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

Should you visit York or Santiago de Compostela?

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

Should I visit York 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.

York

York is a medieval, fanciful, and historic city. 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.

York and Santiago de Compostela: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will generally find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than York. While York 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, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while York attracts visitors for its food. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than York 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. York is famous for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours.

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

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

Santiago de Compostela is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Many visitors head to York specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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

York 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, York is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

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 York or Santiago de Compostela Better for Nightlife?

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

York offers plenty to do in the evening. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

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 York or Santiago de Compostela Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of York is revered around the world. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

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 York or Santiago de Compostela Better for Hiking?

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

York is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in York or Santiago de Compostela?

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Santiago de Compostela is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is York or Santiago de Compostela Better for Families?

York is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Santiago de Compostela is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, York is a very family-friendly destination. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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 York or Santiago de Compostela Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit York frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

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 York or Santiago de Compostela Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

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 York or Santiago de Compostela Better for Students?

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

Santiago de Compostela is a good city to visit for students. It's a small city with many students during the week, but on weekends it quiets down as many students leave town.

York is not popular with students.

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

Both York and Santiago de Compostela offer nice public transit options.

York has a few public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Santiago de Compostela has some public transit options. There are buses around town that are operated by Tralusa.

Is York or Santiago de Compostela a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Santiago de Compostela is very walkable. 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.

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

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

How long in York or Santiago de Compostela?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in York or Santiago de Compostela to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in York than Santiago de Compostela because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for York, and 1-2 days is enough time in Santiago de Compostela.

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

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

The city of York offers museums and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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.

A weekend in York or Santiago de Compostela?

The historic destination of York 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. 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.

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.

Five days in York or Santiago de Compostela?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the religious 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.

A week in York or Santiago de Compostela?

York is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of York. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

The religious 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, York or Santiago de Compostela?

York has a larger population, and is about 56% larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of York 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 York 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 York or Santiago de Compostela in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Santiago de Compostela. The summer months attract visitors to York 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, York is cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Typically, the summer temperatures in York in July average around 16°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. York usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Santiago de Compostela receives 248 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, York usually receives more rain than Santiago de Compostela. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to York as well as Santiago de Compostela. The shopping scene are the main draw to York 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, York is generally cooler than Santiago de Compostela. Daily temperatures in York average around 11°C (52°F), and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, York often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. York gets 112 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. York usually gets less rain in October than Santiago de Compostela. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Santiago de Compostela and York are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to York 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 York. York is much colder than Santiago de Compostela in the winter. The daily temperature in York averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Santiago de Compostela fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

York usually receives less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela during winter. York gets 61 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, York usually receives less rain than Santiago de Compostela. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Santiago de Compostela receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

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

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

In the spring, York often gets less sunshine than Santiago de Compostela. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santiago de Compostela receives 167 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in April than Santiago de Compostela. York gets 47 mm (1.9 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 York