Is this guide really free?

Yes, it's completely free and shareable. You can share it with whoever you want. Commercial use is prohibited.

How many pages does it have?

35 A4 pages. We were going to make 17 pages but in the end we lost control and there are more. We don't know how to use editing tools well 😅

In which languages is it available?

The guide is available in 9 languages: Spanish, English, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, Japanese, Chinese and Korean. Each version is translated and adapted, not automatic translation.

Is the information up to date?

Yes. The data we provide is precise compilations from verified official websites (Pilgrim's Office, Xunta de Galicia, Renfe), experiences told by pilgrims who passed through our local, and our own 25 years of experience on the Camino.

Do I need to register to download it?

No. We don't ask for email, name, or any data. Click the button and the PDF opens. Nothing more.

Can I share it with other pilgrims?

Yes, in fact we'd love you to. Share it with whoever is going to do the Camino. We just ask that you don't sell it or use it for commercial purposes.

Are you going to update the guide?

Yes. If we find new information or correct something, we update the PDF. The version on this website is always the most recent.

🐚 CAMINO DE SANTIAGO 2026

Essential Pilgrim's Guide
From Sarria and Tui

April 2026 Edition

📍 Sarria (French Way) → 114 km
📍 Tui (Portuguese Way) → 119 km

hamburgueseriasenaris.com

Hello, Pilgrim. Welcome.

Susana and Antonio - Hamburguesería Señarís

We created this guide one Monday afternoon, Susana and Antonio. It's March 30, 2026, a sunny afternoon, and we're already starting to see the first pilgrims making their way up the hill leading to the Minor Seminary from Avenida de Lugo.

We thought we'd gather some advice shared by the pilgrims who visit our restaurant, along with information from the official Camino de Santiago accounts.

The goal is to offer some peace of mind and help to everyone who visits this page and decides to start the Camino.

How to Use This Guide

This guide covers everything you need to know BEFORE walking. Afterwards, you can tell us how it went.

Block 2: General Planning (when, how, pace)
Block 3: Equipment (what to bring, what not to)
Block 4: Accommodation (where to sleep, how to book)
Block 5: Logistics (how to get there, backpack transport)
Block 6: Arrival in Santiago (Compostela, Cathedral)
Block 7: Important Notices and Resources

📱 Stay Updated

Dates for musical groups, mass times and special events are confirmed closer to summer.

hamburgueseriasenaris.com/en/camino/

Scan this code to see:
• Additional tips from pilgrims

Icon Legend

🏠 Accommodation
🚌 Transport
🍽️ Food
🏥 Health/Services

⚠️ Warning / Important
💡 Local tip
📱 Digital resource (web/app)
🎯 Featured recommendation

Why Sarria and Tui?

Both are the most popular starting points to obtain the Compostela. Why? Because they're more than 100 km from Santiago (the minimum required).

📍 Sarria (French Way)

The French Way is the most travelled route

Feature	Details
Distance	114 km to Santiago
Standard days	5-7 days
Difficulty	Moderate
Atmosphere	Very social, the busiest route

Characteristics:

Varied terrain: forests, villages, some paved sections
Excellent infrastructure: hostels every 5-8 km
Many services: pharmacies, supermarkets, ATMs
International atmosphere: pilgrims from all over the world
Impeccable signage: frequent yellow arrows

Recommended profile: First time on the Camino, you want to meet people, you're looking for comfort and services.

📍 Tui (Portuguese Way)

Feature	Details
Distance	119 km to Santiago
Standard days	6-7 days
Difficulty	Easy/Moderate
Atmosphere	Social, quieter than the French Way

Characteristics:

Flatter terrain: fewer elevation changes than the French Way
Milder climate: less cold in spring/autumn
Gastronomic richness: Galician-Portuguese influence
Historical heritage: Roman bridges, churches
Less crowded: more tranquillity in high season

Recommended profile: You're looking for fewer crowds, prefer gentler terrain, interested in Luso-Galician culture.

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Sarria	Tui
Distance	114 km	119 km
Days (std pace)	5-7 days	6-7 days
Difficulty	Moderate	Easy
Cumulative elevation	~1,800 m	~1,400 m
Atmosphere	Very social	Social

If it's your first Camino and you want atmosphere → Sarria. If you prefer tranquillity → Tui.

When to Go? The Best Time

Galicia has an Atlantic climate: mild but rainy. Each season has its advantages and drawbacks.

🌸 Spring (April-June)

🌡️ Temperature	15-22°C
💧 Rain	Moderate (April rainier)
👥 Crowds	Moderate (increases in June)

✅ Advantages:

Green landscapes, flowers, long days
Less crowded than summer
Ideal temperature for walking
All services open (from May)

⚠️ Drawbacks:

April can be rainy
Some cool nights

☀️ Summer (July-August)

🌡️ Temperature	25-35°C (heatwaves possible)
💧 Rain	Scarce
👥 Crowds	Maximum (high season)

✅ Advantages:

Very long days (sunrise 6:30, sunset 22:00)
All services open
Festive atmosphere, many pilgrims
Apostle's Feast (July 25)

⚠️ Drawbacks:

Very hot on shaded sections
Hostels full (book 2-3 months ahead)
Higher prices
Crowds on some sections

🍂 Autumn (September-October)

🌡️ Temperature	18-25°C (Sept) / 12-18°C (Oct)
💧 Rain	Moderate (increases in October)
👥 Crowds	Moderate-High (Sept) / Moderate (Oct)

✅ Advantages:

Stable climate in September
Spectacular autumn landscapes
Less crowded than summer
Grape harvest, food festivals

⚠️ Drawbacks:

October rainier
Shorter days
Some services close from mid-October

❄️ Winter (November-March)

🌡️ Temperature	5-12°C (can drop to 0°C in January)
💧 Rain	Frequent
👥 Crowds	Minimum (very quiet)

✅ Advantages:

No crowds
More spiritual/introspective experience
Lower prices
Unique winter landscapes

⚠️ Drawbacks:

Many hostels closed
Very short days
Frequent rain
Some services reduced

🏆 Our Recommendation

For your first Camino: MAY, JUNE or SEPTEMBER

Ideal climate
Less crowded than July/August
All services open
Long days

Paces and Stage Planning

There's no "correct" pace. There's YOUR pace. This table helps you plan according to your fitness level.

📊 Recommended Paces (French Way from Sarria)

Fast Pace

📏 Km/day	22-28 km
⏱️ Total days	5 days
👤 Profile	With previous experience, good fitness level

Day 1: Sarria → Portomarín (22 km)
Day 2: Portomarín → Palas de Rei (25 km)
Day 3: Palas de Rei → Arzúa (29 km) ⚠️
Day 4: Arzúa → O Pedrouzo (19 km)
Day 5: O Pedrouzo → Santiago (15 km)

Standard Pace (Recommended)

📏 Km/day	18-22 km
⏱️ Total days	6 days
👤 Profile	Ideal balance, most pilgrims

Day 1: Sarria → Portomarín (22 km)
Day 2: Portomarín → Palas de Rei (25 km)
Day 3: Palas de Rei → Melide (14 km) + Melide → Arzúa (15 km)
Day 4: Melide → Arzúa (15 km)
Day 5: Arzúa → O Pedrouzo (19 km)
Day 6: O Pedrouzo → Santiago (15 km)

Leisurely Pace

📏 Km/day	15-18 km
⏱️ Total days	7 days
👤 Profile	Beginners, families, relaxed pace

Day 1: Sarria → Portomarín (22 km)
Day 2: Portomarín → Palas de Rei (25 km)
Day 3: Palas de Rei → Melide (14 km)
Day 4: Melide → Arzúa (15 km)
Day 5: Arzúa → O Pedrouzo (19 km)
Day 6: O Pedrouzo → Santiago (15 km)
Day 7: EXTRA DAY in Santiago (rest, sightseeing)

Very Leisurely Pace

📏 Km/day	10-15 km
⏱️ Total days	8+ days
👤 Profile	Families, reduced mobility, seniors

No rush. Enjoy every village, every church. Extra days can be added mid-Camino.

📊 Recommended Paces (Portuguese Way from Tui)

Standard Pace

📏 Km/day	18-20 km
⏱️ Total days	6-7 days

Day 1: Tui → O Porriño (18 km)
Day 2: O Porriño → Pontevedra (20 km)
Day 3: Pontevedra → Caldas de Reis (20 km)
Day 4: Caldas de Reis → Padrón (19 km)
Day 5: Padrón → Santiago (19 km)
Day 6-7: Extra days in Santiago

🏆 Our Recommendation

For first-timers: LEISURELY PACE (15-18 km/day)

Lower risk of injury
Time to enjoy landscapes, churches, villages
Arrive fresh in Santiago
You can add extra days if you get tired

Better to arrive in Santiago wanting more than dragging your feet. The Camino is remembered, not suffered.

Required Documentation

Before leaving, make sure you have ALL of this. Some documents are essential for the Compostela.

✅ Pilgrim Credential ("Passport")

The shell is the symbol of the Camino

What it is: Document that accredits you as a pilgrim. It's stamped at each stage (hostels, churches, bars, town halls).

📍 Where to get it:

In Sarria: Church of Santa Mariña, Church of El Salvador, main hostels
In Tui: Cathedral of Santa María, hostels
Before leaving: Friends of the Camino Associations
Online: Some associations send it by mail

💰 Price:

Free or donation (2-5€ recommended)

Important for the Compostela:

Minimum 2 stamps per day (last 100 km)
Stamp from the day of arrival in Santiago
No credential = no Compostela

✅ ID or Passport

Valid (not expired)
Original (no photos or copies)
Required to collect the Compostela

Keep a photo on your phone just in case.

✅ Health Card

🇪🇺 European Citizens:

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
Free, request from your country's social security
Valid in Spain

🌍 Non-Europeans:

Travel insurance with medical coverage
Minimum 30,000€ coverage
Must include repatriation

Save your insurance company number on your phone. In an emergency, there's no time to search for documents.

✅ Money: Cash + Card

💶 Cash:

Carry 50-100€ in small bills (10€, 20€)
Some small hostels don't accept cards
Water fountains: bring a 1€ coin
ATMs available in main towns

💳 Credit/Debit Card:

Accepted in most places
Notify your bank before travelling (avoid blocking)
Carry two cards from different banks (just in case)

📱 Digital Documents (Recommended)

Save on your phone (and in the cloud):

Photo of ID/Passport
Photo of Health Card
Travel insurance policy
Accommodation bookings (screenshots)
Emergency numbers

The Backpack: Your Home During the Camino

Choosing the right backpack is the most important decision. A good backpack goes unnoticed. A bad one, you'll notice from km 3.

📏 Recommended Capacity

Season	Capacity	Notes
Summer (July-August)	35-40 litres	Light clothing, fewer layers. More water (2-3L minimum).
Spring/Autumn (Apr-Jun, Sept-Oct)	40-45 litres	Extra layers (fleece, waterproof). Thicker raincoat.
Winter (November-March)	45-55 litres	Warm clothing, more layers. Only for experienced pilgrims.

⚖️ Maximum Recommended Weight

The 10% Rule

The backpack should NOT weigh more than 10% of your body weight.

Your Weight	Maximum Backpack Weight
50 kg	5 kg
60 kg	6 kg
70 kg	7 kg
80 kg	8 kg
90 kg	9 kg
100 kg	10 kg

Weigh your backpack before leaving. At home, with a bathroom scale: 1) Weigh yourself without backpack, 2) Weigh yourself with backpack on, 3) The difference = backpack weight.

🎒 Important Features

✅ Look For:

Padded waist adjustment
Wide, padded shoulder straps
Ventilated back panel
Integrated rain cover
Multiple compartments
Pole strap

❌ Avoid:

"Suitcase" style travel backpacks
No waist adjustment
Too many external pockets
Non-waterproof materials

🧪 Try Before You Buy

Ask them to adjust it to your body
Add weight (test sandbags)
Walk around the shop for 5 minutes
Go up and down steps if possible
Does it bother you? → Try another

A well-adjusted backpack is felt on the hips, not the shoulders.

Equipment List

This list is the result of 25 years of seeing what pilgrims use and what ends up unused in the backpack.

👟 Footwear

Item	Quantity	Notes
Trainers/Hiking boots	1 pair	BROKEN IN, not new (2-3 weeks before)
Sandals/Flip-flops	1 pair	Showers and rest
Technical socks	3 pairs	Seamless, anti-blister

Trail running shoes are lighter than boots and dry faster. For the Camino, they're usually sufficient.

👕 Clothing

Item	Quantity	Notes
Technical t-shirts	2-3	Quick-drying, avoid cotton
Long trousers	1	Convertible preferably
Shorts	1	Or convertible
Evening change of clothes	1	Only for sleeping/after shower
Fleece or sweatshirt	1	Warm layer
Waterproof jacket	1	Windproof and waterproof (poncho better)
Underwear	3 changes	Technical, quick-drying
Cap or hat	1	Sun protection
Light gloves	1 pair	Spring/autumn
Buff or scarf	1	Multi-purpose

The 3-layer rule:

Base layer: breathable (technical t-shirt)
Mid layer: warmth (fleece)
Outer layer: protection (waterproof)

🏠 Accommodation and Hygiene

Item	Quantity	Notes
Sleeping bag	1	Or sleeping bag liner (summer). Comfort temp 5-10°C
Microfibre towel	1	Quick-drying, small size
Basic toiletry kit	1	Multipurpose soap (bar takes less space)
Toothbrush	1	Travel size
Toilet paper	1 roll	Some hostels don't have any
Sunscreen	1	Factor 30-50
Lip balm	1	With sun protection
Nail clippers	1	Essential

Health, First Aid Kit and Extras

🏥 Health and First Aid Kit

Item	Quantity	Notes
Plasters	10-15	Various sizes
Compeed (blisters)	4-6	Different sizes
Bandages	1-2	Elastic
Anti-inflammatory	1	Ibuprofen or similar
Needle and thread	1	STERILE, for blisters (essential)
Alcohol	1	To disinfect needle and skin
Sterile gauze	4-6
Medical tape	1	Fabric or paper
Anti-diarrhoeal	1	Just in case

For blisters: 1) Clean with alcohol, 2) Heat the needle over a flame, 3) Pierce the blister (don't remove the skin), 4) Press to drain, 5) Apply Compeed or bandage.

🎒 Extras and Miscellaneous

Item	Quantity	Notes
Water bottle or flask	1-2	1-1.5L minimum
Power bank	1	Portable charger (minimum 10,000 mAh)
Earplugs	1 pair	Noisy hostels
Sleep mask	1	Hostels with light
Small knife	1	Multi-purpose
Pen	1	For credential
Plastic bag	2-3	Dirty clothes
Waterproof cover	1	For the backpack (if it doesn't have one)
Whistle	1	Emergencies
Head torch	1	Early starts (optional)

📱 Electronics

Item	Quantity	Notes
Mobile phone	1	With offline maps
Charger	1
Headphones	1 pair	Long stages
Camera	1	Optional, if you don't use your phone

Common mistakes when packing:

Bringing new trainers (wear them 2-3 weeks before)
Backpack too heavy ("just in case")
Not bringing needle and thread (essential for blisters)
Cotton clothing (doesn't dry, gets cold)
Not testing the backpack before leaving

Types of Accommodation

There are three main types of accommodation. Each has advantages, drawbacks and rules.

🏠 Public Hostel

💰 Price	Free or donation (5-10€ recommended)
🛏️ Room	Shared dormitories (20-50 people)
🚿 Bathroom	Shared

✅ Advantages:

Economical
Authentic pilgrim atmosphere
Meet people from all over the world
Credential stamp guaranteed

⚠️ Drawbacks:

CANNOT be booked (first come, first served)
Noisy (snoring, people coming/going)
Less privacy
Strict rules (curfew 22:00)
One night only per pilgrim

In high season (July-August), arrive before 14:00. If you arrive late, you'll be left out.

🏠 Private Hostel

💰 Price	12-25€ / person
🛏️ Room	Dormitories (8-20 people) or private
🚿 Bathroom	Shared or private

✅ Advantages:

CAN be BOOKED (guaranteed)
More comfortable than public
Less crowded
Some have private rooms
More flexible hours

⚠️ Drawbacks:

More expensive
Less "traditional" atmosphere
Variable quality (read reviews first)

Private hostels are ideal for: High season (you guarantee a bed), groups wanting to stay together, days when you're very tired.

🏨 Hotel / Guesthouse / Inn

💰 Price	30-80€ / room (single or double)
🛏️ Room	Private with bathroom
🚿 Bathroom	Private

✅ Advantages:

Total privacy
Private bathroom
Silence and guaranteed rest
No strict time rules
You can stay several days

⚠️ Drawbacks:

Expensive
Isolated from other pilgrims
Less Camino atmosphere

🏆 Hybrid Strategy (the one that works best)

Weekdays (Monday-Thursday): Public hostels → Fewer people, you get a bed easily
Every 3-4 days: A hotel/guesthouse → Real rest, quiet shower, wash clothes

Featured Accommodations by Stage

This selection is based on real experiences from pilgrims who have visited our restaurant. Indicative prices 2026.

📍 French Way (From Sarria)

Stage 1: Sarria (start)

Hostel	Price	Notes
Albergue San Lázaro	12-15€	Kitchen, laundry, massages. 400m from start.
Hostel Andaina	18-22€	Modern capsule bunks, high-speed WiFi.

Stage 2: Portomarín

Hostel	Price	Notes
Albergue Ferramenteiro	15€	Views over the Miño river, nearby restaurant.
Albergue A Loira	12€	Kitchen, drying area, lockers.

Stage 3: Palas de Rei

Hostel	Price	Notes
Albergue Zendoira	14€	Equipped kitchen, lounge, garden.
Albergue O Camiño	12€	Family atmosphere, kitchen.

Stage 4: Arzúa

Hostel	Price	Notes
Albergue Los Caminantes	15€	Cozy atmosphere, rest area.
Albergue A Bodega	14€	Kitchen, barbecue, garden.

Stage 5: O Pedrouzo

Hostel	Price	Notes
Albergue Porta de Santiago	16€	Last stage, comfortable, laundry.
Albergue Santiago	14€	Kitchen, lockers, drying area.

Stage 6: Santiago

Hostel	Price	Notes
Albergue San Lázaro	10€	Public. French Way entrance.
Albergue Fin del Camino	15€	Private. Near the Obradoiro.
Seminario Menor	22-24€	Quiet, private rooms. Close to Hamburguesería Señarís 😉

In Santiago, if you want to really rest before the Cathedral, the Seminario Menor is excellent. Private rooms, silence, good breakfast.

Booking Tips and Transport

📅 Recommended Advance Booking

Season	Private Hostels	Hotels
High (July-August)	2-3 months before	3-4 months before
Medium (Apr-Jun, Sept-Oct)	4-8 weeks before	1-2 months before
Low (November-March)	2-4 weeks before	1-2 weeks before

Public hostels: CANNOT be booked. Arrive before 15:00 (earlier in summer).

📱 Booking Platforms

Platform	Advantages
Booking.com	Most variety, free cancellation
Hostelworld.com	Specialised in hostels
Gronze.com	Camino-specific info
Google Maps	Real reviews, direct phone

Read RECENT reviews (last 3 months). A hostel can change a lot in a year.

🚌 How to Get to the Starting Point

For Sarria (French Way)

✈️ Plane + Train:

Airports: Santiago (SCQ) - 85 km, A Coruña (LCG) - 100 km
Train from Santiago: 1h 30min, 8-15€, 2-3 trains/day
📞 Renfe: 902 240 202 | www.renfe.com

🚌 Bus:

From Lugo: 45 min, 4-6€, every 1-2 hours
From Santiago: 1h 45min, 6-9€
📞 Monbus: 982 284 000 | www.monbus.es

For Tui (Portuguese Way)

✈️ Plane:

Airports: Vigo (VGO) - 35 km, Santiago (SCQ) - 100 km, Porto (OPO) - 100 km

🚌 Bus from Vigo:

50 min, 4-6€, every 1-2 hours
📞 Atsa: 986 288 393 | www.atsa.es

🎒 Backpack Transport

How does it work? Leave your large backpack at reception in the morning → it's transported to your next accommodation → you walk with only a small backpack (water, food, raincoat).

Service	Price
Per stage	5-7€
Complete package (5 stages)	25-35€

Many pilgrims aged 60+ who pass through our restaurant use this service. Without it, they wouldn't have been able to do the Camino. It's not "cheating". It's doing the Camino in a way that's sustainable for your body.

Travel Insurance

It's not mandatory, but highly recommended. An accident on the Camino can cost thousands of euros.

🇪🇺 European Citizens

✅ European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

What it is: Card that gives access to public healthcare in Spain (and other EU countries) free of charge.

How to get it:

Online: Social Security in your country
In person: Social Security offices
Free
Validity: 2-5 years (depending on country)

What it covers:

Medical attention in public hospitals
Emergencies
Prescribed medication
Hospitalisation

What it does NOT cover:

Repatriation (returning to your country by ambulance/plane)
Lost luggage
Trip cancellation
Civil liability
Private healthcare

🌍 Non-Europeans

Insurance mandatory (highly recommended)
Spanish healthcare is public but NOT free for non-European citizens.

Costs without insurance (indicative):

Emergency consultation	100-200€
X-ray	150-300€
Hospitalisation (day)	500-1,000€
Medical repatriation	5,000-15,000€

A sprained ankle can cost you 3,000€ without insurance. A good insurance costs 30-50€ for the entire Camino. The maths are clear.

📋 Minimum Recommended Coverage

Coverage	Minimum Recommended
Medical assistance	30,000€
Repatriation	50,000€
Cancellation	3,000€
Lost luggage	1,500€
Civil liability	150,000€

📞 Emergency Numbers

🚨 General Emergencies: 112 (free, 24h, all languages)
🏥 Medical Emergencies: 061
👮 Local Police (Santiago): 092 / 981 542 323
💊 24h Pharmacy: Calle Galeras, 9

Arrival in Santiago: The Compostela

You've arrived. The last 100+ km are behind you. Now for the practical stuff: the Compostela and celebrating.

📜 The Compostela: What It Is and How to Get It

What it is: Official certificate accrediting that you've completed the Camino de Santiago for religious or spiritual reasons.

Requirements:

Have walked minimum 100 km (last 100 km)
Or 200 km by bicycle
Credential stamped (minimum 2 stamps per day)
Religious or spiritual motivation

Important: If your motivation is only touristic or sporting, you'll get another certificate (not the traditional Compostela).

🏢 Pilgrim's Office

📍 Address	Rúa das Carretas, 33, 15705 Santiago de Compostela (5 minutes walk from the Cathedral)
📞 Phone	981 568 846
🌐 Website	oficinadelperegrino.com
⏰ Opening Hours (2026)	Every day: 9:00 - 19:00 Closed: 25 December and 1 January

In July and August, queues can be 2-3 hours long. Go early (before 9:00) or late (after 17:00).

📱 Updated Process (2026)

Step 1: Scan QR Code

When you arrive at the Office, you'll see a panel with a QR code
Scan it with your phone
Fill in your personal details
You'll receive an alphanumeric code

Step 2: Wait Your Turn

There are screens showing turns in real time
You can sit down and wait
Estimated time is constantly updated

Step 3: Present Documentation

Show your stamped credential
Show ID/Passport
Indicate your motivation (religious / spiritual)
They verify you have the necessary stamps

Step 4: Receive the Compostela

You're given the Compostela (free)
In person only (not sent by post)
You can buy additional certificates (3-5€)

⏱️ Indicative Waiting Times

Season	Waiting Time	Best Time
January-March	15-30 min	Any time
April-June	30-60 min	9:00 or 17:00
July-August	2-3 hours	8:30 or 18:00
September	1-2 hours	9:00 or 16:00
October-December	15-60 min	Any time

The Cathedral and Traditions

The Cathedral is the final destination. Here we tell you what to do and the traditions you can't miss.

⛪ The Cathedral of Santiago

Obradoiro façade of the Cathedral

Important note: Entry to the Cathedral to see the Apostle's tomb and attend mass is completely free. Payment only applies if you want to visit the Museum, the rooftops or the towers.

📅 Opening Hours and Prices (2026)

Concept	Hours	Price
Cathedral (basilica) - free access	Monday to Saturday: 7:00 - 21:00 Sundays and holidays: 7:00 - 21:00	FREE
Cathedral Museum	Monday to Saturday: 9:00 - 20:00 Sundays: 12:00 - 20:00	7€ (general) 10€ (with audioguide)
Pilgrims with credential	Same museum hours	Reduced rate

Cathedral access is first-come, first-served, no reservation needed. The Cathedral opens at 7:00 and closes at 21:00.

🗓️ Mass Times at the Cathedral (2026)

Day	Times
Weekdays	07:30, 08:00, 09:30, 10:00, 12:00, 19:30
Sundays and holidays	07:30, 08:00, 09:00, 10:00 (Chapter Mass), 12:00, 13:15, 18:00, 19:30
Pilgrim's Mass	12:00 (every day) - Main Chapel

🙏 Pilgrim's Mass

⏰ Time	Every day: 12:00
📍 Location	Main Chapel of the Cathedral
⏱️ Duration	45-60 minutes

🌟 The Botafumeiro:

The famous giant incense burner that swings from the Cathedral's crossing.

When it's activated:

Special days: July 25 (Apostle), Christmas, Epiphany, Easter, St. James the Less (May 25)
Other days: On request (donation 500-600€)
Not guaranteed at normal masses

If you want to see the Botafumeiro, go on July 25 (Apostle's Feast). It's when it's used most. For the rest of the year, it's a matter of luck.

🤗 Embracing the Apostle

What it is: Tradition of going up behind the main altar and embracing the statue of St. James the Apostle.

How to do it:

Wait until the Pilgrim's Mass ends (around 13:00)
Follow the queue behind the altar
Go up the stairs
Embrace the statue from behind
Come down the other side

When:

After the Pilgrim's Mass: Around 13:00-14:00
Also in the afternoon: After the 18:00 or 19:30 masses

The queue can be long (30-60 min in summer). If you're in a hurry, go in the afternoon after the 18:00 mass.

⚰️ Visiting the Apostle's Tomb

What it is: The crypt where the remains of St. James the Apostle are found. Access is FREE.

Where it is:

Below the main altar of the Cathedral
Access from the crypt (main chapel)

Hours:

Every day: 9:00 - 19:00
Price: FREE

It's an emotional moment for many pilgrims. Take your time. It's the culmination of your Camino.

🎉 Celebrating Your Arrival

You've walked 100+ km. You deserve to celebrate it.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Santiago (authentic places):

Restaurant	Speciality	Price
Hamburguesería Señarís 📍 Av. Quiroga Palacios, 5	Burgers, sandwiches, raxo, zorza	8-12€
O Gato Negro	Modern tapas	15-25€
Pulvería Ezequiel	Pulpo a feira	12-20€
Casa Manolo	Tapas, wine	15-25€

Places to avoid: Menus with photos on Rúa do Franco, "Pilgrim's Menu" for 8€ with wine, places with "promoters" at the door, anything less than 100m from the Cathedral.

Walk 5-10 minutes away from the Cathedral. The food improves and prices drop. At Hamburguesería Señarís (Av. Quiroga Palacios, 5) we've been serving pilgrims for 25 years.

Important Notices and Resources

Information updated to April 2026. Save this page on your phone.

📢 2026 Regulations

As of April 2026: Regulations for obtaining the Compostela remain the same as in previous years.

Current requirements:

Minimum 100 km on foot (last 100 km)
Minimum 200 km by bicycle
Minimum 2 stamps per day on the credential
Religious or spiritual motivation required

Unconfirmed rumours: There are NO official changes to requirements. NO prior hostel booking required. NO daily pilgrim limit.

📱 Digital Resources

🌐 Official Websites:

Website	What it's for
oficinadelperegrino.com	Compostela, official regulations
caminodesantiago.gal	Official info from Xunta de Galicia
hamburgueseriasenaris.com/en/camino/	Tips, blog, pilgrim menu
gronze.com	Hostels, real comments

📲 Recommended Apps:

App	Price	Features
Buen Camino	Free	Offline maps, stages, hostels, GPS
Wise Pilgrim	2-4€	Offline maps, no advertising
Google Maps	Free	General navigation, restaurants

Download offline maps BEFORE leaving. In rural areas, your phone won't have signal.

📞 Emergency Numbers

🚨 General Emergencies: 112 (free, 24h, all languages)
🏥 Medical Emergencies: 061
👮 Local Police (Santiago): 092 / 981 542 323
🚒 Fire Brigade: 080 / 981 542 444
💊 24h Pharmacy: Calle Galeras, 9
🏥 Clinical Hospital: 981 950 000

🗓️ 2026 Events in Santiago

Date	Event	Highlights
15-31 July	Apostle's Feast	Concerts, fireworks
25 July	Apostle's Day	Botafumeiro, Solemn Mass
14-17 August	San Roque Feast	Traditional, less crowded
13-17 May	Ascension Feast	Folklore, concerts

hamburgueseriasenaris.com/en/camino/

Scan to see:
• Additional tips from pilgrims
• Pilgrim Menu for groups

Buen Camino

The Camino is remembered, not suffered

If you've read this far, it means you're really going to do the Camino. Or you're already doing it.

We have something to tell you:

Thank You

Thank you for trusting this guide. We've made it with our hearts, based on 25 years of watching pilgrims arrive at our restaurant.

Each one brings a story. Each one has a reason. Each one lives the Camino in their own way.

There's no right way to do the Camino. There's YOUR way.

An Invitation

Hamburguesería Señarís - Av. de Quiroga Palacios, 5

When you arrive in Santiago, after the Cathedral, after the Compostela, after the tears...

We'd like to meet you.

📍 Hamburguesería Señarís

Address	Av. de Quiroga Palacios, 5, 15706 Santiago de Compostela
Phone	881 08 25 71
Website	hamburgueseriasenaris.com

⏰ Opening Hours:

Monday: 8:30 - 16:00
Tuesday to Friday: 8:30 - 23:30
Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 - 16:00 and 18:00 - 23:30

🚶 How to get there from the Cathedral:

Go down Rúa do Vilar
Continue along Rúa de San Pedro
Turn right onto Av. de Quiroga Palacios
15 minutes walk (1.2 km)
Or take the L5 bus from Praza de Galicia

What to order:

Homemade burgers (meat from the Mercado de Abastos)
Raxo sandwich (Galician pork)
Zorza sandwich (Galician chorizo)
Spanish tortilla (to order, whole)
Chocolate with churros (8:30 - 12:00)