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

Should you visit Santiago de Compostela or Rome?

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

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Rome? 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Rome

Rome is a bustling, fun-filled, and popular 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 Rome: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Santiago de Compostela, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Santiago de Compostela is known for its historical sights and hiking. Santiago de Compostela 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. Rome is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also home to The Colosseum.

The Colosseum

How is Santiago de Compostela different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the terrific sights and museums in both Santiago de Compostela and Rome.

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.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Rome has many famous sights for visitors. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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

Rome 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, Rome is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome Better for Nightlife?

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

Rome is a must-see party destination. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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 Rome Better for Music?

Rome 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 Rome Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Santiago de Compostela is not a live music destination.

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

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Santiago de Compostela offers plenty to see. 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.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Rome Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Rome 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.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santiago de Compostela or Rome?

Rome 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 Rome make it a world-class shopping destination. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

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 Rome Better for Families?

Rome 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.

Rome is a very kid-friendly city. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

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 Rome Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Rome frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

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 Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is terrific for backpackers. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Rome. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Rome Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Rome. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

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

Rome 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 Rome can take you anywhere. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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 Rome a more walkable city?

Rome 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 Rome on foot is easy. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Santiago de Compostela or Rome?

Both Santiago de Compostela and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Santiago de Compostela. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Santiago de Compostela, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rome 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 Rome.

One day in Santiago de Compostela or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Santiago de Compostela. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Rome is a big city with plenty to do. This city offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Santiago de Compostela or Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the iconic destination of Santiago de Compostela. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Rome?

The inspirational city of Santiago de Compostela offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Rome is a fun place to experience. Rome is a big city with plenty to do. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Santiago de Compostela or Rome?

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

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 Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome 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 Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Santiago de Compostela is cooler than Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Rome. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Santiago de Compostela. Santiago de Compostela usually receives less sunshine than Rome during summer. Santiago de Compostela gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Santiago de Compostela usually receives more rain than Rome. Santiago de Compostela gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Rome 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 Rome 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 around the same temperature as Rome. Daily temperatures in Santiago de Compostela average around 16°C (61°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Rome. Santiago de Compostela gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 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 Rome. Santiago de Compostela gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela is a little warmer than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Santiago de Compostela usually receives less sunshine than Rome during winter. Santiago de Compostela gets 103 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 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 Rome. Santiago de Compostela gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

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

In the spring, Santiago de Compostela is around the same temperature as Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. In the spring, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Rome. Santiago de Compostela gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela usually gets more rain in April than Rome. Santiago de Compostela gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rome and Santiago de Compostela