A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Belfast vs. Santiago de Compostela for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Belfast or Santiago de Compostela?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast or Santiago de Compostela, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Belfast

Belfast is a under-rated, authentic, and affordable city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife and shopping.

Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a historic, religious, and inspirational city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Belfast and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will generally find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Belfast. While Belfast is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Belfast attracts visitors for its big city activities. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Belfast and is known 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 well known for the Cathedral of Santiago. Belfast is famous for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

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

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

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Santiago de Compostela offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

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

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Belfast does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Santiago de Compostela offers plenty to see. 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.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.

Is Belfast or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Belfast is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Santiago de Compostela draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Belfast is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Santiago de Compostela is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Belfast. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Is Belfast or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

Belfast and Santiago de Compostela are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Belfast is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Santiago de Compostela is a family-friendly city. 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 Belfast or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

Santiago de Compostela is a nice place to visit for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

Belfast and Santiago de Compostela are both nice destinations for students and younger travelers.

Belfast is a good city to visit for students. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

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.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Santiago de Compostela has a few public transit options. There are buses around town that are operated by Tralusa.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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.

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

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

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

How long in Belfast or Santiago de Compostela?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santiago de Compostela than Belfast 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 Santiago de Compostela.

One day in Belfast or Santiago de Compostela?

The city of Belfast offers shopping and nightlife. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

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 Belfast or Santiago de Compostela?

The authentic destination of Belfast offers nightlife and shopping. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. 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 Belfast or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belfast. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. 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 Belfast or Santiago de Compostela?

Belfast is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the destination of Belfast. 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 Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Belfast or Santiago de Compostela?

Belfast has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Belfast 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 Belfast or Santiago de Compostela?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and Santiago de Compostela. Many visitors come to Belfast in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Belfast is cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the summer temperatures in Belfast in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Santiago de Compostela this time of the year. Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during summer. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Belfast usually receives more rain than Santiago de Compostela. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Belfast as well as Santiago de Compostela. Most visitors come to Belfast for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Belfast is generally much colder than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 9°C (48°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 155 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Santiago de Compostela. Belfast usually gets less rain in October than Santiago de Compostela. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Belfast because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year.

The weather in Belfast can be very cold. Belfast is much colder than Santiago de Compostela in the winter. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during winter. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Santiago de Compostela. In January, Belfast usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Belfast during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Belfast this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Belfast is much colder than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the spring temperatures in Belfast in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Belfast gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets less rain in April than Santiago de Compostela. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Santiago de Compostela and Belfast