The Central Portuguese Way is the most traveled way to Santiago in Portugal, second only to the French route. Its fame is well-deserved, as the beauty of the landscapes combined with adequate signaling and well-equipped infrastructures help anyone make the miles to the Obradoiro square. Following the millennial cities of Portugal, which share their history with that of the path, and the villages that come alive with pilgrims’ every step, we will discover the wonderful nature of this country by the sea, its people, and its roads consecrated with the spirit of Santiago.

Stage 1: Porto – Vairão

The first stage of the Portuguese central path takes you through the port and ends in the small town of Vairão. The first 15 kilometers are covered in urban areas, between the city and factories. However, upon arriving at Vila do Conde the landscape changes. Buildings give way to housing and roads are replaced by […]
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Stage 2: Vairão – Barcelos

Vairão-Barcelos The second stage of the central path takes the pilgrim along more rural paths. Leaving Vairão and arriving at the bridge that crosses Rio Ave is one of the most beautiful stops on the entire route to Santiago. The route to Barcelos is not far behind.
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Stage 3: Barcelos-Ponte de Lima

Barcelos-Ponte de Lima is one of the longest stages on the route. The route takes place between forests, small villages and agricultural areas without major slopes. However, due to the distance covered, it can be tiring. Arriving in Ponte de Lima is an occasion to celebrate.
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Stage 4: Ponte de Lima-Rubiães

The 4th stage Ponte de Lima-Rubiães divides opinions. Some people consider it to be one of the most difficult, thanks to the steepness of the Labruja mountain range. Others have the opposite opinion as it is “only” 19 kilometers. They only agree on one issue. From the top of the mountain you can see the […]
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Stage 5: Rubiães-Tuí

Rubiães-Tuí is the 5th stage and follows rural paths until the entrance to Valença. Then you see a change in the landscape with more factories and roads. It's a simple walk to the entrance of Spain, with no inclines, to prepare for the more complicated days ahead.
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Stage 6: Tuí-Mos

The Tuí-Mos stage starts in an urban area but you are quickly back to the interior with forests accompanying the journey.
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Stage 7: Mos-Pontevedra

The 7th stage, Mos-Pontevedra, is the most difficult of the route. Divided between 3 hills, the saints don't help on these descents. As they are very steep, they must be done very carefully to avoid injuries. A tip:  the descents must be done in zigzags.
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Stage 8: Pontevedra-Caldas de Reis

The Pontevedra-Caldas de Reis stage is calm, divided between small forest paths and various populations. Take the opportunity to rest from the most intense last days and let yourself get lost in the small village.
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Stage 9: Caldas de Reis-Padrón

The Caldas de Reis- Padrón stage is the smallest on the route. Made between some sections of road, local woods and always following the river. With some urbanizations along the way, take the opportunity to talk to people and observe the path you have already taken at the various viewpoints on this day.
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Stage 10: Padrón-Santiago de Compostela

The Padrón-Santiago de Compostela stage is between land and road. Although there are still several kilometers to walk with nature, part of the route will be along the road and, therefore, care must be taken. The last 3 are in the city of Santiago de Compostela.
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