Camino Francés - Day 1: Paris to Saint Jean-Pied-de-Port
Today marks the first day of my Camino journey to Santiago de Compostela. I left my Paris hotel at 6 a.m., feeling a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation as I made my way to Gare Montparnasse for the train to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Paris was shrouded under a grey sky when I departed, and by the time I arrived in Saint-Jean, the town was drenched in rain—a baptismal welcome, perhaps, for the journey ahead.
At the pilgrim office, I received my pilgrim passport and exchanged my first “Buen Camino” with fellow travellers. Conversations were filled with excitement and nervous energy, all of us sharing tips and encouragement. After learning about the Pyrenees crossing, I checked into Gîte Bidean and took a moment to wander the charming streets, marveling at the views and historic stone buildings.
I quickly made friends with others staying in the gîte, and one pilgrim invited me to walk together tomorrow—a gesture I happily accepted. Despite the rain, the sense of community and anticipation made the day feel like a meaningful beginning to this legendary journey.
History & Background
The Camino Francés is the most popular route of the Camino de Santiago, stretching approximately 780 km from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages, when pilgrims from across Europe travelled to honour Saint James, whose shrine in Santiago became a major pilgrimage destination. The route crosses diverse landscapes—from the Pyrenean mountains to the rolling hills of northern Spain—offering both spiritual reflection and cultural immersion.
Getting There
Most pilgrims begin the Camino Francés in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a picturesque town in the French Basque Country. From Paris, the journey typically involves a train transfer: first to Bayonne, then onward to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port.
Route Overview
Train: Paris → Bayonne, Bayonne → Saint Jean-Pied-de-Port
Distance: 817.9 km (Gare Montparnasse → SJPDP Train Station)
Duration: 6 hr 29 min (transportation time)
For the full day-by-day route breakdown, including distances and duration, see my complete Camino Francés route guide.
Cost Breakdown
Train: Paris → Bayonne — €90
Train: Bayonne → Saint Jean-Pied-de-Port — €11.1
Accommodation: Gîte Bidean (booked direct) — €18
Food: €15.4
Pilgrim Passport: €2
