When to walk the Camino del Norte

Spain’s Northern Way (Irún to Santiago de Compostela) follows a green, Atlantic coastline where weather flips from sun to showers in a heartbeat. Aim for dates that balance cooler walking temps, longer daylight, and manageable crowds. For most walkers, starting in mid March to mid May, or late August to early October gives the best conditions on the Camino del Norte.

Below is what those windows feel like, plus what to expect the rest of the year.

Spring shoulder (mid–late March to early–mid May)

• Why it works: Cool mornings, mild afternoons, and fresh, green landscapes. Services are reopening, but paths remain pleasantly quiet.
• Weather pattern: A lively mix of sunshine and Atlantic showers, with the wettest bursts more common in the Basque Country and Cantabria. Galicia can still flip to a soaking day now and then.
• Tips: Pack reliable rain gear and shoes that grip on wet stone and mud. Around Easter, book popular towns ahead.

High summer (June to mid‑August)

• Pros: Long days, plenty of open albergues, warmer evenings, and beach swims.
• Cons: Heat and humidity can sap energy on exposed headlands; July and early August bring holiday crowds and tighter bed availability.
• If you go: Start early, consider shorter stages on the hottest days, and reserve beds in coastal hotspots.

Late summer to early autumn (late August to early October)

• Why it works: You dodge the peak holiday crush while keeping warm, mostly settled walking. The sea is at its warmest for end‑of‑day dips.
• Weather pattern: Many fine days with the odd blustery front. As you move into October, mornings cool and Galicia turns wetter, but it remains very walkable.
• Tips: Late August can still be busy near beaches—book ahead. Carry a light layer for breezy cliffs and a dependable waterproof for passing showers.

Late autumn and winter (mid‑October to February)

• What to expect: Frequent rain, shorter daylight, and the windiest spells along the coast. Some albergues and bars close or keep limited hours.
• Who it suits: Experienced walkers happy with wet, changeable conditions and flexible plans. For a first Camino del Norte, it’s a tougher introduction.

A quick note on the Norte’s climate

Atlantic weather is changeable year‑round. Inland detours are often calmer than exposed capes; Galicia tends to be wetter than the eastern coast. Quick‑drying layers, a solid waterproof, and grippy footwear make the biggest difference—whatever month you choose.

Of course, while these recommendations provide a solid starting point, everyone's preferences and circumstances are unique. For example, if you prefer walking in the cooler morning hours to avoid midday heat, you might prioritize dates with drier conditions. On the other hand, if you are more accustomed to colder climates, you may choose to avoid hotter periods - even if it means encountering more rain. Our search tool allows you to customize your journey to align with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible experience on the Camino.

Furthermore, if your plan differs from walking the standard stages from Irún to Santiago de Compostela, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.