Coordinates
41.1427°N, 8.6118°W
Elevation
77m
Accommodation
Available
Porto is the traditional starting point for pilgrims walking the Camino Portugues Coastal route to Santiago de Compostela. Most pilgrims begin at the Se Cathedral in the historic centre, collecting their credencial before heading west along the Douro River towards the Atlantic coast.
The city offers everything a pilgrim needs before setting out. Outdoor gear shops, pharmacies, and supermarkets are easy to find, and there are multiple accommodation options from pilgrim albergues to hostels and hotels. The Albergue de Peregrinos Porto provides affordable beds specifically for pilgrims.
Beyond Camino logistics, Porto rewards those who arrive a day or two early. The Ribeira district, Livraria Lello, Clerigos Tower, and the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia are all within walking distance. The city's food scene, from francesinha sandwiches to fresh seafood, is among the best in Portugal.
Everything you need to know for your time in Porto.
A new Porto Pilgrim Office (Oficina do Peregrino do Porto) officially opened on April 11, 2026, located at Rua da Pena Ventosa 38, near the Porto Cathedral.
Multibanco ATMs are found throughout the Ribeira and Baixa districts. Several banks are clustered around Avenida dos Aliados, a short walk from the Sé.
Farmácias are common throughout Porto's old town. Look for the green cross. There are several on Rua de Santa Catarina, Porto's main shopping street.
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Porto
241 km to Santiago de Compostela
Part of
How to reach your starting point from major cities and airports.
Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport is 11 km northwest of the city centre. The Metro Violet Line runs directly from the airport to the centre (Trindade or São Bento stations) in around 30 minutes. Taxis take approximately 20 minutes.
Trains from Lisbon arrive at Porto Campanhã station (around 3 hours by fast train). From Campanhã, a short connecting train takes you to São Bento station in the heart of the old town, steps from the Sé Cathedral where the Camino begins.
Rede Expressos and FlixBus connect Porto from Lisbon (3.5 hours), Coimbra, Braga, and Spanish cities. The main bus station is at Campo 24 de Agosto, a short walk or metro ride from the centre.
Parking in the old town is extremely limited and expensive. There are park-and-ride options on the outskirts connected by metro. You will not need a car once you begin walking.
Your checklist for arrival day in Porto.
Visit the Sé Cathedral (Porto Cathedral) in the historic centre to purchase your credential. It costs around €2. The Sé is the official starting point of the Camino Português from Porto, shared by both the Central and Coastal routes. Your credential is required for staying in albergues and receiving your Compostela in Santiago.
Walk down from the Sé Cathedral to the riverside Ribeira neighbourhood, a UNESCO World Heritage area. Cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge for views over the city and the Douro river. This is one of the most beautiful cityscapes in Europe and a wonderful way to spend your arrival evening.
Porto has several outdoor and sports shops near the centre. Check your pack, stock up on supplies, and confirm your walking route for tomorrow.
Tomorrow is a big and exciting day. Rest well. Your journey awaits!
Everything you need to know for your time in Porto.
A new Porto Pilgrim Office (Oficina do Peregrino do Porto) officially opened on April 11, 2026, located at Rua da Pena Ventosa 38, near the Porto Cathedral.
Multibanco ATMs are found throughout the Ribeira and Baixa districts. Several banks are clustered around Avenida dos Aliados, a short walk from the Sé.
Farmácias are common throughout Porto's old town. Look for the green cross. There are several on Rua de Santa Catarina, Porto's main shopping street.
