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

Should you visit Santiago de Compostela or Milan?

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

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Milan? 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 nightlife, food, and hiking.

Milan

Milan is a trendy, chic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Santiago de Compostela and Milan: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Milan than Santiago de Compostela, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Milan is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Santiago de Compostela is known for its museums and hiking. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Milan 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. Milan is popular for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also home to Piazza del Duomo.

How is Santiago de Compostela different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Santiago de Compostela is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

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

Milan 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, Milan is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

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 Milan Better for Nightlife?

Milan is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Milan is a must-see party destination. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

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.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Milan Better for Music?

Milan is terrific for its live music scene. However, Santiago de Compostela is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Milan The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Santiago de Compostela is not a live music destination.

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

It's fun to wander around the terrific old towns in both Santiago de Compostela and Milan.

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.

The old town of Milan is one of the most recognized in the world. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Milan Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is an amazing city to visit for hiking. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santiago de Compostela or Milan?

Milan is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Milan make it a world-class shopping destination. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

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.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Milan Better for Families?

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

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.

Milan offers lots of family activities. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Milan Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Milan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

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 Milan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela and Milan are excellent 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 Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Milan Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Milan. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

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

Milan is terrific 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.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Milan can take you anywhere. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

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 Milan a more walkable city?

Milan 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 Milan on foot is easy. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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 Milan Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Santiago de Compostela or Milan?

In either Santiago de Compostela or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Milan than Santiago de Compostela because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Santiago de Compostela, and 1-5 days is enough time in Milan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Milan than Santiago de Compostela 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 Milan.

One day in Santiago de Compostela or Milan?

In Santiago de Compostela, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this inspirational 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.

Milan is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Milan?

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.

Milan is a big city with plenty to do. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Milan?

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 Milan. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Santiago de Compostela or Milan?

You'll find food and shopping around the inspirational 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.

Milan is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the big city destination of Milan. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Santiago de Compostela or Milan?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Santiago de Compostela and Milan, 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 Milan?

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 Milan in the Summer?

Both Milan and Santiago de Compostela during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Milan for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Santiago de Compostela is cooler than Milan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Milan averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Milan, 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 around the same amount of sunshine as Milan. Santiago de Compostela gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 250 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela usually gets less rain in July than Milan. Santiago de Compostela gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Milan receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Santiago de Compostela and Milan. Most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Milan because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Santiago de Compostela is generally a little warmer than Milan. Daily temperatures in Santiago de Compostela average around 16°C (61°F), and Milan fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Santiago de Compostela usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Milan during autumn. Santiago de Compostela gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Milan receives a lot of rain 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 Milan. Santiago de Compostela gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Milan receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Santiago de Compostela as well as Milan. The winter months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Milan this time of year.

It's quite cold in Milan in the winter. Santiago de Compostela is much warmer than Milan in the winter. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Milan fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Milan. Santiago de Compostela gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 119 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 Milan. Santiago de Compostela gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Milan receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Milan and Santiago de Compostela are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Milan for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

Santiago de Compostela usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Milan during spring. Santiago de Compostela gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Santiago de Compostela usually receives more rain than Milan. Santiago de Compostela gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Milan receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Milan and Santiago de Compostela