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

Should you visit Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio?

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

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio? 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 inspirational, iconic, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Bellagio

Bellagio is a beautiful, impressive, and glamorous town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and shopping.

Santiago de Compostela and Bellagio: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Bellagio, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santiago de Compostela is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Bellagio is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Santiago de Compostela is well 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. Bellagio is well known for its luxurious villas, stunning views, and charming boutique lined streets.

How is Santiago de Compostela different from Bellagio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bellagio 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 Bellagio?

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Bellagio specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town's atmosphere and views are what attract the tourists, but if you're looking for historical sights, check out the Basilica of San Giacomo.

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

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

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.

Bellagio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many fine dining restaurants that offer a luxurious atmosphere and well crafted dishes. There are also Michelin starred restaurants in town which offer a unique, world-class experience.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio Better for Nightlife?

Santiago de Compostela is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Santiago de Compostela know how to have a good time. As a university city, much of the nightlife is created by the student population. You'll find a lot of bars around Rúa de Santiago de Chile and Rúa de San Pedro de Mezonzo as well as along Rúa do Franco.

Bellagio doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town is filled with opulence and luxury, and the nightlife is no exception. Sip cocktails and fine wine while you listen to music or take in the atmosphere.

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

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Bellagio does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Santiago de Compostela offers plenty to see. The old town reflects the city's importance in the Christian religion. There are Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings that draw Christian pilgrims from around the world.

Bellagio does not have a historic old town.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Bellagio 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.

Bellagio is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio?

Santiago de Compostela is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bellagio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Santiago de Compostela is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Bellagio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find traditional shops mixed in with modern stores. There are high end brands and more local specialty markets that are fun to peruse.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio Better for Families?

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

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.

Bellagio offers lots of family activities. The town has a playground, a small train, and a Museum of Navigational Instruments that kids may enjoy. There's also a beach where everyone can take a swim.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Bellagio frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The town is a favorite on Lake Como, and couples will appreciate its charming atmosphere and beautiful lake front setting. In a few hours you can soak up the character and magic or this beautiful area.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a great destination for backpackers. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options 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.

Bellagio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people visit the town as a day trip, as it can easily be explored in a few hours. Backpackers who don't want to pay the high hotel prices can still enjoy the setting without staying the night.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela is a city with good options for students. However, Bellagio is not popular with students.

Santiago de Compostela is popular with students. It's a small city with many students during the week, but on weekends it quiets down as many students leave town.

Bellagio is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Santiago de Compostela and Bellagio.

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

While Bellagio offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and ferries to town, or you can take a taxi.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio a more walkable city?

Bellagio 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 Bellagio on foot is easy. The town is small and compact with many pedestrian streets that are best explored 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 Santiago de Compostela Worth Visiting? and Is Bellagio Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio to fill your time. In our opinion, Santiago de Compostela has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Santiago de Compostela than Bellagio. 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 Bellagio. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santiago de Compostela than Bellagio 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 Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio?

The city of Santiago de Compostela offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Bellagio might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A weekend in Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio?

Santiago de Compostela is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Even though Bellagio is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

Five days in Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio?

Santiago de Compostela is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio?

Santiago de Compostela is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Bellagio is a fun place to experience. Bellagio is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome.

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

Which is Bigger, Santiago de Compostela or Bellagio?

Santiago de Compostela has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Bellagio. When comparing the sizes of Santiago de Compostela and Bellagio, 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 Bellagio?

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 Bellagio in the Summer?

Both Bellagio and Santiago de Compostela are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bellagio for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Santiago de Compostela is cooler than Bellagio in the summer. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Bellagio fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Bellagio. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Santiago de Compostela. Santiago de Compostela usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bellagio during summer. Santiago de Compostela gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bellagio. In July, Santiago de Compostela usually receives less rain than Bellagio. Santiago de Compostela gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Bellagio and Santiago de Compostela during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Bellagio because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Santiago de Compostela is a little warmer than Bellagio. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Bellagio averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Santiago de Compostela often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bellagio. Santiago de Compostela gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 152 hours of full sun.

Bellagio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Santiago de Compostela. Santiago de Compostela usually gets less rain in October than Bellagio. Santiago de Compostela gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Santiago de Compostela and Bellagio. The winter months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bellagio this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bellagio in the winter. In January, Santiago de Compostela is generally much warmer than Bellagio. Daily temperatures in Santiago de Compostela average around 11°C (51°F), and Bellagio fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Santiago de Compostela usually receives less sunshine than Bellagio during winter. Santiago de Compostela gets 103 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

Santiago de Compostela gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Santiago de Compostela usually receives more rain than Bellagio. Santiago de Compostela gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Santiago de Compostela as well as Bellagio. The natural beauty are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bellagio for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Santiago de Compostela is around the same temperature as Bellagio in the spring. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Bellagio fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Santiago de Compostela often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bellagio. Santiago de Compostela gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bellagio. Santiago de Compostela usually gets less rain in April than Bellagio. Santiago de Compostela gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bellagio and Santiago de Compostela