The Portuguese Road, or Caminho Portugués, is often regarded as the most spiritually connected pilgrimage route. Tracing the journey of St James' body to its resting place in Santiago de Compostela, this quieter path is rich in history and scenic beauty. Beginning in Lisbon, nestled along the Tagus River, the route leads through fertile floodplains and gentle hills, with each evening spent in small, locally run hotels.
Along the way, walkers encounter historical landmarks such as the Templar town of Tomar, the Roman ruins of Conimbriga, and the World Heritage-listed city of Coimbra. The journey continues through Porto, known for its vibrant atmosphere, before crossing the Spanish border into Galicia. A highlight of the trail is the climb to Alto da Portela Grande (405m), which offers sweeping views over the Lima Valley. The final steps lead to Santiago de Compostela, where the iconic cathedral awaits, marking the end of this rewarding month-long pilgrimage. With a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, the Caminho Portugués provides a quieter yet deeply meaningful alternative to the more travelled routes.

Hike the Portuguese Camino from Lisbon

Self-Guided Trip

CA$

days from

5590

The Portuguese Road, or Caminho Portugués, is often regarded as the most spiritually connected pilgrimage route. Tracing the journey of St James' body to its resting place in Santiago de Compostela, this quieter path is rich in history and scenic beauty. Beginning in Lisbon, nestled along the Tagus River, the route leads through fertile floodplains and gentle hills, with each evening spent in small, locally run hotels.
Along the way, walkers encounter historical landmarks such as the Templar town of Tomar, the Roman ruins of Conimbriga, and the World Heritage-listed city of Coimbra. The journey continues through Porto, known for its vibrant atmosphere, before crossing the Spanish border into Galicia. A highlight of the trail is the climb to Alto da Portela Grande (405m), which offers sweeping views over the Lima Valley. The final steps lead to Santiago de Compostela, where the iconic cathedral awaits, marking the end of this rewarding month-long pilgrimage. With a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, the Caminho Portugués provides a quieter yet deeply meaningful alternative to the more travelled routes.

Activity / Theme

Country

Hiking

Portugal, Spain

Comfort Level

Physical Rating

Moderate

Transportation

Accommodation

On foot with some vehicle transfers

31 nights in comfortable hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities

Months of Operation

March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October

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Adventure Coordinators Insider Tip:

The Portuguese Camino makes for a splendid alternative to the busier Camino Frances. It also has the advantage you can walk it much earlier in the year.

Itinerary

You can choose to hike the full Portuguese Camino in one trip or do it over several vacations. ** in the itinerary indicates a possible break point where you can end one holiday and start again the next. If you wish to build in rest days along the way, let us know.

DAY 1: Arrive in Lisbon, explore its rich history and culture
DAY 2: Transfer to Santa Iria, walk to Vila Franca de Xira (16km, 4.5hrs)
DAY 3: Follow the river through farmland to Azambuja (20km, 5-6hrs)
DAY 4: Walk through fertile plains to historic Santarem (33km, 8hrs)
DAY 5: Scenic rural paths to Golega (33km, 8hrs)
DAY 6: Through Templar country, to historic Tomar (30km, 7-8hrs)
DAY 7: Varied landscapes and rolling hills to Alvaiazere (31km, 8hrs)
DAY 8: Olive groves and forest tracks lead to Alvorge (23km, 6-7hrs)
DAY 9: Pass Roman ruins en route to Condeixa a Nova (22km, 6.5hrs)
DAY 10: Walk to Coimbra, Portugal’s lively university town (17km, 4hrs) **
DAY 11: Rest day in Coimbra, free time to explore
DAY 12: Follow river valleys and quiet roads to Mealhada (23km, 5-6hrs)
DAY 13: Vineyards and woodlands on the way to Agueda (26km, 6hrs)
DAY 14: Walk to Albergaria, return to Agueda for night (16km, 4-5hrs)
DAY 15: Transfer back, hike to Oliveira de Azemeis (20km, 5-6hrs)
DAY 16: Over rolling hills to Malaposta via Arrifana (16km, 4-5hrs)
DAY 17: Follow Roman roads to Porto via Grijo (27km, 7hrs) **
DAY 18: Rest day to explore Porto’s culture and port wines
DAY 19: Through quiet trails and woodlands to Arcos (18km, 4hrs)
DAY 20: Past valleys and medieval sites to Barcelos (20km, 5hrs)
DAY 21: Through villages and chapels to Balugaes (16km, 4.5hrs)
DAY 22: Along rivers & cobbled streets to Ponte de Lima (18km, 5.5hrs)
DAY 23: Crossing scenic hills and ridges to Pecene (22km, 6.5hrs)
DAY 24: Through rolling hills to the border at Tui (15km, 4.5hrs) **
DAY 25: Rest day to explore Tui and Valença
DAY 26: Through woods to O Porrino, transfer to Tui (17km, 6hrs)
DAY 27: Along coastal and forested paths to Arcade (23km, 6hrs)
DAY 28: Historic bridges and stone paths to Pontevedra (12km, 3-4hrs)
DAY 29: Gentle valleys and countryside to Caldas de Reis (22km, 6-7hrs)
DAY 30: Via Bermana and Valga river valleys to Padron (19km, 5-6hrs)
DAY 31: Through forests and hills to Santiago (25.6km, 6-7hrs)
DAY 32: Trip concludes after breakfast in Santiago

Inclusions

31 continental breakfasts
31 nights in comfortable hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
Transfers from Lisbon to Santa Iria de Azoia, between Albergaria and Agueda, from Porto to Vilar do Pinheiro and between Tui & O Porrino
Digital information pack with route notes, maps & GPX
Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
Pilgrim Passport
Emergency hotline

Sample tour. Itinerary, accommodation, transportation, inclusions and prices are correct at the time of publication but may change without prior notice. Please inquire.

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