When to book your Camino: how far in advance should you plan?

Planning your Camino de Santiago in advance can make a huge difference in your experience. Whether you’re walking or cycling, knowing when to book your Camino helps you secure accommodation, find the best travel deals, and prepare both physically and mentally. This Camino de Santiago planning guide will help you understand the best timing for booking, based on your personal needs and the season you choose. Whether you prefer a bustling summer pilgrimage or a quieter off-season walk, proper planning ensures a smooth journey.

So, when to book your Camino? The answer depends on multiple factors, from your preferred route to your flexibility with accommodations. In the next sections, we’ll explore the key considerations for choosing the best time to book.

Factors to consider when booking your Camino

Deciding when to book your Camino isn’t just about picking a date. It’s about ensuring the best possible experience. The time of year, your chosen route, and your accommodation preferences all play a role in how far in advance you should plan.

The best time of year to go

The season you walk the Camino can shape your entire journey. If you go in the high season (May, June, July, August, and September), expect lively trails, bustling albergues, and a vibrant social atmosphere. But with that popularity comes competition for beds, especially on routes like the Camino Francés or the Camino Portugués. Booking in advance is essential if you want to secure comfortable accommodations.

If you prefer a quieter experience, the shoulder seasons (March, April, October and November) offer a great balance. The weather is still pleasant, but the crowds thin out, making it easier to find a place to stay. In contrast, the low season (November–March) can be a peaceful but challenging time to walk. With colder weather and fewer services available, booking ahead becomes even more important to ensure you have a warm bed at the end of the day.

Route selection and accommodation

Not all Caminos are the same when it comes to booking. The most famous routes – like the French Way from Sarria to Santiago or the Portuguese Way from Tui to Santiago – are in high demand, so accommodations fill up quickly. On the other hand, if you choose a less-traveled route like the Camino Primitivo, you might not need to book as early. However, these routes have fewer lodging options, so securing key stops in advance is still a good idea.

The type of accommodation you prefer also makes a difference. Public albergues operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning you can’t reserve a bed. Private albergues, hotels, and guesthouses, however, allow reservations, and during peak months, they often sell out well in advance. If you’re dreaming of a bit more comfort after long days of walking, it’s wise to book early.

Solo vs. group travel

Booking needs also vary depending on whether you’re traveling alone or with others. Solo travelers generally have more flexibility, as finding a single bed or last-minute availability is much easier. Groups, however, face a bigger challenge. If you’re walking with friends or family, securing multiple rooms in the same hotel or beds in the same albergue requires planning ahead. The larger the group, the earlier you should book to ensure you can all stay together.

Guided vs. self-guided Caminos

If you’re joining a guided Camino, your booking timeline will be determined by the tour company, as they arrange accommodations and services for you. These tours often fill up months in advance, so early booking is necessary. If you’re going self-guided, you have more flexibility, but reserving key locations – especially in popular areas – can save you from stress and uncertainty along the way.

Thinking through these factors will help you determine when to book your Camino so that your pilgrimage is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. In the next section, we’ll look at how booking in advance can help with your physical and mental preparation.

When to book accommodations on the Camino

Depending on the season, your approach to reservations will vary – some times of the year require careful planning, while others allow for more spontaneity.

Peak season (May, June, July, August and September): book well in advance

If you’re walking during the summer months, early reservations are a must. May to August is the busiest time on the Camino, especially on the Camino Frances and the Camino Portugues, where thousands of pilgrims fill the trails daily. July and August are also particularly busy on the Camino del Norte and the Camino Portugues along the coast. Accommodation – especially private albergues, hotels, and guesthouses – can book up weeks or even months ahead.

Public albergues operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but competition for beds is fierce. If you arrive late in the afternoon, you may find yourself without a place to sleep. To avoid stress, it’s best to book private accommodations as early as possible. Many pilgrims start securing rooms at least three to six months in advance for popular routes during peak season.

Shoulder seasons (March, April, October, and November): more flexibility

If you prefer a balance between good weather and manageable crowds, walking in the spring or fall is a great choice. The Camino de Santiago booking tips for these months are different from peak season – you still need to plan ahead, but you don’t have to rush. Booking a few key nights, such as in major cities or remote areas with fewer lodging options, is smart, but you can leave some flexibility in your itinerary. Many private accommodations will still be in demand, especially in September, but you generally won’t face the same pressure as in July or August. 

Off-season (after November until March): do you need to book at all?

Walking the Camino in winter is a completely different experience. The trails are quiet, and finding a place to stay is rarely an issue. However, many albergues and smaller guesthouses close for the season, so planning ahead becomes more about ensuring availability rather than securing a spot before others do.

In winter, you don’t need to book months in advance, but it’s important to check which accommodations will be open along your route. Some pilgrims prefer to book as they go, calling ahead a day or two before arrival. If you like certainty, making reservations for key stops before your trip can give you peace of mind.

Regardless of when you go, understanding when to book accommodations on the Camino can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. In the next section, we’ll explore how booking in advance helps with physical preparation and training for the Camino.

Booking albergues vs. hotels: what’s the difference?

One of the biggest decisions when planning your Camino is choosing where to stay. Do you want the communal experience of an albergue, or would you prefer the privacy and comfort of a hotel or guesthouse? Each option has different booking requirements, and understanding them can help you make the right choice for your journey.

Public vs. private Albergues: when and how to book?

Public albergues are the most traditional Camino accommodation. Run by municipalities or religious organizations, they offer simple dormitory-style lodging at a low cost – sometimes even donation-based. However, there’s a catch: you can’t reserve them in advance. These albergues operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early increases your chances of getting a bed. In peak season, late arrivals may find themselves searching for alternatives.

Private albergues, on the other hand, function more like hostels and can be booked ahead of time. They offer more amenities – sometimes including private rooms – and are a great option for those who want the social aspect of an albergue without the uncertainty of public lodging. For popular routes like the French Way or the Portuguese Way, making Camino de Santiago reservations at private albergues a few weeks in advance during peak season is a smart move.

Hotels and guesthouses: when to book?

If you prefer a bit more comfort, private hotels and guesthouses are a great alternative. These range from simple pensiones (budget guesthouses) to charming rural inns and even luxury hotels. Unlike albergues, these must be booked in advance, especially in small towns where lodging options are limited.

In high season, many hotels along the Camino fill up months ahead, particularly in well-known stops like Sarria, León, or Santiago de Compostela. If you’re walking during peak months, securing your Camino de Santiago reservations at least six months, or even a year in advance ensures you’ll have a comfortable place to stay. 

Guided tours and pre-booked accommodations

For those who want an organized experience, guided tours or self-guided trips with pre-arranged accommodations can be a great option. These packages typically include hotels, luggage transport, and sometimes even meals, allowing you to focus entirely on walking. This is what we are also providing at WAW.travel. The biggest advantage? You won’t have to worry about finding a place to sleep each night.

However, pre-booked trips come with less flexibility. If you prefer spontaneity, a fully arranged tour might feel restrictive. On the other hand, if you like structure and comfort, having everything planned for you can be a huge relief.

Whether you choose albergues, hotels, or a mix of both, following these Camino de Santiago booking tips will help you find the best places to stay. In the next section, we’ll look at how booking your Camino in advance can help with training and physical preparation.

How early should you book your Camino?

Planning your Camino de Santiago is about more than just booking accommodations – it’s about giving yourself time to prepare physically, mentally, and logistically for the journey. The earlier you book, the more options you’ll have, especially on busy routes. 

6-12 months before: booking guided tours, flights, and special accommodations

If you’re considering a guided tour, want to stay in charming guesthouses instead of albergues, or plan to travel during peak season, it’s best to book at least six months in advance, but if you could make it a year in advance, it’s even better. The Camino is growing in popularity, and accommodations on the busiest sections fill up quickly. This is especially important for bikers, as finding bike-friendly lodgings can be more challenging.

Booking early also means committing to your journey. Once your flights and accommodations are secured, you can start a training plan, ensuring your body is ready for the long days ahead. You’ll also have more time to research and test your gear – especially your shoes, which should be well broken in before setting off.

Another benefit? If your Camino takes you through both Spain and Portugal, this is the perfect time to learn some basic Spanish or Portuguese. Even a few key phrases can make your experience much smoother. Did you know that we also offer a course called Spanish for pilgrims?

3-6 months before: reserving key accommodations in peak seasons

If you’re planning a Camino in spring, summer, or early autumn, 3-6 months ahead can still be a good time to book essential stays, but keep in mind that bookings can get more challenging. This is especially important if you’re traveling with a group of friends or family – securing multiple beds or rooms can be tricky if you leave it too late.

At this stage, you should also consider:

• Your ideal Camino route: if you haven’t already chosen one, now’s the time. Some routes are more suited for spontaneous travel, while others require careful booking.
• Your walking companion(s): are you going alone, with a partner, or with a group? Solo travelers have more flexibility, while groups require careful planning.
• Your fitness level: a few months of focused training can help build endurance. Start walking longer distances with your backpack to get used to the weight.

1-3 months before: last-minute bookings and flexibility strategies

Hello, last-minute planners! While it’s still possible to walk the Camino without booking too far ahead, especially if you’re flexible with accommodations, it is important to keep in mind that on busy routes, you may need to adjust your daily distances based on where beds are available. We are discussing this in detail in the next section. But here are a few things to keep in mind:

If you’re planning to bike, be extra cautious. The Camino is busiest from May to September, and cyclists share the same paths as walkers, which can make certain sections more challenging. Booking in advance allows you to choose alternative months like April, July, or October, when the trails are less crowded.

Make sure to allocate some time to finalize your gear and mindset. Camino weather can be unpredictable – rain, wind, and sudden temperature drops are all part of the experience. Packing the right layers and mentally preparing for tough days will make your journey more enjoyable. Some pilgrims even take time to read books about the Camino, helping them understand the cultural, historical, and spiritual aspects of the walk.

Finally, don’t forget to coordinate with work, family, and friends. Taking time off, organizing travel logistics, and preparing for a few weeks away from home are all easier when planned in advance.

No matter when you book, the key is to prepare well. The Camino is a journey of discovery, but a little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and meaningful experience.

Last-minute planning: can you walk the camino without booking?

Not everyone wants to plan their Camino months in advance. Some pilgrims prefer to embrace the journey with as much spontaneity as possible, deciding where to sleep once they arrive at each destination. But is this realistic? The good news is that you can walk the Camino without booking in advance – if you choose the right route and know what to expect.

Tips for spontaneous pilgrims

If you like flexibility, there are a few ways to make last-minute planning work:

• Start your days early – public albergues operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving before mid-afternoon increases your chances of getting a bed.
• Be open to different options – if your first-choice accommodation is full, look for nearby albergues, small guesthouses, or even private rooms in local homes.
• Call ahead same-day – many private albergues and hotels accept same-day reservations, so a quick phone call in the morning can save you stress.
• Carry a sleeping bag – if you’re walking in high season, there’s always a chance you’ll need to sleep on a floor mat in an albergue or even outdoors. Being prepared helps!

How to find accommodations on the go

With smartphones, finding a place to stay last-minute is easier than ever. Apps like Buen Camino or Gronze Maps list accommodations along the route, including availability updates. Many pilgrims also rely on word-of-mouth – other travelers or hospitaleros (albergue hosts) often know which places still have beds. If you’re unsure where to stay, larger towns usually have multiple options, so avoiding the smallest villages can increase your chances of finding a bed.

Best routes for last-minute planners

In 2025, new regulations have been introduced for obtaining the Compostela, meaning some previously lesser-known routes now qualify for this honor. We’ve written a detailed blog post about these changes to the Compostela requirements here. With these new regulations in place, some Caminos are better suited for spontaneous travel than others. If you want to walk without pre-booking, consider these routes:

• Camino Primitivo: With fewer pilgrims, this historic route tends to have less competition for beds, though accommodations can be more spread out. Known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes, the Camino Primitivo provides a more remote and challenging experience, perfect for those looking to avoid crowds.
• San Sebastián to Bilbao: This route takes you through the scenic Basque coastline, offering breathtaking views of cliffs, beaches, and traditional Basque towns. With its mix of coastal and rural paths, it’s ideal for those seeking a quieter experience. However, be careful in the summertime, as these routes can be challenging due to the heat and limited shade. Although not as busy as other routes, the path still offers ample opportunities for spontaneous stops in charming towns such as Zarautz and Getaria.
• Santander to Gijón: A beautiful coastal route along Spain’s northern shores, this path offers stunning views of the sea and lush green landscapes. The Camino from Santander to Gijón is less crowded, making it a great choice for spontaneous pilgrims. The route’s combination of coastline and countryside makes for a peaceful and scenic pilgrimage.
• Porto to Tui: This stretch of the Portuguese Way is ideal for last-minute planners, as it offers a good balance of infrastructure and flexibility. The route takes you through scenic vineyards, historic towns, and quiet rural landscapes. Starting from Porto, you’ll pass through Vilarinho, Barcelos, famous for its iconic rooster legend, Ponte de Lima, Portugal’s oldest village with its stunning Roman bridge, and Rubiães before reaching Tui, where it merges with the more crowded final stages of the Camino Portugués.
• Camino Inglés: This short but rewarding route from either Ferrol is a great choice for those with limited time. It’s less crowded than the more popular Caminos but still well-marked and equipped with accommodations. Pilgrims pass through historic coastal towns like Neda and Pontedeume, known for its medieval bridge and stunning estuary views. The path then leads through rural landscapes to Hospital de Bruma before reaching Sigüeiro and finally Santiago de Compostela. With its rolling hills, historic towns, and coastal views, the Camino Inglés provides a manageable yet fulfilling pilgrimage experience.
• Finisterre to Muxía: This route extends the Camino de Santiago beyond Finisterre, leading pilgrims along the rugged Atlantic coast of Galicia to the serene coastal town of Muxía. Often considered a reflective continuation of the Camino, this walk offers a quieter and more introspective experience, passing through remote villages and stunning coastal landscapes. Along the way, pilgrims can enjoy breathtaking ocean views, peaceful countryside paths, and historic sites such as the Sanctuary of A Virxe da Barca in Muxía, a place deeply connected to Camino legends. With fewer crowds and a sense of completion beyond Santiago, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking solitude and connection with nature.

If you’re walking a very popular route such as the final 100 km from Sarria to Santiago, advance bookings are strongly recommended, as this stretch is extremely busy. The Portuguese Way from Tui to Santiago is similar – finding a bed without a reservation in peak season can be challenging.

Last-minute planning on the Camino is possible, but a little strategy goes a long way. Being flexible, resourceful, and open to different accommodations can make your spontaneous pilgrimage a success.

In the final section, we’ll discuss how booking your Camino in advance helps with physical and mental preparation.

What’s the best booking strategy for you?

Whether you prefer to have everything arranged or you love the thrill of spontaneity, there’s a strategy that can work for you.

For the planner

If you like structure and peace of mind, booking your Camino well in advance is the way to go. Reserving your accommodations, flights, and tours 6-12 months before your trip will allow you to enjoy your journey without worrying about finding a bed at the end of a long day. This is especially true if you’re walking in peak season or if you have specific accommodations in mind. Knowing that everything is taken care of can help you focus fully on the spiritual and physical aspects of the Camino.

For the flexible traveler

If you prefer flexibility, you can still enjoy the Camino with some last-minute planning. With the right attitude, a bit of flexibility, and a few key reservations, you can make your journey work. The Camino de Santiago booking tips for spontaneous travelers include starting early in the day, using apps to check availability, and being open to different types of accommodation.

Remember, you don’t have to book everything ahead of time – just key nights and stops in towns with fewer albergues can provide peace of mind. The freedom of deciding your route as you go can make your Camino a truly personal experience.

To sum up, the timing of your booking impacts several key factors:

• Availability: popular routes like the Camino Francés or Camino Portugués can get fully booked during peak months. The earlier you plan, the more choices you’ll have.
• Cost: flights, hotels, and luggage transport services tend to be cheaper when booked early. Last-minute reservations often mean higher prices.
• Overall experience: a well-planned Camino allows for better preparation – physically, mentally, and logistically. You’ll have time to train, break in your gear, and adjust your itinerary if needed.

Why start planning early?

No matter your travel style, when to book your Camino is a crucial decision. Booking early leads to a smoother, less stressful journey, leaving you with more time to focus on the spiritual and physical aspects of the Camino. Plus, planning ahead often means securing the best accommodations and ensuring a comfortable pilgrimage from start to finish.

At WAW Travel, we offer expert support for planning your Camino, from customized itineraries to pre-arranged accommodations. Our team is here to make sure your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible – every step of the way.

So, whether you’re a meticulous planner or a free-spirited traveler, the most important thing is to start planning your Camino as early as possible to make the most of this incredible journey. Check out WAW.travel for expert Camino planning support and let us help you create the adventure of a lifetime! Let us know when you’re ready at hey@waw.travel.