How many days are needed to do the Portuguese Way from Tui

A Camino full of history, landscapes and balance

The Portuguese Way from Tui is one of the most popular and balanced routes of the Camino de Santiago. With an approximate distance of 120 kilometers to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, this stretch allows you to enjoy Galicia in all its essence: nature, history, gastronomy and spirituality.

If you are wondering how many days are needed to do it, the answer will depend on your pace, physical condition and the type of experience you are looking for. In general, the Camino from Tui is comfortably completed in 6 or 7 days, although some pilgrims do it in less time or extend the experience a few more days to enjoy it without rushing.

➤ The classic itinerary: 6 stages to Santiago

The most common route of the Portuguese Way from Tui is divided into six well-balanced stages, combining rural sections, coastal areas and charming cities. This is the version most chosen by pilgrims from all over the world, as it offers a perfect balance between effort and enjoyment.

• Day 1 – Tui → Porriño (18 km): a welcoming stage to Galicia, with shaded paths and the Miño River as a travel companion.
• Day 2 – Porriño → Redondela (16 km): a short and comfortable stretch, with gentle hills and rural views.
• Day 3 – Redondela → Pontevedra (20 km): one of the most beautiful stages, with views of the Vigo estuary and the seafaring atmosphere of the Rías Baixas.
• Day 4 – Pontevedra → Caldas de Reis (22 km): paths among vineyards, forests and traditional Galician villages.
• Day 5 – Caldas de Reis → Padrón (19 km): land of legends, where according to tradition the body of the Apostle James arrived.
• Day 6 – Padrón → Santiago de Compostela (25 km): the final stage full of emotion, with Monte do Gozo as a prelude to the arrival.

These six days allow you to live the Camino calmly, discovering villages, gastronomy and the Jacobean spirit at every step.

➤ Relaxed version: 7 days to savor the Camino

If you prefer to enjoy the route more peacefully, you can divide some stages and walk the Portuguese Way from Tui in seven days. It is an excellent option for beginner pilgrims, families or groups who want to walk fewer kilometers per day and have more time to visit the towns.

• Day 1: Tui → Porriño (18 km)
• Day 2: Porriño → Redondela (16 km)
• Day 3: Redondela → Arcade (11 km)
• Day 4: Arcade → Pontevedra (9 km)
• Day 5: Pontevedra → Caldas de Reis (22 km)
• Day 6: Caldas de Reis → Padrón (19 km)
• Day 7: Padrón → Santiago (25 km)

This format allows you to enjoy the surroundings more, explore the cities of Pontevedra and Padrón, and make the most of Galician gastronomy.

➤ Fast version: 5 days for the most active

Some experienced pilgrims or those with little time choose to do the Camino in only 5 days. In this case, some stages are combined, walking between 25 and 30 km per day. It is a more physically demanding option, but perfectly possible with good preparation.

• Day 1: Tui → Porriño → Redondela (34 km)
• Day 2: Redondela → Pontevedra (20 km)
• Day 3: Pontevedra → Caldas de Reis (22 km)
• Day 4: Caldas de Reis → Padrón (19 km)
• Day 5: Padrón → Santiago (25 km)

It is important to keep in mind that the Camino is not about speed, but about enjoying the process. This version is suitable only for those who are already used to long walks.

➤ Factors that influence the duration of the Camino

The time you will need to complete the Portuguese Way from Tui depends on various personal and external factors. Here are the most important ones:

• Physical condition: if you are not used to walking, add an extra day to rest halfway through the route.
• Weather: rain can slow your pace; in summer, the heat makes it advisable to start early.
• Type of accommodation: if you book in advance, you will have more flexibility to adjust your days.
• Purpose of the trip: some seek spirituality and peace, others physical challenge and self-improvement.

Remember that the Camino adapts to you. There is no “correct” time: each pilgrim lives it at their own pace and with their own purpose.

➤ Tips for planning your days

• Start early: leaving between 7:00 and 8:00 allows you to avoid the heat and make the most of natural light.
• Book accommodation in advance in spring and summer, especially in Pontevedra or Padrón.
• Stay well hydrated and bring light food for rural stretches.
• Enjoy every stop: try albariño wine, visit Roman bridges and chat with other pilgrims.
• Save energy for the final stage: the arrival in Santiago is full of emotion.

➤ Arrival in Santiago: the end and the beginning

When the pilgrim arrives in Santiago de Compostela, tiredness turns into emotion. From Monte do Gozo, the towers of the Cathedral can be seen, and each final step is filled with meaning. Upon entering the Plaza del Obradoiro, many feel that they have not only reached a goal, but lived an experience that leaves a lasting mark.

When collecting the Compostela at the Pilgrim’s Office, you can celebrate your achievement and share it with other walkers who, like you, have found in the Portuguese Way a transformative experience.

• Total distance: about 120 km.
• Average duration: 6 or 7 days.
• Recommended experience: spiritual, cultural and human.

The Portuguese Way from Tui can be done in a few days, but its memory lasts a lifetime. Whether in five, six or seven stages, each day will bring you a little closer to Santiago… and much closer to yourself.