A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Santiago de Compostela vs. Barcelona for Attractions, Nightlife, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona?

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

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona? 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.

Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a historic, religious, and inspirational city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a friendly, high energy, and youthful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. 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 and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Home to the Cathedral of Santiago
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Basilica Sagrada Familia
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona than Santiago de Compostela. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Barcelona is very popular for its nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Santiago de Compostela attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and hiking. Santiago de Compostela is famous for its classic old town, its Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and its significance as the culmination point for the Camino de Santiago. Barcelona is famous for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia.

How is Santiago de Compostela different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Barcelona and Santiago de Compostela. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

Santiago de Compostela is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Santiago de Compostela that are not to be missed. 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 Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.


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

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Santiago de Compostela and Barcelona.

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.

Barcelona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

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

Barcelona is a must-see party destination. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

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 Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona Better for Music?

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

Barcelona 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 Barcelona Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Santiago de Compostela is not a live music destination.


Is Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

Barcelona is a popular place for the beache. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

Barcelona is a good option for a beach vacation. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

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

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

Santiago de Compostela is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Santiago de Compostela is one of the most recognized in 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

Santiago de Compostela is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Barcelona 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.

Barcelona is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona?

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

Barcelona is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Barcelona make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

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 Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona Better for Families?

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

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

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.

Barcelona offers lots of family activities. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

With fun activities for couples, both Santiago de Compostela and Barcelona make for a nice place to visit.

Santiago de Compostela makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Barcelona is a good city for couples to visit. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.


Is Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

Barcelona is terrific for backpackers. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

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.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

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

Many students frequent Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

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

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

Barcelona 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.

Barcelona has some very good public transit options. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

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 Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela
Barcelona

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

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

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

How long in Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona?

Both Santiago de Compostela and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Santiago de Compostela. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Santiago de Compostela, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

Families should spend more time in Santiago de Compostela than Barcelona. 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 Barcelona than Santiago de Compostela. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Barcelona that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Santiago de Compostela 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 Barcelona.


  • How many days in Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Santiago de Compostela 1-2 
    Barcelona 3-7

One day in Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Santiago de Compostela. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santiago de Compostela has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Barcelona is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

A weekend in Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the iconic destination of Santiago de Compostela. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona is a big city with plenty to do. This city offers something for everyone. Visiting the old town is also a must. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the iconic city of Santiago de Compostela. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona?

Santiago de Compostela is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Barcelona is a fun place to experience. Barcelona is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best Adventure Tours to Spain, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Barcelona or Santiago de Compostela?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Santiago de Compostela is €91, while the average daily cost in Barcelona is €156. 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 Santiago de Compostela and Barcelona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Santiago de Compostela 37
    Barcelona 96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Santiago de Compostela 74
    Barcelona 192
Compare Hotels in Santiago de Compostela and Barcelona

Looking for a hotel in Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona? 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 Santiago de Compostela


Hotels in Barcelona


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: Santiago de Compostela Hotel Prices and Barcelona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Santiago de Compostela 38
    Barcelona 19

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: $39
  • Santiago de Compostela Private Transfer from the city centre to SCQ Airport: $52
  • Santiago de Compostela Private Transfer from the city centre to SCQ Airport: $52
  • Airport transfer Santiago de Compostela: $72
  • Private Transfer from Santiago Airport (SCQ) to La Coruna Port: $73
  • Santiago de Compostela Private Transfer to SCQ Airport by Van: $91

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Barcelona

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Barcelona are as follows:


  • 10 Trip Metro Ticket
    7.80
  • Airport Bus
    5.00
  • Metro
    2.10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Barcelona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Barcelona:

  • Barcelona City to Sant Train Station Barcelona private transfer: $31
  • Private Transfers from Barcelona Airport to Barcelona City: $33
  • Transfer From Barcelona Airport to Barcelona Cruise Port: $39
  • Airport Transfer: $121
  • Airport Transfers Barcelona Minivan : $76
  • Arrival Private Transfer by Sedan from BCN airport to Barcelona: $71
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Barcelona Airport BCN to Barcelona: $33
  • Arrival Transfer El Prat Airport BCN to Barcelona by Luxury Car: $125
  • Arrival Transfer El Prat Airport BCN to Barcelona by Luxury Van: $88
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport BCN to Barcelona by Business Car: $83
  • Arrival Transfer: Cruise Port to Barcelona by Business Car: $83
  • Arrival Transfer: Cruise Port to Barcelona by Luxury Van: $87

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

Prices for flights to both Barcelona and Santiago de Compostela 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
    Santiago de Compostela 19
    Barcelona 33
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

Typical Food Prices in Barcelona

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


  • Hot Cocoa & Churro
    4.15
  • Sandwich
    1.70
  • Baguette & Horchata
    3.80
  • Tapas on the beach
    8.28
  • Gelatto
    2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Barcelona

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Barcelona.

  • Barcelona Guided Street Food Tour and Gothic Quarter Visit: $21
  • Barcelona Street Food Tour with Local Market & City Center Visit: $21
  • Walking Tour + Flamenco + Tapas Dinner (choose options): $27
  • Flamenco at El Patio Andaluz with Optional Dinner: $27
  • Hard Rock Cafe Barcelona with Set Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Tasty Barcelona Street Food Tour With Local Market Visit : $32
  • La Barceloneta: Tapas Food Tour: $38
  • Barcelona La Barceloneta Tapas Food Tour: $39
  • Barcelona Street Food Tour: Local Market & Gothic Quarter with Expert Guide: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas 5-Course Pairing Dinner: $60
  • Wine Tasting & Tapas Pairing Dinner: $61
  • Paella Cooking Experience and Wine in Barcelona: $61

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Santiago de Compostela 39
    Barcelona 33

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: $1.10
  • Santiago de Compostela Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.11
  • 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: $15
  • Museum Tour of Galician Culture: $16
  • Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and Museum Guided Tour: $16

Typical Entertainment Prices in Barcelona

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Barcelona are as follows:


  • Picasso Walking Tour and Museum Pass
    42
  • Souvenir Gaudi Book
    8.55
  • Admission to Museo Picasso
    6.00

Tours and Activities in Barcelona

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

  • Sagrada Familia: History&Legends Comedy Tour: $2.17
  • History & Legends Comedy Tour: Barcelona Gothic Quarter: $2.99
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Barcelona Free Tour: Gaudi Highlights and La Sagrada Famila: $3.26
  • Alternative Free Tour of the Raval: $3.26
  • Gothic Quarter Free Walking Tour in English: $3.26
  • Gaudí Free Tour in English: $3.26
  • Escape Game and Tour: $3.26
  • Sagrada Familia Comedy Tour: $3.29
  • Self-Guided Tours 150+ Captivating Audio Stories: $3.29
  • Barcelona Gaudi and Sagrada Familia Tour: $3.30
  • Gaudí & Sagrada Familia Free Tour in English : $3.30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Santiago de Compostela 23
    Barcelona 17
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: $217

Sample the Local Flavors in Barcelona

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Barcelona:

  • Barcelona Pub Crawl by KING - Nightlife Party Experience: $16
  • Estrella Damm Brewery Guided Tour with Tasting: $16
  • Pub Crawl with VIP Venue Access and Welcome Shots: $16
  • Barcelona Pub Crawl by King - Free shot with VIP Entry: $16
  • Night Pub Crawl Tour in Barcelona: $17
  • Estrella Damm Brewery in El Prat de Llobregat tour with Tasting: $17
  • Estrella Damm Old Brewery Tour with Tasting: $22
  • Pub Crawl Barcelona by EVOLVE The BEST night experience: $22
  • Estrella Damm Old Brewery Barcelona Guided Tour with Beer Tasting: $22
  • Barcelona Pub Crawl by KING - Free shot and VIP Entry: $22
  • Go out like a local, pub Crawl / Tour in Raval - Barcelona: $24
  • Barcelona Bar Crawl: $26


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


Which is Bigger, Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Santiago de Compostela and Barcelona, 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 Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona?

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 Santiago de Compostela or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Santiago de Compostela and Barcelona. Many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Santiago de Compostela is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Santiago de Compostela average around 19°C (66°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In Santiago de Compostela, it's very sunny this time of the year. Santiago de Compostela usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during summer. Santiago de Compostela gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Santiago de Compostela usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Santiago de Compostela gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Santiago de Compostela 19°C (66°F) 
    Barcelona 23°C (73°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Santiago de Compostela as well as Barcelona. Most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Santiago de Compostela is around the same temperature as Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Santiago de Compostela gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Santiago de Compostela usually gets more rain in October than Barcelona. Santiago de Compostela gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Santiago de Compostela 16°C (61°F) 
    Barcelona 17°C (63°F)

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

Both Barcelona and Santiago de Compostela are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In the winter, Santiago de Compostela is a little warmer than Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Santiago de Compostela usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during winter. Santiago de Compostela gets 103 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Santiago de Compostela. In January, Santiago de Compostela usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Santiago de Compostela gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Santiago de Compostela 11°C (51°F) 
    Barcelona 9°C (48°F)

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

Both Barcelona and Santiago de Compostela during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

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

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Santiago de Compostela gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela usually gets more rain in April than Barcelona. Santiago de Compostela gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Santiago de Compostela 13°C (55°F) 
    Barcelona 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela Barcelona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 131 mm (5.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 12°C (53°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (58°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 25 mm (1 in) 23°C (73°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 19°C (65°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 13°C (55°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 128 mm (5 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)