French Way
The most walked route to Santiago: 33 stages, around 780 km, starting in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port.
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The classic Camino de Santiago route
The French Way is the most walked and best-signposted Way of St James: nearly 780 km spread over 33 stages from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, crossing the Pyrenees, La Rioja, the Meseta and Galicia before reaching the Praza do Obradoiro.
It's also the route with the most services, albergues and pilgrim atmosphere at every stretch, which makes it the favourite choice for first-time pilgrims.
All 33 stages of the French Way
Official distances and difficulty. Published stages link to their full guide; the rest will be added soon.
The whole French Way, at a glance
Explore the full route and the waypoints of every stage.
Things to do and day trips in Santiago de Compostela
The most-booked experiences among pilgrims at the finish line. Worth booking ahead, especially in high season.
Small-group walking tour of the old town
A small-group walk through Santiago's old quarter with a local guide.
Secrets of the Cathedral (night tour)
A night-time walk through the lesser-known corners of the Cathedral, outside normal visiting hours.
Cathedral and Pórtico da Gloria
Guided visit to the Cathedral with access to the museum and the restored Pórtico da Gloria.
Queimada show and tasting
Galicia's traditional flaming drink, explained and tasted in a show designed for pilgrims.
Finisterre, Muxía and the Costa da Morte
The three essential stops of the "end of the world" in a single full day from Santiago.
Rías Baixas boat trip and winery
A boat ride along the estuary followed by a visit to an albariño winery. Ideal for a rest day.
Cíes Islands
The Atlantic archipelago with some of Galicia's best beaches, on a full-day excursion.
Praia das Catedrais (Cathedral Beach)
A full-day excursion to Lugo, Ribadeo and the spectacular Praia das Catedrais.
Massage for pilgrims
Give your legs a break after the Camino with a massage right in the centre of Santiago.