Xacobeo 2027: Complete Guide to the Holy Year of Santiago

A guide to understanding Xacobeo 2027

What makes Xacobeo 2027 special?

The Xacobeo, also known as the Holy Year of Santiago, is a jubilee year granted to the city of Santiago de Compostela. The Church celebrates it in years when 25 July falls on a Sunday, following an irregular cycle that repeats every 6, 5, 6 and 11 years. During that year, the Cathedral opens the Holy Door and pilgrims can obtain the Jubilee, or plenary indulgence, by fulfilling the established religious requirements.

What makes Xacobeo 2027 an exceptional event is not only its religious significance. It comes at a time when the Camino de Santiago is experiencing record numbers of pilgrims, meaning that demand for accommodation, transport and services will be greater than in an ordinary year.

History of the Holy Year of Santiago

Santiago’s jubilee tradition dates back to the Middle Ages, when the pilgrimage to the tomb of Saint James became one of the three great destinations of Christianity, alongside Rome and Jerusalem. The privilege of the Holy Year of Santiago is traditionally attributed to Pope Callixtus II in the first third of the 12th century, while its confirmation and perpetual status are generally linked to the papal bull Regis Aeterni, issued by Pope Alexander III in 1179. Through this decree, Santiago was placed on an equal footing with Rome and Jerusalem as a place where pilgrims could obtain the jubilee indulgence.

The meaning is simple yet powerful: in years when the Feast of Saint James falls on a Sunday, the Church offers pilgrims the opportunity to obtain the plenary indulgence by travelling to the Cathedral and fulfilling certain religious conditions. For centuries, this privilege attracted pilgrims from across Europe along the different routes converging in Compostela, helping to create the cultural, artistic and human network that we now know as the Camino de Santiago.

The Holy Door, located on the Quintana façade, is the physical symbol of this tradition. It remains sealed and only opens during a Holy Year, before being closed again when the jubilee ends. Walking through it has become the defining gesture of the jubilee pilgrimage. Understanding this background is not merely a matter of historical interest: it helps explain why a Xacobeo is not simply “another year” on the Camino de Santiago, but the culmination of a tradition of devotion stretching back almost a thousand years.

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Timeline of the Holy Years: 2021, 2027 and 2032

The Holy Years do not follow a fixed schedule. Instead, they follow a pattern that repeats every 6, 5, 6 and 11 years, depending on when 25 July falls on a Sunday. This is the recent and upcoming sequence:

The practical takeaway is clear: after 2027, the next Xacobeo will not take place until 2032, followed by a much longer gap. If you are considering experiencing the Camino de Santiago during a Holy Year, 2027 is an opportunity that will not come around again soon.

What changes during a Holy Year?

This is the question that truly sets a Xacobeo apart from an ordinary year, and it deserves a closer look. Experiencing the Camino de Santiago during a Holy Year is not simply about walking: it means doing so at a time when Santiago and the whole of Galicia fully embrace the pilgrimage. These are the changes you will notice.

The Holy Door opens

This is the most visible and symbolic change. The Cathedral’s Holy Door, sealed for the rest of the time, is solemnly opened on 31 December 2026 and remains open throughout the entire jubilee year. Walking through it is the central gesture of a pilgrim during a Xacobeo and, for many, the most emotional moment of arriving in Santiago.

Religious life intensifies

During the Holy Year, the Cathedral increases its liturgical activity, and the jubilee spirit is reflected in every celebration. A specific religious programme will be organised around the major dates, with the week of the Feast of Saint James as its focal point. (The detailed 2027 liturgical programme has not yet been published; we will add it to this guide as soon as the Cathedral confirms it.) For pilgrims, this means a more solemn atmosphere and more opportunities to take part in religious events than during an ordinary year.

More pilgrims arrive and visitor numbers increase

A Xacobeo significantly increases the number of pilgrims arriving on the routes. The direct result is more life and atmosphere along the Camino de Santiago, but also more people on the final stages and at its most iconic locations. Sharing the Camino with pilgrims from around the world is part of the experience; knowing what to expect allows you to choose when and where to travel according to the experience you prefer.

Cultural activities multiply

Galicia accompanies the Holy Year with an extensive cultural programme featuring music series, exhibitions, conferences and activities throughout the region. Some events have already been confirmed, such as the BachCompostela music series, with concerts in the Cathedral throughout 2027. (The complete cultural programme is being published progressively.) This turns Santiago and the cities along the Camino into destinations that offer much more than walking: there are plenty of reasons to add extra nights and enjoy the programme.

Accommodation occupancy and hotel demand increase

With more pilgrims and visitors, accommodation becomes the most sought-after resource, especially along the final 100 kilometres and in Santiago. Rooms sell out earlier and further in advance than during an ordinary year. This is probably the logistical factor that has the greatest impact on planning a trip in 2027.

Prices tend to be higher during peak dates

During a Holy Year, particularly in the weeks of highest demand, accommodation tends to sell out earlier and prices may be higher than during the mid-season. This is not a uniform rule and does not affect the whole year equally: it is concentrated around the busiest periods. Booking early is the best way to secure your place and retain more flexibility.

International interest increases

The Xacobeo receives considerable attention outside Spain. More than half of the pilgrims arriving in Santiago are already international, and a Holy Year further strengthens this reach through promotional campaigns in Europe, the Americas and Asia. The result is a more global and diverse Camino de Santiago, with pilgrims of dozens of nationalities sharing the stages.

Key dates for Xacobeo 2027

These are the dates that shape the year. We clearly distinguish between what has been confirmed and what still depends on the institutional or liturgical programme.

If you are travelling in search of the most intense jubilee atmosphere, the period from 15 to 25 July is the heart of the year. If you would prefer to experience the Camino de Santiago with less pressure, further below we explain which months to avoid and which periods are more comfortable.

One note to avoid confusion: the tax incentive period associated with the Holy Year, running from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2028, applies to companies and sponsorships, not to pilgrims, and does not coincide with the duration of the Holy Year itself, which covers the 2027 calendar year.

Holy Door, Jubilee and Compostela: they are not the same

This is the most common source of confusion among those preparing for their first Holy Year. It is worth clarifying before organising your trip, as it affects what you can expect and what each procedure and symbolic act actually means.

The Jubilee, or plenary indulgence, is a spiritual benefit. To obtain it, the Church establishes several requirements: visiting Santiago Cathedral, praying for the Pope’s intentions and receiving the sacraments of confession and communion close to the date of the visit. It is not a tourist certificate and is not granted automatically simply because you arrive in Santiago.

The Holy Door is the Cathedral’s jubilee entrance, which only opens during a Holy Year. Walking through it is the symbolic act of the jubilee pilgrim, but on its own it does not replace the other requirements for obtaining the Jubilee.

The Compostela is the certificate issued by the Pilgrim’s Office when you prove that you have completed at least the final 100 km on foot or horseback, or 200 km by bicycle, for religious or spiritual reasons, while collecting stamps in your Pilgrim Passport along the route. It is a record of your pilgrimage and is separate from the Jubilee.

In summary, you can obtain the Compostela without receiving the Jubilee, while the Jubilee requires religious conditions that go beyond walking the Camino. Both take on special significance during a Holy Year, but they are not the same. As for Masses, liturgical activity increases during the jubilee year, although the specific schedules and programme for 2027 will be published progressively. Always check the latest information before your arrival.

How many pilgrims are expected? Will Santiago be full?

This is the question that will have the greatest impact on the experience, and the honest answer is that yes, demand will be very high, and the key will be when you travel and which route you choose.

The starting point is striking. In 2025, 530,987 Compostelas were issued, an all-time record representing growth of close to 6%, with 57% of pilgrims coming from outside Spain. It is important to understand what this figure measures: these are certificates issued by the Pilgrim’s Office, not the total number of people using the routes, which is even higher. Against this background, and given the attraction generated by a Holy Year, all indications suggest that 2027 will set a new pilgrimage record.

However, the pressure will not be distributed evenly. It will be concentrated in three main areas:

• Seasonal peaks: Holy Week, May and June, late July, August and early September.
• The final stages: the Sarria–Santiago section of the Camino Francés and the Tui–Santiago section of the Camino Portugués attract most pilgrims completing the minimum 100 km.
• Santiago itself: simultaneous arrivals, ceremonies, accommodation and mobility all come under pressure at the same time, especially around 25 July.

Will Santiago be full? On the major dates, the city will operate at maximum capacity. However, the crowds are manageable if you make decisions early: choose your route and travel month carefully, book in advance and, if your trip falls during a peak period, add an extra night in Santiago so that you do not have to rely on finding last-minute accommodation. The following sections will help you make these decisions.

Which Camino route should you choose for Xacobeo 2027?

There is no single “best” route in absolute terms. The right route depends on the number of days you have available, your fitness level, your previous experience and your tolerance for crowds. This table summarises the options for 2027, followed by a more detailed overview of each route.

Camino Francés

It remains the most popular route, accounting for around 45% of all Compostelas. It is the best waymarked route, offers the widest range of services and the liveliest pilgrim atmosphere, but it is also the busiest, especially on the final section from Sarria. It is an excellent choice if you value the social side of the Camino and well-developed infrastructure, but less suitable if you are looking for solitude during the high season. One useful tip: starting in O Cebreiro or León gives you a more complete Camino Francés experience with fewer crowds than beginning in Sarria.

Camino Portugués

It is the fastest-growing route. The Central Camino Portugués (from Tui) and the Camino Portugués Coastal Route together now account for around 36% of all Compostelas. The Coastal Route is one of the fastest-growing options and offers spectacular Atlantic scenery as an alternative to the inland route. It provides an excellent balance between a lively atmosphere and slightly lower visitor numbers than the Camino Francés.

Camino Inglés

Short (from Ferrol, the required 100 km can be completed in just a few stages), historic and ideal if you only have a limited number of days available. It has particularly strong appeal for British pilgrims because of its historical Atlantic connections. As accommodation capacity is more limited, it is advisable to book early to secure your place.

Alternative routes

The Camino Primitivo, the Camino del Norte, the Camino de Invierno and the Vía de la Plata allow you to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate Camino experience. One important point to bear in mind is that these routes have fewer accommodation options, meaning that even a moderate increase in the number of pilgrims can create logistical challenges. If you choose one of these routes, book as far in advance as possible.

Fisterra–Muxía

This route does not qualify for the Compostela on its own, but it is the perfect extension after arriving in Santiago. Continuing to the Atlantic “end of the world” is one of the most memorable ways to conclude the Camino. Keep in mind that accommodation and transport options are limited in this area, so it is essential to secure both well in advance.

When should you book and which months should you avoid?

When to book: the earlier, the better

During a Holy Year, accommodation on the final stages of the Camino and in Santiago becomes the most limited resource. If you plan to travel during the high season or around 25 July, booking several months in advance is no longer simply recommended—it becomes essential. Waiting too long to book in 2027 will most likely mean paying higher prices or, in the worst-case scenario, not finding availability on the section you wish to walk.

Which months to avoid if you are looking for a quieter experience

The busiest periods are Holy Week, May and June, late July, August and early September. These are also the weeks when accommodation prices tend to be highest and availability is under the greatest pressure.

The most comfortable travel windows

Late April and early May, before the main peak; the second half of June; and, above all, late September and October, when the weather is still pleasant and there are fewer pilgrims. If you travel during the height of summer, be prepared for high temperatures by planning shorter stages and walking during the cooler hours of the morning.

A strategy that works particularly well during a Holy Year is to choose a route with slightly lower demand and add an extra night in Santiago. This allows you to enjoy the jubilee atmosphere and cultural programme without relying on finding last-minute accommodation on the day you arrive, while also giving yourself plenty of time to collect your Compostela.

How to prepare: practical planning for 2027

A great Camino begins long before you take your first step. These are the practical aspects that make all the difference during a Holy Year.

Book accommodation in advance

This is the single most important decision. During a Holy Year, the best accommodation is booked first, and the most sought-after routes can sell out months ahead. If you already know your travel dates, securing your accommodation as early as possible will save you money and give you many more options.

Decide how you want to travel

Walking with your own backpack, using a luggage transfer service, staying in hotels or choosing hostels all shape your Camino experience. During Xacobeo 2027, it is especially important to make these decisions before booking, as availability will be more limited than usual.

Prepare physically

You do not need to be an athlete to complete the Camino de Santiago, but it is highly recommended to start walking regularly in the weeks before your trip. Gradually increasing your walking distance, wearing the same footwear you will use on the Camino and carrying a loaded backpack will help your body adapt much more easily.

Travel with the right equipment

One of the most common mistakes is carrying too much weight. A light backpack, suitable footwear, technical clothing and a basic first-aid kit are more than enough for most routes. If you are unsure, our guide on what to pack for the Camino de Santiago will help you prepare your equipment.

Don’t forget your Pilgrim Passport

If you wish to receive the Compostela, you must carry your Pilgrim Passport and collect the required stamps along the route. During the Holy Year, it is also the essential document for pilgrims who wish to obtain the Jubilee.

Important warnings before organising your trip

During a Holy Year, a great deal of information circulates, and not all of it is reliable. These precautions will help you avoid disappointment and plan your Xacobeo 2027 using up-to-date information.

Frequently asked questions about Xacobeo 2027

When does Xacobeo 2027 begin?

The Holy Year begins with the opening of the Holy Door on 31 December 2026 at 5:00 p.m. and is celebrated throughout 2027.

When does the 2027 Holy Year end?

The closing ceremony is usually held on 31 December, but the exact date and event for 2027 have not yet been officially confirmed. We will update this guide as soon as they are published.

What happens in Santiago on 25 July 2027?

It is the Feast of Saint James and, in 2027, it falls on a Sunday, which is what makes it a Holy Year. The period from 15 to 25 July will have the greatest religious intensity and, consequently, the highest demand. The programme of events is still pending confirmation.

When is the next Holy Year after 2027?

The next Xacobeo will be in 2032, five years later. It will then be followed by 2038 and 2049.

Do I need to walk a specific route to obtain the Jubilee?

No. The Jubilee depends on fulfilling the religious requirements—visiting the Cathedral, praying for the Pope’s intentions, confession and communion—not on completing a particular route or distance. The minimum distance of 100 km on foot is a requirement for the Compostela, which is a separate certificate.

What is the difference between the Jubilee and the Compostela?

The Jubilee is the plenary indulgence, which is spiritual in nature and subject to religious requirements. The Compostela is the certificate confirming that you have completed the Camino while meeting the minimum-distance requirement. You can obtain one without the other.

Will there be enough accommodation in 2027?

Accommodation will be available, but demand will be very high, especially on the final stages and in Santiago. Actual availability will depend on the date and route; booking in advance offers the best guarantee.

Will prices increase during Xacobeo 2027?

During the weeks of highest demand, accommodation tends to sell out earlier and prices may be higher than during the mid-season. Outside the peak periods, the impact is much lower. Booking early helps secure both availability and price.

Is the Camino Francés or the Camino Portugués better in 2027?

The Camino Francés offers more services and a livelier atmosphere, but also attracts more people. The Camino Portugués, particularly the Coastal Route, offers a good balance between the experience and slightly lower demand. The right choice depends on the time you have available and your tolerance for crowds.

How many pilgrims are expected in 2027?

In 2025, a record 530,987 Compostelas were issued, with 57% of pilgrims coming from outside Spain. A Holy Year usually increases these figures even further, so 2027 is expected to set a new record, although no definitive official forecast has been published.

Will the Pope visit Santiago in 2027?

At the time of writing, no papal visit has been confirmed. If one is officially announced, we will update this section.

Can you see the Botafumeiro?

The Botafumeiro operates during certain liturgical celebrations or when it has been specially requested, not at every Mass. It cannot be guaranteed as part of a trip.

Our commitment to this guide

This guide has been prepared using official sources, including the Xunta de Galicia and Turismo de Galicia, the Jacobean Council, Santiago Cathedral and the Archdiocese of Santiago, the Pilgrim’s Office and various regulatory documents related to the Holy Year. We always distinguish between confirmed information and details that are still pending publication or official confirmation.

As the Xacobeo 2027 programme will continue to be updated over the coming months, we maintain this content as a living guide. We will periodically review the dates, religious and cultural events, route updates and any other relevant information so that you always have access to the latest details.

Start preparing for Xacobeo 2027

The Xacobeo 2027 will not simply be a year with more pilgrims. It will be an opportunity to walk the Camino de Santiago during one of the most special moments in its recent history, pass through the Holy Door and become part of a tradition that has welcomed travellers from around the world for almost a thousand years.

Whether you are seeking a spiritual or cultural experience or simply want to discover the Camino de Santiago, planning your trip in advance will be the best decision. Choosing the right route, booking early and preparing every stage will allow you to enjoy the Holy Year with much greater peace of mind.

The next Holy Year after 2027 will not take place until 2032. If you want to experience this unique event, beginning to plan your trip today will make all the difference.