How Much Does It Cost To Walk The Camino De Santiago?

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I’ve walked thousands of Camino kilometres over the past decade, and one of the questions I’m most often asked is: How much does it really cost to walk the Camino?

For many, walking the Camino de Santiago is a lifelong dream that takes years of planning and saving. While walking itself is an inexpensive hobby, there are several additional costs to consider, such as:

Things can really add up.

Your Camino budget will vary depending on your choices. I’m happy with bunk beds and shared bathrooms, but Gerry prefers his own room. The Camino can be tailored to suit different budgets, but most people still need a sense of what to expect before they set off.

Having walked the Camino in everything from budget municipal albergues to luxury hotels, and having planned trips for hundreds of pilgrims, I’ll break down the average costs, highlight some less obvious expenses, and share tips to help you stretch your budget.

Is It Possible To Walk The Camino On A Budget?

Yes, it is possible. But it’s important to remember that while you can keep daily costs low, walking 800 kilometres across Spain takes weeks, so the overall expense is not insignificant. That said, walking the Camino de Santiago can be an affordable journey, especially compared to other long-distance adventures.

A traditional Camino, particularly on the Camino Frances or Portuguese routes, can be done on a modest budget if you’re willing to stay in pilgrim hostels and enjoy simple meals or picnics.

However, costs can add up. Entrance fees to castles, museums, or even cathedrals, and using the launderette will stretch your budget. And although you may intend to only stay in municipal albergue, you’ll likely book a few private rooms along the way. It’s wise to allow for these occasional upgrades when planning your budget.

Camino Daily Budget Guides

Estimating Camino costs is a bit of a moving target; there are so many variables to consider. If you are on a very tight budget, opt to stay in municipal accommodation, cook your own meals and avoid any additional costs then you can certainly manage on less that 30€ a day. But that’s a very tight budget. Keep reading and I’ll explain in much more detail but ask yourself :

There are many options, but as a rough guide, I would suggest the following per day, per person:

Of course, these are ballpark figures. It’s impossible to be exact due to the many variables, but you can use this as a general guide. However, daily costs is only part of the picture; how will you reach the Camino and what gear will you use also adds to the cost.

Save on Travel To The Camino

I live in France, so it’s relatively inexpensive for me to travel to the start of my Camino. For the Camino Frances, I can take a FlixBus from Bordeaux, or for the Portuguese route, I can catch a low-cost flight to Porto. I have plenty of budget options available.

However, if you’re travelling from further afield, getting to your starting point can be one of your biggest costs. But there are a few ways to manage this:

Play around with different flight combinations. You’ll be amazed how much you can save, but it does take some time to explore all the possibilities.

Camino Preparation : Hiking Gear And Accessories

If you’re new to hiking, especially multi-day hikes, you’ll need to invest in some quality gear, such as:

The list can grow depending on how you plan to walk your Camino. Even if you hunt for sales, discounts, or consider pre-owned gear, the costs can still add up.

Hiking Shoes

If you plan to walk long distances, the right shoes are non-negotiable. Don’t try to economise here; your Camino could end before it starts due to ill-fitting shoes. This is one area where it’s worth spending the money.

That said, you can still save by buying last year’s model or choosing a store’s own brand. Decathlon, for example, has some excellent options. Also, don’t overlook eBay. I’ve bought high-quality hiking shoes, only to discover after 20 kilometres that they were too narrow. I couldn’t return them, so I sold them on eBay for half the price.

As a general rule, budget at least 100€ for hiking shoes, though many branded models such as my Altra Lone Peaks can cost upwards of 160€.

Top Tip: Measure your feet, try on different pairs, and shop at the end of the day when your feet are swollen. I always go a size up, as my feet swell a lot when hiking.

Also, don’t skimp on socks. Try several brands, as hiking socks can fit differently from everyday ones. Some can feel too tight, which can cause blisters. I’m a recent convert to Injinji socks, though I prefer the liners, as the full socks feel too thick for me.

Rucksack

If you’re carrying your own pack and gear, you’ll want to invest in a high-quality pack that fits well and is comfortable. Consider pre-owned options for a bargain, or look for sales; sometimes odd colours are discounted by almost half. REI and Decathlon also offer great own-brand gear.

My go-to brand is Osprey. I love the airflow back, the adjustable back length, and the fact they make male and female-specific fits; it makes a big difference.

Whatever brand you choose, be mindful of the pack’s weight. My Camino pack weighs less than a kilo, and my day pack just 500 grams. I aim to carry no more than 6 kilos, so the pack’s weight is critical.

Outdoor Clothing

On my first Camino, I balked at the cost of technical clothing and opted for regular t-shirts instead. That was a huge mistake. They held moisture (sweat included) and took ages to dry overnight. I ended up replacing them at an outdoor store after just a few days.

I’ve since learned to shop around. Living in France, Decathlon is my go-to, but I also love Under Armour t-shirts, which I buy on sale—I never pay full price, usually about half.

Search different websites for older models; every country has its own discount outdoor shops, so explore your options.  Also don’t make the mistake of buying cheap winter gear for a summer Camino and vice versa!

Sleeping Bag

Unless you plan to stay in hotels, you’ll need to bring a sleeping bag. On my first Camino, I’d read that a silk liner was enough; it wasn’t real silk, and I bought mine on Amazon for 30€. However, I was cold and ended up buying a sleeping bag in Astorga.

Gerry takes a liner and a lightweight, inexpensive summer bag from Decathlon. Since I walk often, I invested in a super lightweight bag that opens up like a quilt. My friends from the USA tell me Costco sells lightweight duvets that you can cut in half!

The bottom line is, you don’t need to spend a lot, but be mindful of the weight if you plan to carry your pack.

Rain Protection

There’s plenty of debate over what’s best: poncho or coat? It really comes down to personal preference, but I love a jacket. I have a RAB Alpanista; it was expensive, but I’ve had it for years and it’s excellent. Before that, I had a less expensive Marmot PreCip and was just as happy with it.

My sister bought a throwaway poncho for 2€, and IKEA sells ponchos for just a few euros. If you only plan to walk the Camino once, these are worth considering.

Frog Toggs, Altus, and Mac in a Sac are all brands worth looking at. REI, Decathlon, and other sportswear shops also have good selections.

Top Tip: Don’t forget a waterproof cover for your backpack. I also use Sea-to-Summit dry sacks for all my gear to ensure everything stays dry, even in a downpour.

Miscellaneous Gear

The list of gear is long and deserves its own post, but you should also consider items like a sports towel, first aid kit, and even hiking poles. All of these add to the overall cost and should be factored into your budget.

Accommodation Costs on the Camino

Your choice of bed will greatly impact your overall costs but there is a good choice of accommodation. If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of ways to keep expenses down by staying in municipal albergues. Moving up from there, you have private albergues and small, basic hotels that offer good value. And for something special, you’ll find more than a few fabulous hotels, such as the Paradors.

When I’m walking solo, I like to mix things up. I’m happy staying in albergues, but every few days, I’ll opt for a private room. And if there’s a Parador in town, I usually treat myself.

First Things First : Two Camino Rules

Municipal and Donativo Albergue

Municipal albergues, parochial, and donativo hostels are the most affordable accommodation options. You can expect to pay around 8–12 euros per night, though sometimes more.

Facilities will be simple but generally clean. These places are usually run by volunteers and offer basic services: a bed, a shower, and sometimes a shared meal. Rooms are typically mixed-gender, and you can expect snoring, farting, rustling bags, and early risers!

Some, like the accommodation in Granon, are highly prized, and many who stay there say it’s one of their favourite Camino memories. If you’re walking from St Jean Pied de Port, I’d recommend staying in at least one or two for the experience. These days, we often stay in private rooms, but I still return to the albergue for the joy of sharing company with fellow pilgrims.

Expect bunk beds, though occasionally you might find a bed or even a mattress on the floor.

Top Tip: Read the two rules above before opting to stay here!

You’ll need to be self-sufficient, bringing your own sleeping bag and towel. Many of these albergue do not allow bag transport, so you’ll need to carry your own pack. It’s usually not possible to reserve beds in advance, and popular stops fill up quickly, so plan ahead if you want to stay somewhere special like Granon.

Private Albergue

Much like municipal albergues, private albergues offer simple, inexpensive accommodation, but with a bit more comfort. Rooms may be single-sex (though not always), and sometimes linen is provided. You can also expect a few extra touches, like lockers, your own plug socket, and sometimes even a curtain on the bunks for added privacy.

Private albergues offer a little more comfort while still providing affordable accommodation. You can expect to pay between 14–18 euros for a bunk.

Small Hotels and Private Rooms in Albergue

My favourite kind of accommodation is a private room in an albergue. You get the best of both worlds, and when two people are sharing, it’s often excellent value. Agora Hostel in Estella and Fonfría’s A Reboleira are great examples.

Alternatively, you may simply prefer your own private room. As Gerry says, he’s reached an age where he wants his privacy and his own bathroom, and he’s happy to pay extra for it. There are plenty of small, charming private hotels along the Camino, like Casa Morgade and La Morena at Ledigos.

You should expect to pay around 60–70€ for a private room. Sometimes the rate is cheaper if you’re happy to share a bathroom with a few others.

Hotels and Luxury Experiences

If you can afford the upgrade then go for it! If you’re craving a soft bed, en-suite bathroom, and a bit of pampering after a long day of walking, these options can provide extra comfort.  Honestly, if I can afford it, I do opt for a few special stays when I’m walking.

There are a number of excellent hotels along all Camino and if you’re looking for somewhere special then every time choose a Parador.   Santo Domingo de Calzada, Leon, and Santiago all have a Parador.  On the Camino Portuguese you’ll find them in Tui, Baiona and Pontevedra and most pilgrims take advantage of a night in the Parador in Ferrol on the Camino Ingles.

Beyond the Parador experience there is no shortage of charming boutique hotels and comfortable casas rurales, some in some truly historic buildings.  Prices here can vary greatly, but expect to pay at least 150€ for a Parador and between 80-120€ for a small hotel depending on the season and location.

Food And Drink Along The Way

I cannot eat gluten and only consume small amounts of dairy. One reason I love albergue accommodation is that they often have kitchens, which allows me to cook for myself. If you’re on a budget, cooking your own meals is often cheaper as well.

However, Spain is very celiac-aware, so I often opt for a pilgrim menu, which offers excellent value—plus, no washing up!

Breakfast

Breakfast is generally simple: expect slabs of crusty bread, toasted with butter and jam (though often it’s spread, not real butter). I loved this as my go-to pilgrim breakfast, but sadly it’s no longer an option for me. You can expect to pay 4–7€ for coffee and toast.

There are also huge croissants for sale, though they often have a sweet coating, which may be less appealing. However, they are substantial and make for a great, inexpensive breakfast.

Some albergue include breakfast as part of their service, so keep an eye out for that when booking. Places like the Parador charge around 22€ for breakfast, but it’s a buffet feast that will keep you going all day!

Lunch

I’m not a fan of stopping for a full lunch while walking. I prefer small snacks every few hours and often carry a banana, boiled egg, or some nuts. If there’s a bar or café along the way, a slice of tortilla patata makes the perfect pick-me-up. Spain is the home of tapas, so there are always smaller, snack-sized options. Expect to pay 4–6€ for a small tortilla or snack.

Bocadillos (Spanish sandwiches) are also great value, usually around 5–8€. They are large, and it’s a lot of bread, but makes for a cheap, filling meal. Some of the larger ones are perfect for sharing!

If you want something more substantial, the menu del día is similar to a pilgrim menu, offering three courses and often including bread and wine. Prices range from 15–25€, depending on the location.

Top Tip: In France and Spain, bread and water (and sometimes wine) are included with your meal, but this is not the case in Portugal. Be aware that the olives and snacks they place on the table are usually charged extra.

Dinner

The menu del peregrino is the most popular choice for pilgrims. I love the pilgrim menu; it’s not just about the food but also about sitting with fellow pilgrims, sharing stories, and talking about our day. I have such fond memories of these evenings.

The food is simple, hearty, and usually home-made. Portions aren’t huge, and the menu can get a bit repetitive as you walk through Spain, but I don’t mind, I’m a big fan of the pilgrim menu!

Expect to pay around 15€. The quality can vary, but it’s a great choice for your evening meal.

In larger towns and cities, you’ll find a wide variety of options, and if you’re a foodie, there are some excellent restaurants to take advantage of

Drinks

I think café con leche is the best coffee; second only to coconut coffee in Vietnam, maybe? Expect to pay 2–4€, depending on the location and the size of the cup.

Wine is excellent value in Spain, with some truly great options, and you can get a glass for around 2€. Soft drinks are usually 2–3€, and you don’t need to buy bottled water, as there are fountains along the route. They are labelled as drinking water, and the quality is regularly tested.

Luggage Transfer

The cost of sending your bag ahead can add up if you’re walking for several weeks, but as one lady in my walking group once said, “It was cheaper than buying expensive lightweight gear that I may not use again.” This is an excellent point and well worth considering.

You don’t need to carry a full backpack, as luggage transfer services are available on most Camino routes. They’ll collect your bag in the morning (it must be ready by 8am) and deliver it to your next accommodation.

The cost is usually around 8€ per day, per bag, with discounts if you book for multiple days or bags. There are a few pros and cons to consider:

Public Transportation And Taxis

On days when your legs need a rest, or if you need to skip a section, buses and taxis are convenient options. We use ALSA buses frequently, and Spain’s rail network is reliable. However, moving between rural areas can sometimes be tricky, and a taxi may be your only option.

Bus fares are good value, and while UBER isn’t available, taxis are metered, and you can agree on a price in advance.

Credential, Compostela and Shell

The Credential is your pilgrim passport and you’ll need this when you start.  The Compostela is the document issued in Santiago de Compostela pilgrim office when you finish.

Credential

If you want to stay in pilgrim accommodation or receive the pilgrim rate at hotels, you’ll need a credential; your pilgrim passport. I usually buy mine online before leaving home from Casa Ivar for around 2€, though postage can be substantial when shipping overseas.

You can also purchase credentials in albergue, churches and pilgrim offices along the route. Your home country might also have a pilgrim association where you can buy online too. Expect to pay around 2–5€.

Top Tip: Collect two stamps every day. There’s plenty of debate about whether it’s necessary, but honestly, just collect at least two and you’ll be covered.

Shell

Pilgrims traditionally carry a shell to identify themselves as walking the Camino. It’s not required, and I’ve never worn one on my pack, but many people do and treasure their shell after the journey.

You can buy shells online or at many shops along the way. Expect to pay between 5–10€, depending on where you purchase it.

Compostela

Your Compostela is free, as long as you meet the criteria for obtaining it.  Many pilgrims also opt for a distance certificate and a protective tube to safeguard the documents for the journey home. Expect to pay a few euros for both, which you can purchase at the Pilgrim Office in Santiago de Compostela.

Pilgrim Guides or Apps

There are several excellent guidebooks available. John Brierly’s books are perhaps considered the original and the best, but they are more expensive. I’ve purchased them in the past, but I switched to Wise Pilgrim as they’re about half the price. Expect to pay between 10–25€ for a guidebook.

These days, I prefer using an app; it’s much lighter than carrying a book and provides similar information. Wise Pilgrim is my app of choice, and it costs around 6€. 

Top Tip : You can also purchase guidebooks for use on a kindle and save on the weight whilst enjoying the books.

ATMs and Changing Currency

Withdrawing cash isn’t free, and some ATM fees can be quite steep. I try to make fewer withdrawals to avoid unnecessary charges, but you will need cash on the Camino, so be prepared. The cheat sheet below (courtesy of the Camino Forum) will help you choose the cheapest options.

Be mindful of any international transaction fees your bank may charge. Currency exchange rates and fees vary, so it’s worth checking with your bank beforehand. To avoid these fees, we use a Wise or Revolut card when travelling. We love both and wouldn’t leave home without them. It’s a process to apply for either, so start well ahead of time. We’ve travelled around the world, and this is by far the best method for handling international currencies.

Cultural Visits

If you’re on a super tight budget, some visits may be out of reach. However, if you’re simply planning ahead, make sure to include a few cultural visits in your budget.

Surprisingly, many cathedrals charge an entrance fee. Burgos, Pamplona, Santo Domingo, and León all have fees between 7–12€. Castles, such as the Templar Castle in Ponferrada, aren’t free either, and even the tiny church at Torres del Rio charges 1€.

If you’d like to visit these places, and I strongly recommend you do, make sure to set aside a little extra for the experience.

Laundry

When I first walked the Camino, the laundry options were usually a sink and a washing line in the garden; it worked fine, and it was free. These days, there are many more laundry options available.

Many private albergues offer laundry services, with costs ranging from 3–5€ for washing and an additional 3–5€ for drying. Hotels will charge considerably more, so I recommend finding a launderette instead. In larger towns, launderettes are convenient, and you can expect to pay a few euros for both washing and drying.

Top Tip: Join forces with others to cut down on costs. When walking with my groups, we often throw everything together in a large launderette machine, and it ends up costing just a couple of euros each.

That said, I still wash a few items in the sink and dry them overnight; it’s a quick, simple solution, and it’s always free!

Everything Else

No matter how well you plan, things will inevitably go wrong, and budgets will be stretched. A few things to consider include:

First-aid

Folks often spend a lot of time and money in pharmacies along the Camino. Basic first-aid supplies like blister plasters, bandages, and pain relievers are essential. While you should carry a small kit, you may need to replenish it along the way. Compeed can be expensive, but tape is often a cheaper option.

Medications in Spain are generally excellent value, and the pharmacy staff are helpful and knowledgeable. Still, be sure to budget for unexpected extras.

Replacement Gear

On my first Camino, I had awful blisters and ended up buying new shoes in Estella; quite an extra expense! Several people in my groups have done the same, purchasing sandals or walking poles along the way.

Things get lost or broken. I once had a pair of socks melt in a dryer! You’ll be surprised at what you lose, forget, or break, so it’s smart to allow a contingency for the unexpected.

Top Tip: If you’re staying in albergue, many have a lost-and-found box. For a small donation, you might be able to replace a lost walking pole, t-shirt, or pair of socks; perfect for those on a tight budget.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential, especially for a long-distance trek like the Camino; don’t think of this as an area to cut costs. While some banks offer free travel insurance with your card, be sure to read the small print before leaving home to ensure you’re properly covered.

This is such an important topic that I’ve written a separate post about the key questions you need to ask. Travel insurance tends to be more expensive as you get older and the longer you’re away from home. Walking the Camino isn’t considered a dangerous sport, but costs can still vary widely depending on your coverage, age, and any pre-existing conditions. We recommend the following companies :

Going Solo or Using A Guide?

The least expensive way to walk the Camino is to go solo. The route is well-marked, you’ll meet new friends, and you’re unlikely to feel alone. However, some people prefer the convenience and support of a guide or agency, and this will add to the costs.

I offer guided walks with the Then We Walking club. Costs vary depending on whether we stay in albergues or private rooms, but the walk also needs to cover all my expenses and taxes, which can add up.

If you’re opting for a tour company, a guided walk, or simply letting someone else handle the planning, you’ll need to accept the premium for those services. However, they can save you considerable time and effort, plus you’ll benefit from our expertise and experience.

The extra costs can range from a few hundred to a few thousand euros, depending on the type of accommodation and services offered. For many, the peace of mind and added comfort make the cost or an organised tour more than worthwhile.

Tips for Saving Money

No matter your Camino style, there are always ways to save money. Here are my tips for enjoying the Camino while keeping costs down:

Do The Cost Of Different routes Vary?

Yes, the cost of walking the Camino does vary depending on the route. There are two main reasons for this. First, costs differ between Spain, France, and Portugal. Second, prices change depending on whether you’re in a tourist area.

Porto is a hugely popular destination, as is Santiago de Compostela, so you can expect higher prices in these areas. However, if you’re walking the Via de la Plata through rural Spanish communities, costs will be much lower.

I’ve often found that coastal routes tend to be more expensive. It’s important to remember that visitors come to the coastal areas of Spain and Portugal, not just for the Camino but for holidays too. Pilgrims aren’t always seen as the main customers, leading to higher prices.

The Camino Frances is the most popular route and offers the widest range of accommodation and services, making it easier to stick to a budget. The Camino Portuguese is similarly affordable but can be influenced by seasonal tourism.  The Primitivo is considered a more traditional route and offers more simple accommodation and the Norte covers popular sea-side towns and prices will be higher.

So How Much Does It Actually Cost To Walk The Camino?

If you’ve made it to the end of this post, you’ll know that the cost of walking the Camino can vary widely. A few years ago, we planned to walk the Camino Norte in the summer. As I mapped the route and booked accommodation, I realised that our Camino would cost us thousands. July is high season, and hotels were very expensive. We changed our plans and went exploring in Indonesia instead.

Yes, walking the Camino can be inexpensive. If you stick to a tight budget, carry your own pack, and walk for just a week or two, you could enjoy this amazing experience for just a few hundred euros.

However, if you prefer private rooms, luggage transport, and plan to walk for several weeks, you should budget several thousand euros for the experience.

I’ve planned walks for groups where we stayed in bunks, carried our own bags, and spent just 50€ per day over ten days. I’ve also walked with groups looking for more comfort, where the costs were closer to 150€ per day.

There’s no one-size-fits-all for the Camino. My advice would be, instead of asking how much it costs to walk the Camino, ask yourself how much you’re willing to spend. Once you know your budget, you can adapt your Camino to suit it. You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy this journey. I’ve loved staying in bunk beds, eating pilgrim meals, and carrying my own bag when walking solo, and I’ve enjoyed more creature comforts when walking with Gerry.

The Camino is an ancient path that offers something for everyone. The Camino de Santiago has options for every budget, allowing you to tailor the experience to your personal preferences and financial situation.

Determine your budget, find your shoes, and start walking. And maybe, like me, the Camino will change your life too.