Pilgrimage in Germany: six routes to get started
In short: Yes. A whole network of regional Camino routes runs through Germany, for example the Munich, Franconian and Cologne Ways of St James.
Your first pilgrimage doesn't have to be in Spain. Germany has a dense network of marked routes, many of which you can walk over a long weekend. That way you can test your shoes, your backpack and above all yourself before setting off on a big trip.
Six routes to try
The Munich Way of St James runs from Munich through the Alpine foothills towards Lake Constance and is especially beautiful with its lakes and mountain views. The Franconian Way of St James links Nuremberg with Rothenburg ob der Tauber and continues to Ulm. The Cologne Way of St James follows the Rhine and goes from Cologne to Trier.
The Ecumenical Pilgrim Way covers around 470 kilometres from Görlitz to Vacha, following the old Via Regia trade road. The Elisabethpfad leads to the tomb of St Elizabeth in Marburg, and the Luther Trail links places of the Reformation across several federal states. Both have several sections that divide easily into day stages.
In the north, the Via Baltica and the Jacobusweg Lüneburger Heide are good options, and in the west the Moselle Camino and the Lahn Camino.
What is different from Spain
The network of albergues is thinner. You will more often sleep in guesthouses, inns or monasteries, and that costs more than a bed in Spain. So call a few days ahead. Some parishes have simple pilgrim accommodation, which you can find through the regional St James societies.
The pilgrim community is smaller too. On some days you won't meet anyone. If that is what you are looking for, you have come to the right place. You will find tips in our article on walking alone.
A trial weekend
Look for a route with a rail connection at both ends and walk for two or three days in a row. Take exactly the gear from our packing list. You can use a pilgrim passport on German routes too and have it stamped. Afterwards you will know whether your shoes fit and whether 20 kilometres a day is your pace.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a Way of St James in Germany too?
Yes. A whole network of regional Camino routes runs through Germany, for example the Munich, Franconian and Cologne Ways of St James.
Where do you stay on a pilgrimage in Germany?
In guesthouses, inns, monasteries and parish rooms. The network of albergues is thinner than in Spain, so it is better to reserve in advance.