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

Should you visit Dublin 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 Dublin 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.

Dublin

Dublin is a fun, laid-back, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Dublin and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will generally find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Dublin. While Dublin 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, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Dublin is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Dublin 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. Dublin is well known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dublin 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin 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.

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Dublin or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

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

Dublin is a must-see party destination. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

Many people head to Santiago de Compostela for the nightlife scene. 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 Dublin or Santiago de Compostela Better for Music?

Dublin is well known for its live music scene. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Dublin. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Santiago de Compostela is not a live music destination.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

Dublin is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Is Dublin or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Dublin 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.

Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or Santiago de Compostela?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Santiago de Compostela and Dublin.

Dublin is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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 Dublin or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

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

Dublin is a very kid-friendly city. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

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 Dublin or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

Dublin is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Santiago de Compostela is a good city 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 Dublin or Santiago de Compostela Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin and Santiago de Compostela are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dublin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Is Dublin or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

Dublin and Santiago de Compostela are notable places to visit for students.

Dublin is popular with students. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Dublin and Santiago de Compostela.

You'll find some public transit in Dublin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

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 Dublin or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Dublin on foot is easy. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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 Dublin Worth Visiting? and Is Santiago de Compostela Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Dublin or Santiago de Compostela?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santiago de Compostela than Dublin 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 Dublin or Santiago de Compostela?

The city of Dublin offers shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Santiago de Compostela. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Dublin or Santiago de Compostela?

The fun destination of Dublin offers museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Dublin or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dublin. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santiago de Compostela. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Dublin or Santiago de Compostela?

Dublin is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Dublin. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the religious destination of Santiago de Compostela. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Dublin or Santiago de Compostela?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Dublin 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 Dublin 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 Dublin or Santiago de Compostela in the Summer?

Both Santiago de Compostela and Dublin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Dublin in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Dublin is cooler than Santiago de Compostela in the summer. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Santiago de Compostela. Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during summer. Dublin gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dublin usually receives more rain than Santiago de Compostela. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Dublin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Dublin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Furthermore, 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, Dublin is cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dublin in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Dublin gets 97 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. Dublin usually gets less rain in October than Santiago de Compostela. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dublin and Santiago de Compostela. The winter months attract visitors to Dublin because of the museums, 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, Dublin is generally much colder than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 6°C (42°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during winter. Dublin gets 56 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, Dublin usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Dublin 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 Dublin or Santiago de Compostela in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dublin as well as Santiago de Compostela. The activities around the city are the main draw to Dublin this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the natural beauty.

Dublin is cooler than Santiago de Compostela in the spring. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Dublin often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Santiago de Compostela. Dublin gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets less rain in April than Santiago de Compostela. Dublin gets 51 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 Dublin