When to start the Camino del Norte

The ideal months to start the Camino del Norte (Irún to Santiago de Compostela) are March to early June. This window brings long daylight, comfortable walking temps, spring greenery, and most pilgrim services open—without the summer heat and crowds.

Northern Spain’s coast is changeable year‑round, but in spring the rain comes in shorter bursts and the trail feels lively rather than packed. Expect a mix of sun and showers, and plan for layers and a good rain jacket.

March to early June (best)

• March: A mixed bag—bright spells, brisk mornings, and regular showers. Winter’s heavier storms are easing, and you’ll find space in albergues, though a few rural places may open only after Easter. Pack proper rain gear and warm layers.
• April: Classic Norte spring. Frequent showers, plenty of sunshine between them, and great temps for climbing in and out of the coastal headlands. Easter week can be busy near larger towns; otherwise it’s a sweet time to move.
• May to early June: The sweet spot. Long days, comfortable warmth, and countryside in full color. Beaches and seafront towns feel lively but not packed. You’ll still see rain at times, especially in the Basque Country and Cantabria, but muddy sections dry more quickly and most accommodation is running daily. Starting in late May typically lets you finish before peak summer crowds and heat.

Late June to August (hotter and busier)

• Warm to hot days, with the occasional heatwave—felt more on inland detours and in Galicia’s interior. The coast helps with breezes, but midday sun can be fierce on promenades and exposed clifftops.
• School holidays and festivals make popular coastal stops busy; expect higher prices and book ahead. Showers still roll through now and then, but you’ll plan more around heat than rain.

September to October (good alternative if you don’t mind wet days)

• Early September often walks like late summer, then the weather turns more changeable. You’ll get a blend of bright days and rainy spells, and daylight starts to shrink.
• Crowds thin after August, the sea stays relatively warm, and it’s a pleasant time if you’re happy to manage wetter gear, especially in Galicia.

November to February (quiet but very wet and short days)

• Frequent rain, blustery fronts off the Atlantic, and limited daylight. Some albergues close or keep shorter hours; you’ll need to plan stages more carefully.
• It’s doable for experienced walkers who don’t mind long, damp days and occasional cold snaps, but most people will enjoy the Norte more in spring.

Whatever your dates, expect changeable skies and carry reliable rain gear and quick‑drying layers. On this route, “four seasons in a day” isn’t a cliché—it’s the norm, just much friendlier from March to early June.

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.