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

Should you visit Windsor or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Should I visit Windsor 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a traditional, touristy, and beautiful town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a inspirational, iconic, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Windsor and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Windsor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santiago de Compostela is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Windsor is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Windsor 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. Also, Santiago de Compostela is famous for the Cathedral of Santiago. Windsor is well known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

How is Windsor 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 Windsor. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Many visitors head to Windsor specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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

Santiago de Compostela is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Windsor or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

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

Santiago de Compostela is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

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

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Is Windsor or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Santiago de Compostela is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Windsor. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

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 Windsor or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

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

Santiago de Compostela is well known for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela is a popular place for students. However, Windsor is not popular with 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Windsor and Santiago de Compostela.

You'll find some public transit in Windsor, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system around town.

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 Windsor or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Windsor and Santiago de Compostela both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

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

How long in Windsor or Santiago de Compostela?

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

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

Windsor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town 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 Windsor or Santiago de Compostela?

Even though Windsor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. 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 Windsor or Santiago de Compostela?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Windsor. 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 Windsor or Santiago de Compostela?

Windsor is a fun place to experience. Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Windsor or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Santiago de Compostela this time of year.

Windsor is around the same temperature as Santiago de Compostela in the summer. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Santiago de Compostela. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives more rain than Santiago de Compostela. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and Windsor during the autumn are popular places to visit. The small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Windsor 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 the autumn, Windsor is cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Windsor in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Santiago de Compostela averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 155 hours of full sun.

Santiago de Compostela gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Santiago de Compostela. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Santiago de Compostela. Many travelers come to Windsor for the museums 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 Windsor. In January, Windsor is generally much colder than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 4°C (40°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

Santiago de Compostela receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Santiago de Compostela. Many visitors come to Windsor in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Santiago de Compostela for the natural beauty during these months.

Windsor is cooler than Santiago de Compostela in the spring. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Santiago de Compostela. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 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 Windsor