Tips & Advice

Before You Go

Choose your route wisely

Deciding where to start and which route to take is one of the most exciting parts of planning your Camino, and it can completely shape your experience.

Decide between the Central Route (historic, traditional villages) or Coastal Route (scenic ocean views and gentle breeze) and where to start.

Many pilgrims choose to combine both routes, starting along the coast from Porto and then joining the Central Route.

If you’re not sure which route best fits your fitness level, available time, or travel preferences, we’re here to help.
Check our personalised services: we’ll help you design a route that matches your goals, recommend where to start, and ensure your journey begins smoothly.

An illustration of a travel backpack, a pair of brown hiking boots, and the text "What to Pack" on a beige background.

What to pack

Hopefully, by now you’ve already booked your Camino trip with us. As part of our package, we’ll provide you with a detailed packing list, including what to bring, how to pack efficiently, and a few insider tips gathered from our own Camino experiences.

But to get you started, here are some key essentials to keep in mind:

Less is more! Bring quick-dry clothes, worn-in walking shoes, and a light waterproof jacket. Add practical items like sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, blister plasters, and a compact first-aid kit.

Don’t forget your ID, travel insurance (consider UK Global Health Insurance Card if traveling from UK), and a few euros in cash, as some smaller cafés and albergues may not accept cards.

A book titled 'Credencial de Peregrino' with a list of Spanish pilgrimage cities, including Madrid, Compostela, and Santiago, with icons of buildings and shells.

Collect Your Pilgrim Passport

Before starting your Camino, you’ll need a Pilgrim Passport (Credencial del Peregrino).
It’s the document where you collect your stamps (sellos) along the way, essential to receive your Compostela in Santiago.

Below are the easiest and most popular places to get yours in Portugal:

In Porto

  • Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral)
    Open daily from 9:00 am – 6:30 pm (times may vary on Sundays).
    You can get your first stamp here and begin your Camino officially from the Cathedral steps.

 

In Lisbon

  • Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral)
    Open daily from 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
    Collect your passport and first stamp here if you’re starting the full Portuguese Camino from Lisbon.