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

Should you visit Glasgow 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 Glasgow 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.

Glasgow

Glasgow is a historic, high energy, 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 iconic, historic, and religious city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Glasgow and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Santiago de Compostela than Glasgow. While Glasgow is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Glasgow is known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Glasgow 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 home to the Cathedral of Santiago. Glasgow is popular for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Santiago de Compostela has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Glasgow. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

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

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

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.

Glasgow offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene continues to grow and innovate. You'll find plenty of seafood options as well as international cuisine and everything from fine dining to local cafes.

Is Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

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

Glasgow is a must-see party destination. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

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 Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela Better for Music?

Glasgow is terrific for its live music scene. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Glasgow Known to some as "the city of music", you'll find a wide range of music venues, live shows, festivals, and even a great underground music scene.

Santiago de Compostela is not a live music destination.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

The rich history of Santiago de Compostela can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Many visitors go to Glasgow to see the historical old town. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Is Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Glasgow 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.

Glasgow is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela is great for its shopping areas. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

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.

Glasgow is a great destination for shopping. The city has independent boutique shops as well as major brands. Head to the "Style Mile" for some of the best shopping. It's a district that offers pedestrian-friendly shopping and includes high end boutiques and independent markets. Also check out The Barras Market, Buchanan Street, and High Street.

Is Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

Glasgow and Santiago de Compostela are both good destinations for the whole family.

Glasgow offers lots of family activities. The city has some family-friendly museums including the hands on The Burrell Collection, the Glasgow Science Center, and The Riverside Museum. If you have older kids who enjoy the water, there are some water activities in town. Check out Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow Wake Park or Outdoor Pursuits. There are also climbing gyms and skate parks.

Santiago de Compostela is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

Glasgow and Santiago de Compostela are both good to visit as a couple.

Glasgow is a good city for couples to visit. Couples can enjoy a museum or one of the parks around town. There are also river cruises and spas. For a more locally specific activity, check out the Bothwell Castle.

Santiago de Compostela is a nice destination for couples. 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 Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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.

Glasgow is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.

Is Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

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

Glasgow is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

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

Glasgow 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.

Glasgow has some very good public transit options. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

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 Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

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

Glasgow is a very walkable destination. The city center is generally walkable and can be explored on foot.

Santiago de Compostela is very walkable. 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 Glasgow Worth Visiting? and Is Santiago de Compostela Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Glasgow than Santiago de Compostela because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Glasgow, and 1-2 days is enough time in Santiago de Compostela.

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

The city of Glasgow offers shopping and museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Santiago de Compostela, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela?

The high energy destination of Glasgow offers museums and nightlife. 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.

In Santiago de Compostela, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santiago de Compostela has to offer.

Five days in Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glasgow. 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 great place to explore. 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. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santiago de Compostela. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Santiago de Compostela. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela?

Glasgow has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow 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 Glasgow 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 Glasgow or Santiago de Compostela in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Glasgow as well as Santiago de Compostela. Many visitors come to Glasgow in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Glasgow is generally cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 15°C (59°F), 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. In the summer, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in July than Santiago de Compostela. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Glasgow are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Glasgow for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene 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.

Glasgow is much colder than Santiago de Compostela in the autumn. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during autumn. Glasgow gets 69 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 Glasgow. In October, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Santiago de Compostela. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

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

The weather in Glasgow can be very cold. In the winter, Glasgow is much colder than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the winter temperatures in Glasgow in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Glasgow gets 40 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 Glasgow. Glasgow usually gets more rain in January than Santiago de Compostela. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Glasgow and Santiago de Compostela. The activities around the city are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the natural beauty.

In April, Glasgow is generally much colder than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 7°C (45°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during spring. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Glasgow usually receives around the same amount of rain as Santiago de Compostela. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 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 Glasgow