Day 1: Saint-Jean-Pied-De-Port (SJPDP)

SJPDP – And Here We Are!

Stepping off the train (or the bus), the realization hits you: this is it. The excitement of starting the journey of your life! New places, new faces, and those iconic yellow Camino signs everywhere, instantly warming your heart.

I highly recommend spending at least a full day here if you can. It’s the perfect way to acclimatize, rest your legs after traveling, and soak in the medieval magic of this beautiful town. SJPDP fills up fast during peak season – so book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you’re arriving in May, June or September. Trust me, the last thing you want after a long travel day is to search for a bed!

🗺️ Must-See Spots on Your Acclimatization Walk:

• The Citadel (Citadelle de Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port): Hike up the hill to this 17th-century fortress walled city. At the very top, there is a large, peaceful park where you can enjoy the sounds of nature and get a jaw-dropping, 360-degree panoramic view of the Pyrenees. Looking at those mountains you’re about to climb tomorrow is a true core memory!
• Porte Saint-Jacques (St. James Gate): Take a walk through this historic, UNESCO-listed stone gate. For centuries, it has been the traditional entrance for pilgrims arriving from the north of Europe. Passing through it feels like stepping back in time.

I was there in the beginning of May and was absolutely blessed with the weather. The town is quite small, but the energy is massive. You can practically feel the adrenaline boiling as pilgrims from all over the world get ready to hit the road. Well, my energy was boiling too!

In the evening, find a terrace, order a glass of local Basque wine or cider, and simply watch the world go by. You’ll hear a dozen languages, see pilgrims from every corner of the world nervously checking their backpacks, and realize – this is already your Camino.

Your Essential Checkpoints:

• The Pilgrims’ Office: Your absolute first stop. Head straight down the cobblestone streets to Rue de la Citadelle to visit the office. This is where you collect your Credencial (Pilgrim Passport), get your very first official stamp, and buy your traditional scallop shell. It’s also the ultimate place to meet new friends from all over the globe whom you will for sure catch up with later on the trail. The office also holds an important route briefing – here you’ll receive advice on weather conditions and whether the high Napoleon Route is open or if you’ll need to take the lower Valcarlos alternative.
• Stock Up on Essentials: If you realize you’ve forgotten anything from your packing list, SJPDP is the perfect place to stock up on outdoor gear. For snacks, water, and last-minute essentials, there is also a large, well-stocked supermarket just a short walking distance from the old town.

Set your alarm, lay out your gear, and pack your backpack the night before – because tomorrow, the Camino begins for real. Sleep well, dear pilgrim. The mountains are waiting.