Why You Should Spend Autumn on The Camino de Santiago

Can you feel it? The warm weather is seeping away, and in its place is a slight chill in the air. Autumn has arrived, and with this temperature change comes a renewed excitement, especially when getting out in nature. Autumn on the Camino de Santiago is genuinely magical.

If you’re positive that summer is the best season, we’ve gathered some solid points to convince you otherwise. So, without further ado, here are some reasons to walk the Camino de Santiago in autumn.

Camino Weather in Autumn

Thanks to the ideal weather conditions, Autumn is one of the best seasons for walking and hiking on the Camino de Santiago. The intense summer heat gives way to a cool, refreshing chill, and gentle breezes provide much-needed relief as you approach the end of your day’s walk. This change in weather is especially welcomed on routes like the Camino Francés, which can be particularly warm during the summer months.

While temperatures are cooler, they are still mild enough to avoid winter’s biting cold. Most days are sunny, with pleasant light, making walking easier without worrying about early sunsets. Whether tackling the lush green paths of the Camino del Norte or the more rural, open landscapes of the Camino Portugués, autumn offers a perfect balance of warmth and coolness.

It’s best to avoid long walks during the peak summer months when the heat can be overwhelming, especially on more exposed routes like the Via de la Plata. Excessive heat and sweating can detract from the joy of the Camino. To plan your journey with ideal weather in mind, our Weather on the Camino de Santiago blog offers detailed insights for each Camino de Santiago route.

Camino Colours in Autumn

Nature offers beauty in every season, with each bringing its unique charm. However, autumn is one of the most spectacular times to explore the outdoors. The season’s vibrant colours, as trees shift from green to brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, create a stunning landscape that captures the eye and enhances the walking experience.

The gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze and the satisfying crunch underfoot add sensory richness to every step. Autumn embodies nature’s transition, offering an ever-changing canvas that highlights the beauty of the natural world. This season’s tranquillity and visual splendour make it an ideal time to immerse yourself in nature’s wonders.

Off-Peak Season

Although autumn remains a popular time for Camino walkers, it’s generally a more peaceful and ideal season for travel. The trails are quieter with schools back in session, making it a perfect time for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Whether walking the Camino solo or seeking a tranquil getaway, autumn offers a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds.

The calmer trails allow you to fully appreciate the beauty of nature, from the crisp air to the changing colours of the landscape, without being distracted by too much chatter. If you’re hoping to meet fellow travellers, consider walking one of the busier routes like the Camino Francés, which still sees a steady flow of pilgrims and provides plenty of opportunities to make new friends along the way.

Another significant advantage of autumn travel is the reduced cost of flights and accommodation. Embracing the off-peak season means you can take advantage of more affordable travel options, helping to lower your overall expenses while enjoying the serenity of the Camino during this beautiful time of year.

Camino Festivals in Autumn

While autumn on the Camino de Santiago tends to be quieter than the bustling summer months, particularly when it comes to festivals, there’s still plenty of entertainment. October, in particular, is a lively time with numerous local festivals that keep the spirit of celebration alive. Whether it’s the sound of traditional Spanish guitars, bustling markets, or indulging in regional delicacies, you’ll find plenty of cultural experiences to enhance your journey.

Autumn festivals provide a unique glimpse into local traditions and offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture along the Camino. Our guide to Camino festivals will keep you informed about the must-see events during this season, ensuring you don’t miss out on the fun.

Autumn is also a special time to experience the Camino’s more mysterious side. Halloween on the Camino offers an intriguing twist for those seeking something different. The region is filled with spooky legends, such as the eerie tales of the Pilgrim Ghost and the haunting Coast of Death or Costa da Morte. These local stories add an extra layer of adventure to your journey, making autumn an ideal time to explore both the beauty and the legends of the Camino de Santiago.

Autumn Food & Drink

Spain is renowned for its incredible food and drink; the Camino de Santiago is no exception. Along the way, you’ll find a variety of delicious autumnal dishes that perfectly complement the cooler season. Whether you’re enjoying traditional tapas or indulging in Galician specialities like Pulpo a Feira (tender octopus) or Mejillones al Vapor (steamed mussels), the flavours of the Camino are sure to satisfy your appetite.

As the temperatures cool, hearty and warming dishes become the season’s highlight. Autumn is the time for comforting stews, soups, and rich, flavourful meals that fuel your journey. Seasonal delights like roasted chestnuts, rich caldo gallego (Galician broth), and earthy mushrooms make autumn on the Camino a true culinary adventure.

Indulge in hearty autumn dishes like Cocido Gallego (Galician Stew) to stay warm and energised on the Camino. A glass of red wine, especially from the new harvest, pairs perfectly with these meals. As the season turns, mulled wine becomes a favourite, offering comforting warmth in late autumn and into winter. While in Galicia, don’t miss the chance to try Castaña de Galicia—the region’s roasted chestnuts, a seasonal treat full of rich flavour.

For those with a sweet tooth, autumn is the perfect time to enjoy the iconic churros and hot chocolate. The crispy churros dipped in thick, warm chocolate are a must-try. And when the churros are gone, don’t hesitate to scoop up the rest of that velvety chocolate with a spoon! For more culinary inspiration, explore our Food & Wine section.

Autumn Means Cosy Clothes

Packing extra layers for the unpredictable autumn weather may feel like a hassle, especially if the idea of summer walks tempts you. However, shifting your perspective can make all the difference. Autumn’s cooler temperatures bring unique advantages, and a few extra items in your backpack can enhance your comfort along the Camino.

While we wouldn’t suggest that a cosy jumper is the only reason to walk the Camino in autumn, it’s a bonus. After a long day of hiking, slipping into warm, comfortable clothing feels incredibly refreshing. The crisp autumn air makes you appreciate that little bit of extra warmth, and it’s a welcome reward after exerting yourself on the trail.

One of the simple pleasures of walking the Camino in autumn is the opportunity to relax and recharge in the evening. Whether wrapping up in a soft blanket or enjoying a hot drink—be it coffee, tea, mulled wine, or hot chocolate—the experience is both comforting and rejuvenating. This season offers a slower, more peaceful rhythm, and these small moments of comfort are another reason autumn is a wonderful time to walk the Camino.

Camino Routes For Autumn

If we’ve persuaded you that autumn is the ideal season to walk the Camino de Santiago, your next thought might be, “Which route should I choose?” While the perfect route varies for each individual, we have some great suggestions below to help you plan your next journey! Check out our blog on Great Camino Routes for Autumn for more detailed accounts.

Camino Francés

The Camino Francés is a popular choice year-round and a fantastic option whether it’s your first or fifth Camino. This route takes you through historic cities and stunning natural landscapes, including Pamplona, the La Rioja wine region, Burgos, León, and Ponferrada.

Discover the Camino Francés Routes:

• From Sarria to Santiago Last 100km
• Full Camino Frances from Saint-Jean to Santiago
• Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Pamplona
• Logrono to Burgos
• Ponferrada to Santiago Last 200km
• Pamplona to Logrono

Rota Vicentina – The Fishermen’s Trail

The Rota Vicentina is a stunning coastal trail along Portugal’s Atlantic shores, offering breathtaking scenery. October is the ideal time to walk the Fishermen’s Trail, with mild weather and the bonus of spotting migratory birds at Cape St. Vincent.

Discover the Rota Vicentina Route:

• Rota Vicentina Coastal from Porto Covo to Sagres

Via de la Plata

If you’re looking to travel during the off-peak season but want to avoid the risk of rain and cooler temperatures, the sunny Via de la Plata might be the perfect choice. Enjoy the stunning landscapes of Andalucía and complete the final 100km from Ourense to Santiago.

Discover the Via de la Plata Route:

• Via de la Plata from Ourense to Santiago Last 100km

Please contact us for more information on any of our Camino routes or to chat with our travel specialists.