Walking the Camino Portugués de la Costa was an adventure that tested my feet, filled my heart, and taught me more about myself than I ever expected.
From the beaches of Baiona to the Cathedral of Santiago, I walked 140 km over 6 days—through rain, sun, forests, vineyards, and city streets. I met strangers who became friends, collected stamps in the most unexpected places, battled blisters, and shared beers under the sun.
Was it the perfect Camino? Maybe not.
Was it the most “holy”? Probably not.
But it was mine—and that makes it unforgettable.
Here’s my story, tips, and must-see spots from each day:
Exploring Baiona!
Before starting my Camino, I spent time exploring Baiona—a town that deserves a day of its own. I wandered through its historic streets, enjoyed amazing food, and visited local churches that hold the town’s history in their stones.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss getting a blessing at the local church before you begin your Camino. It added a special layer of meaning to my journey that I’ll never forget.
Where to Stay 🏨
Stella do Mar – https://esteladomar.com/en/
Where to Eat
🌿 Day 1: Baiona → Vigo – 26.5 km
My Camino Experience
The first day on the Camino Portugués was amazing—a mix of coastal views, small towns, and warm smiles from locals. The sun was shining, the sea breeze was refreshing, and I couldn’t believe I was finally starting this adventure.
Walking from Baiona to Vigo felt like a long but rewarding stretch. The route was well-marked and full of places to stop, rest, and dip your feet in the sea. I regret not having my swimsuit, but I still enjoyed the beach and soaked my feet in the sea! 🙂
One thing I’d change? My hotel was about 5 km from the beach and the Camino—next time, I’ll book something closer.
Where to Eat 🍽️
- Cafés along the Camino—Small, local spots pop up every few kilometers, perfect for coffee breaks and light snacks.
- Beachside bars – Great for a cold beer and a quick rest while watching the waves.
Where to Stay 🏨
What to Do 🌆
- Enjoy the beach! – Even if you don’t swim, take off your shoes and soak your feet in the Atlantic.
- Soak in the journey – This stretch is about starting slow, enjoying the ride, and letting go of the pressure to “get there fast.”
Pro Tips for Day 1 💡
✔️ Pack a swimsuit – The sea is calling!
✔️ Choose accommodations close to the Camino or the beach.
✔️ Take breaks often—don’t rush, this is your Camino.
✔️ Keep your meals light; walking with a light stomach will feel better.
✔️ Don’t forget to try a local beer at the end of the day—you’ve earned it!
✔️ Enjoy the journey—chat with fellow pilgrims, take photos, and breathe in the ocean air.
✔️ If you have extra time, stop in the small towns along the way—they’re full of charm and great places to grab a coffee or snack.
Reflection / Closing
The first day of the Camino was a mix of excitement and discovery. I felt strong, happy, and already a little sore, but I knew this was the beginning of something special. Listen to your body, take it slow, and enjoy the ride. This is what the Camino is all about—discovery, connection, and adventure. One step at a time
🌿 Day 2: Vigo → Arcade – ~23 km
My Camino Experience
Day 2 was a beautiful mix of nature, city, and history. We walked through the old train road, sharing space with cars on curvy roads, but the coastal views kept us going. It was hot, but the Camino spirit was alive: beers shared, stamps collected, and stories exchanged with fellow pilgrims.
The sun was strong, and my feet were feeling the miles—changing socks often and checking for blisters became my new routine.
Where to Eat 🍽️
- Celtic Luada is a great place to stop for a stamp and coffee.
- Local cafés – Scattered along the Camino, perfect for breaks.
- Hidden tip: Don’t stop at the first café—walk a little further for less crowded spots.
Where to Stay 🏨
Las meirinhas
What to Do 🌆
- Enjoy the coastal views – Soak in the sea breeze while you can!
- Get your stamp at Celtic Luada – A fun little stop.
- Connect with fellow pilgrims – Share stories, laughs, and tips along the way.
Pro Tips for Day 2 💡
✔️ Change your socks if your feet get sweaty.
✔️ Don’t ignore hotspots—blister prevention is key.
✔️ Carry enough water—it gets hot along the coastal roads.
✔️ If you already have blisters, check them regularly and adjust as needed.
Reflection / Closing
This day felt like the Camino in motion: hills, curves, city roads, coastal paths—and all the small joys in between. The simple pleasure of a cold beer after a long stretch, the laughter with new friends, and the rhythm of the road kept me going.
Day 3: Arcade → Pontevedra – 16.5 km
My Camino Experience
Today was shorter but full of variety—we walked through the old town, up and down hills, and into peaceful forests. The route had so much to offer: charming streets, hidden trails, and even a marker letting us know we were only 78 km from Santiago—a moment that gave me chills!
A highlight of the day? Stopping by this store (insert name when you have it!) where I got a giant stamp—it was almost as big as the first stone on the Camino. A fun memory to keep!
By the time we reached Pontevedra, I felt a mix of tiredness and excitement—the end was getting closer, but there was still so much to see.
Where to Eat 🍽️
- Small cafés along the route – Great for coffee breaks and light bites.
- Restaurants in Pontevedra – Explore the old town for cozy spots to eat.
- Tip: Don’t stop at the first place you see—they’re often crowded. Walk a bit further for a quieter vibe.
Where to Stay 🏨
- Dpaso Urban Hostel.
What to Do 🌆
- Visit La Iglesia de la Virgen Peregrina – Get your stamp and admire the unique shell-shaped church.
- Explore Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor – A 16th-century beauty full of history.
- Take photos at the 78 km to Santiago marker—you’re getting so close!
- Wander the old town of Pontevedra – Beautiful architecture, charming streets, and a lively vibe.
Pro Tips for Day 3 💡
✔️ Don’t rush—this is a day to soak in the views and enjoy.
✔️ Look for the giant stamp—a fun addition to your credential.
✔️ Carry water and stay hydrated, especially with the ups and downs.
Reflection / Closing
Today reminded me that every step brings something new—forests, towns, hills, bridges, stamps, and smiles. The Camino is a patchwork of experiences, and I love every piece.
🌿 Day 4: Pontevedra → Caldas de Reis – 21 km
My Camino Experience
Today started in the rain, but halfway through, the sun broke through, turning the world golden. It felt like walking through different landscapes in a single day—forests, vineyards, winding paths, and small villages.
I was actually happy to use my raincoat—it made me feel like a true pilgrim, embracing whatever the Camino had to offer.
Before leaving Pontevedra, I stopped at the Iglesia de la Virgen Peregrina and the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor (built in the 16th century). Both were beautiful and peaceful and offered great stamps for my credentials.
Where to Eat 🍽️
- Cafés along the way – Scattered throughout the route, perfect for coffee or a quick bite.
- Hidden tip: Don’t stop at the first café; it tends to get crowded. Walk a bit further for a quieter spot.
- Dinner in Caldas – Found a gem: €15 full dinner (starter, main, wine bottle, water, dessert, and coffee). If you don’t like the menu, you can order à la carte. Amazing deal!
Where to Stay 🏨
- Albergue Celenis GBC
What to Do 🌆
- Soak your feet in the hot springs – After 4 days of walking, this felt like heaven. There are several spots throughout the town.
- Visit the Iglesia de Santa María.
- Wander the streets of Caldas de Reis—small but full of charm.
Pro Tips for Day 4 💡
✔️ Always pack a raincoat—you never know when you’ll need it.
✔️ Take breaks when you need them, but don’t always stop at the first spot.
✔️ Soak your feet in the hot springs—it’s a game-changer for tired legs.
Reflection / Closing
Today reminded me to embrace the contrasts: rain and sun, tired feet and refreshing waters, the familiar and the unexpected. The Camino isn’t just a walk—it’s an adventure for the senses.
Day 5: Caldas de Reis → Padrón – ~19 km
My Camino Experience
Leaving Caldas de Reis was a bittersweet moment. I was excited to be closer to Santiago, but my feet were definitely feeling the weight of the journey—blisters, tired legs, and all.
Before leaving, I visited the church in Caldas and, most importantly, soaked my feet in one of the many hot springs. After days of walking, it felt like a mini spa treatment for my aching feet.
On the way to Padrón, the Camino continued to surprise me with its beauty: forest paths, small villages, and friendly faces. We stopped for a break at a cozy restaurant, enjoying beers and lasagna—yes, lasagna on the Camino! A much-needed treat.
One of the highlights was meeting John, a fellow pilgrim who joined us for the walk to Padrón. The Camino is full of these chance encounters that make the journey so special.
Where to Eat 🍽️
- Hidden Gem (Caldas) – €15 full dinner (starter, entrée, wine bottle, water, dessert, and coffee). Incredible value!
- Local cafés along the way – Many spots for coffee and snacks.
- La Catrina (Padrón) – A surprising find in Padrón: delicious Mexican tacos!
Where to Stay 🏨
- Albergue Murgadan – great location! 🙂
What to Do 🌆
- Visit the Iglesia de Santiago to see the Pedrón—the legendary stone where St. James’ remains were buried.
- Stop by Santiaguiño Chapel for a peaceful moment.
- Visit the Our Lady of Carmen Grotto—a serene spot for reflection.
- Don’t forget to ask for your diploma in Padrón!
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try the tacos at La Catrina—a fun twist on the Camino food scene.
Pro Tips for Day 5 💡
✔️ Soak your feet in the hot springs before leaving Caldas.
✔️ Don’t ignore blisters—monitor and care for them.
✔️ Take breaks in unexpected places—it’s often where you’ll meet the best people.
✔️ Rest up—Santiago is just one day away!
Reflection / Closing
Today was a reminder that the Camino is about more than just the destination. It’s about the people you meet, the stories you share, and the small joys—like a plate of lasagna in a quiet town or a chat with a fellow pilgrim. Every step is a memory.
🌿 Day 6: Padrón → Santiago de Compostela – ~25 km
My Camino Experience
The final day—I could hardly believe it. I woke up early, left the hostel by 6:30 am, and started walking into the quiet streets of Padrón, searching for coffee. My feet were sore and blistered, but the excitement of reaching Santiago pushed me forward.
I stopped a few times to change bandages, but I didn’t take as many breaks—I was just so eager to arrive. Each milestone marker reminded me of how far I’d come… and how close I was. 3.8 km to go—that moment hit differently: so close, yet still so far.
Walking into Santiago was a mix of emotions: excitement, exhaustion, disbelief. The old city streets were buzzing, and when I finally turned the corner and saw the Cathedral—it felt surreal.
I had walked 140 km—through beaches, cities, vineyards, forests, rain, and sunshine. I met incredible people, stopped at churches, cafés, and restaurants, drank beers, collected stamps, battled blisters, and lived every moment of my Camino.
It might not have been the most “holy” or the most “perfect” Camino, but it was mine—full of my own stories, struggles, and triumphs. And that makes it unforgettable.
Where to Eat 🍽️
- Cafés along the way – Many spots for a quick breakfast or coffee.
- Restaurants in Santiago – So many options, but take time to celebrate:
- Casa Marcelo – Michelin-star dining (if you feel fancy).
- O Gato Negro – Traditional Galician seafood.
- La Tita – Known for its huge tortilla española.
- Casa Marcelo – Michelin-star dining (if you feel fancy).
- Don’t forget to treat yourself—you made it!
Where I Stayed 🏨
- Albergue The Last Stamp – This is a fun name with a great vibe, and it is close to the cathedral.
What to Do 🌆
- Visit the Cathedral of Santiago – Attend the Pilgrim’s Mass, see the Botafumeiro if it swings that day, and take in the moment.
- Hug the Santiago statue and visit the crypt of St. James.
- Get your Compostela certificate at the Pilgrim’s Office.
- Wander the old town—celebrate, relax, and soak it all in.
Pro Tips for Day 6 💡
✔️ Start early to beat the crowds (and the heat).
✔️ Don’t rush—soak in those final kilometers.
✔️ Celebrate your achievement—this is your Camino.
Reflection / Closing
Finishing the Camino is a mix of joy, relief, and nostalgia. It’s not just a walk; it’s a journey of discovery—about the world, about others, and most of all, about yourself.
My Camino wasn’t perfect, but it was mine. And that makes it perfect in its own way.
Buen Camino. 🌿
