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

Should you visit Linz 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 Linz 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.

Linz

Linz is a beautiful, cultural, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a historic, religious, and inspirational city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Linz and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Home to the Cathedral of Santiago


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

Visitors will generally find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Linz. While Linz 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, nightlife, historical sights, and hiking, while Linz is more popular for its impressive beauty. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Linz 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. Linz is well known for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries.

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

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

Linz
Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Linz. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art Museum.


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

Linz
Santiago de Compostela

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

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.

Linz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Linz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

Linz
Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

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

Linz
Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Linz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.


Is Linz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Linz
Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Linz or Santiago de Compostela?

Linz
Santiago de Compostela

Both Linz and Santiago de Compostela are excellent shopping destinations.

Linz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

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 Linz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

Linz
Santiago de Compostela

Both Linz and Santiago de Compostela are notable to visit with kids.

Linz is a family-friendly place to visit. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Santiago de Compostela is a family-friendly town. 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 Linz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

Linz
Santiago de Compostela

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

Couples visit Linz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

Santiago de Compostela is a good town 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 Linz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Linz
Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

Is Linz or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

Linz
Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a city with good options for students. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not popular with students.


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

Linz
Santiago de Compostela

Both Linz and Santiago de Compostela offer notable public transit options.

Linz has a few public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

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

Is Linz or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Linz
Santiago de Compostela

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

Linz is a very walkable town. The tourist areas are easy to explore 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 Linz Worth Visiting? and Is Santiago de Compostela Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Linz or Santiago de Compostela?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Linz 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 Linz. 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 Linz. 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 Linz. 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 Linz 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.


  • How many days in Linz or Santiago de Compostela? Ideal Length of Stay
    Linz 1-2 
    Santiago de Compostela 1-2

One day in Linz or Santiago de Compostela?

The town of Linz offers museums and food. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Santiago de Compostela. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Linz or Santiago de Compostela?

The historic destination of Linz offers food and shopping. This town 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.

Santiago de Compostela is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Linz or Santiago de Compostela?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Santiago de Compostela. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Linz or Santiago de Compostela?

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

The inspirational city of Santiago de Compostela offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Santiago de Compostela or Linz?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Linz is €114, while the average daily cost in Santiago de Compostela is €91. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Linz and Santiago de Compostela in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Linz 58
    Santiago de Compostela 37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Linz 116
    Santiago de Compostela 74
Compare Hotels in Linz and Santiago de Compostela

Looking for a hotel in Linz or Santiago de Compostela? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Linz


Hotels in Santiago de Compostela


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Linz Hotel Prices and Santiago de Compostela Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Linz 41
    Santiago de Compostela 38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Linz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Linz:

  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to City centre: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to Wels city: $68
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz city centre to Linz Airport: $70
  • Private Transfer from Linz to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel, English-speaking driver: $180
  • Transfer from Linz to Munich: Private daytrip with 2 hours for sightseeing: $212

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Santiago de Compostela

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Santiago de Compostela:

  • Departure Private Transfer Santiago de Compostela to SCQ Airport by Business Car: $38
  • Airport Transfer Santiago de Compostela: $45
  • Santiago de Compostela Private Transfer from the city centre to SCQ Airport: $51
  • Santiago de Compostela Private Transfer from the city centre to SCQ Airport: $51
  • Santiago de Compostela Private Transfer from SCQ Airport to City centre: $51
  • Airport transfer Santiago de Compostela: $71
  • Santiago de Compostela Private Transfer to SCQ Airport by Van: $91
  • Arrival Private Transfer Santiago de Compostela Airport to City Center by Minivan: $91

Is it cheaper to fly into Linz or Santiago de Compostela?

Prices for flights to both Santiago de Compostela and Linz change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Linz 32
    Santiago de Compostela 19
Typical Food Prices in Linz

Some typical examples of dining costs in Linz are as follows:


  • Leberkäse (Sausage Loaf)
    4.20
  • Lunch
    8.50

Typical Food Prices in Santiago de Compostela

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Santiago de Compostela:


  • Raspberries
    3.50
  • Ice Cream
    2.00
  • Cookie
    1.00
  • Kebab
    7.25
  • Dinner & Tapas (for 2)
    28
  • Tuna Empanada
    3.50
  • Fruit Shake
    3.50
  • Crepe
    4.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Linz 13
    Santiago de Compostela 39

Tours and Activities in Linz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Linz are as follows:

  • Linz Harbor Cruise: $15
  • Detective Trail puzzle tour for the whole family: $16
  • What the bloody hell is there in Linz? 1,5 hour walking tour: $24
  • Linz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Private History Tour with a Linzer Cake Tasting: $149
  • Linz Exploration: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide: $176
  • Linz Old Town Highlights Walking Tour with Pöstlingbergbahn: $191
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $205
  • Literature in Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour: $210
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $210
  • Literature in Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour : $214

Tours and Activities in Santiago de Compostela

Here are a few actual costs in Santiago de Compostela for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Old Town of Santiago de Compostela Walking Tour: $1.09
  • Secrets of A Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Secrets of Private Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Old town walking tour with an Official Guide: $11
  • Guided Tour of the Old Town with an Official Guide: $11
  • Hostal de los Reyes Católicos Tour: $13
  • Land of Legends & Meigas Night Tour: $13
  • Night Tour Land of Legends and Meigas: $13
  • Queimada Experience Show and Tasting: $16
  • Museum Tour of Galician Culture: $16
  • Santiago: Cathedral & Museum Tour & Pórtico of Glory Option: $16
  • Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and Museum Guided Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Linz 16
    Santiago de Compostela 23

Typical Alcohol Prices in Santiago de Compostela

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Santiago de Compostela from other travelers:


  • 1 Pint Beer
    2.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Santiago de Compostela

Also in Santiago de Compostela, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Cheese and Wine Tasting Experience: $31
  • Cheese and Wine Tasting Experience: $32
  • Albariño Wine Tasting with Winery Tour: $33
  • Premium Porto Santiago Compostela tour lunch & wine tasting: $214


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


Which is Bigger, Linz or Santiago de Compostela?

Linz has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Linz 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 Linz 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 Linz or Santiago de Compostela in the Summer?

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

Linz is around the same temperature as Santiago de Compostela in the summer. The daily temperature in Linz averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Santiago de Compostela this time of the year. In Linz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Linz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Santiago de Compostela during summer. Linz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Linz usually receives more rain than Santiago de Compostela. Linz gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Linz 20°C (68°F) 
    Santiago de Compostela 19°C (66°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Linz as well as Santiago de Compostela. Many visitors come to Linz 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 the autumn, Linz is cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Linz in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Linz often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Linz gets 129 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. Linz usually gets less rain in October than Santiago de Compostela. Linz gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Linz 11°C (52°F) 
    Santiago de Compostela 16°C (61°F)

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Linz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Linz 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.

Linz can be very cold during winter. In January, Linz is generally much colder than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Linz average around -0°C (31°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Linz usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during winter. Linz gets 57 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, Linz usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Linz gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Linz -0°C (31°F) 
    Santiago de Compostela 11°C (51°F)

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

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

Linz is cooler than Santiago de Compostela in the spring. The daily temperature in Linz averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Linz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Santiago de Compostela. Linz gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun.

Linz usually gets less rain in April than Santiago de Compostela. Linz gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Linz 11°C (51°F) 
    Santiago de Compostela 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Santiago de Compostela and Linz

Linz Santiago de Compostela
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 15°C (58°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (65°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Dec 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 128 mm (5 in)