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

Should you visit Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a cultural, charming, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a inspirational, iconic, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Bucharest and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will generally find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Bucharest is more popular for its big city activities. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Bucharest 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. Also, Santiago de Compostela is famous for the Cathedral of Santiago. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Santiago de Compostela are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

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

Santiago de Compostela is renowned for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Santiago de Compostela is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

Santiago de Compostela is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Santiago de Compostela. 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

Santiago de Compostela is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

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

Santiago de Compostela is well known for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Santiago de Compostela is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela is a good destination for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Bucharest 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.

Bucharest has some very good public transit options. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

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 Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

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

How long in Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Families should spend more time in Santiago de Compostela than Bucharest. 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 Bucharest. 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Santiago de Compostela. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santiago de Compostela has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela?

The charming destination of Bucharest offers nightlife and food. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the iconic destination of Santiago de Compostela. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the religious city of Santiago de Compostela. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela?

Bucharest is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Bucharest. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Santiago de Compostela is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Santiago de Compostela in the Summer?

Both Santiago de Compostela and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Bucharest is a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Santiago de Compostela. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bucharest. Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during summer. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bucharest usually receives more rain than Santiago de Compostela. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Bucharest during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. 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.

In the autumn, Bucharest is cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 155 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than Santiago de Compostela. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Santiago de Compostela. Many visitors come to Bucharest 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.

Bucharest can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Bucharest usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during winter. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

Santiago de Compostela receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Santiago de Compostela. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the natural beauty.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Santiago de Compostela in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in April than Santiago de Compostela. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 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 Bucharest