A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Santiago de Compostela for Attractions, Old Town, Hiking, and Food

Should you visit Antalya or Santiago de Compostela?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Antalya or Santiago de Compostela? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Antalya

Antalya is a vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a religious, inspirational, and iconic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Santiago de Compostela?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Santiago de Compostela than Antalya. While Antalya is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and hiking, while Antalya is known for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Antalya is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. Santiago de Compostela is popular for its classic old town, its Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and its significance as the culmination point for the Camino de Santiago. It is also home to the Cathedral of Santiago.

How is Antalya different from Santiago de Compostela?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Santiago de Compostela and Antalya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Santiago de Compostela has many famous sights for visitors. The iconic Cathedral of Santiago has long attracted pilgrims and travelers from around Europe and the world. The spectacular sight includes a museum and the crypt and tomb of Saint James. Another interesting sight in town is the former hostel for pilgrims, the Hostal de los Reyes Católicos. Also make sure you visit Plaza del Obradoiro and the Galician Center of Contemporary Art.

Many visitors head to Antalya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Is the Food Better in Antalya or Santiago de Compostela? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Antalya and Santiago de Compostela can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Santiago de Compostela makes for a great culinary experience. Galician food has plenty of fresh seafood, lots of local beef, and regional vegetables that are seasonal and locally grown. Make sure you try the polbo á feira (boiled octopus), pimientos de padrón (fried green peppers), and steamed mussels.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and Santiago de Compostela.

Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Santiago de Compostela is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As a university city, much of the nightlife is created by the student population. You'll find a lot of bars around Rúa de Santiago de Chile and Rúa de San Pedro de Mezonzo as well as along Rúa do Franco.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela Better for Music?

Antalya is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Antalya is active and vibrant. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Santiago de Compostela is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela Better for Resorts?

Antalya is terrific for its resorts. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Antalya is a great choice. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Santiago de Compostela is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Santiago de Compostela is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela Better for Beaches?

Antalya is terrific for the beache. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Antalya. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela Better for its Old Town?

Santiago de Compostela is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Santiago de Compostela offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The old town reflects the city's importance in the Christian religion. There are Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings that draw Christian pilgrims from around the world.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is an amazing city to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Santiago de Compostela specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. This small city is the culmination point for the famed Camino de Santiago. The 780 kilometer route is followed by pilgrims and travelers who seek enlightenment or adventure. Hikers travel both independently or as part of organized tours.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Santiago de Compostela?

Antalya is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antalya make it a world-class shopping destination. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Santiago de Compostela. There are local markets, souvenir shops, and boutiques where you can buy items to commemorate the completion of your hike or your visit to town.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

Antalya is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Antalya is a very kid-friendly vacation spot. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Santiago de Compostela offers lots of family activities. The city has a sightseeing train as well as parks and playgrounds that kids can enjoy. A visit to the Museum of the Galician People is also fascinating for the whole family. Visiting the colorful markets around town is fun as well.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

Antalya is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Santiago de Compostela is a good vacation spot for couples to visit. The cobblestone streets and beautiful gardens make this a nice place for a couple's getaway. There are viewpoints that look out over the town as well as interesting buildings and great architecture.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya and Santiago de Compostela are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Santiago de Compostela. Backpackers hiking the Camino del Santiago will be rewarded with a beautiful city and many nice sights. There are plenty of hostels around town where backpackers can meet other travelers and swap stories.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Santiago de Compostela. It's a small city with many students during the week, but on weekends it quiets down as many students leave town.

Antalya is not popular with students.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antalya is well known for its public transit. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Antalya has some very good public transit options. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

While Santiago de Compostela offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town that are operated by Tralusa.

Is Antalya or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Santiago de Compostela is a very walkable destination. Many visitors reach the city on foot by doing the pilgrimage of the Camino del Santiago. The city itself and small and fairly walkable as well.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Santiago de Compostela Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santiago de Compostela or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Santiago de Compostela?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Antalya or Santiago de Compostela to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Antalya than Santiago de Compostela because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 1-2 days is enough time in Santiago de Compostela.

Families should spend more time in Antalya than Santiago de Compostela. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Antalya, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Antalya than Santiago de Compostela. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Antalya that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Antalya or Santiago de Compostela?

The vacation spot of Antalya offers museums and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Santiago de Compostela, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antalya or Santiago de Compostela?

The relaxing destination of Antalya offers nightlife and live music. This vacation spot offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Santiago de Compostela, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santiago de Compostela has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Santiago de Compostela is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Santiago de Compostela?

Antalya is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Antalya. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santiago de Compostela. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Santiago de Compostela. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Turkey, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Turkey, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antalya and Santiago de Compostela, we can see that Antalya is more expensive. And not only is Santiago de Compostela much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Santiago de Compostela would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Santiago de Compostela and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Antalya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antalya than you might in Santiago de Compostela.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Antalya Expensive? and Is Santiago de Compostela Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Santiago de Compostela?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Santiago de Compostela, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Antalya or Santiago de Compostela?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antalya or Santiago de Compostela in the Summer?

Both Santiago de Compostela and Antalya during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Antalya because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year.

In July, Antalya is generally much warmer than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Santiago de Compostela, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Santiago de Compostela. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Santiago de Compostela in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Santiago de Compostela. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Antalya is a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Santiago de Compostela receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Antalya usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Santiago de Compostela in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Santiago de Compostela. Many travelers come to Antalya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Antalya is around the same temperature as Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 103 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Santiago de Compostela. Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Santiago de Compostela. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Santiago de Compostela in the Spring?

Both Santiago de Compostela and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antalya in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Santiago de Compostela and Antalya