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

Should you visit Santiago de Compostela or Verona?

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

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Verona? 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's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Verona

Verona is a beautiful, stunning, and romantic city. 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 Verona: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Santiago de Compostela than Verona. While Verona is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Verona is more popular for its impressive beauty. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Verona 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. Verona is well known for its role as the setting of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays.

How is Santiago de Compostela different from Verona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Many visitors head to Verona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While most people know Verona as the setting of Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet", there are also many unrelated but still impressive sights around town. Of course you must check out the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet's House and Balcony), but also make sure you visit the fortress of Castelvecchio, Arena di Verona, and Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.

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

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

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.

Verona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is a source of pride for the locals in Verona, and you'll find excellent dishes in most eateries, even those catering specifically to tourists. There are many local recipes that are worth sampling while you're in the area including risotto with tastasal, potato gnocchi, and polenta.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Verona Better for Nightlife?

Santiago de Compostela is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Santiago de Compostela has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Verona. The nightlife scene caters to a mature crowd and there is a heavy focus on regional wine. There are many local bars and traditional osterie (inns) where you can sip local wine or hear live music.

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

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Verona. At the heart of the city is the old town, which is filled with medieval and Renaissance style architecture. It's easy to explore this beautiful area on foot.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Verona Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Verona is not a hiking destination.

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.

Verona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santiago de Compostela or Verona?

Santiago de Compostela is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Verona to go shopping. The most well known shopping street is Corso Santa Anastasia, which has many antique shops as well as jewelry stores and high end boutiques.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Verona Better for Families?

Santiago de Compostela is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Verona is not known for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Verona is not the most family-friendly destination. You can head to the top of the the Lamberti Tower and, of course, check out the Romeo and Juliet balcony. Wandering the streets and grabbing gelato is also fun for the whole family.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Verona Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Verona frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. As the setting for Shakespeare's famed "Romeo and Juliet", this town is seeped in romantic history. In addition to checking out the classic balcony, couples can enjoy seeing an opera at Verona Arena or seeking out views of the beautiful city. Crossing the romantic Ponte Pietra is another must-do romantic activity in the area.

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 Verona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Verona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers rarely spend more than a day or two in town, but there are hostels in the area that offer cheap accommodation.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Verona Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela and Verona 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 Verona. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience than some of the more popular tourist and study abroad destinations in Italy.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Verona 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 Verona.

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 Verona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. ATV operates buses through the city.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Verona a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela and Verona 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.

Verona is a very walkable destination. It's a compact city that's easy to explore on foot. Many locals get around by walking or biking.

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

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

How long in Santiago de Compostela or Verona?

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

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Santiago de Compostela. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The city of Verona offers museums and nightlife. 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 Verona?

Santiago de Compostela is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The beautiful destination of Verona offers nightlife and food. 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 Verona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santiago de Compostela. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Verona. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Santiago de Compostela or Verona?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the religious destination of Santiago de Compostela. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Verona is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Verona. 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 10-Day Tours in Italy, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Santiago de Compostela or Verona?

Verona has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Santiago de Compostela and Verona, 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 Verona?

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 Verona in the Summer?

Both Verona and Santiago de Compostela during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Santiago de Compostela because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Verona this time of year.

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

In Verona, 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 less sunshine than Verona. Santiago de Compostela gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Verona receives 286 hours of full sun.

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

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Santiago de Compostela and Verona. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Verona for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Santiago de Compostela usually receives more rain than Verona. Santiago de Compostela gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Verona receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Santiago de Compostela as well as Verona. Many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Verona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

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

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

Both Verona and Santiago de Compostela are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Verona for the natural beauty during these months.

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

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

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

Typical Weather for Verona and Santiago de Compostela