• Get your Camino Frances Guidebook here.
  • For 2024 Pilgrims: €50,- donation = 1 year with no ads on the forum + 90% off any 2024 Guide. More here.
    (Discount code sent to you by Private Message after your donation)
  • ⚠️ Emergency contact in Spain - Dial 112 and AlertCops app. More on this here.

Search 69,459 Camino Questions

SJPDP budget friendly places to eat

The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Could walk to the supermarket, get some cheese and ham and sit by the river if the weather is nice.
I love doing this at home add in some good olives, a decent cheese and a nice red wine sorted, but I only have one night in France and wanted to try maybe just one dish that is symbolic of the region. What do you think?
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
You know, by the time you: get to wherever you are staying, get to and through the pilgrim office… you may be out of luck for dining out that evening. My train pulled in a bit before 2, then the walk up into town, which was (will be) closed until about 4pm… and our set of arrivals had about 45 Minutes at the pilgrim office, so we weren’t out of there until about 5…. Then the actual settling in at the albergue, and the need to get provisions for the long trek the next day. One cannot rely on stopping at Orrison if you are going that way, and there’s still a very long haul after that to Roncesvalles. same if you head the Valcarlos route… there’s lots of food available at about half way, but it’s 12 k without on either side….
Which means you have to get to the Carrefour and back…. Honestly, we found ourselves tucked up against some barrels over meagre tapas and beer. It was literally the only place open by the time we were able to get out for supper…. And make it back in time for when the albergue would close up for the night…
So: yes…. Get yourself something pleasant from the Carrefour…. And have a picnic… it will be the best option that day I think. I was truly shocked, and so was everyone around me, by how little time we had to get things done when we had arrived at mid-day.
I did have a very good lunch the next day in Valcarlos!
And dinner in the restaurant at Roncesvalles was sturdy and savoury.
I was very budget conscious on my first pilgrimage, and I can honestly say that I did not eat well in any gastronomic sense until I met up with Spouse 4 years later. But on a budget that averaged to 27 euros per day in 2014, I never went hungry.
 
I love doing this at home add in some good olives, a decent cheese and a nice red wine sorted, but I only have one night in France and wanted to try maybe just one dish that is symbolic of the region. What do you think?
I think you will have a very good chance to eat well and in a traditional Basque style when you get to Pamplona… and although I missed my chance to do it because of other stuff that got in the way, most find great places to eat there… Logrono too, has An exceptional reputation.
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
I will be arriving in SJPDP early afternoon any recommendations for a good budget friendly restaurant?

Given that SJPdP is a tourist destination as well as a favorite pilgrim departure point, I do not know if any eatery is cheap, but my favorite is a small restaurant serving Basque dishes, Restaurant La Vieille Auberge Chez Dédé. The times I have eaten there, the menu prices were a good value. It is located at 3 rue de France. Follow the rue de la Citadelle downhill from the Pilgrim Office and you will find rue de France on your left.
 
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
There is a cheese store in town. Maybe get some sheep cheese from the area, wine, bread and you can get olives in little packets at the store. If you aren't bringing a knife you may want to stop and get a knife corkscrew combo for the journey at the hiking store. It is a worthy expense. We left our first one at Muxia at a shared kitchen before heading home. Got lots of use out of it for our midday picnics.
 
You know, by the time you: get to wherever you are staying, get to and through the pilgrim office… you may be out of luck for dining out that evening. My train pulled in a bit before 2, then the walk up into town, which was (will be) closed until about 4pm… and our set of arrivals had about 45 Minutes at the pilgrim office, so we weren’t out of there until about 5…. Then the actual settling in at the albergue, and the need to get provisions for the long trek the next day. One cannot rely on stopping at Orrison if you are going that way, and there’s still a very long haul after that to Roncesvalles. same if you head the Valcarlos route… there’s lots of food available at about half way, but it’s 12 k without on either side….
Which means you have to get to the Carrefour and back…. Honestly, we found ourselves tucked up against some barrels over meagre tapas and beer. It was literally the only place open by the time we were able to get out for supper…. And make it back in time for when the albergue would close up for the night…
So: yes…. Get yourself something pleasant from the Carrefour…. And have a picnic… it will be the best option that day I think. I was truly shocked, and so was everyone around me, by how little time we had to get things done when we had arrived at mid-day.
I did have a very good lunch the next day in Valcarlos!
And dinner in the restaurant at Roncesvalles was sturdy and savoury.
I was very budget conscious on my first pilgrimage, and I can honestly say that I did not eat well in any gastronomic sense until I met up with Spouse 4 years later. But on a budget that averaged to 27 euros per day in 2014, I never went hungry.
Thank you I presumed I would have time but never thought I would be pressed for it.
 
I agree with davebugg.

For lunch or dinner Chez Dede at 3 rue de France is quite ok. It is near the Pilgrim Office at 39 rue de la Citadelle . The place also appears in the movie The Way. I have eaten here many times over past years; the food was good and the prices very reasonable. .
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
There is a cheese store in town. Maybe get some sheep cheese from the area, wine, bread and you can get olives in little packets at the store. If you aren't bringing a knife you may want to stop and get a knife corkscrew combo for the journey at the hiking store. It is a worthy expense. We left our first one at Muxia at a shared kitchen before heading home. Got lots of use out of it for our midday picnics.
I have a knife/corkscrew combo checking it in with my rucksack, this might be the way to go as I may not have time to catch the restaurants.
 
I agree with davebugg.

For lunch or dinner Chez Dede at 3 rue de France is quite ok. It is near the Pilgrim Office at 39 rue de la Citadelle . The place also appears in the movie The Way. I have eaten here many times over past years; the food was good and the prices very reasonable. .
Sounds good
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Given that SJPdP is a tourist destination as well as a favorite pilgrim departure point, I do not know if any eatery is cheap, but my favorite is a small restaurant serving Basque dishes, Restaurant La Vieille Auberge Chez Dédé. The times I have eaten there, the menu prices were a good value. It is located at 3 rue de France. Follow the rue de la Citadelle downhill from the Pilgrim Office and you will find rue de France on your left.
Thank you did you reserve a table or could you just walk? What time do they stop serving?
 
I will be arriving in SJPDP early afternoon any recommendations for a good budget friendly restaurant?
Hi, amazingly, SJPDP is not pilgrim budget friendly because it is in France, at least twice or three times the cost of similar places across the border in Spain. I agree with others above, go with the flow in SJPDP and save your pennies for another night in Spain.

You’ll know when that is when you are in the right place with the right people . . .
 
Down bag (90/10 duvet) of 700 fills with 180 g (6.34 ounces) of filling. Mummy-shaped structure, ideal when you are looking for lightness with great heating performance.

€149,-
We bought sheep cheese from the food truck that is sometimes parked between Orrison and where the path leaves the road on the way to Roncesvalles, but if that route is closed, I am sure you will find the cheese shop in SJPPD or along the Valcarlos route.
I agree that local cheese is always a delicious treat. However on the Valcarlos route there are no shops after Valcarlos. Thus buy before leaving town. If you are stopping overnight in Valcarlos buy your supplies before you go to sleep so that you can leave at dawn.
 
I agree that local cheese is always a delicious treat. However on the Valcarlos route there are no shops after Valcarlos. Thus buy before leaving town. If you are stopping overnight in Valcarlos buy your supplies before you go to sleep so that you can leave at dawn.
Thank you I am staying in Valcarlos and have my eye on the charcuterie shop there.
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
Will you be stopping for your first night in Orisson before Roncesvalles? If so, you will be served a delicious Basque dinner there.
No I will be staying in Valcarlos but I have heard great things about Orisson
 
Very light, comfortable and compressible poncho. Specially designed for protection against water for any activity.

Our Atmospheric H30 poncho offers lightness and waterproofness. Easily compressible and made with our Waterproof fabric, its heat-sealed interior seams guarantee its waterproofness. Includes carrying bag.

€60,-
Down bag (90/10 duvet) of 700 fills with 180 g (6.34 ounces) of filling. Mummy-shaped structure, ideal when you are looking for lightness with great heating performance.

€149,-
Thank you did you reserve a table or could you just walk? What time do they stop serving?
I have always walked in. I do not know what their hours are, but I would eat there after 6:00pm. Based solely on my experience, if you are arriving in SJPdP in the early afternoon, you should have plenty of time to make it to an eatery for dinner. From my three starts in SJPdP, the narrative below is pretty much how my arrival day in SJPdP has gone.

In the past, I have arrived in SJPdP in the early afternoon after my flights from Seattle - Paris - Biarritz, and then an Express Bouricott shuttle ride. I have arrived into town usually before check-in time at Gite Makila which is where I like to stay.

While waiting for check-in, I have gone to the Pilgrim Office to get my Credencial stamped, then I'll wander around town a bit. I will grab a pastry, a couple of Fanta naranja, and a sandwich to stick in my backpack. I'll nibble on a snack and just look around the shops until check-in time.

After check-in, I dump my backpack out on the floor. Then I sit down while eating my sandwich and drinking my Fanta. I start sorting through the stuff on the floor, organizing the stuff into piles that will determine which location in my backpack they will be place as I repack everything. It takes about 20 minutes to get everything reorganized.

Then I go and shower, change clothes, and lay down and nap a bit. . or at least try to rest. . . for a couple of hours. When I get up, I grab my teensy, stuffable day pack and go out and wander around SJPdP some more; I like to head up to the Citadel and work my way down :).

By early evening I am back in my room, making calls home and enjoying staring out a window and relaxing with another orange Fanta; it is addictive and it is quite different than the orange flavored Fanta in the US. By the time I am done jotting down some thoughts in a tiny notebook, it is time for dinner and I head out to eat.

After dinner, I like to go to the church and sit inside and meditate and pray a bit. Even though I am a Protestant, I find the historical and traditional surroundings, and the architectural beauty of these places, blunts any theological differences and it feels good to say 'hello' and 'thank you' to God within such wonderous places.

Back in my room, I'll do some texting, some more starring out the window, and then to bed. My backpack is all set to go, and clothing set out based on the expected weather and temps at 0630am. I have done a lot of hydrating during the day to help deal with travel fatigue, along with the relaxation, but I seem to always get some great sleep and feel great the next morning.
 
I arrived in SJPdP twice in mid April and found there to be many restaurant options for dinner. As others have said, it is a tourist town.
After a long flight from the US with "not so good" airline meals, followed by taking a train from the Madrid airport to Pamplona, and finally an hour taxi ride from Pamplona to SJPdP, I was more than ready to sit down for a nice hot meal at a restaurant. Price wasn't my priority at that moment in time...I was tired and in no mood to shop for snacks for dinner.
 
New Original Camino Gear Designed Especially with The Modern Peregrino In Mind!
I have always walked in. I do not know what their hours are, but I would eat there after 6:00pm. Based solely on my experience, if you are arriving in SJPdP in the early afternoon, you should have plenty of time to make it to an eatery for dinner. From my three starts in SJPdP, the narrative below is pretty much how my arrival day in SJPdP has gone.

In the past, I have arrived in SJPdP in the early afternoon after my flights from Seattle - Paris - Biarritz, and then an Express Bouricott shuttle ride. I have arrived into town usually before check-in time at Gite Makila which is where I like to stay.

While waiting for check-in, I have gone to the Pilgrim Office to get my Credencial stamped, then I'll wander around town a bit. I will grab a pastry, a couple of Fanta naranja, and a sandwich to stick in my backpack. I'll nibble on a snack and just look around the shops until check-in time.

After check-in, I dump my backpack out on the floor. Then I sit down while eating my sandwich and drinking my Fanta. I start sorting through the stuff on the floor, organizing the stuff into piles that will determine which location in my backpack they will be place as I repack everything. It takes about 20 minutes to get everything reorganized.

Then I go and shower, change clothes, and lay down and nap a bit. . or at least try to rest. . . for a couple of hours. When I get up, I grab my teensy, stuffable day pack and go out and wander around SJPdP some more; I like to head up to the Citadel and work my way down :).

By early evening I am back in my room, making calls home and enjoying staring out a window and relaxing with another orange Fanta; it is addictive and it is quite different than the orange flavored Fanta in the US. By the time I am done jotting down some thoughts in a tiny notebook, it is time for dinner and I head out to eat.

After dinner, I like to go to the church and sit inside and meditate and pray a bit. Even though I am a Protestant, I find the historical and traditional surroundings, and the architectural beauty of these places, blunts any theological differences and it feels good to say 'hello' and 'thank you' to God within such wonderous places.

Back in my room, I'll do some texting, some more starring out the window, and then to bed. My backpack is all set to go, and clothing set out based on the expected weather and temps at 0630am. I have done a lot of hydrating during the day to help deal with travel fatigue, along with the relaxation, but I seem to always get some great sleep and feel great the next morning.
Does anybody else just want to be there right now after reading this? You have just described the way I would like my arrival day to go. Flight from Dublin to Biarritz arrives after 1.00 pm Express Bouriccout should mean I arrive in SJPDP between 2 and 3. The rest I hope will fall into place.
 
Good question it's a matter of health and ability and after a recent bout in hospital I would rather ease myself into the longer Km days than risk an injury and having to end my Camino before it has started.
I too wanted to ease myself into walking longer kilometers and didn't relish a big uphill on my first day, so opted for the Valcarlos route. I enjoyed its variety of landscape and villages so much that I decided to walk it a second time two years later...no regrets!
 
Although now at 82 my long distance walking days are over, in happier times I walked the Valcarlos alternate 11 times. Never easy but not impossible, it is the only route open during winter and I often chose to walk in winter. ...
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Good question it's a matter of health and ability and after a recent bout in hospital I would rather ease myself into the longer Km days than risk an injury and having to end my Camino before it has started.
If you break it up by stopping at Orisson or Auberge Borda you should be fine.
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
I too wanted to ease myself into walking longer kilometers and didn't relish a big uphill on my first day, so opted for the Valcarlos route. I enjoyed its variety of landscape and villages so much that I decided to walk it a second time two years later...no regrets!
From watching John Sikora's virtual walks on YouTube the trail is what I am used to
If you break it up by stopping at Orisson or Auberge Borda you should be fine.
 
I don't really think that you will be pressed for time. I had plenty of time to walk around town, look in the shops, and get something to eat after arriving on the train.

Me too. I was always registered and settled within an hour of arriving.
I suppose it might depend on how many people arrive at the same time.

But, I used the Express Bourricot minibus (from Bayonne and Biarritz) rather than the train into St Jean. (arrived about 4 pm both times)

So I imagine arriving on the train there are a lot of Pilgrims to register and check in at the same time?
 
Down bag (90/10 duvet) of 700 fills with 180 g (6.34 ounces) of filling. Mummy-shaped structure, ideal when you are looking for lightness with great heating performance.

€149,-
Not this time, I know my limitations but I also know from previous hikes in Ireland that this will not be my last Camino
I had a tour of beautiful Ireland several years ago and did a few hikes before I discovered the Camino. I loved the Diamond Hill walk in Connemara, and also attempted the Croagh Patrick pilgrim hike another day. Unfortunately after about a third of the way up, the weather became ominous and we had to turn around, which was very disappointing.
Sorry, not meaning to hijack this thread, but I have vivid memories of those walks.
 
I had a tour of beautiful Ireland several years ago and did a few hikes before I discovered the Camino. I loved the Diamond Hill walk in Connemara, and also attempted the Croagh Patrick pilgrim hike another day. Unfortunately after about a third of the way up, the weather became ominous and we had to turn around, which was very disappointing.
Sorry, not meaning to hijack this thread, but I have vivid memories of those walks.
Hijack away if you've ever hiked in Ireland it stays with you forever.
 
You know, by the time you: get to wherever you are staying, get to and through the pilgrim office… you may be out of luck for dining out that evening. My train pulled in a bit before 2, then the walk up into town, which was (will be) closed until about 4pm… and our set of arrivals had about 45 Minutes at the pilgrim office, so we weren’t out of there until about 5…. Then the actual settling in at the albergue, and the need to get provisions for the long trek the next day. One cannot rely on stopping at Orrison if you are going that way, and there’s still a very long haul after that to Roncesvalles. same if you head the Valcarlos route… there’s lots of food available at about half way, but it’s 12 k without on either side….
Which means you have to get to the Carrefour and back…. Honestly, we found ourselves tucked up against some barrels over meagre tapas and beer. It was literally the only place open by the time we were able to get out for supper…. And make it back in time for when the albergue would close up for the night…
So: yes…. Get yourself something pleasant from the Carrefour…. And have a picnic… it will be the best option that day I think. I was truly shocked, and so was everyone around me, by how little time we had to get things done when we had arrived at mid-day.
I did have a very good lunch the next day in Valcarlos!
And dinner in the restaurant at Roncesvalles was sturdy and savoury.
I was very budget conscious on my first pilgrimage, and I can honestly say that I did not eat well in any gastronomic sense until I met up with Spouse 4 years later. But on a budget that averaged to 27 euros per day in 2014, I never went hungry.
I had a similar experience, we arrived in the evening, after we went to the Pilgrim office, found our place, sorted our stuff - places were shut. We only had a few snacks with us for dinner that night. We literally didnt have anything decent to eat until breakfast at Orrison the next morning.
 
Very light, comfortable and compressible poncho. Specially designed for protection against water for any activity.

Our Atmospheric H30 poncho offers lightness and waterproofness. Easily compressible and made with our Waterproof fabric, its heat-sealed interior seams guarantee its waterproofness. Includes carrying bag.

€60,-
The first edition came out in 2003 and has become the go-to-guide for many pilgrims over the years. It is shipping with a Pilgrim Passport (Credential) from the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.
Restaurant Cidrerie Hurrup Eta Klik, 3 Rue de la Citadelle has been recommended to me, although I have not eaten there myself yet (next time). It also gets great reviews on Google Maps. Reservation not required.
 
What’s wrong with walking the older, traditional, route? Valcarlos has been welcoming ( and occasionally mugging) pilgrims for centuries. Orisson only got going in the’80s & Borda this century. 😉
Nothing at all. I was just curious how she came to the decision to do the Valcarlos route.
 
New Original Camino Gear Designed Especially with The Modern Peregrino In Mind!
I will be arriving in SJPDP early afternoon any recommendations for a good budget friendly restaurant?

I've yet to find a good place to eat in St Jean, but maybe I've only been to the very average ones. :oops:

I'm not sure anything in St Jean will be 'budget friendly'.
All depends on your budget I guess.

This place was OK, and always seems to draw in a few Pilgrims. A good sign. ;)

 
Then there's also the question what definition of "budget friendly" one has ;-)

If you want to be sure to have some good quality food for not too much money, the detour to the Carrefour supermarket might be a good idea (maybe 500 meters from the train station) before walking into town. You can get some nice french products there. If you don't find a restaurant that is open / within your budget / to your liking, then you'll still have good food, and if you do find a restaurant, you can have what you bought at the supermarket for breakfast and as a snack for the hike the next day.

The Valcarlos route is very nice. Walked it twice. As soon as the Napoleon route is open, there will be few pilgrims walking that way, so you'll avoid the hordes. When I walked it in early june I only saw three other pilgrims. There was (and maybe still is) a tiny shop in Valcarlos, I bought some basic ingredients there and cooked dinner in the albergue. It is also possible to buy whatever you need in the small supermarket you'll come across before Arneguy, but then you'll have to carry it for a few kilometers.

Happy planning and buen Camino!
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Then there's also the question what definition of "budget friendly" one has ;-)

If you want to be sure to have some good quality food for not too much money, the detour to the Carrefour supermarket might be a good idea (maybe 500 meters from the train station) before walking into town. You can get some nice french products there. If you don't find a restaurant that is open / within your budget / to your liking, then you'll still have good food, and if you do find a restaurant, you can have what you bought at the supermarket for breakfast and as a snack for the hike the next day.

The Valcarlos route is very nice. Walked it twice. As soon as the Napoleon route is open, there will be few pilgrims walking that way, so you'll avoid the hordes. When I walked it in early june I only saw three other pilgrims. There was (and maybe still is) a tiny shop in Valcarlos, I bought some basic ingredients there and cooked dinner in the albergue. It is also possible to buy whatever you need in the small supermarket you'll come across before Arneguy, but then you'll have to carry it for a few kilometers.

Happy planning and buen Camino!
Thank you I thought too that the Valcarlos route may not be as busy as I can see next year being very hectic
 
I enjoyed both routes very much. On my second Camino when I couldn’t walk the Napoleon route due to the weather, I was initially disappointed. But the Valcaros route was quite beautiful and more challenging than expected. My understanding is that it’s as authentic a pilgrim route as the Napoleon with the higher crossing impassable in certain weather hundreds of years ago as it is today.
 
Join our full-service guided tour and let us convert you into a Pampered Pilgrim!
I'll have to second Dave Bugg's recommendation Chez Dede. If not there, somewhere else where you can try Basque cuisine. It has unique tastes and preparation. And make sure you try a good Basque cider with the dinner. You'll have enough wine over the next few weeks or months as you walk. I didn't realize that the Basque region had cider, let alone excellent cider, until I got to SJPDP.
 
I enjoyed both routes very much. On my second Camino when I couldn’t walk the Napoleon route due to the weather, I was initially disappointed. But the Valcaros route was quite beautiful and more challenging than expected. My understanding is that it’s as authentic a pilgrim route as the Napoleon with the higher crossing impassable in certain weather hundreds of years ago as it is today.
I think it's definitely a more technical path from all accounts but that sweet spot between back country roads and woodland trails and a few rather steep inclines I ❤
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
Good question it's a matter of health and ability and after a recent bout in hospital I would rather ease myself into the longer Km days than risk an injury and having to end my Camino before it has started.
Not a bad plan at all! I have started from SJPP three times. First time knew only that people start from SJPP, so when I arrived at about noon with the train, I just walked through the town, saw a road sign to Spain and started walking. Asphalt road all the way, so about 5-6 blisters in my both feet and pretty tired, when I arrived to Roncesvalles.
Next time I did the Route Napoleon also on one go straight out of the train. Again tired and felt that many days afterwoods.
Third time - knowing that I was older, heavier and the condition really gone down, I stayed a night in SJPP and also stopped in Orrison for the night. The first +20k day was late on the second week. I felt so much better all the way and got my first blister two days before arriving to Finisterre - and even that was due to me not taking a new pair of socks in to use before a +30k day 😁.
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
Not a bad plan at all! I have started from SJPP three times. First time knew only that people start from SJPP, so when I arrived at about noon with the train, I just walked through the town, saw a road sign to Spain and started walking. Asphalt road all the way, so about 5-6 blisters in my both feet and pretty tired, when I arrived to Roncesvalles.
Next time I did the Route Napoleon also on one go straight out of the train. Again tired and felt that many days afterwoods.
Third time - knowing that I was older, heavier and the condition really gone down, I stayed a night in SJPP and also stopped in Orrison for the night. The first +20k day was late on the second week. I felt so much better all the way and got my first blister two days before arriving to Finisterre - and even that was due to me not taking a new pair of socks in to use before a +30k day 😁.
Definitely older, the Camino is a 50th present to myself, heavier as well, on the upside my fitness isn't too bad as I can do a 20km day with my pack, but with age comes the wisdom to know slowly slowly catchy monkey 🤣
 
I know that “budget friendly” is a relative term, but let me encourage you to enjoy as many communal pilgrim meals as possible offered either at albergues or restaurants with a pilgrim menu. When we were in SJPP in 2019, we stayed at the Gite Biden that offered a pilgrim’s meal from 10-12€ as I best remember. Most pilgrim dinners seem to be in this price range offering typically a 3-course meal with wine. Hopefully, any number of these can fit into your budget. Great fun, usually very good food, and a great part of the camino experience.
 
I know that “budget friendly” is a relative term, but let me encourage you to enjoy as many communal pilgrim meals as possible offered either at albergues or restaurants with a pilgrim menu. When we were in SJPP in 2019, we stayed at the Gite Biden that offered a pilgrim’s meal from 10-12€ as I best remember. Most pilgrim dinners seem to be in this price range offering typically a 3-course meal with wine. Hopefully, any number of these can fit into your budget. Great fun, usually very good food, and a great part of the camino experience.
Looking forward very much to this part of the Camino experience
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
A selection of Camino Jewellery
I agree with davebugg.

For lunch or dinner Chez Dede at 3 rue de France is quite ok. It is near the Pilgrim Office at 39 rue de la Citadelle . The place also appears in the movie The Way. I have eaten here many times over past years; the food was good and the prices very reasonable. .
the place where they sell the beautiful pots´n pans !?

AF1QipMDJRyMQRx9FeQHIawFaUljUqG3Wd86g3gw55X7
 
Last edited:
There is a cheese store in town. Maybe get some sheep cheese from the area, wine, bread and you can get olives in little packets at the store. If you aren't bringing a knife you may want to stop and get a knife corkscrew combo for the journey at the hiking store. It is a worthy expense. We left our first one at Muxia at a shared kitchen before heading home. Got lots of use out of it for our midday picnics.
A knife is a most useful purchase, especially with a cork screw.
 
One of the first small items I bought as I am checking my backpack in I shouldn't have a problem at the airport.
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
One of the first small items I bought as I am checking my backpack in I shouldn't have a problem at the airport.
I don’t want to take this thread off topic, but check out discussions on the Forum on whether or not to check your pack. My recommendation is to travel with a small enough, light enough pack that you can take it in the cabin with you. If your pack doesn’t arrive with you, a whole new set of problems present themselves before you even begin walking. Regarding knives, I love the French Opinel knives. You can buy a very nice, inexpensive one in SJPP.
 
I don’t want to take this thread off topic, but check out discussions on the Forum on whether or not to check your pack. My recommendation is to travel with a small enough, light enough pack that you can take it in the cabin with you. If your pack doesn’t arrive with you, a whole new set of problems present themselves before you even begin walking. Regarding knives, I love the French Opinel knives. You can buy a very nice, inexpensive one in SJPP.
Flying Ryanair welcome to let's charge you for everything airline. They've even reduced the size of cabin luggage
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Good question it's a matter of health and ability and after a recent bout in hospital I would rather ease myself into the longer Km days than risk an injury and having to end my Camino before it has started.
You wont regret it! I went the volcarlos route — all in one go only because I had not known there was an albergue theRe.
My spouse stayed over at Valcarlos 4 years later and had a wonderful start to his walk — with fantastic food for supper.
 
We ate at a basque place on the main drag with a terrace overlooking the river, but it was not really budget friendly. As @Faye Walker suggests, you may need to go to the grocery store for some snacks for the next day anyway.
Looking forward very much to this part of the Camino experience
In 2019 I ate at Oillarburu a Basque restaurant just down from the Tourist Information office. We stayed at Beilari, but although a friend had recommended it, I didn't realise that they served only vegetarian. However, the Beilari people directed me to the wonderful restaurant which served an enormous roast lamb dish. It was lovely and I don't recall it was too expensive.
 
You know, by the time you: get to wherever you are staying, get to and through the pilgrim office… you may be out of luck for dining out that evening. My train pulled in a bit before 2, then the walk up into town, which was (will be) closed until about 4pm… and our set of arrivals had about 45 Minutes at the pilgrim office, so we weren’t out of there until about 5…. Then the actual settling in at the albergue, and the need to get provisions for the long trek the next day. One cannot rely on stopping at Orrison if you are going that way, and there’s still a very long haul after that to Roncesvalles. same if you head the Valcarlos route… there’s lots of food available at about half way, but it’s 12 k without on either side….
Which means you have to get to the Carrefour and back…. Honestly, we found ourselves tucked up against some barrels over meagre tapas and beer. It was literally the only place open by the time we were able to get out for supper…. And make it back in time for when the albergue would close up for the night…
So: yes…. Get yourself something pleasant from the Carrefour…. And have a picnic… it will be the best option that day I think. I was truly shocked, and so was everyone around me, by how little time we had to get things done when we had arrived at mid-day.
I did have a very good lunch the next day in Valcarlos!
And dinner in the restaurant at Roncesvalles was sturdy and savoury.
I was very budget conscious on my first pilgrimage, and I can honestly say that I did not eat well in any gastronomic sense until I met up with Spouse 4 years later. But on a budget that averaged to 27 euros per day in 2014, I never went hungry.
Orrison/Napoleon route is closed for the season. Must go Valcarlos route at this time.
 
New Original Camino Gear Designed Especially with The Modern Peregrino In Mind!
Orrison/Napoleon route is closed for the season. Must go Valcarlos route at this time.
Yes, closed yearly Nov. 1 to March 31. But the original post, to which I was replying, does not specify date of arrival… just a time of day.
 
Yes, closed yearly Nov. 1 to March 31. But the original post, to which I was replying, does not specify date of arrival… just a time of day.
End of May next year I was interested to see what recommendations people had and it was also informative to see how other people experienced their arrival days especially those veterans who have several Caminos under their belts. I think I, like every new pilgrim want to try and squeeze as much out of the experience until we start to slow down and learn to go with the flow.
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
End of May next year I was interested to see what recommendations people had and it was also informative to see how other people experienced their arrival days especially those veterans who have several Caminos under their belts. I think I, like every new pilgrim want to try and squeeze as much out of the experience until we start to slow down and learn to go with the flow.
Oh, yes… no criticism from me… merely an observation that we were responding to the *time of day* question.
 
St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
Oh I don't know but I can imagine the Napoleon route being unpredictable at any time of the year, better to check in at the pilgrims office when you collect your credential.
 
I will be arriving in SJPDP early afternoon any recommendations for a good budget friendly restaurant?
This is a strong recommendation: Stay at Beilari’s albergue across the tiny street from the Pilgrim office. Nice people, nice facility, dinner and light breakfast is included and they serve it communal style with some get-acquainted activities that mean that you start the camino with some new friends. It gets you right into the Camino frame of mind immediately after registering and is a one-stop for you until morning.
 
Down bag (90/10 duvet) of 700 fills with 180 g (6.34 ounces) of filling. Mummy-shaped structure, ideal when you are looking for lightness with great heating performance.

€149,-

Most read last week in this forum

My name is Henrik and I will be coming down to SJPdP from Sweden on March 26 and start walking on March 27. I don't really have any experience and I'm not the best at planning and I'm a little...
When I hiked the Frances Route this happened. I was hiking in the afternoon just east of Arzua. I was reserved a bed at an albergue in Arzua, so I had already hiked all the way from San Xulien...
I'd like some recommendations about where to find the most current and up to date information about albergues that are actually open. I'm currently walking the camino Frances, and I can't even...
I am finalizing my packing list for Frances, and do not want to over pack. (I am 71) I will be starting at SJPdP on April 25th to Roncesvalles and forward. I was hoping on some advise as to...
Today is March 21, 1024 If you’re starting El Francés around this time, be warned that quite a few stretches between Rabanal del Camino and Molinaseca are in pretty bad shape. Lots of mud, and...
First marker starting from Albergue Monasterio de la Magdalena in Sarria (113.460 km) Start: 2023.9.29 07:22 Arrival: 2023.9.30 13:18 walking time : 26 hours 47 minutes rest time : 3 hours 8...

❓How to ask a question

How to post a new question on the Camino Forum.

Similar threads

Forum Rules

Forum Rules

Camino Updates on YouTube

Camino Conversations

Most downloaded Resources

This site is run by Ivar at

in Santiago de Compostela.
This site participates in the Amazon Affiliate program, designed to provide a means for Ivar to earn fees by linking to Amazon
Official Camino Passport (Credential) | 2024 Camino Guides
Back
Top