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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Santiago de Compostela can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant, high energy, and livable port city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a religious, inspirational, and iconic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Santiago de Compostela than Newcastle upon Tyne. While Newcastle upon Tyne is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Newcastle upon Tyne 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. Newcastle upon Tyne is popular for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Newcastle upon Tyne can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

Is the Food Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Newcastle upon Tyne and Santiago de Compostela can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Santiago de Compostela makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newcastle upon Tyne and Santiago de Compostela.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a large number of nightlife venues. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

Santiago de Compostela is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela Better for its Old Town?

Santiago de Compostela is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Santiago de Compostela offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne to see the historical old town. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is an amazing city to visit for its hiking trails. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Santiago de Compostela specifically for its hiking. 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Santiago de Compostela.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a family-friendly port city. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Santiago de Compostela are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Newcastle upon Tyne. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne has some very good public transit options. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne on foot is easy. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Santiago de Compostela Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santiago de Compostela or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-2 days is enough time in Santiago de Compostela.

Families should spend more time in Santiago de Compostela than Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela?

The port city of Newcastle upon Tyne offers museums and nightlife. 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.

In Santiago de Compostela, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela?

The vibrant destination of Newcastle upon Tyne offers nightlife and food. This port 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.

Many people visit Santiago de Compostela for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Santiago de Compostela, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle upon Tyne. 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.

The destination of Santiago de Compostela offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Santiago de Compostela. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in 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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Santiago de Compostela, we can see that Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne Expensive? and Is Santiago de Compostela Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela in the Summer?

Both Santiago de Compostela and Newcastle upon Tyne during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 15°C (59°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Santiago de Compostela, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Santiago de Compostela. Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Santiago de Compostela. The autumn months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 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. Newcastle upon Tyne gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Santiago de Compostela. Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Santiago de Compostela. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Newcastle upon Tyne in the winter. In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the winter temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 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. Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the winter. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Santiago de Compostela. Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Santiago de Compostela in the Spring?

Both Santiago de Compostela and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the spring for the natural beauty.

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

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

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Santiago de Compostela. Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne