A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Santiago de Compostela vs. Lake Garda for Attractions, Hiking, Families, and Food

Should you visit Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda?

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

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda? 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 religious, inspirational, and iconic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a fun, energetic, and scenic lake. 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 Lake Garda: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Lake Garda, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santiago de Compostela is better known for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Lake Garda is more popular for its beaches and impressive beauty. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Lake Garda 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. Also, Santiago de Compostela is famous for the Cathedral of Santiago. Lake Garda is well known for its beautiful setting, charming towns, and fun amusement parks.

How is Santiago de Compostela different from Lake Garda?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Santiago de Compostela is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Santiago de Compostela are world-renowned. 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 Lake Garda. While most people come for the natural beauty, there are also great castles that you can explore. Castello Scaligeri, Grotte di Catullo, and Castello Scaligero.

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

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

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.

Lake Garda has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many great local restaurants in the area. Most make use of local ingredients such as olive oil, lemons, wine, and fish. Pasta and risotto are both popular throughout the area as well.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Lake Garda for the nightlife scene. You'll find clubs and bars in various towns that make for a great nightlife scene. You'll even find beach parties and fireworks shows during the most popular times of the year.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda Better for Beaches?

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

Lake Garda is considered a top beach destination. Despite there being no ocean, there are many great swimming beaches in the area. Many have sand and great places to relax. There's also plenty of watersports to choose from.

Santiago de Compostela is not a beach destination.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda Better for its Old Town?

Santiago de Compostela is terrific for its old town. However, Lake Garda does not have a 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.

Lake Garda does not have a historic old town.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is terrific for its hiking trails. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Santiago de Compostela specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Lake Garda. There are many great walking and hiking trails in the area that take you through the natural beauty, connect the charming towns, and offer spectacular viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda?

Santiago de Compostela is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Santiago de Compostela is well-known for its shopping. 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 go to Lake Garda to go shopping. Many villages around the lake are great for shopping. You'll find clothing stores, jewelry shops, and souvenir vendors with something for everyone.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda Better for Families?

Lake Garda is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Lake Garda is a very family-friendly destination. The nearby amusement parks, including Gardaland, make this a popular destination for families. The area also has many places to swim, trails to explore, and castles to experience. Kids and adults alike will love this amazing kid-friendly area.

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 Lake Garda Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Lake Garda frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You'll find a lot of families in the area because of the amusement parks, but that doesn't mean that this isn't a romantic and beautiful spot for couples. There are many charming towns to explore and scenic viewpoints to check out. There are also excellent romantic restaurants that you should try.

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 Lake Garda Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many 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.

Lake Garda is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels around the lake that are affordable and fun. The area also see enough backpackers to keep the atmosphere fun and social.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake Garda is not popular with students.

Plenty of students 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.

Lake Garda is not popular with students.

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

Lake Garda 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.

Lake Garda has some very good public transit options. There are ferries, buses, and trains in the area.

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 Lake Garda a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela and Lake Garda both are high quality 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.

Lake Garda is a very walkable destination. There are walking trails that connect the villages around the lake and this how many people choose to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Lake Garda or Santiago de Compostela?

How long in Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda?

It's fun to spend time in either Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lake Garda 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 Lake Garda.

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

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

With museums and nightlife around the iconic city of Santiago de Compostela, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Santiago de Compostela, one day is sufficent for most.

The lake of Lake Garda offers museums and nightlife. 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 Lake Garda?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Santiago de Compostela, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

The playful destination of Lake Garda offers nightlife and food. This lake 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 Lake Garda?

Santiago de Compostela, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Lake Garda is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Lake Garda. 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 Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

When is the best time to visit Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda?

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 Lake Garda in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Santiago de Compostela as well as Lake Garda. The summer months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lake Garda this time of year.

Santiago de Compostela is cooler than Lake Garda in the summer. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Lake Garda fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lake Garda. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Santiago de Compostela this time of the year. In the summer, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Lake Garda. Santiago de Compostela gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake Garda receives 286 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela usually gets less rain in July than Lake Garda. Santiago de Compostela gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda in the Autumn?

Both Lake Garda and Santiago de Compostela are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lake Garda for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Santiago de Compostela is a little warmer than Lake Garda. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Lake Garda averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Santiago de Compostela usually receives more sunshine than Lake Garda during autumn. Santiago de Compostela gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Lake Garda receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Santiago de Compostela. In October, Santiago de Compostela usually receives more rain than Lake Garda. Santiago de Compostela gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda in the Winter?

Both Lake Garda and Santiago de Compostela during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lake Garda in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lake Garda can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Santiago de Compostela is generally much warmer than Lake Garda. Daily temperatures in Santiago de Compostela average around 11°C (51°F), and Lake Garda fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Santiago de Compostela often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lake Garda. Santiago de Compostela gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake Garda receives 98 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 January than Lake Garda. Santiago de Compostela gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Lake Garda in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Santiago de Compostela and Lake Garda. Many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lake Garda for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

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

Santiago de Compostela usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lake Garda during spring. Santiago de Compostela gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Lake Garda receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Santiago de Compostela usually receives more rain than Lake Garda. Santiago de Compostela gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lake Garda and Santiago de Compostela