u/ExplanationNew8346

Hey everyone,

I’m starting the Camino Francés soon and had a quick logistics question about the first couple days.

• I arrive in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port on May 19 around 3pm
• Planning to start walking on May 20 → Roncesvalles

Just wondering:

1. SJPP (night of May 19):
Should I book a hostel in advance, or is it usually fine to show up mid-afternoon and find a bed?

2. Roncesvalles (night of May 20):
Same question — worth booking ahead for that first stage, or can I just arrive?

Trying to keep things flexible but don’t want unnecessary stress right at the start.

Would appreciate any recent experiences.

Buen Camino 🙏