Walking the renowned Camino de Santiago in Spain doesn’t need to empty your wallet. For travelers mindful of their budget, the Camino offers a distinct chance to traverse Europe on foot without substantial costs. With some foresight and a few insider recommendations, it’s entirely feasible to undertake the journey economically while still relishing the fellowship and transformative experience.
Although Spain is not included in my book The World’s Cheapest Destinations, it remains one of Europe’s most affordable options, particularly when purchasing food and wine from supermarkets. Therefore, traversing the countryside for days won’t deplete your finances.
This guide outlines practical methods to economize on the Camino and undertake a budget pilgrimage, featuring quotes from acquaintances who have completed it. If you can allocate between €35 and €100 daily, you’re prepared to embrace the challenge (provided your feet agree).
Why Trek the Camino de Santiago?
The Camino de Santiago is an ancient pilgrimage pathway that extends through parts of France and much of northern Spain, ending at the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, where the remains of Saint James are thought to be laid to rest. For over a millennium, pilgrims have journeyed along this path, and it now attracts travelers from all corners of the globe. In recent decades, it has evolved from a little-known route for savvy travelers to one of the most sought-after long-distance hikes worldwide.
The scenery along the Camino is as varied as the individuals who traverse it, featuring rolling vineyards and medieval villages to verdant forests and rugged shorelines. Weather conditions can differ greatly based on the season and area. Typically, spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) provide the most pleasant conditions, characterized by mild weather and fewer tourists. Summers can be intensely hot, especially inland, while winters present chillier weather and restricted services.
While walking the Camino de Santiago, the pilgrimage is the primary focus, but the experience involves much more. Pilgrims frequently visit historic churches and monasteries and dedicate time for reflection or spiritual practices. However, many other walkers are not religious and have diverse reasons for traveling from town to town. Some seek an adventurous experience, others wish to disconnect, and some aim to challenge themselves. The Camino offers a distinctive combination of physical challenge, cultural engagement, and personal development. Additionally, you get to taste local dishes, interact with fellow travelers, and appreciate the sights and landscapes.
This is not a leisurely stroll, however. Even the shortest “sampler route” that counts is 122 kilometers, or 76 miles, which takes several days. The most popular full route begins in Saint Jean Pied de Port, France, and traverses about two-thirds of northern Spain. It spans roughly 780 kilometers, or 500 miles. Chart that distance from your current location to gauge how far you’ll walk: it’s akin to embarking on a significant road trip.
Cost-Effective Camino Tips: Save Money, Walk More
Walking the Camino de Santiago on a budget is entirely achievable with a few inventive, money-saving techniques that many experienced pilgrims vouch for. First, choose public albergues (hostels), which provide the most economical accommodations—often for under €10 a night. Most also have kitchens, allowing you to whip up simple meals, ideally shared with fellow pilgrims, for both financial and communal benefits.
Barcelona-based expat Marina Villatora from Travel Experta recommends taking advantage of Spain’s reasonably priced groceries. “For me, the biggest money-saver on the Camino was shopping at the supermarkets present in every town, no matter how small. They offer excellent ready-made salads, or you can create tasty sandwiches with fresh baguettes and delicious cheeses. It’s much cheaper and healthier than dining out daily. One crucial thing to remember is that on Sundays, everything is closed, so if you need to purchase food on a Saturday, buy enough to last until Monday.
Also, investigate the “Menú del Peregrino” (Pilgrim’s Menu) available at many restaurants during lunchtime. Stacey Wittig, author of five Camino guidebooks, is celebrating 20 years of walking pilgrimage routes in Spain, France, and Italy this year. “Before dinner, stroll through the historic town and check out the “Pilgrim Menus” displayed on sidewalk chalkboards or in bar windows,” she advises. “Most feature 2–3 options for a starter, a main dish, dessert, and wine—all for 10 to 20 euros. Pick the menu that has something you’ve never tasted before. This way, you’ll keep your meals exciting—and avoid the feeling of constantly eating the same thing.”
Packing Essentials for Weeks of Trekking
Traveling light is another vital way to save money and conserve energy. Bring a few changes of clothing and wash items by hand every couple of days.