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

Should you visit Bonn or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Should I visit Bonn 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.

Bonn

Bonn is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and lively city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. 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's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Bonn and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Santiago de Compostela than Bonn. While Bonn is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bonn attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Bonn 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 well known for the Cathedral of Santiago. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Santiago de Compostela from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 Bonn specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Some of the most popular museums include Haus der Geschichte (history), Beethoven's House, and Kunstmuseum Bonn (art). For architecture check out the Old Town Hall and Bonn Minster. Other landmarks include Poppelsdorf Palace and Schloss Drachenburg.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Santiago de Compostela. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bonn. Like much of the food in Germany, you'll find local dishes are hearty and filling. Potatoes and meats are popular ingredients, as are milk, butter, and vegetables. For local flavors try the Rhenish Sauerbraten (veal stew), Reibekuchen (German pancakes), or Christmas Sausages.

Is Bonn or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

Santiago de Compostela is a great city for nightlife. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Santiago de Compostela has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bonn. There are bars and nightclubs around town but even more popular are the cultural events that the city hosts. If nightlife is important to you, try to visit during one of the festivals around town.

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

Santiago de Compostela is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

Santiago de Compostela has a world-famous historical area. 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 Bonn. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming shops. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Bonn or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is very popular for hiking. However, Bonn is not a hiking destination.

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.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Santiago de Compostela?

If you're looking to go shopping, Bonn and Santiago de Compostela both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bonn. A mix of local shops and major chains make shopping fun and easy. Whether you're interested in souvenir gifts or a new outfit, there are countless stores around town.

Santiago de Compostela is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Bonn or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Bonn is a very family-friendly destination. Just outside of the town is the Haribo factory outlet store where you can pick up a number of sweet treats and spend some time exploring with the kids. Another favorite activity for the whole family is a trip to nearby Phantasialand. This is one of the best amusement parks in Germany and it has many rides for teens and younger kids alike. In town, you'll find playgrounds and kid-friendly museums. Kids will also love a visit to Schloss Drachenburg Castle.

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 Bonn or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Bonn and Santiago de Compostela make for a nice place to visit.

Bonn is a nice destination for couples. Churches, architecture, and botanical gardens all make this a great couples destination. You can take a cruise down the Rhein or enjoy a meal at one of the best restaurants.

Santiago de Compostela makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Bonn or Santiago de Compostela Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Santiago de Compostela is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Bonn is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers skip this town, so its a good option for travelers who want to get off the beaten backpacker trail. There are affordable hotels and hostels around town as well as restaurants where you can pick up something cheap to eat.

Is Bonn or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

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

Bonn is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a very international vibe and you'll likely run into people speaking English around town. Job opportunities in the area are good and there are schools that attract students from around the globe.

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

Bonn 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.

Bonn has some very good public transit options. There is a light rail system that includes 9 lines and 64 stations. There are also buses around town. Bonn is connected to the region by convenient commuter trains so it's possible to visit as a day trip.

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 Bonn or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Bonn and Santiago de Compostela are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Bonn is very walkable. The compact old town is easy to explore on foot.

Santiago de Compostela is a very walkable city. 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 Bonn Worth Visiting? and Is Santiago de Compostela Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Bonn or Santiago de Compostela?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bonn or Santiago de Compostela to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bonn 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 Bonn, and 1-2 days is enough time in Santiago de Compostela.

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

Couples should spend more time in Santiago de Compostela than Bonn. 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 Bonn 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 Bonn or Santiago de Compostela?

The city of Bonn offers museums and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Santiago de Compostela. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bonn or Santiago de Compostela?

The cultural destination of Bonn offers nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Santiago de Compostela is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bonn or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the iconic destination of Santiago de Compostela. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bonn or Santiago de Compostela?

Bonn is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Bonn. 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.

The historic city of Santiago de Compostela offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bonn or Santiago de Compostela?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Santiago de Compostela. The summer months attract visitors to Bonn because of 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 the summer, Bonn is around the same temperature as Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bonn in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Santiago de Compostela. In the summer, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets more rain in July than Santiago de Compostela. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Bonn 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.

In October, Bonn is generally cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 12°C (53°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during autumn. Bonn gets 109 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, Bonn usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Bonn gets 47 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 Bonn or Santiago de Compostela in the Winter?

Both Santiago de Compostela and Bonn during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bonn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bonn. Bonn is much colder than Santiago de Compostela in the winter. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Bonn gets 45 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. Bonn usually gets less rain in January than Santiago de Compostela. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Santiago de Compostela. Furthermore, most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Bonn is cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bonn in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during spring. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bonn usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 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 Bonn