Portuguese Coastal Way: Atlantic Route Guide 2026

Portuguese Coastal Way

268 km 12 stages Difficulty Medium 120 places

The Portuguese Coastal Way is the Atlantic variant of the Portuguese Way. From Porto, it follows the Atlantic coast for 268 km across 12 stages, offering unique landscapes of beaches, cliffs and fishing villages.

It is the coastal alternative to the inland Portuguese Way, passing through cities like Viana do Castelo and Baiona before crossing into Galicia. It combines the charm of the Atlantic Ocean with rich Portuguese and Galician gastronomy, especially seafood and green wines.

Ideal for pilgrims who prefer walking by the sea and enjoying a refreshing Atlantic climate.

Frequently asked questions about the Portuguese Coastal Way

How many kilometres is the Portuguese Coastal Way?

The Portuguese Coastal Way is 268 km long, divided into 12 stages, from Porto to Santiago de Compostela.

How many days does the Portuguese Coastal Way take?

The classic division is 12 stages, one per day, averaging 22.4 km daily. At a brisk pace stages can be combined; at a gentler pace, split up.

Where does the Portuguese Coastal Way start and end?

It starts in Porto and ends in Santiago de Compostela.

Which is the hardest stage of the Portuguese Coastal Way?

Stage 12 (Padrón → Santiago de Compostela), with 370 m of accumulated ascent.

How many hostels are there on the Portuguese Coastal Way?

Peregrinia has 237 pilgrim hostels mapped along the Portuguese Coastal Way, listed stage by stage with their exact kilometre point.

Portuguese Coastal Way

Route map

Stages

Porto → Vila do Conde

Vila do Conde → Esposende

Esposende → Viana do Castelo

Viana do Castelo → Caminha

Caminha → A Guarda

A Guarda → Baiona

Baiona → Vigo

Vigo → Redondela

Redondela → Pontevedra

Pontevedra → Caldas de Reis

Caldas de Reis → Padrón

Padrón → Santiago de Compostela

Frequently asked questions about the Portuguese Coastal Way