Live Your Best Lives
Sarria is located in the province of Lugo, Galicia, Spain, and is one of the most important starting points on the French route of the Camino de Santiago.
This small town of approximately 14,000 people has become a global gathering place for pilgrims, as it is only 113 kilometers from the destination, Santiago (the minimum distance required for hikers to obtain a pilgrimage certificate).58 Nestled on a hillside, the town features a blend of medieval Romanesque architecture, crumbling stone walls, and winding cobblestone streets. The air is filled with the moist air of the Galician rainforest and the reverent spirit of pilgrimage culture.
Suitable season for visiting:
Golden Season: May-June:
Temperatures range from 15-25°C, rainfall is low, wildflowers bloom, and the number of pilgrims is moderate.
Secondary Season: September-October:
Autumn colors permeate the mountains and forests, the temperature is 10-20℃, and there is occasional drizzle; rainproof gear is required.
Recommended places to visit:
1. Iglesia del Salvador
This 13th-century Gothic church is one of the locations where Credencial passports are issued. Buy your passport and get your first shell stamp, marking the beginning of your pilgrimage.
2. Medieval Castle Ruins (Castelo de Sarria)
Only the tower and the base of the city wall remain. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of the city and the direction of the pilgrimage route. The walls are inlaid with pilgrimage-themed reliefs, inscribed with the ancient blessing "Ultreia" (Keep going).
3. Pilgrims' Quarter (Rúa Maior)
The main street is lined with shops with shell logos.
4. Monday Market (Mercado de Sarria)
Locals purchase, recommended tasting:
Chorizo: a smoky, spicy pork sausage, a portable, high-energy hiking resource;
Tetilla: a Galician specialty cow's milk cheese, shaped like a udder and with a creamy texture.
5. Sarria Riverside Trail
The riverbank guardrails are inlaid with shell reliefs. At dusk, local elders stroll along the river and tell the legend of Alfonso IX.
Sarria is a historic town in Galicia, Spain, known as a popular starting point for the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Its medieval architecture and monastic heritage make it culturally significant.
Sarria is located in the province of Lugo, Galicia. It is accessible by train or bus from major Galician cities like Lugo, Santiago de Compostela, and A Coruña. Taxis are available locally, and the town is walkable.
The town is open year-round. Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, ideal for walking and sightseeing.
There is no entrance fee to explore the town. Tickets may apply for certain churches or museums, available onsite or online.
Advance booking is not required for town exploration. For popular museums or guided tours, a few days’ notice is recommended.
Half a day to a full day is sufficient for the main sights and a walk along the Camino route.
Guided tours are available in Spanish and English. Audio guides may be offered in select museums.
Night visits are possible, but most attractions are only open during daytime. Special guided tours may be available upon request.
Least crowded in weekdays outside of peak pilgrimage season (spring and summer). Weekends may have more Camino pilgrims.
The town is generally walkable. Cobblestone streets may be challenging for wheelchair users, but most public areas are accessible with care. Children can explore easily.
Most restaurants, shops, and accommodations accept cards. Small vendors or local markets may prefer cash.
Vegetarian options are available; vegan options may be limited. Halal options are generally limited but may be requested in restaurants.
Train or bus connections to Lugo, Santiago de Compostela, or A Coruña. Taxis or car rentals are also convenient for regional travel.
