Camino de Santiago: the Scenic Portuguese Route
Camino de Santiago: the Scenic Portuguese Route
$3144
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey along the Scenic Portuguese Route of the Camino de Santiago, traversing the picturesque landscapes of Portugal and Spain. Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Porto, exploring its bustling center and the stunning Douro River. Walk through charming towns like Baiona and Vigo, with breathtaking views of the Cíes Islands and Vigo Bay. Discover the rich history of Pontevedra and the spiritual allure of the Sanctuary of the Virgin Pilgrim. Experience the tranquility of the "Ruta da Pedra e da Agua" forest path, and enjoy a catamaran cruise on the Ulla River. Conclude your pilgrimage in Santiago de Compostela, where a guided tour of the iconic cathedral awaits. This small-group tour offers a blend of cultural, historical, and spiritual experiences, with comfortable accommodations and delicious meals included. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of the Camino de Santiago. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Porto,Portugal
Location: Porto
Accommodation Name: Hotel Jaguar Oporto
Meals Included: Dinner
Check into your hotel and, if you have time, start exploring this lively city on your own with the help of the CosmosGO app. In the late afternoon, meet your tour companions and your Tour Director, who will explain the dos and don’ts of the walk and give you some important advice. Take a pleasant stroll to a nearby restaurant for an included welcome dinner. ...more ...less
Day 2: Porto-Valença Do Minho-Tui,Spain-Baiona
Location: Porto, Valença do Minho, Tui, Baiona
Accommodation Name: Bahia Baoina
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 3 km/2 mi - avg 40 min – difficulty 1/3. Time this morning for a quick guided orientation through Porto’s bustling city center with views over the Douro River, followed by free time or the opportunity to attend [M] Mass in the Cathedral. After lunch, transfer by coach to Valença do Minho to walk a section of the Camino de Santiago into Spain across the Minho River towards Tui. Rejoin the coach to Baiona, on the Atlantic coast. Fun fact: Baiona was the first town in Europe to receive news of America’s discovery in 1493. We recommend touring the medieval fortress on the Monterreal peninsula, visiting the replica of Columbus’ ship la Pinta and discovering this beautiful beachside town. Today’s distance (by coach): 89 mi / 143 km
Day 3: Baiona-Vigo
Location: Baiona, Vigo
Accommodation Name: Ciudad de Vigo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Approximately 25 km/15.5 mi – avg 5 hrs. – difficulty 2/3. This is the real start of your journey. May every step be a thought on peace and an extension of loving kindness. Leave Baiona behind and follow the coast across the Rías Baixas through the beach town of Nigrán. Walk along long pristine beaches and admire the magnificent Cíes Islands from a distance. Vigo is Galicia’s most important harbor and busiest city. If you wish, attend [M] Mass at Vigo Cathedral.
Day 4: Vigo-Redondela-Pontevedra
Location: Vigo, Redondela, Pontevedra
Accommodation Name: Rias Bajas
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 16 km/10 mi – avg 3 hrs. – difficulty 2/3. Take in the stunning views of Vigo Bay, the Atlantic Islands, the Morrazo Peninsula, and Rande Bridge. After a pleasant walk on an unpaved path through woodlands, reach Redondela. Our driver will take you to the hotel in the centre of Pontevedra, where you will spend the next two nights. You may wish to visit the stunning Sanctuary of the Virgin Pilgrim and attend [M] Mass.Today’s distance (by coach): 12.5 mi / 20 km
Day 5: Pontevedra-Redondela-Pontevedra
Location: Redondela, Pontevedra
Accommodation Name: Rias Bajas
Meals Included: Breakfast
Approximately 19 km/12 mi–Average 4.5 hrs. – Difficulty 3/3. After a short transfer back to Redondela, continue your journey; uphill by the coast with stunning views over the Vigo Bay and across the infamous Ponte Sampaio bridge, where Napoleon’s Army suffered one of the greatest defeats during the War of Independence. Continue then mostly downhill, through peaceful oak forests and along the river to the center of Pontevedra, the city founded by the Romans and dedicated to the Virgen Peregrina (the Pilgrim Virgin). Your [M] Mass option tonight is at Saint Francisco Convent. Take advantage of the vast choice of restaurants to immerse yourself in the local culinary culture. Today’s distance (by coach): 12.5 mi / 20 km
Day 6: Pontevedra-Combarro-Covelo
Location: Pontevedra, Combarro
Accommodation Name: Villa Covelo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 14 km/8.7 mi – Average 3 hrs. – Difficulty 1/3. Leave the inland Portuguese Camino to take the Spiritual Variant, which follows St. James’ final journey. Legend says that a stone vessel carried the Apostle’s remains from Jaffa in Israel to Padrón along the River Ulla some 2000 years ago. Today, you will walk past the Monastery of San Juan de Poio and the beautiful town of Combarro, famous for its many horreos (traditional granaries on pillars). After Combarro, continue another two miles along the coast to reach the hotel.
Day 7: Covelo-Cambados
Location: Cambados
Accommodation Name: Casa Rosita
Meals Included: Breakfast
Approximately 20 km/12.5 mi–Average 4.5 hrs.–Difficulty 3/3. Expect a beautiful walk today, through vineyards and alongside refreshing streams in the forests. Stop at the 12th Century Cistercian Monastery of Armenteira, founded by the knight Ero in 1168. Follow the relaxing “Ruta da Pedra e da Agua” (the rock and water route), a forest path next to a water stream with over 30 medieval water mills. The destination today is Cambados, considered to be the capital of Albariño, one of the best white wines in the world. [M] Mass is available at the impressive Santa Mariña Dozo Church.
Day 8: Cambados-Cruise To Padrón-Pontecesures-Santiago De Compostela
Location: Cambados, Padrón, Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation Name: Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 27 km/17 mi–Average 5 hrs. –Difficulty 3/3.Start the day on a high note: a one-hour cruise on the Ulla River, following the journey of the legendary stone boat that carried the remains of St. James. See the remains of the Catoira towers, which used to protect Santiago de Compostela from Viking attacks. Disembark on the outskirts of Padrón, famous for its “pimientos,” small, mild green peppers, usually served fried and salted. Only a few more miles to Santiago de Compostela! Enjoy a celebratory dinner upon completing your Camino de Santiago, served in a local restaurant in the old town. If you have walked all stages of the Camino and got your passport stamped, you will receive your Pilgrim Certificate.
Day 9: Santiago De Compostela
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation Name: Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a full day resting and discovering Santiago after your Camino. Follow the Tour Director on a guided tour of Santiago Cathedral with its squares and attend the Pilgrim [M] Mass. You can join your Tour Director for a more detailed tour of the old town in the afternoon, go shopping, explore on your own, or just enjoy a well-deserved rest. Discover Santiago’s culinary specialties on your own tonight and take in the special atmosphere of this historic town.
Day 10: Santiago De Compostela,Ponte De Lima,Portugal,Dom Jesus Do Monte,Porto
Location: Santiago de Compostela, Ponte de Lima, Dom Jesus do Monte, Porto
Accommodation Name: Hotel Jaguar Oporto
Meals Included: Breakfast
The Camino has ended, but there are more hidden gems to discover. Depart Santiago de Compostela by bus and explore Ponte de Lima, the oldest riverside town in Portugal, featuring an impressive Medieval bridge with an ancient Roman section over the Lima River. Next stop is the Sanctuary of Dom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the unique zigzag stairway dedicated to the five senses: sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste—and the three theological virtues: faith, hope, and charity. Continue to Porto. Today's Distance by coach: 165 mi / 265 km.
Day 11: Porto
Location: Porto
Accommodation Name: Hotel Jaguar Oporto
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take home with you spiritual growth and appreciation for simple things. This is your most important souvenir of the Camino. Your vacation ends with breakfast.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotel accommodations with private facilities are included.
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Guided Tours
Guided orientation through Porto’s city center, guided tour of the Santiago Cathedral, and a guided tour of the old town in Santiago de Compostela are included.
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Transportation
Transportation by coach for various segments of the tour is included.
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Catamaran Cruise
A one-hour catamaran cruise on the Ulla River is included.
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Pilgrim Certificate
Pilgrim Certificate for those who complete all stages of the Camino is included.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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Transportation for Incomplete Stages
Transportation by taxi for incomplete stages of the walk is at an extra cost.
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Backpack Essentials
You will need to pack and carry a backpack containing essentials for the day such as water, raincoat, essential medication, money, and sunblock.
Meals
Buffet breakfasts daily, 5 dinners
Notes
This is a walking tour for small groups of a maximum of 20 participants.
Since it is largely completed on foot, it requires a good level of physical fitness, and some physical training prior to departure is highly recommended.
This itinerary is not accessible by wheelchair or other ambulatory devices due to some uneven and unpaved paths.
If unable to complete any of the stages on foot, transportation by taxi will be arranged at an extra cost. If unable to complete any of the stages on foot, transportation by taxi will be arranged at an extra cost. One piece of luggage per person, not exceeding 20 kg/44 lbs will be transported daily during the walk from the lobby of your overnight hotel to the next overnight hotel. You will need to pack a backpack containing essentials for the day (such as water, raincoat, essential medication, money, sunblock, etc.) to carry during the walk.
Hotel accommodations may be of simple standards, often with no elevators, but always with private facilities. Occasionally, transfers by minivan will be provided when accommodation is not directly at the end of a stage.
Mass services are available in the evenings at most overnight towns/villages (they may be in local language and venues are subject to change.)
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Small Group
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select faith-based dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Cosmos escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds. ...more ...less
UNESCO Sites
Historic Centre of Porto|Routes of Santiago de Compostela: Routes of Northern Spain|Santiago de Compostela (Old Town)
Accommodation
Stay in comfortable hotels with private facilities, including Hotel Jaguar Oporto, Bahia Baoina, Sercotel Baia de Vigo, Rias Bajas, Villa Covelo, Casa Rosita, and Compostela, ensuring a restful experience throughout your journey.
Mode of Transport
Travel by coach for various segments of the tour, with a one-hour catamaran cruise on the Ulla River, providing a seamless and scenic transportation experience.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of physical fitness is required for this tour?
The tour requires a good level of physical fitness as it is largely completed on foot. Some physical training prior to departure is highly recommended.
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What happens if I am unable to complete a stage of the walk?
If you are unable to complete any of the stages on foot, transportation by taxi will be arranged at an extra cost.
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Are there any religious services available during the tour?
Mass services are available in the evenings at most overnight towns and villages, although they may be in the local language and venues are subject to change.
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What is included in the accommodation during the tour?
Hotel accommodations with private facilities are included, although they may be of simple standards and often without elevators.
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Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The itinerary is not accessible by wheelchair or other ambulatory devices due to some uneven and unpaved paths.
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What should I pack for the daily walks?
You will need to pack a backpack containing essentials for the day such as water, a raincoat, essential medication, money, and sunblock.
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What is the luggage policy during the tour?
One piece of luggage per person, not exceeding 20 kg/44 lbs, will be transported daily during the walk from the lobby of your overnight hotel to the next overnight hotel.
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What kind of meals are included in the tour?
Buffet breakfasts are provided daily, and 5 dinners are included in the tour.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The tour is designed for small groups with a maximum of 20 participants.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Camino de Santiago: the Scenic Portuguese Route
11 Days Starting and ending in Porto, Portugal
Visiting: Porto, Valença do Minho, Tui, Baiona, Vigo, Redondela, Pontevedra, Combarro, Cambados, Padrón, Santiago de Compostela, Ponte de Lima, Dom Jesus do Monte ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
5380-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
5-99