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

Should you visit Santiago de Compostela or Varenna?

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

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Varenna? 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 food, hiking, and shopping.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Santiago de Compostela and Varenna: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santiago de Compostela is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Varenna is more popular for its food and impressive beauty. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Varenna 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. Varenna is well known for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Santiago de Compostela different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Varenna 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 Varenna. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

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

Varenna 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, Varenna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

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 Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Santiago de Compostela is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Santiago de Compostela has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Santiago de Compostela is revered around 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.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Santiago de Compostela is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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 Varenna. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

Is the Shopping Better in Santiago de Compostela or Varenna?

Santiago de Compostela is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna 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 Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Varenna Better for Families?

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

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.

Varenna offers lots of family activities. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Varenna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

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 Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Varenna Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna 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.

Varenna is not popular with students.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Varenna 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 Varenna.

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 Varenna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna 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 Varenna on foot is easy. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

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 Varenna Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Santiago de Compostela or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Santiago de Compostela or Varenna to fill your time. In our opinion, Santiago de Compostela has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Santiago de Compostela than Varenna. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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 village of Varenna offers museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer.

A weekend in Santiago de Compostela or Varenna?

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 beautiful destination of Varenna offers food and shopping. This village offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Varenna?

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 Varenna. 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 Varenna?

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.

Varenna is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Varenna. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Santiago de Compostela or Varenna?

Santiago de Compostela has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Santiago de Compostela and Varenna, 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 Varenna?

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 Varenna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Santiago de Compostela as well as Varenna. Most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Santiago de Compostela is cooler than Varenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Varenna. 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 around the same amount of sunshine as Varenna. Santiago de Compostela gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Santiago de Compostela usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. Santiago de Compostela gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Varenna and Santiago de Compostela are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

In the autumn, Santiago de Compostela is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Varenna averages at about 15°C (58°F).

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. It's quite rainy in Santiago de Compostela. In October, Santiago de Compostela usually receives less rain than Varenna. Santiago de Compostela gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Varenna and Santiago de Compostela during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Varenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Varenna. In January, Santiago de Compostela is generally much warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Santiago de Compostela average around 11°C (51°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Santiago de Compostela often gets less sunshine than Varenna. Santiago de Compostela gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 119 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 Varenna. Santiago de Compostela gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Santiago de Compostela and Varenna. Many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Varenna in the spring for the natural beauty.

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

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

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Santiago de Compostela usually receives less rain than Varenna. Santiago de Compostela gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Santiago de Compostela