The Camino de Santiago offers more than a walking expedition; it's an immersion into various experiences. Some of these experiences are in the beautiful towns along the route, where pilgrims can spend the night, relax, recharge, and explore some local attractions before walking. From the French Way to the Coastal Portuguese Camino, here are some of the finest towns on the Camino de Santiago that inspire fascinating experiences with nature, cultures, cuisines, and people. Explore our range of Camino de Santiago Walking Routes or you might like to read our post: The Mystical Camino Routes to help guide you in choosing the right Camino route for you.
Photo credit: Gregorioa
Saint Jean Pied de Port (France)
Saint Jean Pied de Port is a naturally stunning town at the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains and along the River Nive. It is remarkable as the official embarkation point of the Camino de Frances route, and most pilgrims typically spend a night or two exploring this charming town before walking the trail.
Roam its cobblestone streets, witnessing ancient houses with balconies overlooking the River Nive. Attend a pilgrim mass at the magnificent Notre Dame Gothic Church, and stop by the pilgrim’s office to officially register for the trip. The town is also a good place to stock up on supplies from local stores, sample traditional cuisines like Sheep’s Cheese, and ask relevant questions about the trip from fellow travellers.
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Portomarin (Lugo, Spain)
Portomarin is one of the most idyllic towns on the French Way, renowned for its captivating scenery along the Mino River. The magnificent Roman Bridge over the river marks the end of the trail for some pilgrims and the beginning for those starting in Sarria. Whichever is the case, this town is a delightful stop for pilgrims, serving its whitewashed buildings with grey roofs as visual treats.
Stroll around the town and taste delectable offerings like Almond Tart, Eel Pie, and locally made liquor. Visit the Church of San Nicholas and learn about its history or the Church of San Pedro, a historical/artistic monument. Recline at Agustin del Rio Park to enjoy breathtaking views of the River Mino and swim in the water if you’re feeling hot.
Jaca (Huesca, Spain)
Jaca is a picturesque town within the inner ranges of the Pyrenees. Full of historical charms and magical landscapes, this beautiful stop boasts one of the region’s most esteemed monuments, the Jaca 16th-century pentagonal Citadel, a fortress and home to the military museum of miniatures.
While in this village, you should also visit the Romanesque Cathedral of San Pedro and its Gothic frescoes, the Benedictine Monastery, a 15th-century clock tower, and the San Miguel Bridge.
Pilgrims can also relax at the Bar La Tasca de Ana, where they can enjoy staple foods like Pincho and fine wines to refuel as they journey onward.
Astorga (Leon, Spain)
The beautiful town of Astorga is an unforgettable stop on the French Way and is renowned as the meeting point of two pilgrim routes – Camino de Frances and Via de la Plata.
The town boasts a handful of historic attractions, like the Cathedral Saint Mary, which features a gift shop and a museum with religious artefacts. The Chocolate Museum is also a big draw, where tourists can learn about the history and production of chocolates.
Walk on the Parque del Melger for stunning views of the old city walls that ring about the town, while the Plaza Mayor de Astorga is the town’s square and home to restaurants for eclectic dining experiences.
Baiona (Galicia, Spain)
Burgos lies on the French Way of the trail and is a popular stop for pilgrims who want to rest and restock when out of supplies. The city spots a historic and charming ambiance with a walkable downtown featuring mediaeval architecture and iconic landmarks.
Burgos Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of its historic highlights, erected in honour of the Virgin Mary. The Plaza Mayor is a vibrant town square to relax and recharge with local foods. Burgos Castle, now in ruins, overlooks the city and is worth a climb for stunning panoramic views of the area.
Ribadiso de Baixo (A Coruna, Spain)
Ribadiso is a quaint and charming small town in Arzua municipality, home to the final 100 km of the trail. This traditional Galician village offers its magical landscapes, tantalising cuisines, and laid-back atmosphere for pilgrims.
Highlight attractions in the town include the majestic Ribadiso Bridge over the Iso River and the old hospital of San Antonio – one of the oldest in Galicia, which sits by the river. Pilgrims can relax by the river, swim, soak their feet in the water while brooding, or admire the beautiful scenery.
Don’t forget to savour the delicious Arzua Cheese produced in the region. The Ribadiso Meson restaurant is also nearby for culinary treats.
The Camino de Santiago: A Pilgrim Way Dotted with Magnificent Towns
Find ultimate comfort, tranquillity, and beauty along the more than 700-kilometre Camino de Santiago, which passes through several beautiful towns. Rest, recharge, recreate, and explore quaint cobblestone streets, capturing historic attractions frozen in time and relishing palatable cuisines. It's beyond a walk but a gastronomic, historical, and explorative adventure.
