When is the best time to walk the Camino de Finisterre?

On the Camino de Finisterre (Camino de Fisterra), the most reliable start window is mid May to June, or late August to September. These months bring comfortable walking temperatures, long daylight, and a fair mix of sunny spells with passing showers—typical Galicia. You’ll still want a trusty rain shell, but it’s the easiest time to balance weather, crowds, and open services.

This route rolls from Santiago through quiet woods and farmland to the Atlantic. Sea breezes help on warmer days, though they can also pull in morning mist and light drizzle near the coast. Here’s how the seasons tend to feel on foot.

Late Spring (mid–late May and June) — Best overall

• Why it works: Green landscapes, wildflowers, and long days without the brunt of summer heat.
• Expect: A blend of bright days and occasional showers. Cool starts, pleasant afternoons.
• Tips: Start early, carry a light layer for breezy ridges, and keep rain gear handy.

High Summer (July to mid‑August)

• Pros: Maximum daylight, lively towns, most albergues and cafés open.
• Cons: Warmer afternoons and the odd hot spell; beds fill faster around weekends.
• Tips: Dawn starts and shaded lunch breaks help; consider booking key stops.

Late Summer to Early Autumn (late August and September) — Also excellent

• Why it works: Heat eases, days are still long, and weather often settles into clear, walkable stretches.
• Expect: Mostly dry runs with the odd shower; comfortable evenings on the coast.
• Tips: Fog is common near the sea—use a light on road bits and watch traffic.

October — Shoulder season

• Feel: A mixed bag—some glorious blue‑sky days, some wet and gusty as fronts begin to roll in.
• Good for: Flexible walkers who don’t mind shorter daylight and packing waterproofs.
• Tip: Check which albergues are still open before you set out.

Winter (November to February)

• Feel: Cool to cold, often wet and windy, with short days and reduced services between towns.
• Good for: Solitude and reflective miles, if you’re rain‑tolerant and adaptable.
• Tip: Bring warm layers, solid rain gear, and plan shorter stages.

Early Spring (March and April)

• Feel: Very changeable—sun one day, heavy showers the next. Trails can be muddy, but the countryside wakes up fast.
• Good for: Walkers who prefer cool air and don’t mind carrying layers for all seasons.
• Tip: Late April can feel close to early summer; around holidays, book your first night from Santiago.

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 Santiago de Compostela to Fisterra, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.