Portuguese Camino vs French Camino: Is the Camino Landscape Changing?

Is the Portuguese Camino now more popular than the French Camino?

Yes, in May 2026, the Portuguese Camino had more pilgrims than the French Camino, with a total of 34,134 compared to 30,701. However, the French Camino remains more popular overall on a yearly basis.

How many pilgrims walked the Portuguese and French Camino in May 2026?

• Portuguese Camino (Central): 16,300 pilgrims
• Portuguese Camino (Coastal): 17,834 pilgrims
• Total Portuguese Camino: 34,134 pilgrims
• French Camino: 30,701 pilgrims

Difference: The Portuguese Camino had +3,442 more pilgrims than the French Camino.

Why is the Portuguese Camino becoming more popular?

The Portuguese Camino is becoming more popular because it is less crowded, easier to access, and offers more scenic coastal routes.

1. Is the Portuguese Camino less crowded?

Yes. The French Camino can be very busy, especially in peak sections, while the Portuguese routes offer more space and a calmer experience.

2. Does the Portuguese Camino offer a more authentic experience?

Yes. Many pilgrims highlight traditional towns, local food, and a stronger connection with everyday life in Portugal.

3. Why is the Coastal Camino growing so fast?

The Coastal Camino is a major driver of growth due to:

• Ocean views
• Open landscapes
• A more emotional and immersive experience

4. Is the Portuguese Camino easier to access?

Yes. Starting points like Porto, shorter route options, and flexible stages make planning easier for international travellers.

What is the difference between the Portuguese Camino and the French Camino?

• Difficulty: Portuguese = easier
• Crowds: Portuguese = quieter
• Infrastructure: French = more developed
• Experience: French = more traditional

What is the difference between the Central and Coastal Portuguese Camino?

What is the Central Portuguese Camino like?

• Inland route
• Passes through historic towns
• More traditional experience
• Slightly quieter than the French Camino

What is the Coastal Portuguese Camino like?

• Atlantic Ocean views
• More scenic and modern appeal
• One of the fastest-growing Camino routes

In May 2026, the Coastal route (17,834 pilgrims) had more pilgrims than the Central route.

Is the growth of the Portuguese Camino a long-term trend?

Yes. Current data suggests this is a long-term shift, not a one-month anomaly:

• The Portuguese Camino has been gaining share every year
• Growth rates are higher than the French Camino
• Coastal routes are expanding faster than traditional ones

What does this trend mean for the future of the Camino?

This shift reflects broader travel trends:

• Preference for less crowded routes
• Demand for authentic experiences
• Growth of active and slow tourism
• Increasing interest in Portugal as a travel destination

The Portuguese Camino aligns strongly with all of these trends.

Which Camino is easier: Portuguese or French?

The Portuguese Camino is generally easier than the French Camino, with less elevation and shorter daily distances. It is better suited for beginner walkers and cyclists, while the French Camino tends to be more physically demanding.

Will the Portuguese Camino surpass the French Camino overall?

It’s possible, but not immediate.

What we know:

• The French Camino still leads annually
• The Portuguese Camino is growing faster
• Monthly peaks already favor the Portuguese routes

What this suggests:

A progressive rebalancing, not an instant change.

If current growth continues, the Portuguese Camino could eventually match or exceed the French route in total numbers.

Why this matters for travelers and tour operators

For travelers:

• More choice
• Less crowded alternatives
• New types of experiences

For tourism businesses (especially in Portugal):

• Strong growth in demand
• Opportunity to position early
• Increasing international visibility

Final Answer: Is the Camino landscape changing?

Yes, clearly. The French Camino remains iconic. But the Portuguese Camino is no longer an alternative. It is becoming a mainstream choice. And in months like May 2026, it is already leading.

FAQ: Portuguese Camino vs French Camino

• Is the Portuguese Camino easier than the French Camino?

Yes, the Portuguese Camino is generally easier, with less elevation and shorter stages. It is more suitable for beginners and casual cyclists.

• Which Camino is more popular?

The French Camino is the most popular route and tends to be much more crowded, especially during peak season.

• Which Camino is better for beginners?

The Portuguese Camino is better for beginners due to its easier terrain, lower crowds, and flexible daily distances.

• Which Camino is better for cycling?

The Portuguese Camino is usually preferred for cycling, as it is less crowded and has more accessible terrain compared to some sections of the French Camino.

• How many days does each Camino take?

The Portuguese Camino typically takes 5 to 10 days by bike from Porto, while the French Camino often takes longer due to its greater distance and difficulty.

• Which Camino has better infrastructure?

The French Camino has more developed infrastructure, with more frequent accommodation and support services along the route.

• Is the Portuguese Camino less crowded?

Yes, the Portuguese Camino is significantly quieter, especially outside peak summer months.