Where to sleep on the Camino de Santiago

One aspect of interest when organising a pilgrimage to Compostela, concerns the decision about where to sleep on the Camino de Santiago. This is because there is an increasing variety of options for overnight stays on the route, with different characteristics, services offered and prices.

Hostels

Hostels are the type of accommodation most frequently used by pilgrims to stay in the sleeping on the Camino de Santiago, as they are exclusively for them. You only have to prove that you are doing the tour, presenting the corresponding credential at the time of registration.

The stay is limited to one night per person, except in cases of force majeure, such as physical injury or illness. Hostels are classified into three types as follows

Public hostels

These are hostels belonging to the public administration, either the local council or the autonomous community. Some may be run by neighbourhood councils or associations of Friends of the Camino.

Some of these establishments operate on a voluntary donation basis, and the rest have an average price per night of 5 to 7 euros. However, the closer they are to Santiago, the more expensive they are, up to 10 euros.

They are the most sought after option for most pilgrims, so they usually fill up early and it is necessary to get to them as soon as possible. In the dormitories it is common to find several bunk beds. Some rooms can accommodate more than 20 people.

Private hostels

These are the establishments that belong to a private individual. Their cost is somewhat higher than that of the public ones, ranging from 7 to 12 euros.

As they have more amenities such as private rooms or fewer beds, the price increases. Quotas are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis; priority is given to pilgrims on foot, then to those coming by bicycle, and finally to those on horseback.

The number of private hostels available on the Camino de Santiago is higher. They are the second option in terms of occupancy and, as they are privately run, the treatment of walkers is usually good.

Parish hostels

These are shelters belonging to a religious community, such as a parish or congregation. It is one of the places for sleeping on the Camino de Santiago preferred by those who come from further afield. This is because they work with voluntary donations, and on many occasions a community dinner is included.

The money collected each day is used for the next day. Mainly for food for the pilgrims and cleaning the dormitories. They are few in quantity and for this reason, they are also among the first to be filled.

Hostels and guesthouses

These are private accommodations that offer more comfort, privacy and tranquillity. They do not allow cooking, but they usually offer a pilgrim's menu and have a full or half board restaurant service.

Both are options, relatively inexpensive, to sleep on the Camino de Santiago with more tranquility than in a hostel. It is ideal for pilgrims who need to have a proper rest.

Hostels

Hostels offer a lower quality than hotels. This is because they do not meet the requirements for more than three stars. Hostels must have a minimum capacity of 20 guests or 10 rooms. The cost is around 20 euros per night, per person. But it can be higher depending on the rating and the type of room.

Pensions

These are establishments that do not meet the requirements to be considered a hostel, and are not required to provide a dining service. Therefore, some may only offer accommodation without meals.

Their characteristics are very similar to those of the hostels, but with a more economical price. Rates are between 15 and 20 euros per night. Private rooms with individual or shared bathrooms are also available.

Hotels

The hotels on the Camino are located in their own building. They are for the exclusive use of guests and have their own entrance, lifts, stairs and accesses.

According to the quality and services they offer, they are classified from 1 to 5 stars. The most commonly found on the Camino are the 3 and 4 star hotels. They cost no less than 30 euros per night, per person, and generally include a buffet.

Rural houses

These rural tourism establishments provide accommodation in en-suite rooms or shared accommodation.

They are required by law to preserve the traditional features and materials of the houses in the area. Because of this, they retain their local charm, and are an alternative for rest and relaxation. sleeping on the Camino de Santiago, ideal for large groups or families with children.

They are old rustic-style houses that have been very well renovated and refurbished. The average price varies between 40 and 50 euros for a double room.

Flats

This is a type of accommodation found in Santiago de Compostela. It consists of a small flat, with several rooms that can be rented together or separately.

It is one of the most comfortable options, especially after so many tiring days, but they are not usually subject to the law. For this reason, the price varies between 10 and 15 euros per person per night.

Pazos

These are a type of traditional Galician house, generally located in the countryside, which were once the residence of important people. They consist of a main building surrounded by a garden and it is common for them to include outbuildings such as small chapels for religious celebrations.

Sleeping in a tent

The most economical option for those who wish to sleep on the Camino de Santiago without spending money. It cannot be considered a very comfortable way to rest and it should be borne in mind that in each community the law for camping is different.

It is necessary to be familiar with local legislation, and to pitch your tent in permitted areas, such as campsites or gardens of private houses, churches and hostels.

Conclusion

It can be verified from this information, that there is a variety of accommodation available where to sleep on the Camino de Santiago, each with its own characteristics and functionalities.

At this point, it is best to evaluate all the information provided in order to decide which type of accommodation to choose for an overnight stay according to your preferences and possibilities.