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

Should you visit Santiago de Compostela or Korcula?

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

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Korcula? 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.

Korcula

Korcula is a scenic, laid back, and historic island. 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 food.

Santiago de Compostela and Korcula: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Korcula, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santiago de Compostela is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Korcula is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Korcula 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. Also, Santiago de Compostela is famous for the Cathedral of Santiago. Korcula is well known for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting.

How is Santiago de Compostela different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Santiago de Compostela is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Korcula. Most of the sights are concentrated in Korcula Town, which has a charming old town that is filled with stone houses. In the center of the old town is St Mark's Cathedral. Other points of interest include Abbey Treasury and Marco Polo's House.

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

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

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.

Korcula has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is a way of life on the island, and you'll likely enjoy bread, salad, soup, and grilled meat or seafood at most meals. The ingredients are locally produced and fresh.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Santiago de Compostela is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Korcula is a island 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.

Korcula doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The party scene is lacking in the old town, so this isn't the place to visit for nightlife. Many of the restaurants become cocktail bars at night, and there is a club or two that has opened in recent years.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Korcula is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Korcula has a few good snorkeling spots. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Santiago de Compostela is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Korcula is well known for the beache. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

Korcula is considered a top beach destination. There are a number of beautiful beaches around the island. Head south for the sandier beaches and north for the pebbly, shallower beaches. Many people think that Lumbarda has the best beaches on the island.

Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

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

Santiago de Compostela is renowned for its old town. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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 Korcula. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is renowned for its hiking experiences. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Korcula for the hiking trails. There are many natural and hiking areas on the island so you can enjoy a full day hike or a shorter stroll through the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Santiago de Compostela or Korcula?

Santiago de Compostela is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Korcula 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.

Korcula has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Korcula Better for Families?

Korcula 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.

Korcula is a very kid-friendly island. The island has many great hikes that are appropriate for all ages. There are also pebbly beaches where the kids can play in the water and explore.

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 Korcula Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Korcula frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful old town, striking coastline, and wonderful natural beauty make for a great honeymoon or romantic escape. There are many nice hikes in the area and the beaches are nice for cooling off.

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 Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 backpackers visit Korcula. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Korcula Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela and Korcula are notable places to visit for 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.

It's common for students to visit Korcula. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Korcula 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 Korcula.

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 Korcula offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Korcula a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable city. There are foot paths and trails all over the island but you'll want to rent a bike if you're going long distances.

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

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

How long in Santiago de Compostela or Korcula?

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

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

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

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 island of Korcula offers museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Korcula?

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 laid back destination of Korcula offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Korcula?

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 Korcula. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Korcula?

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.

Korcula is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Korcula. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

When comparing the travel costs between Santiago de Compostela and Korcula, we can see that Santiago de Compostela is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Korcula Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Santiago de Compostela or Korcula?

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

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 Korcula in the Summer?

Both Korcula 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 Korcula for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Santiago de Compostela is cooler than Korcula in the summer. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Korcula fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Korcula. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Santiago de Compostela. Santiago de Compostela usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during summer. Santiago de Compostela gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Santiago de Compostela usually receives less rain than Korcula. Santiago de Compostela gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Korcula 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 Korcula because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Santiago de Compostela is around the same temperature as Korcula. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Korcula averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Santiago de Compostela gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Santiago de Compostela. Santiago de Compostela usually gets more rain in October than Korcula. Santiago de Compostela gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Santiago de Compostela and Korcula. 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 Korcula this time of year.

In January, Santiago de Compostela is generally a little warmer than Korcula. Daily temperatures in Santiago de Compostela average around 11°C (51°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Santiago de Compostela usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during winter. Santiago de Compostela gets 103 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 128 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 Korcula. Santiago de Compostela gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela is cooler than Korcula in the spring. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Korcula fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Korcula. In the spring, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Santiago de Compostela gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela usually gets more rain in April than Korcula. Santiago de Compostela gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Korcula and Santiago de Compostela