Tips for completing Camino de Santiago with children

The Camino de Santiago is one of Europe’s most meaningful pilgrimages. With tough routes and easier routes, it attracts hundreds of thousands of walkers from all ranges of backgrounds and experiences. It may have the image of an adult endeavor, but it’s increasingly a family trip in 2025 thanks to its excellent infrastructure. 

Walking the ancient paths to Santiago de Compostela can be appreciated young ones, so long as it’s planned well and that there are rewards. In fact, it can become a lesson in deferred gratification and determination – but also a chance to see new animals, taste new food, and get in touch with nature.

Choose the right route and distance

Not all Camino routes are created equal – especially when traveling with children. Consider shorter, less demanding sections for now rather than attempting the full 800-kilometer French Way. The final 100 kilometers from Sarria to Santiago offers an ideal compromise, providing the authentic Camino experience while remaining manageable for young pilgrims. This popular final stretch allows families to earn their Compostela certificate without overwhelming younger walkers.

For families with very young children, consider the Portuguese Central Way or select portions of the Northern Way. The have short daily stages and plenty of amenities along the way.

Plan shorter daily stages

Adult pilgrims typically walk 20 kilometers daily, but children need shorter distances. Plan for 10 kilometers maximum per day, depending on your children’s ages and fitness. This slower pace allows time for exploration too, and rest stops, without worrying about falling behind. Build flexibility into your itinerary, where each day has some contingency.

Prioritize comfortable accommodations

While many adult pilgrims embrace the communal albergue experience, families will benefit from private accommodations. Hotels, guesthouses, and family-friendly albergues provide better sleep quality and private bathrooms. This is great for storing the additional gear children require.

If planning seems overwhelming, Santiago Ways specializes in handling logistics, booking accommodations, and even luggage transfers between stays so that families can focus on the walking experience. Plus, they clearly outline the daily stages, so you get a quick snapshot of whether it’s child-friendly.

Pack smart and light

Many promote minimal packing, but children’s hiking gear should always prioritize comfort over minimalism. Invest in proper hiking boots which are broken in well before departure and a child-sized backpack containing water, snacks and rain gear.

Consider luggage transfer services to eliminate the burden of carrying overnight supplies. Otherwise, there’s no way around the fact that your backpack will be quite heavy.

Embrace the culture

The Camino offers opportunities for cultural education, not just nature. Encourage children to learn basic Spanish phrases, try local foods, and interact with other pilgrims from different backgrounds. Many churches along the route welcome young visitors, and children often find fascination in the historical stories and legends of the route.

Focus on the journey

Remember that success isn’t measured by kilometers covered but by the memories and experiences. Some of your most treasured Camino moments may happen during unexpected detours or extended lunch breaks, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself for completing the trail as intended.

The Camino de Santiago with children can be a more fulfilling and meaningful experience. Memories will be more vibrant, and it encourages your children to cherish old customs and nature while embracing new experiences.