A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Cadiz vs. Santiago de Compostela for Attractions, Old Town, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cadiz and Santiago de Compostela can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a historic, authentic, and friendly port city. 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 historic, religious, and inspirational city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Cadiz and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will generally find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Cadiz. While Cadiz 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, and hiking, while Cadiz attracts visitors for its beaches. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Cadiz 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. Cadiz is famous for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Cadiz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the oldest city in Europe, there are countless historic sights and monuments to see. Some of the most interesting historic sights include Catedral Nueva, the Arcos de los Blancos, Torre Tavira, and Museo de Cádiz.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Cadiz has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The restaurants are good, but if you don't have reservations you're out of luck. Many restaurants fill up during the peak summer months. If you do have reservations then you can expect fresh seafood including everything from oysters to prawns and even fresh caught fish like Bluefin tuna. Make sure you try the shrimp fritters and papas con choco (cuttlefish and potato stew). Tapas are a great way to sample a number of small local dishes. Also finish your meal off with some churros.

Is Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port 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 Cadiz. The nightlife scene is diverse, with both cultural activities and dance clubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a late night party or a more mellow evening on the town, there are a number of options available.

Is Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Beaches?

Cadiz is a port city with a few options for the beache. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Cadiz. The beaches remain relatively undiscovered on the international level, so you won't have to deal with the crowds that you find at many Spanish beaches. They are urban beaches that make a good place to cool off, but aren't particularly scenic. The beaches are popular with nearby locals, and the atmosphere remains chill and relaxed. While there are many beaches to choose from outside of town, the closest in town beach is La Caleta. It's even been featured in a few Hollywood films such as Die Another Day.

Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

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

Santiago de Compostela is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its old town.

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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cadiz. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

Is Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Cadiz is not a hiking destination.

Around Santiago de Compostela visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Cadiz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela?

Both Cadiz and Santiago de Compostela are excellent shopping destinations.

Cadiz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a diverse mix of local boutiques, food markets, shopping centers, and street markets where you can pick up everything from local items to European fashion. If you happen to be in town on a weekend, keep in mind that many shops are only open in the morning on Saturdays and closed all day Sundays.

Santiago de Compostela is well-known for its shopping. 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 Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

Both Cadiz and Santiago de Compostela are nice to visit with kids.

Cadiz is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can splash around, as well as some parks and playgrounds where kids can get their energy out. Outside of town you'll find waterparks and other fun activities as well.

Santiago de Compostela is a family-friendly port 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 Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

Both Cadiz and Santiago de Compostela are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cadiz is a nice destination for couples. With its history and beaches, there are many romantic activities that couples can enjoy. Wander around old town and enjoy local cuisine. Visit the historic ruins and take a hike outside of the city.

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 Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cadiz. One of the biggest draws to the city is there huge Carnival festival every February. This is a popular time to visit and backpackers will appreciate the lively atmosphere.

Is Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela is a city with good options for students. However, Cadiz is not popular with students.

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

Cadiz is not popular with students.

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

Both Cadiz and Santiago de Compostela offer nice public transit options.

Cadiz has a few public transit options. There are five bus lines around town. The buses are comfortable and air conditioned.

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

Is Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Cadiz and Santiago de Compostela both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Cadiz is very walkable. It is a walkable city that is historic and compact enough to explore on foot. It can be a bit of a walk to get from the old town to the beach though.

Santiago de Compostela is a very walkable port 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 Cadiz Worth Visiting? and Is Santiago de Compostela Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela to fill your time. In our opinion, Santiago de Compostela has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Santiago de Compostela than Cadiz. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

The port city of Cadiz 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 port city has to offer.

In Santiago de Compostela, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this religious destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela?

The undiscovered destination of Cadiz offers nightlife and food. This port 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santiago de Compostela. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Santiago de Compostela is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Santiago de Compostela. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela?

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

You'll find food and shopping around the iconic destination of Santiago de Compostela. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid.

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

Which is Bigger, Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela?

Cadiz has a larger population, and is about 43% larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Cadiz 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 Cadiz 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 Cadiz or Santiago de Compostela in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cadiz and Santiago de Compostela. Many travelers come to Cadiz for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cadiz is a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cadiz in July average around 25°C (77°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. In Cadiz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during summer. Cadiz gets 356 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Cadiz gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Cadiz as well as Santiago de Compostela. Many visitors come to Cadiz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Cadiz is generally a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 20°C (68°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cadiz this time of the year. In the autumn, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Cadiz gets 235 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. Cadiz usually gets less rain in October than Santiago de Compostela. Cadiz gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Cadiz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cadiz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cadiz is a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela in the winter. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during winter. Cadiz gets 174 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, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Cadiz gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Cadiz during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cadiz because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year.

In the spring, Cadiz is a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cadiz in April average around 17°C (63°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Cadiz. In the spring, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Cadiz gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets less rain in April than Santiago de Compostela. Cadiz gets 45 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 Cadiz