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

Should you visit Santiago de Compostela or Bologna?

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

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Bologna? 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful, fun, and historical city. 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 Bologna: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will generally find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Bologna. While Bologna is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and hiking, while Bologna is known for its food and impressive beauty. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its classic old town, its Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and its significance as the culmination point for the Camino de Santiago. It is also home to the Cathedral of Santiago. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Santiago de Compostela different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Santiago de Compostela on the map. 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.

Bologna is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It has many historical and religious landmarks, active squares, and impressive museums including the Basilica of St. Petronius, St. Stephen Basilica, the Leaning Towers, and the Portico of the Madonna di San Luca.

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

Bologna is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Bologna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Foodies will appreciate the city's well earned culinary reputation. Some people even consider Bologna to be a food capital in Italy. There are cooking classes and food tours around town, as well as many great restaurants that serve up local dishes. Visitors should try Tagliatelle with Ragu (now famously known around the world as Bolognaise), Tortellini in broth, and Mortadella (salami).

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.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Santiago de Compostela and Bologna.

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.

Many people head to Bologna for the nightlife scene. The young population that is filled with international students means that the city has a fun and active nightlife scene. Some of the city's best neighborhoods for nightlife include Centro Storico, where the tourists hang out, the University District, which is perfect for students in their 20s, and Via dell'Indipendenza, which is popular for an upscale evening out.

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

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

The historic old town of Santiago de Compostela is revered around the world. The old town reflects the city's importance in the Christian religion. There are Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings that draw Christian pilgrims from around the world.

Many visitors go to Bologna to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bologna Better for Hiking?

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

Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santiago de Compostela or Bologna?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bologna and Santiago de Compostela.

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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bologna. The city hosts regular open-air markets where you can pick up local produce or local items. It is among the best shopping destinations in the region. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Piazza Maggiore, Mercato di Mezzo, Mercato delle Erbe, or Via Rizzoli.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bologna Better for Families?

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

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.

Bologna offers lots of family activities. There are kid-friendly museums such as Museo Geologico Cappellini and the interactive history museum of Museo della Storia di Bologna. There's even a museum solely dedicated to gelato - Gelato at Carpigiani Museum. If your kids need a bit of time in nature, check out Dulcamara farm or the Botanic Garden. On the weekend you many be able to catch a show at Margherita's Puppet Theatre.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bologna Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Santiago de Compostela and Bologna make for a good 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.

Bologna is a good city for couples to visit. With beautiful museums, interesting architecture. and lively squares, this is a great city for a couple's holiday. It's filled with romance, but it has less tourist crowds than some of Italy's more popular cities.

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

Santiago de Compostela and Bologna are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Santiago de Compostela is a great city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers hiking the Camino del Santiago will be rewarded with a beautiful city and many nice sights. There are plenty of hostels around town where backpackers can meet other travelers and swap stories.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Bologna. It's not a popular as some of the other cities in Italy and Europe, but it still has a number of hostels and a good backpacker scene.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bologna Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Bologna. It's a top study abroad destination in Italy and is home to a few great universities including the well ranked University of Bologna. There are many great activities for students and a variety of fun places to explore.

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 Bologna 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 Bologna.

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 Bologna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bologna a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela and Bologna both are great when exploring on foot.

Santiago de Compostela is a very walkable city. 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.

Bologna is a very walkable destination. Most sights are always within a 30 minute walk, and the city itself is very walkable.

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

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

How long in Santiago de Compostela or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Santiago de Compostela and Bologna. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bologna than in Santiago de Compostela. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Santiago de Compostela, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

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

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.

The city of Bologna 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.

A weekend in Santiago de Compostela or Bologna?

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.

The culinary destination of Bologna 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. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Bologna?

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.

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

A week in Santiago de Compostela or Bologna?

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.

Bologna is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Bologna. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Santiago de Compostela or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Santiago de Compostela and Bologna, 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 Bologna?

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 Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Santiago de Compostela and Bologna. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Santiago de Compostela is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Bologna averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bologna 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 Bologna during summer. Santiago de Compostela gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Santiago de Compostela usually receives more rain than Bologna. Santiago de Compostela gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Santiago de Compostela as well as Bologna. Many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Bologna in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Santiago de Compostela is generally around the same temperature as Bologna. Daily temperatures in Santiago de Compostela average around 16°C (61°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Santiago de Compostela gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Santiago de Compostela receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Santiago de Compostela usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Santiago de Compostela gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Bologna and Santiago de Compostela are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bologna can be very cold during winter. Santiago de Compostela is much warmer than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Santiago de Compostela usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna during winter. Santiago de Compostela gets 103 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 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 Bologna. Santiago de Compostela gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Bologna and Santiago de Compostela during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bologna because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Santiago de Compostela is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Santiago de Compostela gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bologna. Santiago de Compostela gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Santiago de Compostela