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

Should you visit Corfu 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 Corfu 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.

Corfu

Corfu is a breathtaking, striking, and relaxing island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a iconic, historic, and religious city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Corfu and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Corfu, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santiago de Compostela is better known for its museums and historical sights, while Corfu is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Corfu 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. Also, Santiago de Compostela is famous for the Cathedral of Santiago. Corfu is well known for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its historical sights. However, Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Santiago de Compostela are world-renowned. 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.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Corfu 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, Corfu is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

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 Corfu or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Corfu and Santiago de Compostela.

The nightlife in Corfu has something for everybody. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

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.

Is Corfu or Santiago de Compostela Better for Resorts?

Corfu is terrific for its resorts. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Corfu is a great choice. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

Santiago de Compostela is not a resort destination.

Is Corfu or Santiago de Compostela Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Corfu. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

Santiago de Compostela is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Corfu or Santiago de Compostela Better for Beaches?

Corfu is terrific for the beache. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Corfu. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Corfu does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Santiago de Compostela is revered around 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.

Corfu does not have a historic old town.

Is Corfu or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Corfu and Santiago de Compostela are both places where visitors can find fantastic hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Corfu draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Santiago de Compostela?

If you're looking to go shopping, Corfu and Santiago de Compostela both offer plenty of very good spots.

Corfu is well-known for its shopping. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Is Corfu or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

Corfu 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, Corfu is a very family-friendly destination. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

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 Corfu or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

Corfu is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Corfu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

Santiago de Compostela is a good island for couples to visit. 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 Corfu or Santiago de Compostela Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Corfu and Santiago de Compostela are very good places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Corfu. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

Santiago de Compostela is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Corfu or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Corfu is not popular with students.

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.

Corfu is not popular with students.

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

Corfu 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.

Corfu has some very good public transit options. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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 Corfu or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Corfu and Santiago de Compostela are very good when it comes to walkability.

Corfu is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

Santiago de Compostela is a very walkable destination. 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 Corfu Worth Visiting? and Is Santiago de Compostela Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Corfu or Santiago de Compostela?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Corfu or Santiago de Compostela to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Corfu than Santiago de Compostela because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 1-2 days is enough time in Santiago de Compostela.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Corfu 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 Corfu.

One day in Corfu or Santiago de Compostela?

The island of Corfu offers shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Santiago de Compostela, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic 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 Corfu or Santiago de Compostela?

The breathtaking destination of Corfu offers nightlife and food. This island offers something for everyone. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Corfu or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Corfu. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

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 Corfu or Santiago de Compostela?

Corfu is a fun place to experience. The destination of Corfu offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Corfu or Santiago de Compostela?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Corfu as well as Santiago de Compostela. Many visitors come to Corfu in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Corfu is a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela in the summer. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, 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 Corfu this time of the year. In the summer, Corfu often gets more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Corfu gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun.

Corfu usually gets less rain in July than Santiago de Compostela. Corfu gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Corfu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Corfu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area 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 the autumn, Corfu is a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Corfu in October average around 18°C (65°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Corfu usually receives more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during autumn. Corfu gets 178 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. It's quite rainy in Corfu. In October, Corfu usually receives more rain than Santiago de Compostela. Corfu gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Corfu during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Corfu because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year.

In January, Corfu is generally cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 10°C (49°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Corfu often gets more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Corfu gets 112 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Corfu. Corfu usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Santiago de Compostela. Corfu gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Corfu and Santiago de Compostela. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Corfu this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the natural beauty.

Corfu is a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela in the spring. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Corfu usually receives more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during spring. Corfu gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Corfu usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Corfu gets 62 mm (2.4 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 Corfu