Which is the shortest Camino de Santiago?

Project Manager

Ricardo González Raposo

21 Mar, 2025 · 6 min

The Camino de Santiago is one of the most important pilgrimage routes in the world, known not only for its spiritual significance but also for its natural and cultural beauty. Every year, thousands of people undertake the journey to Santiago de Compostela, in Galicia, following various routes that make up this historic path. But did you know that not all Camino de Santiago routes are the same length? 

What is the Camino de Santiago?

The Camino de Santiago is a series of routes leading to Santiago de Compostela, where, according to tradition, the tomb of the apostle Saint James is located. Although the Camino is a religious experience, many people also walk it for tourism, sport, or adventure purposes. Over the centuries, different routes have developed, each with its own charm, challenges, and duration.

The most famous route is the Camino Francés, which crosses northern Spain and attracts the most pilgrims each year. However, there are many other routes that vary in length, from the longest to the shortest, offering options for all fitness levels and time availability.

Which is the shortest Camino de Santiago route?

Although there are several short Camino de Santiago routes, one of the most notable due to its length and popularity is the Portuguese Way from Tui. This route begins in Tui, a town located in the province of Pontevedra, in southern Galicia, and stretches about 120 kilometers to Santiago de Compostela.

The Portuguese Way is an excellent option for pilgrims who don't have much time to complete the full journey but still want to experience the feeling of arriving in Santiago. Along the way, pilgrims enjoy beautiful coastal, mountainous, and rural landscapes, as well as a rich cultural and gastronomic tradition.

Why is the Portuguese Way so popular?

1. Short distance: at only 120 kilometers, the Portuguese Way from Tui is one of the shortest options to reach Santiago, making it ideal for those with limited time who still want to complete the pilgrimage.
2. Accessibility: Tui is well connected with the rest of Spain and Portugal, making it easy to reach by public transport from cities such as Vigo or Porto.
3. Varied landscapes: the route passes through beautiful natural scenery, from the green Galician hills to the quiet coastal villages of the region. Pilgrims also get to enjoy local cuisine, with traditional regional dishes and a wide variety of fresh products.
4. Less demanding route: compared to other longer and more difficult routes, the Portuguese Way from Tui is relatively gentle in terms of physical difficulty, making it accessible to most pilgrims.

How long does it take to complete the Portuguese Way from Tui?

The time it takes to walk the Portuguese Way from Tui may vary depending on each pilgrim’s pace. In general, the 120-kilometer journey can be completed in 5 or 6 stages, which means walking between 20 and 25 kilometers per day. This journey may take between 5 and 7 days, depending on the pilgrim's physical condition and how much time they want to spend walking each day.

It is important to note that this is only an estimate. If the pilgrim wishes to make stops to enjoy the scenery or explore the towns and cities along the way, they might choose to extend the stages. On the other hand, if they are in a hurry, they can opt to shorten the stages or take transport for certain sections.

Other short Camino de Santiago routes

Although the Portuguese Way from Tui is one of the shortest routes, there are other options also recommended for those seeking a shorter yet equally enriching experience:

1. English Way: this route starts in A Coruña or Ferrol, depending on the chosen starting point. From Ferrol, the route is approximately 120 kilometers and can be completed in 4 to 6 days. This route is especially popular among pilgrims coming from Northern Europe.
2. Primitive Way: The Primitive Way, considered the original Camino de Santiago route, begins in Oviedo, in northern Spain. Although this route is longer, around 315 kilometers, it is possible to complete shorter sections if one only wants to experience part of the journey.
3. Northern Way: this route follows Spain’s northern coast, from Irún or Villalba to Santiago. Although it is a longer route (around 800 kilometers), pilgrims can choose to walk shorter segments depending on their preferences.

Benefits of doing a short Camino

1. Less time and effort: by choosing a shorter route, pilgrims save both time and energy. This can make the experience more accessible for people with less experience in long-distance walking or for those unable to commit to a multi-day journey.
2. Enjoy the journey more: not having to walk long distances each day gives pilgrims more time to enjoy the scenery, gastronomy, and culture of the places they visit. Also, with less rush, it's easier to connect spiritually with the journey.
3. Fewer crowds: although the Portuguese Way from Tui is a popular route, it is less crowded than the French Way, allowing pilgrims to enjoy a quieter and more personalized experience.

Tips for walking the shortest Camino de Santiago

If you decide to walk the Portuguese Way or any other short route, it's important to keep in mind some practical tips to make the most of your experience:

• Get physically prepared: although the shorter routes are less demanding, it’s advisable to be in good physical shape to walk comfortably for several consecutive days.
• Pack smart: carry only the essentials in your backpack, as extra weight can make the journey uncomfortable. Don’t forget appropriate footwear and comfortable clothing.
• Book accommodation in advance: although the shorter routes may have fewer pilgrims, it's advisable to book your accommodation ahead of time to avoid problems, especially during high season.
• Enjoy the moment: remember that the Camino de Santiago is not just a destination but a journey. Enjoy every step and the experience of discovering new places and people.

The Camino de Santiago is a unique and transformative experience, and you don’t have to walk thousands of kilometers to enjoy everything it has to offer. If you're looking for a short but equally meaningful route, the Portuguese Way from Tui is an excellent option. With a distance of only 120 kilometers, this route is perfect for those who have little time but still want to experience the Santiago pilgrimage. Moreover, its landscapes, culture, and accessibility make this one of the most attractive options for modern pilgrims.

If you're looking to complete the Camino de Santiago in a short amount of time, don’t hesitate to consider this route. The Camino awaits you!