When to walk the Camino Portugués Central

On the Camino Portugués Central (Lisboa to Santiago de Compostela), the most reliable start window is mid March to mid May, or November. In these months you’ll get comfortable temperatures leaving Lisboa, manageable rain as you move into the Minho and Galicia, good daylight, and towns that are open but not swamped.

This route runs from Portugal’s milder south into the wetter Atlantic north, so expect a gentle start and a damper finish. Spring brings fresh green landscapes and longer days; November is cooler and quieter, with more showers but easy bed availability.

Best windows and what to expect

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

• Why it works: Cooler days for long, hard-surface stretches out of Lisboa; spring fields and vineyards through Ribatejo; and fresher, greener Galicia without winter’s gloom.
• Weather feel: A mix of bright spells and passing showers. As you near Porto and into Galicia, rain is more common, but it’s usually showery rather than all-day. Mornings can be brisk; afternoons often mild.
• Practical notes: Pack a light waterproof and something warm for early starts. Trails can be slick on farm lanes after rain, especially north of Porto. Late April and early May see more pilgrims, but still far less crowding than peak summer.

November (quiet, cool, and workable)

• Why it works: Comfortable walking temperatures, calm villages, and easy bed availability, especially from Porto to Santiago.
• Weather feel: Expect frequent showers in the Minho and Galicia, with brighter, gentler days further south. It’s cooler overall and daylight is shorter, so plan slightly shorter stages.
• Practical notes: Good waterproofs, a pack cover, and quick-drying footwear pay off. You’ll meet fewer people between towns, but most services on the Central route remain open.

What the rest of the year is like

Early spring outside the window (early March)

• Mornings are cold and days are still short. Weather flips quickly between sun and showers, more so in the north. Doable if you’re flexible with stage length and don’t mind rain.

Summer (June–August)

• Southern Portugal can be hot and exposed, with long road and track sections that radiate heat. Northern Portugal and Galicia stay milder but still see warm, humid days and occasional storms.
• Plan very early starts, carry plenty of water, and expect busy beds around Porto and into Santiago.

Early autumn (September–October)

• September often feels like an extension of summer in Portugal, with the chance of hot spells. As you move north, humidity and showers creep in.
• October brings more frequent rain and changeable days—lovely vineyard and harvest scenery, but expect wet stretches, especially in Galicia.

Deep winter (December–February)

• The wettest, windiest time in the north. Short days, muddy farm lanes, and chilly mornings are common from Porto to Santiago.
• Very quiet on the trail; some smaller places reduce hours or close midweek. Fine for hardy walkers who are set up for rain and don’t mind solitude.

Bottom line

If you want easy walking temperatures, lively but not crowded towns, and the best balance of sun and showers from Lisboa to Santiago, aim for mid to late March through mid May. If you prefer a quieter path and can handle regular rain, November is a solid, peaceful choice.

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