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

Should you visit Granada or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Should I visit Granada or Santiago de Compostela? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Granada

Granada is a charming, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a religious, inspirational, and iconic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Santiago de Compostela than Granada. While Granada is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is very popular for its food, hiking, and shopping, while Granada attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Granada 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 well known for the Cathedral of Santiago. Granada is famous for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

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

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

Spend time exploring the first-rate sights and museums in either Granada or Santiago de Compostela.

Travelers visit Granada from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Many visitors head to Granada specifically to visit the famed Alhambra. The palace and fortress complex will not disappoint. The gardens are beautifully maintained and the palace is filled with intricate details. It's easy to spend hours wandering around. In addition to The Alhambra, the Granada Cathedral is also impressive to visit. If you have kids or extra time to fill, head to Parque de las Ciencias, which is the city's Science Park.

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.

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

Santiago de Compostela is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Granada. It's a very touristy city so restaurants can be hit or miss. There are some amazing local eateries, but you'll also find a number of places with lower quality, overpriced food. Classic local dishes include Churros, Plato Alpujarreño, and Habas con Jamón. Tapas are very popular and many restaurants provide free tapas with drink orders. There are also a number of Moroccan restaurants around town.

Is Granada or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

Both Granada and Santiago de Compostela have high quality vibes after the sun sets.

Granada has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene kicks off around 11 pm, when most people have finished up a late dinner. There's a laid-back atmosphere with pubs, live music, and dance clubs that stay open late into the night. There are several popular streets at night including Calle Elvira, Calle Reyes Católicos, and the Realejo District.

The people in Santiago de Compostela know how to have a good time. 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 Granada or Santiago de Compostela Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the first-rate old towns in both Granada and Santiago de Compostela.

The historic old town of Granada is revered around the world. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

With a famous historical old-town, Santiago de Compostela offers plenty to see. 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.

Is Granada or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Santiago de Compostela specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Granada. Ruta de Los Cahorros is a great hike about 25 minutes outside of Granada that begins in the town of Monochil. It crosses many bridges and weaves through dramatic canyons. There are places where you can wade in the water or check out a hidden waterfall. It's well worth the time and can be reached by taxi or public bus.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Granada offers some nice shopping areas. The town is filled with souvenir shops and places to buy local items. It's fun to wander through the old town and pop into the many different shops.

Is Granada or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Santiago de Compostela.

Granada is a family-friendly city. While the highlight of the city is the Alhambra, kids will likely enjoy exploring the shops or seeing a Flamenco show a bit more. Just outside of town is a wonderful hike, Ruta de Los Cahorros. It begins near the town of Monachil which is easily accessible by taxi or public bus. The hike goes through canyons and across bridges and its a wonderful activity for the whole family.

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.

Is Granada or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Granada frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It is a beautiful city that is filled with charm and history. Couples will enjoy exploring the Alhambra, taking in a Flamenco show, or sipping Sangria with tapas. The city is incredibly beautiful with stunning views and many great restaurants.

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

Granada and Santiago de Compostela are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Granada is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a touristy city and it's a popular destination for backpackers as well. There are plenty of hostels around town and the city has social atmosphere with many opportunities to meet other 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.

Is Granada or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

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

Granada is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a popular study abroad destination. Accommodation for students is usually affordable and this is also a great city for integrating into the local culture. You may even end up with a Spanish roommate.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Granada and Santiago de Compostela.

Granada has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around town that many tourists take advantage of. Taxis are also very affordable, so for many visitors, that is an easy option.

You'll find some public transit in Santiago de Compostela, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town that are operated by Tralusa.

Is Granada or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Granada and Santiago de Compostela are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Granada is very walkable. Most of the touristy areas are easy to explore on foot, but there are some steep hills so put on your walking shoes.

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.

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

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

How long in Granada or Santiago de Compostela?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Granada or Santiago de Compostela to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Granada than Santiago de Compostela because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 1-2 days is enough time in Santiago de Compostela.

Families should spend more time in Santiago de Compostela than Granada. 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 Granada than Santiago de Compostela. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Granada 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 Granada 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 Granada or Santiago de Compostela?

The city of Granada offers museums 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, 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 Granada or Santiago de Compostela?

The historic destination of Granada offers nightlife and food. 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 museums 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.

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 Granada or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Granada. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Granada or Santiago de Compostela?

Granada is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Granada. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Granada during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Granada because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year.

In the summer, Granada is a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the summer temperatures in Granada in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Santiago de Compostela, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Granada. In the summer, Granada often gets more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in July than Santiago de Compostela. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Santiago de Compostela. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Granada is generally a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 19°C (67°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during autumn. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Santiago de Compostela receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Granada usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Granada as well as Santiago de Compostela. Many travelers come to Granada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Granada is a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela in the winter. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Granada often gets more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 103 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Santiago de Compostela. Granada usually gets less rain in January than Santiago de Compostela. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Granada in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Granada is a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the spring temperatures in Granada in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during spring. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Granada usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 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 Granada