Irún on the Camino del Norte Coastal
Camino de Santiago · albergues, accommodation, baggage transport & pilgrim guide
Everything you need for Irún on the Camino del Norte Coastal (Camino de Santiago): albergues and pilgrim hostels, hotels and private rooms, where to eat, baggage transport between stages, what to see, weather and practical tips for pilgrims walking to Santiago de Compostela.
About this town
Irún is a major border town and the traditional starting point for the Camino del Norte Coastal route in Spain, serving as a practical jump-off from France and Hendaye. Pilgrims find urban services here and easy connections before heading west along the Bay of Biscay.
Where it's located
Located in Gipuzkoa at the mouth of the Bidasoa River on the French border, set between low coastal plains and the foothills of Jaizkibel mountain.
Points of interest
Recommended restaurants
- • Taberna del Puerto — traditional Basque dishes and seafood near the riverfront
- • Restaurante Irungo Koxka — local cuisine and pilgrim-friendly options
Albergues in Irún — prices, beds and how to book
Traditional pilgrim hostels — not bookable on Booking.com. Call or email to reserve, or arrive early (first-come, first-served).
Albergue Juvenil Martindozenea
€20
per night
60 beds
A modern public youth hostel housed in a beautifully renovated old manor house within a park. It serves as a reliable year-round alternative for pilgrims, particularly during the winter months when the main association-run albergue is closed.
Avenida de Elizatxo, 18, 20303 Irún, Gipuzkoa, Spain
Check-in from 14:00
All year
Reservations accepted
Albergue de Peregrinos de Irún (Jakobi)
Donativo
per night
60 beds
Managed by the Jakobi Association, this is the official starting point for the Camino del Norte and the Camino Vasco del Interior. It is located in a refurbished school building and is run by dedicated volunteer hospitaleros who provide a communal breakfast and essential pilgrim services.
Calle Lesaka, 1, 20301 Irún, Gipuzkoa, Spain
16:00 – 22:00
Feb 1 – Nov 30
First-come, first-served
💼 Baggage Transport
Use our global baggage transport integration service or the one below →Correos (El Camino con Correos)
Caminofácil
Jacotrans
Continue along the route
Quick answers about this town
How do I get to Irún to start the Camino del Norte Coastal?
You can reach Irún — the starting point of the Camino del Norte Coastal — by plane, train, bus or car. The guide below details the nearest airports, train and bus connections, driving directions, and the exact point where the walking Camino route begins. The nearest airport is San Sebastián Airport (EAS), located about 20 minutes away by local Euskotren or taxi. Alternatively, fly into Bilbao Airport (BIO) and take a direct PESA bus to Irún. Irún has its own international train station connecting to French rail services (SNCF) vi
Where to stay in Irún?
Irún offers two designated pilgrim albergues to accommodate travelers starting the Camino del Norte. As a major border town, it also provides a variety of hotels and guesthouses if you prefer private accommodation for your first night.
How do I get to Irún?
Irún is easily accessible via train connections from France and major Spanish cities, making it a convenient starting point for pilgrims. You can also reach the town by bus or by crossing the border on foot or via a short local transit connection from Hendaye.
Is Irún worth visiting?
Yes, Irún serves as the traditional starting point of the coastal route and offers essential services before your trek begins. You can enjoy scenic views of the Bidasoa estuary or explore local Basque cuisine at waterfront restaurants like Taberna del Puerto before heading toward the Jaizkibel mountain.
Where can pilgrims sleep in Irún?
Irún offers 2 albergues and pilgrim hostels (municipal, parochial, private and donativo), plus hotels and private rooms. Use the availability search on this page to reserve your stay on the Camino del Norte Coastal.
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