Pilgrimage walking holidays in Europe

Walking a long-distance pilgrimage is a bucket-list experience for many. Whether it’s the allure of going solo and finding yourself amongst new surroundings and new people; reconnecting with a loved one; or escaping the day to day to focus on the journey and discovery, a pilgrimage walk can be whatever you want it to be.

There are many routes across Europe, the most famous being the Camino de Santiago in Spain following the popular French Way, the quieter English Way, or what’s known as the ‘Old’ Portuguese Way. In Italy you can embark on St Francis’ Way from Assisi to Spoleto or the Via Francigena for an incredible entrance into Rome.

Either way, you’ll walk in comfort – with luggage transported ahead of you, perfectly picked comfortable hotels and guesthouses for a good night’s rest, detailed route notes to guide you in the right direction, and the time and space to soak up every moment.

Why walk a pilgrimage?

Chance to (re)connect

A long-distance walk through remote countryside, following ancient trails, gives you the opportunity to reflect and connect with yourself, nature, and loved ones who join you for the journey. It’s an experience that’s hugely rewarding, for some even life-changing, with the camaraderie of fellow pilgrims the origin of new life-long friendships.
Savour every step

The food and wine you encounter on pilgrimages is part of the journey, too. From pulpo in Galicia, wine from the Rías Baixas vineyards, Umbrian truffle-infused pasta with Sagrantino di Montefalco red wine, and Lazio specialities like cacio e pepe. There’s the chance to discover a region in-depth, walking its historic trails, visiting towns with heritage, and taking in the many sights along the way.
Sense of achievement & belonging

Many pilgrims talk about the warm welcome they receive from fellow pilgrims and guesthouse owners; being part of something that’s bigger. Sharing stories and getting to know others is equally a big part of a pilgrimage, that’s not to mention the arrival – alongside others – to the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela or St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, which is truly special.

Why walk a modern pilgrimage?
Destination, purpose, and connection.

The elements that made pilgrimage popular throughout the medieval period still resonate to this day. Pilgrims from across the world come to Spain for the journey to Santiago to Compostela or to Rome along the Via Francigena.

There is undoubtedly something about these well-established, ancient ways that appeals to walkers, even for atheists and agnostics. Some Inntravel holidays follow routes such as the Portuguese Camino de Santiago, The Old Way, and Along St Francis' Way Through Umbria, whilst others feature in part on other holidays, such as St Oswald’s Way on the Northumberland Coast Path & Castles and the Quo Vadis trail on Austrian Tyrol: A Stubai Alps Stroll.

Route-finder Adam Price delves into the world of modern pilgrimage: the experience, connection, and concept.

If you are going to do the Camino with minimum angst, use Inntravel so you can immerse yourself in the pilgrimage without worrying about travel arrangements, booking accommodation, transporting your suitcases, finding somewhere good to eat and all the other distractors notes and great hotels.

- Inntraveller

Self-guided

All our holidays are self-guided so you can shape and walk your pilgrimage the way you want to, adding extra nights, rest days, and starting on a day that suits you.
Luggage transported

We take your luggage to the next hotel or guesthouse so all you need to carry is your daypack, water, route notes, and any food for the journey.
Perfectly picked accommodation

You stay in a wide variety of accommodation – from boutique rural hotels to grand Paradors – but always in comfort.
Detailed route notes

Our team of experts have walked every route and meticulously research and write our guide notes providing details on the route, directions, tips on where to stop for lunch or dinner, and what you see.
We do all the planning

From flights or trains, accommodation, and transport to tickets and luggage transfers, we take care of every detail, so all you need to do is bring your boots.
Exceptional support

We offer 24/7 support while you’re away for complete peace of mind.

How to prepare for your pilgrimage

What to pack?

We provide a suggested packing list with your documents. Comfortable walking shoes, a daypack, water bottle, sun protection, and layered clothing are essential. A pilgrim shell is optional on the Caminos, but many walkers carry one as a symbol of the journey.

How fit do you need to be?

Our pilgrimage routes are graded moderate, so you need to be comfortable walking between 10–20km per day, often on varied terrain. Regular walkers will be well-prepared. Daily distances and terrain details are listed on each holiday page.

FAQs

If you have any questions relating to this or any other Inntravel holiday, our friendly travel experts will be happy to help. You might also find our General FAQs section helpful.

What is a pilgrimage walking holiday?

A pilgrimage walking holiday is a self-guided journey...

A pilgrimage walking holiday is a self-guided journey along a historic or spiritual route, such as the Camino de Santiago. While traditionally undertaken for religious reasons, many walk these routes for reflection, personal challenge, or cultural exploration.
Do I need to be religious to join a pilgrimage walk?

Not at all. Our holidays are designed for everyone...

Not at all. Our holidays are designed for everyone, whether you’re walking for spiritual reasons, personal growth, or simply to enjoy the scenery and culture along iconic routes.
Can I walk at my own pace?

Yes. All our pilgrimage holidays are self-guided...

Yes. All our pilgrimage holidays are self-guided, so you're free to walk at your own pace, stopping for breaks, photos, or moments of reflection whenever you choose.
What’s included in the holiday?

Each pilgrimage walking holiday typically includes hand-picked accommodation...

Each pilgrimage walking holiday typically includes:
• Hand-picked accommodation with breakfast
• Luggage transfers between hotels
• Detailed route notes and maps
• 24/7 support

See individual itineraries for full details.
Will my luggage be transferred?

Yes, your luggage is transferred between overnight stops...

Yes, your luggage is transferred between overnight stops, so you only need to carry a small daypack with essentials.
What type of accommodation is provided?

We choose comfortable, characterful hotels and guesthouses...

We choose comfortable, characterful hotels and guesthouses that offer a warm welcome and local charm, often family-run, and always well-located along the route. On the Camino holidays we end at the Parador de Santiago de Compostela, believed to be one of the oldest hotels in the world.
Are meals included?

We include breakfast and some include dinners...

We include breakfast and some include dinners on selected nights. Lunches are not always included (though on the Portuguese Camino we include five picnics), giving you total flexibility.
Do I need to carry a pilgrim passport (credencial)?

If you're walking a Camino route, yes, which you can get stamped along the way...

If you're walking a Camino route, yes, which you can get stamped along the way at churches, cafes, and inns. It’s a lovely keepsake and essential if you plan to collect the Compostela certificate in Santiago.
Can I earn the Compostela certificate?

Yes, if you walk the 100km of any official Camino...

Yes, if you walk the 100km of any official Camino de Santiago route and collect stamps along the way, you’re eligible for the official Compostela certificate.
Can I travel solo?

Absolutely. Many Inntravellers walk solo for the peace and space...

Absolutely. Many Inntravellers walk solo for the peace and space a pilgrimage route offers. We provide support, route notes, and local contacts to ensure you feel confident and safe throughout your journey.
When’s the best time to go?

pring (April to June) and autumn (September and October) are ideal...

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September and October) are ideal for most pilgrimage routes, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Exact timing depends on your chosen route. Each itinerary page includes recommendations.

Pilgrimage walks