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

Should you visit Santiago de Compostela or Genoa?

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

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Genoa? 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 iconic, historic, and religious city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa

Genoa is a colorful, energetic, and historic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Santiago de Compostela and Genoa: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Santiago de Compostela than Genoa. While Genoa is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Genoa is known for its beaches. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Genoa 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. Genoa is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Santiago de Compostela different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Santiago de Compostela is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Santiago de Compostela has many famous sights for visitors. The iconic Cathedral of Santiago has long attracted pilgrims and travelers from around Europe and the world. The spectacular sight includes a museum and the crypt and tomb of Saint James. Another interesting sight in town is the former hostel for pilgrims, the Hostal de los Reyes Católicos. Also make sure you visit Plaza del Obradoiro and the Galician Center of Contemporary Art.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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

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

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.

Genoa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Santiago de Compostela is great for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a port city with a few options for the beache. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Genoa. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town reflects the city's importance in the Christian religion. There are Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings that draw Christian pilgrims from around the world.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Genoa Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is terrific for hiking. However, Genoa is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Santiago de Compostela draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Genoa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santiago de Compostela or Genoa?

Santiago de Compostela is great for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Genoa Better for Families?

Genoa is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Genoa is a very kid-friendly port city. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Santiago de Compostela offers lots of family activities. 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 Santiago de Compostela or Genoa Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Genoa frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

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 Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela and Genoa are very good 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 Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Genoa Better for Students?

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

Genoa is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

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 Genoa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Genoa 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.

Genoa has some very good public transit options. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

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 Genoa a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela and Genoa both are very good 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.

Genoa is a very walkable destination. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Santiago de Compostela or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Santiago de Compostela or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Genoa due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Santiago de Compostela, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

Families should spend more time in Genoa than Santiago de Compostela. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Genoa, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Genoa than Santiago de Compostela. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Genoa 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 Genoa 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 Genoa?

In Santiago de Compostela, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

The port city of Genoa offers museums and nightlife. 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 Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santiago de Compostela. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

The vibrant destination of Genoa offers nightlife and food. This port city 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 Genoa?

Santiago de Compostela is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Santiago de Compostela. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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

You'll find food and shopping around the iconic destination of Santiago de Compostela. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Genoa is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Genoa. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Santiago de Compostela or Genoa?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Santiago de Compostela and Genoa, 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 Genoa?

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 Santiago de Compostela or Genoa in the Summer?

Both Genoa and Santiago de Compostela during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Genoa in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Santiago de Compostela is cooler than Genoa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Genoa averages at about 25°C (76°F).

In Genoa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Santiago de Compostela. In the summer, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Santiago de Compostela gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela usually gets more rain in July than Genoa. Santiago de Compostela gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Santiago de Compostela and Genoa. Many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Genoa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Santiago de Compostela is generally cooler than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Santiago de Compostela average around 16°C (61°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Santiago de Compostela usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during autumn. Santiago de Compostela gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Santiago de Compostela gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Santiago de Compostela usually receives around the same amount of rain as Genoa. Santiago de Compostela gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Santiago de Compostela as well as Genoa. Most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Genoa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Santiago de Compostela is around the same temperature as Genoa in the winter. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Genoa fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Santiago de Compostela gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela receives a lot of rain in the winter. Santiago de Compostela usually gets more rain in January than Genoa. Santiago de Compostela gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Genoa and Santiago de Compostela are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Genoa this time of year.

In the spring, Santiago de Compostela is cooler than Genoa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Genoa averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Santiago de Compostela usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during spring. Santiago de Compostela gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Santiago de Compostela usually receives more rain than Genoa. Santiago de Compostela gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Santiago de Compostela