairly affordable prices and with a popular and very appetizing cuisine with multiple specialities.
History of The Camino Frances
The origin of The Camino Frances is the discovery of the remains of the Apostle James the Elder in the 9th century. According to the traditional narrative, the discovery was made by Bishop Teodomiro, from the Diocese of Iría Flavia, in the year 813.
In the place where the remains of the Apostle Santiago were found, the Asturian monarch Alfonso II (The Chaste) ordered the construction of a church, which was later converted into the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
From that very moment, many Christians decided to travel on pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela to offer their respects to the saint. This devotion prompted people to come from different places, crossing the lands that surrounded the heart of Galicia.
Alfonso II, who needed an element that would give cohesion to his kingdom, transformed the apostle into a symbol against the struggle of Islam. The image of Santiago Matamoros was born, which was spread quickly among the pilgrim community on the route and the Christian community in general.
The Origin of The Camino Frances
The Camino Frances has its origin in the Middle Ages and in the discovery of the tomb of the Apostle Santiago.
However, it also had very important strategic functions to serve as a frontier at the time of the Reconquista between the Muslim and the Christian sides and, at the same time, to promote a trade route that contributed to revitalize the whole area and that in a large part explains the patrimonial richness of all the municipalities on The Camino Frances.
Although at first, it was not very safe (as were all roads and trips in the 10th century) the monarch Sancho III was the one who, by means of the implantation of a mark that separates the Christian territory from the Muslim contributed to its development. The Codex Calixtinus contributed to increasing its popularity by describing its main routes and encouraging not only the popular European classes to travel on this way with the desire to fulfil promises and penances, but also to great characters who were included in all layers of medieval society.
Nowadays, The Camino Frances to Santiago is the busiest. That increases the chances of meeting people with the same concerns as us. And the popularity that it has responds to the great beauty of the places it crosses, as well as to the great amount of cultural, historical and artistic heritage that exists.
It is, without a doubt, one of the best alternatives to enjoy the experience of the Camino de Santiago.
Codex Calixtinus: The written testimony of The Camino Frances
The Camino Frances is the most documented route. The book V Manuscript of the Codex Calixtinus, which dates from the year 1135, already accurately indicates the four main roads of The Camino Frances.
Three of the roads (Lee Puy-Conques, Vézelay-Limoges and Paris-Tours) enter Spain by St. Jean Pied de Port, a French locality close to Roncesvalles, in Navarre. While the fourth route (Arles-Toulouse) enters by Somport and continues to Jaca, in Aragon. This last route joins the three previous ones in Puente La Reina, in Navarra.
This written testimony also includes the use of expressions by pilgrims to greet each other at that particular time. In the book appears “Ultreia Et Sus Eia! Deus Adjuva nos!” which means “Let’s go further and go higher! God help us! “
“Ultreia” is a greeting among pilgrims who also used to cheer themselves up. Its origin is in the Latin word “ultra”, which means “beyond”, and “EIA”, interjection to “move”.
It seems that the pilgrims of the time were greeted saying “Ultreia, Suseia, Santiago” which means “Keep going, beyond, further up, is Santiago”. It could also be that when one pilgrim greeted another, he said “Ultreia” (“Go beyond”) and that the other answered, “Et Suseia” (“and we go Higher”).
The time of splendour and its decline
Until the 13th century, the most brilliant stage of the Camino de Santiago unfolded, and which witnessed the passage of all kinds of pilgrims, who came from any Christian region of Europe to Santiago pushed on by various interests, both religious and economic. It was also in that century, in 1211, when the present Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela was inaugurated.
But The Camino de Santiago was not just a pilgrimage route. The development of The Camino Frances also had an important social, cultural and economic impact between the connecting regions.
Thanks to the movement of people between the Iberian Peninsula and Europe, different literary and artistic influences came to Spain, as well as different ways of thinking and behaving. This flow also occurred in reverse and the European countries gained access to Hispanic cultural heritage.
The kingdoms of the Iberian Peninsula that were crossed by The Camino Frances suffered a strong impact on an economic and social level. The lively life on the road encouraged the arrival of many groups of merchants and artisans, basically foreigners, who ended up permanently settling in various localities on the way.
The settlements of these foreigners, who were called popularly “francs”, although not all of them came from France, they received the name of “Burgos”. The inhabitants of these new centres received great privileges in the jurisdictions of their cities. Thus the bourgeoisie was born, and The Camino Frances witnessed numerous anti-state riots.
On an artistic level, the Camino de Santiago had a very important role. Through the route, the international art movement entered Spain. The Romanesque, mainly its French version, was materialized prominently in places such as Santiago, León, Frómista or Jaca.
In parallel, Muslim elements came to Europe that were transmitted through The Camino Frances. During the 13th century, the Camino de Santiago was the gateway to Gothic art.
From the 14th century onwards, the flow of pilgrims visiting Santiago de Compostela suffered a setback. The schism of the Christian world in 1378, the frequent wars, the proliferation of the Black Plague, among other reasons, considerably reduced pilgrimages to Santiago.
The Camino Frances today
At present, The Camino Frances is, in all ways, not only the most popular but also the one that enjoys the greatest recognition, both at national and international level. However, although its fame goes back in centuries of history, it is not until 1993, that The Camino Frances becomes an important tourist attraction.
The Holy Year of 1993, supported by the declaration of the French Road as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and of the first European itinerary of Cultural interest by the Council of Europe, triggered a very important boom in this itinerary.
In 2004, it received the Prince of Asturias Award for Concord for being qualified as an example of co-existence between people and cultures; And for their role in the development of the European origins of Christianity. Every year, travelling on The Camino Frances, almost 300,000 pilgrims arrive in Santiago de Compostela.
We want to show you the opinion of other users so that, through their own experiences you can know first-hand what they think about The Camino Frances.
My partner and I finally got to experience our 5 day Camino pilgrimage walk from Sarria to Santiago in June 2022 - organized through Santiago Ways (SW) - after over 2 year delay due to Covid. We couldn't have been more thrilled from our experience once we landed in Spain from Canada.If you are travelling overseas, trying travelling direct to Spain and avoid the lower cost European routes (i.e. easyjet) - flight cancellation/delays is about as common as the sun rising now so plan for this in your travels.SW staff were very professional and very helpful in answering all our questions prior to our trip. The Dossier and Vouchers that were sent to us were very clear and helpful to describe the route each day and where we stayed. Recommend you review your hotel locations on Google so you know where to find them once you arrive at each town/city.Our experience on the walk included breakfast, lunch and dinner for each day and the luggage transfer was a life saver allowing us to pack lightly each day. Strongly recommend you include you transfers as well to and from the airport to enjoy more time and less worry.The accommodations for our walk were well above average and more than we expected. Very clean, showers were hot (likely on demand) and the staff were very friendly at each of our stops.The staff at each place were very friendly but language barrier was there at times but never a problem.I strongly recommend using Santiago Ways in your Camino planning. Wouldn't think of any other group to help out. The peace and tranquility of walking on the countryside, the scenery, and laid back life was truly wonderful. Meeting so many pilgrims from all over and sharing our experience together was amazing and unforgettable.We are looking forward to doing this again in the future with the help of Santiago Ways.Buon Camino!Francesco & Claudette
John Murray
Great five days of walking in the warm weather. Lovely Pilgrims from around the world all with a story to tell. A week l will never forget. Back 2023 to begin from St Jean. Santiago Ways highly recommended.Good Luck and Happiness to you all.
Patricia H
My husband and I completed the Portuguese Camino from Vigo to Santiago de Compostela in June 2022. From the planing to the completion of our trip everything exceeded our expectations.Santiago Ways did a wonderful job of having everything perfectly scheduled, from the airport transfers in Vigo and Santiago de Compostela to the luggage transfers each day and the detailed information about each days walk. Numerous pilgrims commented on how much better our directions were and they were depending on our directions many times. The hotels we stayed at were amazing and the hosts at each hotel were always very helpful with recommendations on what to do and where to eat in each town. We had amazing food and drink along our whole journey and saw so many beautiful places.We have lifetime memories of the Camino thanks to everyone at Santiago Ways.If you are considering doing The Camino with Santiago Ways do not hesitate, go for it you will have the experience of a lifetime!
Ed Vegliante
I highly recommend Santiago Ways for anyone considering walking the Camino de Santiago. Everything went smoothly and all of the accommodations Santiago Ways booked were nicer than I expected. A well organized itinerary contributed to our great experience on the Camino.
Ingrid Gutierrez
What a wonderful company! Santiago Ways was very reliable and helpful. The accomodations were beautiful and clean. The luggage transfer was always on time. I am very thankful for the excellent experience. If you are looking for a company to plan your next Camino trip, I highly recommend Santiago Ways!
Barbara Kamali
This was a long awaited trip : originally booked in 2020 . The service of Santiago Ways was perfect throughout . As 2 couples we wanted the best en-suite accommodation on the way , our luggage transported and also we are vegans/vegetarians .Everything was perfect including a wonderful range of meals in all the accommodation and help when we struggled to get in contact with one accommodation owner . No issues with baggage transfer and the transfer to Porto to Ourense was again perfect .Santiago Ways enables us to have the full Camino experience without any stress . Ylenia was reassuring and knowledgeable in the original planning and at no time did we feel that our quieres were not dealt with well.We all wholeheartedly recommend Santiago Ways to anyone planning to do the Camino .Thank you
John Spencer
Highly recommended. Great help with planning and execution. No problems at any point. Will use them again.
Steve McManus
Well organised trip, good communication throughout. All accommodation was clean and comfortable with luggage transfers working perfectly.
anthony golden
A delay of 2 years but my wife, Geraldine and I have just returned from our Camino from Sarria to Santiago about 120km.Santiago Ways we’re excellentAll hotel bookings, luggage transfers, meals etc sorted out efficientlyWe had a great Camino thanks to all the staff at Santiago WaysWould recommend themGoing with them again next yearCan’t waitThanksTony and Geraldine Golden
Sarah McCleary
I had zero issue with my trip. The baggage transfer worked like clockwork, and I loved having the confidence of a 'local' number to call in case of emergency. (Never needed to call, but it felt good).
Darlene B
I would like to thank Alba Martinez and the whole team of Santiago ways for the job well done. My Husband really enjoyed the experience, of course without the helps of Santiago ways in organising everything, the Camino hike would be a very tough journey otherwise. But the attention to details, communication, and so on..were excellent and highly recommended.
Jerry Campbell
If you are planning a Camino pilgrimage I highly recommend this company. Very professional yet personable. The accommodations they arranged for me across Spain on my Camino were very good. They are reliable and provide good value. I would use them again if I plan my next Camino.
Bill Bearce
Four of us 65 years old, used Santiago Ways (SW) and they took great care of us every step of 500 miles. This included one (1) night when, after some slow going, they even called us to make sure we found the hotel! (We did!) SW and their professional handling our our itinerary could not have been better. Our top recommendation for them! Fourontheway- October 2021 Falmouth MA USA
Jerry Campbell
If you are planning a Camino pilgrimage I highly recommend this company. Very professional yet personable. The accommodations they arranged for me across Spain on my Camino were very good. They are reliable and provide good vale. I would use them again if I plan my next Camino.
Tina Marchetti
We were very happy with our experience with Santiago Ways. They were very professional, very responsive, extremely organized, and booked lovely places for us, including an exceptional casa rural. They provided detailed instructions about where we were staying and our luggage was always waiting for us at our destination. All this at an excellent value. For reference, we completed the last stage of the French Camino, from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela. Five stars for Santiago Ways!
Samira Miranda
Such a wonderful experience!From the beginning of the entire management, everything has been very easy. All the questions that I've had have been answered by mail or by phone and they always had been very kind.They made me a budget adjusted to my needs and it has been the best way to make the Camino de Santiago for the first time with the security that I always had them for anything I needed! I would definitely book them again since I'm thinking about doing another part of the Camino next year 🙂
Shaoor Ali
hello santiago ways....i travel with santiago ways... i have very Good time with them... i did walk hike with them....they have v nice people who guide people with very good behivour... i know one of best Representatives in santiago ways which name is Cristina Ostraiz... she guide me v well..i must want to tour again with you... best wishes for all of you....RegardsShaoor Ali Basheer
Ed Akavets
Did the camino with guys ! Everything was great!
Karin E
Excellent company. They were super helpful in putting together my last minute trip to do the camino inglés. I will definitely use them next year when I do another route. Thank you SantiagoWays!
Lisa B
Fabulous experience. Santiago Ways made this trip such a memorable trip. I will definitely be using their amazing service again for the next 200 km. The accommodations were super. The transfers and itinerary were perfect . Thanks Ylenia ans everyone at Santiago Ways!
Fabiana Lima
Very good service. Ylenia Conesa was the one who helped me and she was always very effective and courteous. Will definitely use them again!
Christine Tranchina
My husband and I hiked the Camino De Santiago from Pamplona to Logroño. We used Santiago Ways to help plan our adventure... booking our hotels, breakfast, picnic and dinner as well as transferring luggage during the hike. It was extremely helpful because we traveled in February which is not a popular time and all services are not available. The communication and service was excellent. Before, after and during the hike Angie Rinaudo kept in contact and answered all our questions in a timely manner. All the accommodations were excellent. We are planning to do more sections in the future and will definitely use Santiago Ways again.
Karen Srajer
We took the French Way, Leaving from Saint Jean Pied de Port. Santiago Ways booked our rooms the entire trip and make sure our luggage was transported. The rooms were a delight the walk was wonderful. Santiago Ways made sure to have support for us on the trip as well as needed. I would highly recommend this company. The entire group was a delight to work with and Cristiana on it especially was helpful.If we should decide to do another way, we would definitely use this company.
Diane Nunez
This was our first time in Spain and first time walking on a daily basis. Santiago Ways answered our many questions and concerns over many emails. We started our walk September 1st 2019 in Sarria and took 10 days to walk to Santiago de Compostela. Santiago Ways booked our lodging in 10 different places along with luggage transfers. We asked that all breakfasts,dinner and picnic lunch be included. Our accommodations varied from Albergues. Inns, Boutique hotel, to Bed and Breakfast. We truly enjoyed our picnic lunch as we could stop anywhere and enjoy the view. The accommodations - private room and private bathroom as we requested were not disappointing. We would recommend Santiago Way to anyone that needs some assistance in walking The Way.
Richard Luna
I changed my itinerary about 10 times before finalizing my vacation, 2 weeks prior to my trip date. Santiago Ways (Sara Mateo) was so polite and understanding throughout the entire process. My wife and I loved our great 2 week walk on the Camino. Every reservation, baggage transfer, excursion and transportation worked out exactly as planned. Thank you Sara for our memorable vacation.
Mark Nichols
This is a very professional company that helped create a fantastic journey. My contact person, Ylenia, responded to my emails and answered my questions. I highly recommend this company.
Kat Cust
I have walked with Santiago Ways twice and have been impressed by their professionalism and services both times. I wanted to support a Spanish company for the walks, and found them to be a competitive option - in a crowded industry. Am planning to walk with them again as I’ve enjoyed my caminos so much!
Richard Luna
I changed my itinerary about 10 times before finalizing my vacation, 2 weeks prior to my trip date. Santiago Ways (Sara Mateo) was so polite and understanding throughout the entire process. My wife and I loved our great 2 week walk on the Camino. Every reservation, baggage transfer, excursion and transportation worked out exactly as planned. Thank you Sara for our memorable vacation.
Richard Luna
I changed my itinerary about 10 times before finalizing my vacation, 2 weeks prior to my trip date. Santiago Ways (Sara Mateo) was so polite and understanding throughout the entire process. My wife and I loved our great 2 week walk on the Camino. Every reservation, baggage transfer, excursion and transportation worked out exactly as planned. Thank you Sara for our memorable vacation.
Rachel Mckeeve
We recently walked part of the Camino de Santiago Trail. Our trip was arranged by Santiago Ways. We were part of a larger group we had a tour guide and our luggage was transferred each day. Our trip was an immense success, everything went very smoothly and that in part was down to Veronica who arranged the trip. She was very helpful throughout the whole planning procedure even arranging for a private transfer from the airport to Sarria, our start point. I would recommend Santiago Ways and Veronica and would definitely use them again.
Eilish Bye
After comparing several agencies, our group of 7 decided to go with Santiago Ways for our first Camino experience as they offered an all round better price for our customised package that included insurance, meals, accommodation, luggage transfers and any required transportation to accommodation. The booking process was straightforward, they responded quickly to various enquiries and changes that we requested and they provided guidance on preparation and the Camino route which we referred to throughout our trip.We had a couple of issues including one of our group injuring her ankle but Santiago Ways were available 24 x 7 and they resolved everything efficiently including all communications required with local accommodation providers, taxis etc. which was very reassuring. Pilgrims we met who organised their accommodation en route had to deal with lack of accommodation in some locations and then they had to organise transport to and from the nearest hostels. We didn’t have any stress like this at all which left us free to enjoy the stunning scenery and great camaraderie on this wonderful trip. We will use Santiago Ways again and we can highly recommend them.
Kerry Mannette
I booked my Camino de Santiago for Sept 2019 through Santiago Ways and the company made the experience absolutely wonderful. Vanessa Veiga was a pleasure to deal with, very professional and informative and made it very easy to arrange the entire trip. The accommodations and board booked through Santiago ways were amazing, we were very pleased with the diversity (B&B, hotel, hostel) of the accommodations along with the service and cleanliness of the accommodations. The luggage transfer worked flawlessly. I would rate Santiago Ways 10 out of 10 and recommend them to anyone looking to book their Camino.
Karen Henderson
I was so pleased with the trip Santiago Ways set up for me to Walk The Camino Francés. My first experience was when I requested a quote in October 2018 for a August 2019 walk. Ylenia went above and beyond to answer all our questions and to provide numerous options for me before I made my final decision on the trip. She was patient and thorough as I gathered information. Her follow up was amazing and her attention to detail was very assuring! Once I booked the trip she continued sending updates until we departed for Spain. Once we arrived in Spain Ylenia and the Operations team stayed in touch via email to answer any questions. The hotel accommodations for 39 days were all wonderful and the baggage transfer was perfect. Every day our bags were at the hotel by the time we arrived. One day my friend left her hat in the hotel room and Santiago Ways Operation team sent an email saying the hat would be waiting at our next hotel. That’s going “above and beyond”. I highly recommend using Santiago Ways for your Camino!!!!! We walked with numerous people who had used other companies and they all thought Santiago Ways had the best hotels. I’ve already referred a friend to them and definitely will use them for my next Camino. Thank you Santiago Ways!!!!!!!!
Alison McEvoy
Ylenia Conesa from Santiago Ways was very helpful answering all my question prior to my Camino trip. A truly memorable experience beautifully organised by Santiago Ways
Chantal Ryan
This was a great experience from start to finish. From the on-line booking team that answered my numerous questions and comminucated with me in an efficient and friendly manner to the amazing guide we had and the quality of the hotels we stayed in. It all exceeded my expectations
Jon Lucas
Excellent company with excellent staff, couldn't fault their organisation and execution of my Camino walk. My special thanks to Ylenia who looked after my bookings and organised things for me.
LUCIA CARABINE
Fantastic service and Ylenia Conesa who handled the booking was a delight and very efficient
Jasmine Pantuso
Santiago Ways, and our advisor Ylenia Conesa , provided an outstanding travel experience! Ylenia answered every question that I had during my trip planning process! The accommodations were absolutely charming, and the food was perfect! Thank you for the experience of a lifetime!
Yuko Fujita
Celebrating 60th birthday, we walked 100 kilos for 10 days. No pain and no blisters. Santiago ways transported our luggage on time every day even we changed one of the hotel to Paradores. Taxis were always on time waiting for us. All hotels were clean, friendly and conveniently located. The food and buildings and history of each accommodations were all unique and wonderful! I will use Santiago ways for my next Camino. Andriana was very helpful. Thank you! Muchas Gracias!
Yana Mileva
We booked our "Camino" trip via this agency. Our agent was Vanessa and we are ecstatic with the service! The booking went very smoothly. All our questions were answered and all our wished addressed in a very quick manner. Actually, the agency had to ping us a few times via email and WhatsApp, as we were the ones too slow to answer them. They even made arrangements for us to take our dog on the trip and book the appropriate hotels. The luggage transfer was wonderful. We had a pickup from Santiago to our starting point on "Camino" that also worked perfectly. We can highly recommend the services of this agency. I have to admit that I have not compared prices and if there is something cheaper on the market, but the service we received here was impeccable. We had a wonderful trip and are planing to come back next year and walk another "Camino" again. Buen Camino everyone!
Peggy White
Walking the Camino was the best experience of my life! Partially because I had such a great support crew of Santiago Ways! I worked with Vanessa Veiga who organized my trip to suit my needs. When some details needed to be changed, she kindly worked with me to make it happen. My accommodations were all very different- from Casa Rurals to hostels to Pensions, but they were all excellent. The luggage transfer worked perfectly, too. I highly recommend this company to anyone planning to walk the Camino!
Tamir Shemer
excellent experience with Santiago way team, all that was promised accomplished to the last detail , the transportation, the hotels choices , the path segment choice, the information provided ,the luggage transfer just a perfect vacation
mary ellen canal
Santiago Ways is the perfect agency to help you plan you Camino de Santiago.Since the first day that i wrote my email the response was very fast, gladly i began speaking to the agent Vanessa Viega and she made sure i had all the information and helped me plan everything, she was really great .i really enjoyed my Camino, i was looking forward for it and it did satisfied my expectations.This experience for me was the most special in my life, i am really thinking about doing it again starting in Portugal
Winston Fernandez
I used Santiago Ways on my first Camino in March this year. The trail that I did was from Vigo to Santiago de Compostela. The experience was truly fantastic ….. mainly because of Santiago Ways.My contact person at Santiago Ways was Vanessa Veiga. Right from the onset Vanessa was extremely helpful , sensitive and very attentive to all my requests. She responded swiftly to all my mails. She selected the right hotels which were excellent and the luggage always arrived on time.I am planning my second Camino next April and I would continue to use Santiago Ways and in particular Vanessa. Thanks a million Vanessa and continue the good work to all the pilgrims who want to experience a true Camino.Winston FernandezKuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Marion Tilley-Vyner
Santiago Ways made it possible for me to do the pilgrimage. At 69 I did not like the idea of staying in a hostal, I like a bit of privacy and comfort! And I could not have done the walking while carrying my luggage. Adriana at Santiago Ways helped me work out my route and booked hotels and luggage transfers. Also, having them there in case I had any problems, was very reassuring. Adriana was only a phone call away. I recommend using Santiago Ways for anyone having doubts about doing the pilgrimage - they make it so much easier!
Tammy Shain
Vanessa was awesome and we loved Santiago Ways! We had a group of 8 college friends that were all around 50-years old. The deciding factor in choosing Santiago Ways was the group discount offered for groups of 6 or more. All other companies threshold for a discount was 10 people. Vanessa and the staff were awesome to work with throughout the process. We did the five day hike from Sarria to Santiago. We requested superior accommodations in places that were on the trail. The accommodations were top notch and 4 of the 5 places were directly on the trail. The exception was our night in Lavacolla in which we were .4 miles off the trail. It was our choice to stay in that location in order to have a shorter walk to Santiago on our final day so we could make the noon mass. We were pleasantly surprised at how clean each place was and they all had great bar and restaurant choices in close proximity - with the exception of Lavacolla so we recommend eating on-site - it was very good.
Sandi Frost Steensma
We had an excellent experience on the Camino with Santiago Ways. We had 14 women and everything was wonderful. We enjoyed the hotels, loved the daily luggage transport and the food was terrific. Santiago Ways communicated throughout our trip. We felt well-supported when we needed to make changes. Thank you!!
Sandi Frost Steensma
We had an excellent experience on the Camino with Santiago Ways. We had 14 women and everything was wonderful. We enjoyed the hotels, loved the daily luggage transport and the food was terrific. Santiago Ways communicated throughout our trip. We felt well-supported when we needed to make changes. Thank you!!
Beatriz Beltranena
Santiago Ways is excellent they exceeded my expectations!! they do a great JOB and we had a "Buen Camino" in part thanks to them... lovely hotels.. flawless bag transfers and great great service!!! I would totally recommend them and please look for Vanessa she is the best.
Jan Schubert
My family and I used Santiago Ways to organize our recent pilgrimage from Lisbon to Porto. They did an excellent job booking us (as much as possible) into wonderful, small, family-run hotels and coping with the many changes dictated by "group" travel. In addition, one of us was traveling by bicycle whilst the rest were walking, necessitating even more planning which Santiago Ways did with patience and grace. We recommend using Santiago Ways for Camino support and planning!!! Jan Schubert
Jill Scher
My family and I (6 of us) just finished walking the Lisbon to Porto section of the Camino Portuguese. It was a wonderful experience for us. The hotels we were booked into were well chosen and the food was great. We also found the path to be well marked making way finding fairly easy. A great relief as we had heard it was not well marked. Our luggage was efficiently transferred each day and everything ran very smoothly. Thank you Santiago Ways! We would definitely recommend your services to our friends. Jill
Kenneth E. Nowell
Santiago Ways made my memorable hike trouble-free. I had excellent hotels, tasty breakfasts, dependable baggage forwarding, informative advance information, and a dependable drive to deliver me to Sarria. I really appreciate their attention to detail!
Margo Gosia Barker
We booked our El Camino with Santiago Ways and we were very lucky to have Silvia as our agent. She did a fantastic job organizing our trip, always promptly responding to our inquiries, impeccable English, all accommodations that she arranged for us were great, and our luggage was always delivered to the next location timely, before our arrivals to sites. I would definitely recommend Santiago Ways and ask for Silvia to be your representative.
Patricia Bazán
This trip changed my life in ways I could not describe! I knew the hiking was going to be a challenge, but Santiago Ways made it so easy to plan and execute. They are truly the best and I am already planning my next trip with Santiago Ways and would not think of going anywhere else. Silvia Rivera was particularly helpful in the planning, as she answered all my questions patiently, and help me through the process. Great job, Guys, and I will see you next year!
Roberto Canto
Have just finished El Camino de Santiago from Sarria with the help of Santiago Ways. They have been extremely accesible from day one. The transfer of the luggage throught the five days was impecable, always finding the luggage in the room on every stage of the way. The food and lodging was very acceptable. If I were to do it again I would not hesitate to contact them once more for their assistance! "Buen camino".
Edmee Flores
Our experience with Santiago Ways was flawless. We highly recommend this outfit for your Santiago way experience. A perfect 10!
Barbara Melinska
Very nice experience. Good and professional organization.Nice and friendly environment during the event. Recommended 100 %. Saludos para Jose 😉
Hanna Ringel
Simply put - an incredible experience! This agency looks after every last detail. I walked the last 100 km of the Camino with their help and I definitely want to go back soon and do a longer part of the route. When that happens (which I hope is soon) I'll definitely be using Santiago Ways again! Thanks for everything.
Below, we offer some photographs of the Camino de Santiago from France and some videos that will make you enjoy the most unforgettable experience of your life. Enjoy the Camino with Santiago Ways and focus on living it!
