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

Should you visit Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lucerne and Santiago de Compostela. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a scenic, active, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around 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 nightlife.

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 food, hiking, and shopping.

Lucerne and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Lucerne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Santiago de Compostela is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and hiking, while Lucerne is known for its big city activities and impressive beauty. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Lucerne 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. Lucerne is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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

Santiago de Compostela is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is superb in both Lucerne and Santiago de Compostela.

Many people head to Lucerne for the nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Santiago de Compostela has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela Better for its Old Town?

Santiago de Compostela is very popular for its historic old town charm. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

Santiago de Compostela has a world-famous historical 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Is Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is very popular for hiking. However, Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Santiago de Compostela is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lucerne and Santiago de Compostela both offer plenty of superb spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Santiago de Compostela is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

Both Lucerne and Santiago de Compostela are good family-friendly destinations.

Lucerne offers lots of family activities. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

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 Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Lucerne frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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

Santiago de Compostela is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for 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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

Lucerne and Santiago de Compostela both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Lucerne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

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

Is Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

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

How long in Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela?

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

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

The city of Lucerne offers museums and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

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 Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela?

The active destination of Lucerne 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. 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 Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. 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. 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 Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela?

Lucerne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Lucerne. 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.

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 in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela has a larger population, and is about 62% larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Santiago de Compostela in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Santiago de Compostela. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lucerne is generally a little warmer than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 21°C (70°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. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lucerne this time of the year. In the summer, Lucerne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Santiago de Compostela. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in July than Santiago de Compostela. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lucerne is cooler than Santiago de Compostela in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during autumn. Lucerne gets 120 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. In October, Lucerne usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Lucerne during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lucerne can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Lucerne is much colder than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lucerne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Lucerne gets 55 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. Lucerne usually gets less rain in January than Santiago de Compostela. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Santiago de Compostela. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the natural beauty.

In April, Lucerne is generally around the same temperature as Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 12°C (53°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during spring. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Santiago de Compostela. Lucerne gets 79 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 Lucerne