In 1987, the Camino, which encompasses several routes in Spain, France, and Portugal, was declared the first Cultural Route of the Council of Europe. Since 2013, the Camino has attracted more than 200,000 pilgrims each year, with an annual growth rate of more than 10 percent.
Traditionally your pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela would have started from your home, but nowadays these 9 routes to the Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela have become the most popular Camino Ways.
Imagine stepping onto ancient paths where every footstep echoes with centuries of history. The Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St. James, is more than a walking route—it’s a profound journey of discovery, spirit, and connection.
What Is the Camino de Santiago, and Why Do People Walk It? The Camino de Santiago is not one path but a network of pilgrimage routes, all converging on the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain. The cathedral holds the reputed remains of the apostle Saint James, and pilgrims have been making their way there since the ninth century.
Each one offers a unique cultural and spiritual experience. The Camino de Santiago is not a single route like some people think referring to the most popular one – the Camino Frances. It’s a network of pilgrimage routes that start in different places across Europe and finish in Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
7 Camino de Santiago routes to walk in 2026 - STINGY NOMADS
For over 1000 years human feet, animal hooves, and recently bike and motor vehicle tires have literally carved this majestic and historical Camino (main highway). It is said to have started when the remains of apostle Saint James were discovered by a farmer in Galicia, Spain.
Today, the Camino de Santiago is a route that symbolizes personal effort, adventure and a deep connection with nature and the cultural heritage of Europe. The Camino Frances de Santiago crosses the north of the Iberian Peninsula starting its pilgrimage in the French locality of Saint Jean Pied de Port, in the area of Aquitaine.