The Camino de Santiago is one of the most popular pilgrimages in the world; that’s a fact, but in recent years it has broken through barriers and established itself as the most well-known long-distance hike in the world, and if you’re planning to do it for the first time, you might be feeling excited and also confused. With so many routes available, planning a trip like this can easily become a real headache, but don’t worry, there’s not just one “right” path.

There are several options that work well for people that’s planning to do the Camino for the first time, but choosing one will depend on your time, your fitness, and the kind of experience you want.

Let’s take a friendly tour through the main choices so you can find the one that feels right for you.

The Camino Francés

This is the classic choice for first-timers, and if you ask anyone who has tried the Camino before, they’ll tell you that the Camino Francés is the most popular by far. This long-distance trail starts in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France and crosses the whole country of Spain all the way to Santiago de Compostela, covering about 800 kilometers.

Now, as a beginner, you must be thinking that 800km is an overkill, but you don’t have to walk the whole trail; in fact, the most popular part of the Camino Frances starts in Sarria, which is only 115km away from Santiago. This stretch is perfect for first timers, it only takes up to a week or less, and still earns you the pilgrim certificate.

The trail is well marked, and there are lots of hostels, cafés, and helpful people. Many people who tried this route for the first time loved it because it offers manageable daily distances with stunning landscapes and rural life, but the best part is definitely the friendly and supportive atmosphere, which is priceless for a first-timer.

The Camino Portugués

The Camino Frances is scenic but definitely not as scenic as the Camino Portugues, which is another great choice for a first Camino. What people love the most about this path is not that it’s stunning, but the fact that it offers flatter and easier underfoot than some other routes.

This trail can actually start from either Lisbon or Porto, and it takes you through the country's northern side to Santiago. You can also choose between a Coastal Route and a non-coastal one, in case you want to experience the popular fishing villages of Portugal.

Whether you choose the coastal or central inland trail, you will be able to enjoy the countryside, rivers, and the sea, making this camino route perfect for new pilgrims. On top of that, this route has lots of services, but it tends to be quieter than the French Way.

The Camino Inglés

To many, this route is the Camino’s hidden gem, simply because it’s perfect for those who are short on time or are not sure how their body will handle the long days of walking. This route has two main starting points in northern Spain: Ferrol and A Coruña.

Being Ferrol, the most popular among beginners, as it’s just over 100km to Santiago, easily finished within a week, and you still get the certificate.

The best part is that the Camino Ingles is not as crowded and packed as the French or Portuguese routes, but it’s still friendly and short. There are a ton of places to stop, rest, and enjoy local food, and you will be able to spot stunning landscapes, hills, and towns.

It’s a great way to experience the Camino without committing to a long, multi-week trek.

Conclusion

There’s no single “best” route for you, as each of the trails is amazing but different, and the truth is that the best route for your first Camino experience is the one that truly fits your time and body. If you’re an active person, go for a larger route, but if you’re not active, go for a shorter one. On the other hand, if you want to meet people, go for a crowded one, but if you want the trail just for you, go for a less-traveled one.

Whatever you choose, you’re signing up for an adventure that will stay with you long after you finish your final steps in Santiago.

Photo by Győző Mórocz