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

Should you visit Athens or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Santiago de Compostela. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a vibrant, energetic, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Santiago de Compostela

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

Athens and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Santiago de Compostela than Athens. While Athens is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is more popular for its hiking and shopping, while Athens is known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Athens and 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. Athens is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy.

How is Athens 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 Athens. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

You'll find a number of amazing museums and attractions in both Santiago de Compostela and Athens.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Santiago de Compostela that are not to be missed. 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.

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

Athens is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Santiago de Compostela has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Athens or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

Athens is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Athens is a must-see party destination. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Many people head to Santiago de Compostela for the nightlife scene. 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 Athens or Santiago de Compostela Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the amazing old town areas in both Athens and Santiago de Compostela.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

The rich history of Santiago de Compostela can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Is Athens or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Santiago de Compostela is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

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.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

Athens 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.

Athens is a very kid-friendly city. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

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 Athens or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

Athens and Santiago de Compostela both good destinations for a couple.

Athens is a good city for couples to visit. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Santiago de Compostela is a nice destination for couples. 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 Athens or Santiago de Compostela Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is terrific for backpackers. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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 Athens or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

Athens is well known for students. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

It's common for students to 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.

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

Athens 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.

Athens has some very good public transit options. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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 Athens or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Athens and Santiago de Compostela are superb when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Santiago de Compostela is very walkable. 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.

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

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

How long in Athens or Santiago de Compostela?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Athens or Santiago de Compostela to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Athens than Santiago de Compostela because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-2 days is enough time in Santiago de Compostela.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Santiago de Compostela if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Athens.

One day in Athens or Santiago de Compostela?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Santiago de Compostela. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Santiago de Compostela?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. This city offers something for everyone. Visiting the old town is also a must. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Santiago de Compostela is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santiago de Compostela. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Santiago de Compostela?

Athens is a fun place to experience. Athens is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the iconic destination of Santiago de Compostela. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Santiago de Compostela, we can see that Athens 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 Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens 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 Athens Expensive? and Is Santiago de Compostela Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Santiago de Compostela?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens or Santiago de Compostela in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Athens as well as Santiago de Compostela. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Athens is generally a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Santiago de Compostela. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Santiago de Compostela. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Athens is a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Santiago de Compostela. In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Athens during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Athens is around the same temperature as Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 103 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Athens usually gets less rain in January than Santiago de Compostela. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Santiago de Compostela. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the natural beauty.

In April, Athens is generally a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Athens gets 25 mm (1 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 Athens