So, you’ve decided to walk the Camino de Santiago? You’re in excellent company. Every year, over 100,000 people from all walks of life are drawn to the final 100-kilometer stretch of the Camino Francés from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela. But why is this particular segment so immensely popular?

The reasons are both practical and profound. For many, walking the entire 500-mile French Way from the Pyrenees is a dream limited by time and resources. The journey from Sarria offers a perfect solution, allowing you to complete a meaningful portion in just one week. More importantly, this distance is the golden number: walking the last 100 km (or cycling 200 km) is the official requirement to earn the Compostela certificate, the historic document issued by the Cathedral that recognizes your pilgrimage.

This guide is your first step. It transforms the big dream of walking the Camino into a clear, manageable plan. We’ll walk you through every stage, from the bustling streets of Sarria to the breathtaking moment you enter the Plaza del Obradoiro. Get ready to discover the landscapes, the villages, and the unique spirit that makes this journey a milestone in so many lives.

🗺️ The Journey in Overview - A 5-Stage Itinerary

So, you’ve chosen the classic finale? Excellent choice. The 115-kilometer walk from Sarria to Santiago is the most celebrated section of the entire Camino, and for good reason. This five-stage itinerary is your perfect blueprint, designed to be both achievable and deeply rewarding. Rest assured, you’re in good hands—the path is famously well-marked with yellow arrows and scallop shells, making navigation straightforward so you can focus on the experience itself.

This journey is designed to be completed over five walking days, fitting neatly into a standard vacation period. The following table breaks down this classic itinerary. Please note that the distances for some stages have been refined based on widely used Camino planning resources to ensure accuracy for your planning.

👣 A Closer Look at Your Week on the Camino

While the table gives you the framework, understanding the rhythm of the journey will help you truly prepare. Here’s what you can expect from this iconic path:

• You’ll Earn Your Compostela: By walking the final 100 kilometers from Sarria, you are completing the minimum distance required to receive the official Compostela certificate in Santiago, a proud moment for any pilgrim.
• You’re Choosing the Most Popular Path: The Camino Francés, and particularly this final section, is the most traveled route, accounting for over 60% of all pilgrims. This means a vibrant, social atmosphere and excellent infrastructure, with plenty of accommodations and services along the way.
• The Terrain is Manageable: This section is known for its green, rolling Galician landscapes. While not the flattest route, it avoids the major mountain passes found earlier on the Camino Francés, making it a great choice for walkers of most fitness levels.

This itinerary is your trusted guide, but remember—the Camino is your own. Listen to your body, soak in the moments, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Map of The Camino Last 100km

Before you lace up your boots, let’s get a bird’s-eye view of your incredible week ahead. The map below isn’t just a set of lines; it’s a visual story of your upcoming journey from Sarria to Santiago. Tracing the final 100 km of the Camino Francés, this map will help you visualize the daily stages, understand the rolling Galician terrain you’ll be crossing, and see how each charming village connects to the next, building anticipation for the adventure that awaits you every step of the way.

A Stage-by-Stage Deep Dive

Here’s a closer look at what each day holds, from the first steps in Sarria to the final, triumphant arrival in Santiago. We’ll walk through the terrain, uncover the hidden highlights, and give you the practical tips you need to fully enjoy each stage.

Stage 1: Sarria to Portomarín (22 km)

Your Camino adventure begins here! Today is a day of gentle initiation into the Galician countryside, packed with symbolic milestones that set the tone for your entire pilgrimage .

• Terrain & Highlights: You’ll start by climbing out of the bustling pilgrim town of Sarria, a journey that begins on the historic Rúa Maior . The path quickly rewards you, leading you away from asphalt and into a beautiful mix of country lanes, forest tracks, and stone-walled paths that connect tiny hamlets like Barbadelo, home to a historic Romanesque church . A key moment comes when you pass the official 100 km marker—often covered in pilgrim graffiti—making the goal feel wonderfully tangible and a perfect photo opportunity . The final approach involves a steep descent to a modern bridge over the Río Miño, leading into Portomarín.
• Key Landmark & History: The town itself is a landmark. In the 1960s, the original village was flooded by a reservoir, and its most important buildings, like the fortress-like 12th-century Church of San Nicolás, were moved stone by stone to the new hilltop location . When the water is low, you can sometimes see the ruins of the old town, a poignant reminder of its history .
• Pilgrim Tip for Today: The morning exodus from Sarria can feel busy. Don’t let the initial crowd rush you; the trail naturally thins out after a few kilometers, allowing you to find your own peaceful rhythm . Enjoy the climb up the grand staircase into Portomarín—it’s a fitting end to a fantastic first day.

Stage 2: Portomarín to Palas de Rei (25 km)

Get ready for a day of rolling hills that will make you feel truly immersed in the Galician landscape. This stage is about finding your pace and being rewarded with beautiful, expansive views .

• Terrain & Highlights: Your day starts by crossing the bridge over the Miño and tackling a steady climb out of Portomarín. This ascent towards the Serra de Ligonde is one of the more significant on this section, but the effort is well worth it . You’ll pass through serene oak and eucalyptus groves and cross numerous small streams. The route winds through charming hamlets like Gonzar and Ventas de Narón, and you can spot historic Romanesque churches in Eirexe and Castromaior, inviting quiet moments of reflection .
• Pilgrim Note: While the terrain is consistently hilly, it’s not overly strenuous. The regular flow of villages means you’re never too far from a rest stop or a chance to refill your water bottle. This is an excellent day to settle into your walking rhythm and enjoy the deep, rural tranquility.

Stage 3: Palas de Rei to Arzúa (29 km)

This is the longest stage of your journey, so a positive mindset and an early start are your best allies. The good news is that the path becomes gentler, and you’re treated to one of the Camino’s most famous culinary experiences .

• Terrain & Highlights: Leaving Palas de Rei, the trail generally trends downhill. You’ll pass through the delightful village of Leboreiro before reaching a major highlight: the lively market town of Melide . This is the perfect halfway point for a lunch break. After Melide, the landscape softens into more forests and farmland as you cross from the province of Lugo into A Coruña. The path leads you to the pretty medieval hamlet of Ribadiso, with its ancient pilgrim hospital, before a final short climb brings you to Arzúa .
• Cultural Stop & Sustenance: In Melide, you must stop at a pulpería (octopus restaurant) to try pulpo á feira—Galicia’s most classic dish, boiled and sprinkled with paprika and rock salt . Once you reach Arzúa, be sure to sample the local cheese, Queso Arzúa-Ulloa, a creamy treat that perfectly refuels tired muscles.

Stage 4: Arzúa to O Pedrouzo (19 km)

Consider this a gift—a shorter, relatively flat stage that allows your body to recover before the final push into Santiago. The atmosphere on the trail often becomes more reflective as everyone senses the journey’s end drawing near.

• Terrain & Highlights: Today’s path is a peaceful stroll through some of the most fragrant landscapes on the Camino. You’ll spend much of the day walking under the shade of tall eucalyptus forests, their scent filling the air . The way is dotted with sleepy villages and small farms, offering a calm and meditative walking experience. O Pedrouzo (also known as Arca O Pino) is a functional town that serves as the last major stop before Santiago.
• Pilgrim Ritual: With only one day left, many pilgrims use this evening to look back. It’s a perfect time to write in your journal, share stories with fellow walkers you’ve met along the way, or simply sit quietly and reflect on the experiences of the past week.

Stage 5: O Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostela (20 km)

This is it—the final stage! Emotions run high today, from anticipation to joy and a touch of sadness that the walking is nearly over. Savor every step of this triumphant arrival.

• Terrain & Highlights: The initial path continues through beautiful forests before passing near the Santiago airport. A key milestone is the climb to Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy), the historical spot where medieval pilgrims caught their first glimpse of the cathedral spires . While it’s now a large complex, the emotion of the moment remains powerful for every pilgrim. The final kilometers lead you through the urban outskirts and, finally, into the enchanting cobblestone streets of the old town.
• The Grand Finale: Follow the scallop shells and arrows as they guide you through narrow streets, descending into the breathtaking Praza do Obradoiro. Standing before the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, with all its history and grandeur, is a moment you will carry with you forever.
• Arrival Tip: The Pilgrim’s Mass at the Cathedral is traditionally held at noon. If you wish to attend, be sure to plan your walking time accordingly to secure a seat. After receiving your Compostela certificate, take time to simply be present—explore the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and let the significance of your accomplishment sink in .

When to Walk - Weather and Seasonal Considerations

Choosing your season is one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make for your Camino. It directly shapes your experience, from the number of fellow pilgrims you’ll meet to the exact contents of your backpack. Let’s break down what each season offers, so you can confidently pick the perfect window for your adventure. In addition, it may be worth taking a look at the Municipal and Religious Events planned for the time you choose to travel.

Spring (March - May): Lush Greenery and Renewal

If you love the idea of walking through a landscape bursting to life, spring is a beautiful time to go.

• Weather & What to Pack: Temperatures are on a lovely upward trend, from a crisp 8°C (46°F) in March to a pleasant 17°C (63°F) by May. The key word for spring weather is “unpredictable.” You can be blessed with brilliant sunshine one hour and caught in a refreshing rain shower the next. Your packing list must be versatile: a reliable rain jacket, layers you can easily add or remove, and quality waterproof footwear are non-negotiable.
• Crowds & Atmosphere: The trail begins to wake up in March and gets progressively busier through April and May. You’ll enjoy a growing sense of camaraderie without the intense crowds of peak summer. The atmosphere is one of fresh energy, perfect for those who want a social but not overwhelming experience.
• The Payoff: Your reward for braving the changeable weather is a Camino draped in every shade of green, with wildflowers lining the path and the air feeling incredibly fresh.

Summer (June - August): Vibrant Energy and Long Days

This is the Camino at its most social and lively. If you thrive on a bustling, festive atmosphere and want the sun on your shoulders, summer delivers.

• Weather & What to Pack: This is the warmest and statistically driest period, with average highs around a comfortable 25°C (77°F). Remember, “dry” in Galicia is relative; a sudden rain is always a possibility. The long daylight hours are a major perk, allowing for early starts or leisurely afternoons. Pack light, breathable clothing, but never leave your rain gear behind. A hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle are your best friends.
• Crowds & Atmosphere: This is the undisputed peak season. The trail is vibrant and full of energy, but also at its most crowded. This means competition for beds in public albergues is fierce. Our strongest advice: book your private accommodation well in advance. You’ll be grateful for the peace of mind after a long day’s walk.
• The Payoff: You’ll experience the Camino’s famous sense of global community at its peak, with long, sunny evenings perfect for sharing stories with fellow pilgrims.

Autumn (September - November): Golden Colors and Tranquility

Many seasoned pilgrims argue that autumn is the Camino’s secret superstar, offering a perfect blend of pleasant conditions and a more reflective journey.

• Weather & What to Pack: September often feels like an extension of summer, with warm days around 22°C (72°F). As you move into October and November, the air turns crisper, with temperatures cooling to about 11°C (52°F), and the likelihood of rain increases. Your packing list should lean towards warmth: think a good fleece, a beanie, and that trusty rain jacket again.
• Crowds & Atmosphere: The crowds thin out dramatically after September. The frantic summer energy mellows into a more peaceful and solitary atmosphere, ideal for introspection and enjoying the journey at your own pace.
• The Payoff: The spectacular autumn display is your reward. The Galician forests transform into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, amber, and crimson, creating a truly magical walking experience.

Winter (December - February): A Solitary Challenge

Walking the Camino in winter is a unique and rewarding challenge, best suited for those seeking profound solitude and a deep sense of personal accomplishment.

• Weather & What to Pack: This is the most demanding season. It’s cold and wet, with frequent rain and short daylight hours. You’ll need to be prepared with warm, waterproof layers, solid gear, and a flexible schedule. Crucially, you must check in advance which albergues and services are open, as many close for the off-season.
• Crowds & Atmosphere: The trail is incredibly quiet. You may walk for hours seeing only a handful of other pilgrims. This offers a rare opportunity for solitude and a deeply personal connection to the ancient path.
• The Payoff: The reward is an immense sense of achievement and the raw, stark beauty of the Camino in its winter stillness.

Your Perfect Timing: The Verdict

So, when should you go? For that ideal balance of cooperative weather, manageable crowds, and stunning scenery, we highly recommend targeting the shoulder seasons: late May, June, and September.

These months consistently offer the best of all worlds: you’ll avoid the most extreme heat and the largest crowds of midsummer, while also sidestepping the colder, wetter conditions of late autumn and winter. It’s the sweet spot for a first-time pilgrim or anyone looking to experience the Camino at its most enjoyable.

Essential Practicalities for the Modern Pilgrim

Let’s get down to the nuts and bolts. A successful Camino isn’t just about the walking; it’s about smart preparation. This section will guide you through the key administrative, financial, and logistical details, transforming potential trip anxieties into confident, ready-to-go excitement.

Your Pilgrim Papers: The Credential and Compostela

Think of these as your Camino license and diploma. They are the official documents that validate your journey from start to finish.

• The Pilgrim Credential (Your Passport): This isn’t just a souvenir; it’s your official pilgrim passport. You’ll need to get it stamped at least twice per day along the final 100 km to provide proof of your journey. These stamps (sellos) are collected at churches, albergues, cafes, and town halls along the route. You can obtain your Credential before you travel from official pilgrim associations or easily pick one up upon arrival in Sarria from many churches, tourist offices, or the main albergue.
• The Compostela (Your Diploma): This is the historic Latin certificate you receive upon completing your pilgrimage. After you’ve taken that triumphant photo in the Praza do Obradoiro, take your stamped Credential to the Pilgrim’s Reception Office (Oficina de Acogida de Peregrinos). They will verify your journey and issue your Compostela. To qualify for the traditional Compostela, you simply need to state that your journey was for at least partly religious or spiritual reasons. If you are walking for purely non-religious reasons (like sport or culture), you will receive an equally official “Certificate of Distance.” Both are a wonderful testament to your achievement.

A Place to Rest Your Head: Accommodation on the Camino

You have excellent options to suit every style and budget. Understanding the difference is key to a good night’s sleep.

• Public Albergues (The Classic Experience): These are pilgrim-only hostels, often run by municipalities or parishes. They are the most budget-friendly option (typically €5-€12 per night) and are the heart of the Camino community. The crucial thing to know is that they operate on a strict first-come, first-served basis and cannot be booked in advance. This means arriving by mid-afternoon is often necessary, especially in busy seasons.
• Private Albergues (Comfort & Convenience): Similar to their public counterparts but privately owned, these often offer more amenities like reliable Wi-Fi, kitchen access, and sometimes even a simple dinner. The best part? They can be booked in advance, giving you peace of mind. Prices are very reasonable, usually between €15-€20 per night.
• Guesthouses & Hotels (Pensiones, Casas Rurales): For those seeking more privacy and comfort after a long day of walking, private rooms are a fantastic option. You can find charming guesthouses (pensiones) or countryside lodges (casas rurales) with private bathrooms. Prices start around €40-€50 for a double room. Booking these ahead is highly recommended, particularly during the peak summer months.

🚆 Popular Ways to Get to Sarria

Getting to the start of your Camino in Sarria is a straightforward process, with excellent train and bus connections from major Spanish cities and good access from other European hubs. The most common and efficient routes are from Madrid and Santiago de Compostela, both of which offer direct services .

The table below outlines the best travel options from several key cities to help you plan your journey.

Budgeting for Your Journey: A Realistic Look

Planning your budget removes stress and lets you focus on the journey. Your daily costs will largely depend on your preferred style of travel. Here’s a realistic breakdown to help you plan:

A Note on Luggage Transfer: This popular service (like Jacotrans) allows you to walk with just a daypack while your main bag is transported to your next accommodation. It’s a game-changer for those with mobility concerns or who simply want to focus on enjoying the walk without a heavy load.

Packing List Essentials: Less is More

The golden rule of the Camino is to pack light. A heavy backpack is the quickest way to turn an amazing journey into a painful ordeal. Your loaded backpack should ideally not weigh more than 10% of your body weight. Take a look at our definitive Camino Packing List

• Clothing (All Quick-Dry): 2-3 moisture-wicking t-shirts, 2 pairs of walking trousers/shorts (zip-offs are versatile), 3 pairs of quality walking socks, 3 sets of underwear, one warm mid-layer (fleece or lightweight wool), and a reliable waterproof and windproof jacket.
• Footwear (Your Most Important Decision): Well-broken-in hiking shoes or trail runners are essential. Never start the Camino with new footwear. Wear them extensively on training walks to ensure they are comfortable and blister-free.
• Absolute Essentials:
• Pilgrim Credential
• Refillable water bottle (1-1.5L capacity)
• Headlamp (for early mornings or late-night albergue visits)
• Basic first-aid kit focused heavily on blister care (Compeed, tape, antiseptic wipes)
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• A hat (for both sun and rain)
• A lightweight sleeping bag or silk liner (required for most albergues)

By getting these practicalities sorted, you’re not just planning a trip—you’re setting the stage for a smooth, enjoyable, and truly unforgettable Camino experience.

Key Travel Tips for Your Journey

• Booking Travel in Spain: For train travel, use the official RENFE website or app. For buses, check ALSA and MonBus, which are the primary operators. These services are typically bookable 60-90 days (trains) and around one month (buses) in advance .
• Arriving via Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ): If you fly into Santiago, you can take a taxi into the city (around €23) and then catch a bus to Sarria. While flying directly to Santiago and then traveling to Sarria might seem counterintuitive, it is a viable and common option cited by experienced pilgrims on travel forums .
• Making the Most of Your Trip: If you are traveling from a city like Porto or Paris, consider breaking up the journey with a stopover in Madrid. This can make the trip more comfortable and allow you to experience another fantastic city.

Your First Steps on a Path Walked by Millions

Your journey from Sarria to Santiago represents far more than just crossing 115 kilometers off a map. You’re about to become part of a living tradition—a stream of walkers, seekers, and adventurers that has flowed along this path for over a thousand years. This final stretch of the Camino Francés offers the perfect distillation of the entire pilgrim experience: the physical challenge that makes a cold drink taste like nectar, the stunning Galician landscapes that change with every turn in the path, and the profound camaraderie that forms when strangers become companions united by a common goal.

As you stand in the magnificent Praza do Obradoiro, with the cathedral spires reaching for the sky and the weight of your pack finally lifted, you’ll feel the full significance of this accomplishment. The miles will be etched into your muscles, but the memories will be etched even deeper into your heart. You’ll carry forward not just the Compostela certificate, but the quiet confidence that comes from meeting a challenge, the perspective gained from days of simple walking, and the stories that will surface at unexpected moments long after you’ve returned home.

The beauty of the Camino is that while this marks the end of your walk to Santiago, it’s often just the beginning of a different kind of journey—one of reflection, integration, and perhaps even planning your next adventure. The path has a way of staying with you, calling you back to its simple rhythms and profound lessons.

Your adventure awaits. The yellow arrows are waiting to guide you, the villages are ready to welcome you, and the cathedral bells are waiting to celebrate your arrival. All that’s left is to take that first step.

Last 100km Camino Alternatives

While the Camino Francés from Sarria is the classic choice for a reason, it’s far from your only option for that final 100 km journey. Many pilgrims are pleasantly surprised to discover several other official routes that also meet the distance requirement for the Compostela, each offering a completely different personality. Whether you’re dreaming of coastal views, deep historical paths, or quieter trails, there’s a perfect alternative waiting for you.

The table below compares the key alternative routes to help you find the one that best suits your preferences.

👣 A Closer Look at Your Options

To help you decide, here is more detail on the experience each route offers:

• For a Balance of Scenery & Company: The Camino Portugués is a fantastic choice if you want great infrastructure without the biggest crowds of the Francés. The Central route from Tui takes you through scenic woods and historic towns, while the Coastal path from Vigo offers stunning sea views. For an extra special experience, don’t miss the Spiritual Variant detour from Pontevedra, which includes a beautiful boat trip and is considered a highlight by many.
• For a Quiet & Historic Journey: If you want a more contemplative walk, the Camino Inglés from Ferrol is perfect. It was historically used by pilgrims arriving by sea from Britain and Ireland, and it offers a peaceful, full-route experience in a relatively short distance. The Camino Primitivo from Lugo lets you walk on the oldest Camino route, surrounded by rich history, including the magnificent UNESCO-listed Roman walls in Lugo itself.
• For a Truly Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: If your main goal is solitude and untouched landscapes, the Camino del Norte and Camino de Invierno are your best bets. These are the least trodden of the final 100km paths, offering a deep sense of discovery and a more rugged Galician landscape.

💡 Choosing Your Perfect Path

So, how do you decide? It comes down to your personal priorities. If you thrive on social energy and want the “classic” Camino experience with the most services, stick with the Francés from Sarria. If you prefer coastal scenery and great food with slightly fewer people, the Portuguese routes are ideal. And if your priority is quiet contemplation and a sense of walking through deeper history, the Inglés or Primitivo will be incredibly rewarding.

Remember, whichever path you choose, the rules for earning your Compostela remain the same: you need to walk at least 100 km to Santiago (or cycle 200 km) and collect two stamps per day in your pilgrim credential to document your journey. The real achievement isn’t which route you take, but the personal journey you make along the way.

Buen Camino, peregrino!

Camino de Santiago Last 100km [Video]