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

Should you visit Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Should I visit Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela? 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.

Utrecht

The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a historic, religious, and inspirational city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Utrecht and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will generally find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Utrecht. While Utrecht is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is very popular for its museums, food, and hiking, while Utrecht attracts visitors for its impressive beauty and quaint atmosphere. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Utrecht and is known for its classic old town, its Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and its significance as the culmination point for the Camino de Santiago. It is also well known for the Cathedral of Santiago. Utrecht is famous for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town.

How is Utrecht different from Santiago de Compostela?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Santiago de Compostela and Utrecht. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Santiago de Compostela that are not to be missed. 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.

Utrecht offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Santiago de Compostela makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Is Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

Both Utrecht and Santiago de Compostela are high quality when it comes to partying.

Utrecht offers plenty to do in the evening. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

Santiago de Compostela has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the first-rate old towns in both Utrecht and Santiago de Compostela.

The historic old town of Utrecht is revered around the world. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

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.

Is Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Utrecht 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.

Utrecht is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela?

Both Utrecht and Santiago de Compostela are high quality shopping destinations.

Utrecht is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

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.

Is Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

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

Utrecht is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Santiago de Compostela is a family-friendly . 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 Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Utrecht frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

Santiago de Compostela is a good 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 Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Utrecht and Santiago de Compostela are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Utrecht. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

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.

Is Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

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

Utrecht is a very popular for students and younger travelers. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

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

Utrecht 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.

Utrecht has some very good public transit options. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

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 Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Utrecht 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 Utrecht on foot is easy. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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 Utrecht Worth Visiting? and Is Santiago de Compostela Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Utrecht than Santiago de Compostela because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Utrecht, and 1-2 days is enough time in Santiago de Compostela.

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

One day in Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela?

The quaint of Utrecht 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 has to offer.

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.

A weekend in Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela?

The canal-filled destination of Utrecht offers nightlife and food. This 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.

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.

Five days in Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Utrecht. 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.

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.

A week in Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela?

Utrecht is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Utrecht. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela?

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

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 Utrecht or Santiago de Compostela in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Utrecht and Santiago de Compostela. The summer months attract visitors to Utrecht because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year.

In the summer, Utrecht is cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the summer temperatures in Utrecht in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Santiago de Compostela this time of the year. Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during summer. Utrecht gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Utrecht usually receives more rain than Santiago de Compostela. Utrecht gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Utrecht as well as Santiago de Compostela. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santiago de Compostela for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Utrecht is generally much colder than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Utrecht average around 11°C (51°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Utrecht often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Utrecht gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 155 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Santiago de Compostela. Utrecht usually gets less rain in October than Santiago de Compostela. Utrecht gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Utrecht are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Utrecht for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Santiago de Compostela in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Utrecht. Utrecht is much colder than Santiago de Compostela in the winter. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during winter. Utrecht gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Santiago de Compostela. In January, Utrecht usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Utrecht gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Utrecht during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Utrecht in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Utrecht is much colder than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the spring temperatures in Utrecht in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Utrecht often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Santiago de Compostela. Utrecht gets 156 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets less rain in April than Santiago de Compostela. Utrecht gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Santiago de Compostela and Utrecht