Continuing our Camino Guide series, we describe the pros and cons of choosing the Camino Portugués as your route to Santiago. We've already covered the Le Puy Route, and the Classic Camino Frances route, so why should you consider the Camino Portugués?:

Camino Portugés

The Camino Portugés is the second most travelled Camino. Officially starting in Lisbon, it is 615km to Santiago de Compostela. Walking the Camino Portugés takes around a month to complete.   Starting in Porto only 239km from Santiago significantly shortens the length of this route. The route’s popularity increases at the town of Tui, on the Galician-Portuguese border, as it is the last town where you can start the Camino Portugés and gain a Compostela in Santiago. The almost entirely flat route is a dramatic contrast with the other Camino routes, which tend to be hillier, with their several climbs and descents. Pros:

• It’s the most suitable Camino for Cyclists, with most of the route on minor roads.
• There are various alternative routes through Portugal.

Cons:

• Limited pilgrim accommodation between Lisbon to Porto.
• The route becomes busy after the town of Tui at the Portuguese-Spanish Border.

Which Pilgrimage Route Should I Take? Read further information on the Camino Francés, which is the most popular pilgrimage route to Santiago. You can also download the full Camino guide for advice on all the routes, what kit to take, the history and culture of the Camino, and suggestions of further reading: