For centuries, pilgrims have traversed the European continent, seeking spiritual fulfillment, personal transformation, and connection with something greater than themselves. These sacred journeys weren’t just about reaching a holy destination—they were about the transformative experience of the path itself. Today, Europe’s ancient pilgrimage routes and destinations continue to captivate travelers, whether they’re devout believers or curious wanderers looking to connect with history and culture.
From the windswept coastal paths of northern Spain to the alpine monasteries of Switzerland and the sun-drenched sanctuaries of Greece, Europe’s pilgrimage sites offer something for everyone. These routes combine stunning natural landscapes with architectural wonders, local cuisines, and cultural experiences that have evolved over centuries. What’s more, many of these historic paths have been revitalized in recent decades, with improved infrastructure making them more accessible than ever before.
In this guide, we’ll explore Europe’s most fascinating pilgrimage destinations, delving into their rich histories, cultural significance, and practical information for modern travelers. Whether you’re planning your own spiritual journey or simply fascinated by these routes steeped in tradition, join us as we discover the ancient paths that continue to call to travelers from around the world.
History: The Evolution of European Pilgrimages
Ancient Beginnings
The tradition of pilgrimage predates Christianity in Europe. Ancient Greeks would journey to oracles and healing sanctuaries like Delphi and Epidaurus, while Romans built elaborate temple complexes that drew visitors from across their empire. These early pilgrimages often centered around seeking divine guidance, healing, or fulfilling vows to deities.
When Christianity spread across Europe beginning in the late Roman period, pilgrimage quickly became a central practice. The earliest Christian pilgrimages focused on Jerusalem and the Holy Land, where believers could walk in the footsteps of Jesus. However, as travel to the Middle East became dangerous during periods of conflict, European alternatives emerged.
The Medieval Pilgrimage Boom
The early medieval period (500-1000 CE) saw the establishment of many of Europe’s most enduring pilgrimage routes. The discovery of what was believed to be the tomb of Saint James (Santiago) in northwestern Spain in the 9th century created what would become the famous Camino de Santiago. Simultaneously, monasteries across the continent acquired relics of saints and martyrs, becoming pilgrimage destinations in their own right.
By the High Middle Ages (1000-1300 CE), pilgrimage had become a massive phenomenon. Rome, Santiago de Compostela, and Canterbury drew thousands of pilgrims annually. For medieval Europeans, pilgrimage offered multiple benefits: spiritual merit, adventure, the opportunity to see new places, and even the forgiveness of sins. Kings and peasants alike would undertake these journeys, though their experiences differed dramatically based on wealth and status.
The Impact of the Reformation
The Protestant Reformation of the 16th century dealt a significant blow to pilgrimage traditions in northern Europe. Reformers criticized what they saw as superstitious practices and the commercialization of faith. In Protestant regions, many pilgrimage sites were abandoned or destroyed, while Catholic areas saw renewed emphasis on these traditions as a form of counter-reformation.
Modern Revival
The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed a resurgence of interest in historic pilgrimage routes, initially among historians and religious scholars, but eventually expanding to include cultural tourists and spiritual seekers of all kinds. The Camino de Santiago exemplifies this revival—from just a few hundred pilgrims annually in the 1970s to over 300,000 in recent years.
Today’s pilgrimage landscape reflects this complex history. Some travelers follow ancient routes for traditional religious reasons, while others are drawn by cultural interest, personal challenge, or the simple pleasure of slow travel through historic landscapes. Whatever the motivation, these journeys connect modern travelers with centuries of human experience, creating a living link to Europe’s rich spiritual heritage.
Fun Facts About European Pilgrimages
- Medieval Souvenirs: Just like modern tourists, medieval pilgrims loved souvenirs! Pilgrimage badges—small pewter pins depicting saints or holy sites—were the medieval equivalent of refrigerator magnets. Thousands have been discovered by archaeologists, particularly in river beds where they were tossed as offerings on the journey home.
- Pilgrim Passports: The “Credencial del Peregrino” or pilgrim passport used on the Camino de Santiago continues a tradition dating back centuries. Medieval pilgrims collected stamps or seals from churches and hostels along their route as proof of their journey.
- Royal Pilgrimages: Several European monarchs were famous pilgrims. England’s King Henry II walked barefoot to Canterbury Cathedral as penance for his role in the murder of Thomas Becket, while Spain’s King Alfonso IX died while on pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in 1230.
- Pilgrimage by Proxy: Unable to make the journey yourself in medieval times? No problem! You could pay someone to go on pilgrimage for you and receive the spiritual benefits. Professional “proxy pilgrims” made their living traveling on behalf of others.
- Scallop Shell Symbol: The scallop shell, symbol of the Camino de Santiago, served practical purposes—pilgrims used the shells as drinking cups and eating bowls. The grooves of the shell also symbolize the many routes that converge at Santiago.
- Pilgrim Hospitals: Europe’s first hospitals were often established along pilgrimage routes to care for sick or injured travelers. Many modern European hospitals can trace their origins to these pilgrim facilities.
- Pilgrimages in Literature: Geoffrey Chaucer’s “Canterbury Tales,” one of the first major works in English literature, is structured around stories told by a group of pilgrims traveling to Canterbury.
Cultural Tourism and Pilgrimage Routes
The intersection of pilgrimage traditions and modern cultural tourism has created a unique form of travel that appeals to diverse audiences. Unlike conventional tourism focused on quick visits to famous landmarks, pilgrimage-inspired cultural tourism emphasizes slow, immersive experiences that connect visitors with local communities, traditions, and landscapes.
The Council of Europe recognized this potential in 1987 when it designated the Camino de Santiago as the first European Cultural Route. Since then, dozens of historic pilgrimage paths have received similar recognition, from the Via Francigena connecting Canterbury to Rome to the Pilgrimage Route of St. Olav Ways in Scandinavia.
These routes offer a sustainable alternative to mass tourism, distributing visitors across rural areas and small towns that might otherwise be bypassed. Local economies benefit through small-scale accommodations, restaurants, and services catering to walkers and cyclists. Many travelers appreciate the authenticity of these experiences, which often provide deeper insights into regional culture than conventional tourism.
Museums, interpretive centers, and cultural events have emerged along these routes, helping visitors understand their historical and spiritual significance regardless of their personal beliefs. This cultural dimension has been crucial in making historic pilgrimage routes accessible and meaningful to a broad international audience.
Where Can Pilgrimage Routes Be Found?
Historic pilgrimage routes crisscross the European continent, offering diverse experiences across different landscapes and cultures:
Western Europe
- Spain and Portugal: Home to multiple Camino de Santiago routes, most famously the Camino Francés crossing northern Spain.
- France: Features the French segments of the Camino (the Via Turonensis, Via Lemovicensis, Via Podiensis, and Via Tolosana), plus routes to Mont-Saint-Michel and Rocamadour.
- Italy: The Via Francigena runs the length of Italy to Rome, while other routes lead to Assisi and Monte Sant’Angelo.
Northern Europe
- United Kingdom: Pilgrim paths to Canterbury, Lindisfarne, and St. David’s in Wales.
- Ireland: Ancient routes including St. Kevin’s Way and Croagh Patrick pilgrimage.
- Scandinavia: St. Olav Ways in Norway and other historic paths being revitalized across the region.
Central Europe
- Germany: Medieval routes including the Jakobsweg (German Camino routes) and paths to Cologne Cathedral.
- Switzerland: Historic alpine paths linking mountain monasteries and sacred sites.
- Austria: The Jakobsweg Österreich and routes to Mariazell Basilica.
Eastern Europe
- Poland: Trails leading to Częstochowa, home of the Black Madonna icon.
- Romania and Bulgaria: Orthodox pilgrimage routes connecting historic monasteries.
- Greece: Paths on Mount Athos and routes connecting ancient Byzantine churches.
Mediterranean Islands
- Sicily: Byzantine and Norman-era pilgrimage sites across the island.
- Malta: Rich in religious heritage sites from various historical periods.
- Cyprus: Ancient pilgrimage traditions blending Greek and Middle Eastern influences.
Reasons to Experience a Pilgrimage Route
Personal Reflection and Mental Wellness
Walking a pilgrimage route provides rare space for thought in our hyper-connected world. Many travelers report that the rhythmic nature of walking, combined with distance from everyday pressures, creates ideal conditions for processing life challenges or making important decisions.
Physical Challenge and Achievement
Completing a long-distance route offers a sense of accomplishment that many find deeply satisfying. The physical challenge can be tailored to different abilities—some tackle entire routes in one journey, while others complete sections over multiple trips.
Cultural Immersion
Following historic paths takes travelers through authentic communities often missed by conventional tourism. You’ll experience local cuisines, dialects, and traditions that have evolved over centuries, often with direct connections to the pilgrimage tradition itself.
Environmental Connection
Most pilgrimage routes wind through varied landscapes—from mountains to forests, coastal paths to rolling farmland. This intimate experience of Europe’s natural environments often fosters deeper ecological awareness and appreciation.
Historical Perspective
Walking routes used by countless travelers over centuries provides a unique window into European history. You’ll encounter everything from Roman roads to medieval bridges, ancient churches to modern memorials.
Social Experience
The communal aspect of pilgrimage creates opportunities for meaningful connections with fellow travelers from around the world. Many find that the shared experience of the journey fosters unusually open and significant conversations.
Most Popular Pilgrimage Destinations
Santiago de Compostela, Spain
The magnificent cathedral housing the remains of St. James marks the culmination of the many Camino routes. The medieval city surrounding it is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its stone streets filled with the energy of arriving pilgrims.
Rome, Italy
The Eternal City has been drawing pilgrims since the early days of Christianity. Beyond the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome’s countless ancient churches each tell stories of faith and history spanning two millennia.
Lourdes, France
Since 1858, when a young girl claimed visions of the Virgin Mary, Lourdes has become one of Europe’s most visited pilgrimage sites. Millions come annually seeking healing from the spring waters or to participate in moving candlelight processions.Read more….
Canterbury, England
Made famous by Chaucer’s tales, Canterbury Cathedral remains a powerful pilgrimage destination. The site of Thomas Becket’s martyrdom in 1170 combines stunning Gothic architecture with compelling historical narratives.
Czestochowa, Poland
Home to the Black Madonna icon, the Jasna Góra Monastery attracts millions of pilgrims annually, particularly around Catholic feast days when massive pilgrimages converge on the site from across Poland.
Fatima, Portugal
Since reported Marian apparitions in 1917, this formerly obscure village has become a major international pilgrimage center, with its vast sanctuary complex hosting visitors from around the world.
Assisi, Italy
The birthplace of St. Francis draws those inspired by his environmental and peace-focused spirituality. The basilica containing his tomb features breathtaking frescoes by Giotto depicting Francis’s life.
Mont-Saint-Michel, France
Rising dramatically from its tidal bay, this island monastery has drawn pilgrims for over a millennium. Its unique natural setting and striking Gothic architecture create an unforgettable approach for modern visitors.
Dohány Street Synagogue, Budapest, Hungary
The largest synagogue in Europe serves as both an active place of worship and a powerful symbol of Jewish resilience. Built in the 1850s in a stunning Moorish Revival style, it’s an important pilgrimage site for Jewish visitors from around the world. The synagogue complex includes the Jewish Museum, Heroes’ Temple, and a memorial garden that honors the 400,000 Hungarian Jews who perished in the Holocaust. During major Jewish holidays, the synagogue becomes the center of large gatherings that continue centuries-old traditions.
The Eyüp Sultan Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey
Located in the historic Eyüp district along the Golden Horn, this site marks where Abu Ayyub al-Ansari (a companion of Prophet Muhammad) is believed to have been buried during the Arab siege of Constantinople in the 670s. For centuries, it has been one of the most sacred Islamic pilgrimage sites in Europe. Ottoman sultans traditionally had their sword-girding ceremonies here, symbolizing their role as defenders of the faith. Today, the mosque complex with its peaceful courtyard, mausoleums, and surrounding historic cemetery continues to draw Muslim pilgrims, especially during Ramadan and other religious holidays.
Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Evangelistria, Tinos, Greece
Often called the “Lourdes of Greece,” this Orthodox shrine on the island of Tinos houses an icon of the Virgin Mary believed to have miraculous healing powers. The discovery of this icon in 1823, shortly after Greek independence, connected the site to both religious devotion and national identity. On August 15 (the Feast of the Dormition), thousands of pilgrims come to the island, with many completing the final approach to the church on their knees. The marble path leading from the port to the church is lined with shops selling religious items and votive offerings, creating a pilgrimage experience that has changed little over centuries.
Things To Do Along Pilgrimage Routes
Explore Architectural Treasures
Europe’s pilgrimage routes are lined with architectural wonders spanning every era from Roman times to the present. Beyond famous cathedrals, look for hidden gems—tiny Romanesque churches, medieval bridges, and ancient hostels built specifically for pilgrims.
Discover Local Gastronomy
Regional cuisines evolved alongside pilgrimage routes, with many traditional dishes directly connected to pilgrim needs. In northern Spain, try hearty fabada stew or the almond-based Santiago cake; along Italian routes, sample dishes that have sustained travelers for centuries.
Visit Museums and Interpretive Centers
Many historic sites now feature excellent museums explaining the history and cultural context of pilgrimage. The Museum of Pilgrimage in Santiago de Compostela and the Canterbury Tales Experience provide engaging introductions to these traditions.
Participate in Pilgrim Rituals
Even non-religious travelers can appreciate meaningful traditions like placing a stone at Cruz de Ferro on the Camino, getting your pilgrim passport stamped, or attending a pilgrim blessing ceremony.
Connect with Fellow Travelers
The social dimension of pilgrimage routes creates unique opportunities for cultural exchange. Communal dinners at pilgrim hostels, shared water breaks, and chance encounters often lead to meaningful conversations with people from around the world.
Experience Local Festivals
Many towns along pilgrimage routes maintain festivals with direct connections to their pilgrim heritage. Timing your journey to coincide with these celebrations offers insights into living traditions that have evolved over centuries.
Events Not to Miss
Feast of St. James (July 25) – Santiago de Compostela
This spectacular celebration features fireworks, regional music, and elaborate processions through Santiago’s historic center. The cathedral’s massive botafumeiro (incense burner) swings in dramatic arcs during special services.
Holy Week Processions – Southern Spain
The week before Easter sees elaborate processions along sections of the Via de la Plata (Silver Route) pilgrimage path. Cities like Seville and Málaga feature particularly stunning displays of this living tradition.
Feast of Corpus Christi (May/June) – Throughout Europe
This moveable feast features unique local celebrations in many pilgrimage towns, often including flower carpets decorating processional routes and special folk traditions.
Medieval Pilgrimage Festivals
Various locations along major routes host historical reenactments during summer months, with costumed participants, traditional crafts, and period music bringing the medieval pilgrimage experience to life.
St. Francis Festival (October 4) – Assisi
Celebrating Italy’s patron saint, this festival includes the blessing of animals, special illuminations of the basilica, and events highlighting Franciscan values of simplicity and environmental stewardship.
Summer Solstice at Stonehenge (June 21)
While not traditionally Christian, this ancient pilgrimage site draws thousands for the summer solstice sunrise, connecting modern visitors to pre-Christian spiritual traditions.
Cycling Pilgrimage Routes
Cycling offers an excellent alternative for experiencing historic pilgrimage paths, covering more distance while still maintaining a connection to the landscape that’s lost in motorized travel. Many major routes have been adapted for bikes:
Camino de Santiago by Bicycle
All major Camino routes can be cycled, though the terrain varies dramatically. The Camino Francés offers good infrastructure for cyclists, with dedicated bike workshops in major towns. Remember that cyclists need to cover at least 200km (compared to 100km for walkers) to receive the official Compostela certificate.
Via Francigena Cycling Route
This historic path from Canterbury to Rome has been mapped for cyclists, with alternative sections avoiding dangerous roads or extremely rugged terrain. The Swiss and Italian Alpine sections offer particularly spectacular riding.
EuroVelo Routes and Pilgrimages
Several EuroVelo long-distance cycling routes overlap with historic pilgrimage paths, offering excellent infrastructure and signage. EuroVelo 3 (Pilgrims’ Route) specifically follows several important medieval pilgrimage corridors from Trondheim to Santiago.
Practical Considerations for Cycling Pilgrims
- Pilgrimage-specific accommodations may give priority to walkers, so advance booking is often necessary for cyclists
- Consider hybrid or gravel bikes for varied terrain
- Plan for bike transport at the beginning and end of your journey
- Special pilgrim credentials are available for cyclists on major routes
Hiking Trails and Walking Pilgrimages
Walking remains the most authentic way to experience historic pilgrimage routes, connecting modern travelers directly with centuries of tradition. Europe offers options for every ability level:
Gentle Introduction Routes
- The last 100km of the Camino Francés from Sarria to Santiago (the minimum distance required for the Compostela certificate)
- The St. Cuthbert’s Way between Melrose and Lindisfarne in Scotland/England (100km of well-maintained paths)
- The Via di Francesco from Assisi to Rieti in Italy (approximately 80km through gentle Umbrian landscapes)
Moderate Challenge Routes
- The Portuguese Coastal Way from Porto to Santiago (280km of varied coastal and inland paths)
- The Via Francigena through Tuscany (combining cultural highlights with rolling countryside)
- St. Olav’s Way from Oslo to Trondheim (aspects of this 643km route can be challenging)
Advanced Pilgrim Paths
- The complete Camino Francés (800km across northern Spain, typically taking 30-35 days)
- The Alpine crossing sections of the Via Francigena
- The Northern Camino route along Spain’s rugged coast
Trail Marking and Navigation
Most established routes feature distinctive waymarking—yellow arrows and scallop shells for the Camino, specific symbols for other major paths. Digital resources have revolutionized pilgrim navigation, with specialized apps providing route information, accommodation options, and historical context.
Travel Tips and Practical Information
When to Go
Climate varies dramatically across European pilgrimage routes. The Camino Francés is best walked in spring (April-June) or fall (September-October), avoiding summer heat. Alpine routes are typically accessible only from June through September. Southern Italian and Greek paths can be comfortably walked during winter months.
Accommodation Options
- Traditional Pilgrim Hostels (Albergues/Refugios): Simple, communal accommodations offering affordable beds and unique social experiences
- Monastery Stays: Many religious communities welcome pilgrims, offering peaceful accommodations and glimpses into community life
- Rural Guesthouses: Family-run establishments often featuring regional cuisine and warm hospitality
- Hotels and Private Rooms: Available in most towns for those seeking more comfort and privacy
Pilgrim Credentials
Most major routes offer official pilgrim passports that can be stamped along the way, documenting your journey and sometimes providing access to special accommodations. The Credencial del Peregrino for the Camino de Santiago and the Testimonium for the Via Francigena are the most widely recognized.
Packing Essentials
- Quality, broken-in walking shoes or boots
- Weather-appropriate layered clothing
- Minimal but versatile wardrobe (laundry facilities are available along most routes)
- Basic first aid supplies, especially blister treatment
- Water bottle and sun protection
- Small guidebook or digital resources
- Pilgrim credential document
Accessibility Considerations
While traditional pilgrimage often emphasized physical challenge, many routes now offer options for travelers with diverse abilities:
- Services exist to transport luggage between overnight stops
- Certain sections of major routes are wheelchair accessible
- Horse-riding and donkey-assisted pilgrimage options exist on some routes
- Stage-based approaches allow travelers to complete routes over multiple trips
Final Thoughts
Europe’s pilgrimage routes offer something increasingly rare in our fast-paced world—the opportunity to slow down and experience landscapes, cultures, and communities at walking pace. Whether you’re drawn by religious devotion, cultural interest, physical challenge, or simply the appeal of mindful travel, these ancient paths provide frameworks for meaningful journeys.
What makes these routes particularly special is their living nature. Unlike static historical monuments, pilgrimage paths continue to evolve, with each generation of travelers contributing to traditions that stretch back centuries. The stories of modern pilgrims intertwine with those who walked these same paths hundreds of years ago, creating a rich tapestry of human experience.
As we face growing awareness of travel’s environmental impact, these established routes also offer models for sustainable tourism—emphasizing local economies, slow travel, and deeper connection with places visited. Perhaps this explains their surging popularity in recent decades, as travelers seek alternatives to mass tourism and more authentic experiences.
Whether you tackle an ambitious month-long journey or a more modest weekend exploration of a local pilgrim path, these routes invite you to become part of something larger than yourself—a centuries-old tradition of journey and discovery that continues to transform those who follow its call. In walking these ancient ways, you may find not just the destination you seek, but unexpected insights along the path itself.
