Reaching the border, you’ll go across into the Galicia region of Spain; this part of the trip will be all coastlines, forests, and hilltops. Approaching Sarria, your surroundings will become calmer and more rural. You’ll already start feeling the sacred energy of Sarria, the popular starting point for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago.

The most important tip for your trip is not to miss the towns and sites on the way waiting for you to explore. Start with Braga, the religious capital of Portugal since the 12th century. Walk up to the iconic hilltop Bom Jesus do Monte. Then, continue to Valencia to wander along the series of fortifications, and the Romanesque church of St. Mary.

Alongside the remains of its medieval past, Sarria is also surrounded by the lovely landscapes of Galicia. The Rio Sarria River goes through the heart of the town and has hiking trails leading to small waterfalls.

Sarria is one of those towns where, even if you are only visiting, the warmth of its community and the daily lives of people reflected in the calm but still lively streets get to you, and you feel connected to the place you are in. The weekly market, for example, is the little social and commercial center of the town. Going through the stands selling local goods, from fresh vegetables, fruits, and food to works of original craftsmanship, is surely one of the nicest things you’ll be doing during your time in Sarria.

So, come to Sarria and spare some days for this town of communal spirit instead of just passing quickly. Merge into the tiny streets and welcome people.

Be prepared for the border-crossing

If you are driving, make sure your car’s insurance and documentation are valid for international travel. Keep some Euros handy for tolls along the highway in Portugal. Even if you are not driving, make sure your passport is valid or in case you need a visa, check if it is a Schengen one. Carry your passport, visa, and identification always with you.

Arrange your accommodation beforehand

Sarria is a popular place for people starting the Camino, so it means that there is a high demand for accommodations. Book your stay well in advance and consider choosing places with flexible cancellation policies, just in case your plans change.

Porto to Sarria by train

Unfortunately, there is no direct service from Porto to Sarria, which makes this option the most time-consuming because of the transfers, usually more than one. You would take a train from Porto to Vigo, then from Vigo to Ourense, and finally from Ourense to Sarria. Traveling on the trains is comfortable and quite scenic, especially in the Spanish part of the journey, but it is not a flexible option. Keep in mind that the duration of stopovers can be up to almost four hours.

Porto to Sarria by private car service

This is your most convenient, flexible and fun alternative to get to Sarria. Simply hop on the car that comes directly to your address to pick you up, let your local and English-speaking driver help you with your luggages and explore all the route offers until you get to the door of your destination. By booking your trip with Daytrip, you will avoid long transfer times, strict schedules, and carrying your luggage around in the warm weather of Portugal and Spain.

Go for walks around the Rio Sarria

If you are a fan of combining your town visits with nature trips, then Sarria will be quite satisfying for you. The Rio Sarria offers gentle paths with the Galician countryside as the background, which is dotted with traditional stone bridges and endless greenery. The river and its surroundings are also great for bird-watching.

Attend a pilgrim mass

No matter what one believes in or not, observing deep spiritual rituals is always a memorable experience. Attending a pilgrim mass means witnessing an experience that unites people from all walks of life and fills them with nothing but soft thoughts. The mass is often held in the Igrexa de Santa Mariña. Spending time in the cafes and local eateries around is also an alternative to meeting other pilgrims and locals. For instance, the restaurant Meson Roberto is one of the locals’ favorites; it is also a great spot for trying the best of Lugo’s cuisine.