The Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St. James, is one of the most iconic pilgrimage routes in the world. Spanning across Europe, it leads to the shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. Drawing pilgrims for centuries it’s now seen not just as Christian spiritual route, but a trek for anyone to enjoy.

Among the numerous paths that make up this ancient network, the French Way (Camino Francés) and the Portuguese Way (Camino Portugués) are two of the most popular routes. Each offers unique experiences, landscapes, and cultural encounters. But which one should you choose?

The French Way is the most popular route of the Camino trek, leading to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. It begins in St. Jean Pied de Port, France, and spans approximately 780 kilometers in it’s entirety. The route traverses the Pyrenees, passing through notable Spanish regions and offers pilgrims an experience of the diverse landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant cultures along the trail.

The French Way is the most traditional and renowned route, often depicted in literature and films about the Camino. This path has been trodden by pilgrims since the medieval era and is known for its rich historical significance.

The Camino French Way begins in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a quaint town in the French Pyrenees, with people joining all the way to Camino de Santiago.

The French Way offers diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills of Northern Spain and the expansive vineyards of La Rioja, to the vast Meseta plains of Castilla y León. The final stretch through Galicia is lush and green, with a more temperate climate.

Along the Camino Francés, pilgrims encounter numerous historical landmarks, including the Gothic Cathedral of Burgos and the impressive León Cathedral. The route also passes through picturesque villages and vibrant cities, offering a blend of rustic charm and urban sophistication.

The Camino Francés is well-equipped with albergues (pilgrim hostels), cafes, and restaurants, making it accessible and comfortable for travellers. The overriding experience people have of the Camino, particularly on the busier French Way, is the sense of camaraderie, creating a unique community spirit among pilgrims.

The Portuguese Way takes pilgrims from Portugal to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. It spans about 240 kilometres from Porto or 610 kilometres from Lisbon, passing through scenic landscapes, historic towns, and rural villages. It Is quieter than the French Way but still offers pilgrims an authentic cultural experiences, including local hospitality and the camaraderie of fellow travellers.

The Portuguese Way has gained popularity in recent years, though it has been a pilgrimage route since the Middle Ages. It is the second most travelled path Santiago after the French Way.

The main Portuguese Way starts in Lisbon, but many pilgrims opt to begin in Porto. This route can be completed in about two weeks from Porto or Tui.

The Portuguese Way is characterised by its coastal route. The coastal trail from Porto offers stunning ocean views, sandy beaches, and picturesque fishing villages.

Pilgrims can take in the historic town of Tui on the Spanish border as well as the dozens of religious sanctuaries found along this ancient pilgrimage trail.

The route is also slightly less crowded than the French Way, providing a more tranquil experience. But to top it all the Portuguese cuisine, renowned for its seafood, and the local wines add to the journey's charm.

Choosing Your Path

Both the French and Portuguese routes offer unforgettable experiences, but the choice ultimately depends on what kind of journey you seek. If you prefer a longer, more challenging route with a strong sense of pilgrim tradition, the French Way might be the best fit. On the other hand, if you are looking for a shorter, less crowded path with a blend of coastal and inland scenery, the Portuguese Way could be ideal.