Top 7 Stops of the Camino de Santiago
Walking the Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago) is embarking on a journey filled with history, faith, and personal discovery. Throughout the various stages that make up this ancient pilgrimage, there are places that stand out for their beauty, symbolism, and hospitality.
In this Top 7, we’ve gathered some of the most memorable stops along the Camino — places that offer pilgrims moments of rest, contemplation, and inspiration, making the journey even more enriching and unforgettable.
Contents
7. Arca do Pino
The last place before the finish line of the French Way. It is located on a hillside centered around the road that runs through it. The figure of the Piñeiro rooster is unmissable, with an annual festival in August.
A few streets over is the Church of Santaia de Arca. Next to it, there’s a grassy area and some plastic chairs in self-service mode, which made it possible to enjoy the sun while working on this drawing.
6. Portomarín
Portomarín has existed since Roman times and was rebuilt in the Middle Ages. The historic center was later moved stone by stone during the construction of the Belesar dam.
Today it is a village made of hills, with a very pleasant center on a plateau where the Church of San Nicolás was drawn here.
We recommend the arcades surrounding this monument — there’s brandy and very spirited people to discover.
5. Melide
With a taste of reward after the climb that goes from the green of the Furelos River, the size of this village pleasantly surprises.
Along a long straight path, we come across a bit of everything until we reach a center where a generous square invites us to social gatherings of times past. Together, tourists and locals share everything from a Champions League match to card games, all served by an old-school waiter who made sure nothing was missing until this drawing was finished.
4. Palas de Rei
It's named after a Royal Palace, but the truth is we didn’t see it. As small as it is cozy, that was the first feeling we had when we arrived.
Between small streets, we found wonderful people with matching Galician tapas. At the top of the road and just after some stairs is the Church of San Tirso, drawn here. To top it off, a surrounding garden where we even managed to do some yoga.
3. Pontevedra
After some smaller places, we arrived at one of the most emblematic cities of the Camino..
There’s a vibrant center full of shops and events. One time we came across a procession — it’s worth it, especially the narrow streets of the center and the two churches: a round-shaped basilica and the Convent of San Francisco depicted here.
2. Padrón
On the riverbank, there are gardens, and up high, a welcoming and open church. Good terraces and a very interesting pedestrian center. If you’re there in season, you’ll find the famous “Pimientos de Padrón” that originate here.
That wasn’t the case, but even with rain, we were able to enjoy a hot chocolate by the river and make this drawing of the Convent of Carmen at one of the many highlights of this route.
1. Santiago
The reason for this journey’s existence. The culmination, the mother of all churches on the Camino — the Cathedral and everything surrounding it.
The center where everyone comes together in communion through the city streets until reaching kilometer 0 of the camino. Here, the facade is full of symbols and many stories to tell and draw.
Conclusion
So, do you inspired to start planning your journey along the Camino de Santiago? Great!
If you’re still unsure about which stops to include, no problem — go back to the top and review our suggestions. Choosing the best points can make all the difference in your experience.
Remember: every step counts, and every stop has something unique to offer you. We hope this Top 7 has helped you chart a more special path.
Have a good walk — we’re with you, pilgrim!