Weather on the Camino

Since this article is extensive, we've included a table of contents to help you navigate easily.

Indholdsfortegnelse

Introduktion
Sådan bruger du denne klimaguide
Our experience with the weather in northern Spain
Camino Francés
Camino Portugués
Den portugisiske kystvej
Camino del Norte
Camino Primitivo
Camino Inglés
Camino til Finisterre og Muxía
Generelle anbefalinger
Konklusion

1. Introduktion

Det er vigtigt at tage højde for vejret, når du planlægger din Camino de Santiago, for at få den bedst mulige oplevelse. Vejret varierer både efter årstid og den valgte rute – det er ikke det samme at vandre over den kastilianske højslette i juli som langs Galiciens kyst i oktober.
I denne guide finder du detaljeret information om klimaet på de vigtigste Camino-ruter. Vi gennemgår hver rute og fremhæver de særlige klimaforhold for hver årstid samt praktiske råd, der kan hjælpe dig med at vælge det bedste tidspunkt at gå eller cykle på. I slutningen af hver sektion finder du en tabel med omtrentlige temperatur- og nedbørsdata for relevante byer, hvilket kan hjælpe dig i planlægningen.

Selvom denne information er nyttig som overordnet vejledning, skal du huske, at vejret i det nordlige Spanien kan være uforudsigeligt. Hvis du skal på Caminoen, bør du tjekke vejrudsigten et par dage før afgang for at tilpasse din bagage og planlægning til de faktiske forhold.

2. How to Use This Climate Guide

This guide is designed to help you plan your Camino according to the type of experience you want to have. Here are some key recommendations:

Plan your trip based on your preferences: do you prefer long days, mild temperatures, or avoiding crowds? Then choose the season that suits you best.

Always check the forecast before departure, especially in the rainiest or most mountainous areas.

Adapt your packing to the expected weather.

Use this guide as a general reference, and combine it with your personal interests, availability, and the type of experience you’re seeking.

3. Our experience with the weather in northern Spain

We’re not meteorologists, but we’ve lived and worked in northern Spain for many years, and several members of our team are originally from the region. Weather statistics (which you’ll find below) can give a general idea, but they don’t always reflect what it’s like to experience the weather while walking the Camino. That’s why we’d like to share a number of practical observations and tips based on our own experiences along the various Camino routes.

Camino Francés: Pyrenees and Meseta

This route begins by crossing the Pyrenees, a high mountain area with very unpredictable weather. From November to April, the Lepoeder Pass is often covered in snow and can at times be impassable. Even in spring or summer, snow patches or thick fog may appear, so it's important to be well prepared.

After Logroño, the route crosses the Castilian plateau, through cities like Burgos and León, located at about 900 meters above sea level. The climate here is dry, with significant temperature differences between day and night. Mornings are often cold, while midday can bring intense heat.
In summer, it’s best to start walking early, as the heat intensifies around midday. Although nights rarely remain hot, daytime highs can be extreme. Due to the dry air, the heat feels different from humid coastal areas.
The plateau is golden and dry in summer, while September and October offer milder and more pleasant walking conditions. It may snow in winter, though usually not heavily.

Galicia: green, humid, and changeable

Galicia is lush and green year-round, thanks to frequent rainfall — often light drizzle. However, there are also many sunny days, and the contrast between rain and sun adds to the region’s beauty.
The temperature difference between morning and midday is usually small, making it easier to plan your day. It’s always wise to carry a rain jacket, as the weather can shift quickly.

Some coastal areas have especially pleasant microclimates, popular among Spaniards looking to escape the intense southern heat. Many pilgrims choose to stay in these charming coastal zones after reaching Santiago, enjoying the tranquility and charm of the Galician coast.

Camino del Norte: balance between sea and mountains

This route follows the Cantabrian coast, where the climate is mild and humid. Altitude is low, and the lush vegetation — citrus trees, palms, eucalyptus — is a sign that extreme temperatures are rare. Snow is virtually unheard of on the coast.

However, just a few kilometers inland, mountains rise abruptly, bringing sudden weather changes. In one day, you might go from sunshine to fog, or from warmth to a chilly wind. This variability is due to so-called “climate tunnels”: driving through a tunnel from dry, sunny Castilla y León into the Basque Country, Cantabria, or Asturias often means crossing into a completely different climate — from dry to humid, blue skies to clouds, warm to cool air.

A contrast humorously illustrated in the Spanish comedy Ocho apellidos vascos, where a man from sunny Seville experiences the northern climate for the first time.

In summary, the weather in northern Spain is as diverse as its landscapes. Each region has its own characteristics, and the key is to be ready for anything: layered clothing, waterproof gear, and flexibility.
With the right equipment, even the rain can become part of the Camino’s charm.

Let’s now take a closer look at each Camino route.

4. CAMINO FRANCÉS (FRENCH CAMINO)

The Camino Francés, the most popular route to Santiago, crosses a wide variety of landscapes and climate zones. From the Pyrenees to Galicia, you’ll pass through regions with very different weather conditions: the Castilian Plateau can be extremely hot in summer, while Galicia stays cooler and more humid.

The table shows approximate average temperatures (min - max in ºC), estimated monthly rainfall (in mm), and the number of rainy days per month (in parentheses).

To check the current weather, click here.

What to expect in each season

Spring: Nature in bloom, mild temperatures, chance of rain.

Summer: Intense heat in central areas, ideal if you like dry weather. Start each stage early.

Autumn: Fewer pilgrims and pleasant temperatures. More rain in Galicia.

Winter: Cold on the Meseta, heavy rain in Galicia. Recommended only for experienced pilgrims.

5. PORTUGUESE WAY (CAMINO PORTUGUÉS)

The Portuguese Way from Porto crosses northern Portugal and Galicia, two regions shaped by an Atlantic climate: mild temperatures, moderate humidity, and green landscapes. This route offers a peaceful atmosphere, charming towns, and ideal walking conditions for most of the year. Although occasional rain is possible—especially in Galicia—it also refreshes the surroundings. Ideal if you're looking for a balanced experience of nature, culture, and comfort.

Perfect if you’re seeking moderate temperatures and lush scenery.

The table shows approximate average temperatures (min – max in ºC), estimated monthly rainfall (in mm), and the number of rainy days per month (in parentheses).

To check the current weather, click here.

What to Expect in Each Season

Spring: Pleasant temperatures and green fields. Frequent rain.

Summer: Long days, moderate heat, few rainy days.

Autumn: Great time for walking. Rain begins.

Winter: Frequent rain and humidity. Mild temperatures.

6. PORTUGUESE COASTAL WAY (CAMINO PORTUGUÉS POR LA COSTA)

This scenic route follows the Atlantic coast from Porto to Santiago, passing through charming fishing villages like Viana do Castelo and A Guarda. The oceanic climate provides mild temperatures year-round, but with greater exposure to wind and sea humidity.

The following table shows approximate average temperatures (min–max in °C), estimated monthly rainfall (in mm), and the number of rainy days per month (in parentheses).

To check the current weather, click here.

What to Expect in Each Season

Spring: Ideal for walking in mild temperatures. Bring a rain jacket.

Summer: Temperate climate thanks to the sea. Perfect to avoid intense heat.

Autumn: Golden landscapes and mild weather. Rain begins.

Winter: Very humid with many rainy days. Requires proper gear.

7. NORTHERN WAY (CAMINO DEL NORTE)

The Northern Way runs along the Cantabrian coast from Irún to Galicia, crossing the Basque Country, Cantabria, and Asturias. This route is perfect for lovers of the sea, mountains, and gastronomy—but keep in mind its typically Atlantic climate: variable, humid, and cool throughout the year.

The table shows approximate average temperatures (min–max in °C), estimated monthly rainfall (in mm), and the number of rainy days per month (in parentheses).

To check the current weather, click here.

What to Expect in Each Season

Spring: Pleasant weather and fewer pilgrims. It might rain.

Summer: Mild and stable temperatures. Ideal for swimming in the sea.

Autumn: Beautiful colors, still mild. Rain increases.

Winter: Heavy rain and humidity. Only for well-prepared pilgrims.

8. PRIMITIVE WAY (CAMINO PRIMITIVO)

The Camino Primitivo, the oldest route to Santiago, is known for its mountainous and demanding path. It crosses remote areas of Asturias and Galicia with oceanic climates that combine mild temperatures with frequent rain, especially outside summer. This route is for those seeking authenticity, nature, and a physical challenge.

The following table shows approximate average temperatures (min–max in °C), estimated monthly rainfall (in mm), and the number of rainy days per month (in parentheses).

To check the current weather, click here.

What to Expect in Each Season

Spring: Green and beautiful but rainy. Requires good physical condition.

Summer: More stable climate, long days. Ideal for enjoying the scenery.

Autumn: Very scenic, but frequent rain.

Winter: Harsh climate with fog, snow, and rain. Only for the most experienced.

9. ENGLISH WAY (CAMINO INGLÉS)

From Ferrol or A Coruña, the English Way offers a short but intense experience, immersed in Galicia’s landscape. With a consistent Atlantic climate, this is a green, humid, and cool route year-round—perfect if you have limited time and want to avoid crowds.

The table shows approximate average temperatures (min–max in °C), estimated monthly rainfall (in mm), and the number of rainy days per month (in parentheses).

To check the current weather, click here.

What to Expect in Each Season

Spring: Perfect thanks to freshness and natural beauty.

Summer: Mild and quiet. Highly recommended.

Autumn: Good weather and fewer pilgrims. Rain increases.

Winter: Very rainy. Requires preparation and good equipment.

10. WAY TO FINISTERRE (CAMINO FINISTERRE)

The Camino to Finisterre and Muxía is a natural extension of the Camino de Santiago, taking pilgrims from Santiago to the Atlantic coast of Galicia—toward the legendary Cape Finisterre or the magical village of Muxía. This stretch is unique: a journey between the lush Galician interior and the raw power of the ocean.

It crosses rural areas, rolling hills, and traditional villages, ending in spectacular coastal scenery. Rain, fog, and wind are part of its character—especially outside of summer.

The following table shows approximate average temperatures (min–max in °C), estimated monthly rainfall (in mm), and the number of rainy days per month (in parentheses).

To check the current weather, click here.

What to Expect in Each Season

Spring: A great time thanks to natural beauty.

Summer: The best season: mild weather and coastal views.

Autumn: Golden landscapes, more rain.

Winter: Very rainy, with wind and fog. For experienced pilgrims.

11. General recommendations by season

Season	Recommended Routes	Comments
Spring	All routes	Watch for possible snowfall on the Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Roncesvalles stage—taking the Valcarlos alternative may be necessary. The Primitivo route can be challenging early in the season due to rain.
Summer	All routes	Avoid the Meseta (Burgos–León) during the hottest hours. Start early. Coastal routes offer milder temperatures.
Autumn / Fall	All routes	Rain increases, especially in Galicia and the northern routes. Ideal for those who prefer fewer crowds.
Winter	Portuguese Way English Way French Way (low-altitude areas)	Proper gear is essential.

12. Conclusion

Each Camino route has its own character, climate, and pace.
If you're still unsure which one is right for you, don’t miss our article: Which Camino Should I Choose?

Do you already know which Camino you want to walk? Then we also recommend reading our article on the best time of year to do the Camino, with specific tips for each route and season.

And if you've already found your Camino and know when you want to do it, but you're looking for someone to help you organize it — and why not, tailor it to your needs — we're here to help.

Discover our stage-based itineraries with accommodations, transportation, and personalized recommendations. All you have to do is walk and enjoy the experience.

See all Camino de Santiago routes

Ready to begin your adventure? Contact us and receive your personalized proposal with no obligation. We’d love to help you prepare a unique Camino—your way and at your pace.

Weather sources: Climate data sourced from www.yr.no and official meteorological databases.
This article is constantly updated with new routes and advice.
If you want to learn more about how to prepare for your journey, explore our other Camino de Santiago guides.