A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Zaragoza vs. Santander for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Zaragoza or Santander?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zaragoza or Santander, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Where Should I go: Zaragoza or Santander?

Zaragoza

As the sun slips below the horizon, the night is greeted by the familiar glow of the exquisite cathedral Basilica del Pilar that stands above the city like a shimmering castle. This city is none other than Zaragoza, Spain, the capital city of the Zaragoza province in Aragon, Spain. Overlooking the Ebro River, Zaragoza has a population of 701,090, ranking the 32nd most populated municipality in the European Union. Zaragoza has attracted travelers from all across the world, causing the city to host the Expo in the summer of 2008 and also stand as a candidate for the European Capital of Culture in 2012. Besides its glimmering cathedral, Zaragoza is also known for its rich history in folklore, local gastronomy, as well as hosting the well-known Fiestas del Pilar, the most celebrated of festivals in Spain.

Santander

Santander is the capital of the Cantabria Region which runs along the northern coast of Spain. Located right on the bay, it is a place of many historic churches and a handful of interesting museums that range from archaeological discoveries of the region, to maritime history, and cultural features like bullfighting. There is also a large selection of beaches for those looking for a more relaxing getaway in the sun and sand.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best Adventure Tours to Spain, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Santander or Zaragoza?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Zaragoza Prices
    Spain Prices
    Santander Prices
    Spain Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Zaragoza 156
    Santander 138

The average daily cost (per person) in Zaragoza is €156, while the average daily cost in Santander is €138. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Zaragoza and Santander in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zaragoza 65
    Santander 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zaragoza 130
    Santander 102
Compare Hotels in Zaragoza and Santander

Looking for a hotel in Zaragoza or Santander? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Zaragoza


Hotels in Santander


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Zaragoza Hotel Prices and Santander Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zaragoza 23
    Santander 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zaragoza

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zaragoza:

  • Private transfers Airport-hotel Zaragoza.: $72
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $42
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $84
  • Zaragoza Downtown hotels to Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $42
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from Zaragoza Airport to City centre: $104
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from the city centre to Zaragoza Airport: $119

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Santander

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Santander:

  • Santander Private Departure Transfer: $39
  • Santander Private Arrival Transfer: $39
  • One-way Private Transfer From/To Santander Airport: $48
  • Santander Private Transfer from the city centre to Santander Airport: $67
  • Private Transfer from Santander city to Bilbao: $290
  • Private Transfer from Santander city to Bilbao Airport: $290

Is it cheaper to fly into Zaragoza or Santander?

Prices for flights to both Santander and Zaragoza change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Zaragoza 71
    Santander 70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zaragoza

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zaragoza.

  • Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class: $118
  • Complete tour, one thousand and one nights experience with dinner: $340

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zaragoza 35
    Santander 18

Tours and Activities in Zaragoza

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zaragoza are as follows:

  • Zaragoza Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $3.58
  • Zaragoza Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $5.12
  • Napoleonic Secrets of Self-Guided History Adventure: $7.15
  • City of Four Cultures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Zaragoza: $9.99
  • Zaragoza : Aquarium entry ticket: $22
  • Zaragoza Aquarium Admission Ticket: $24
  • Zaragoza -Local Chinese speaking tour guide, walking tour.: $47
  • Ticket pack for Zaragoza Amusement Park and Aquarium: $50
  • Zaragoza : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $53
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $53
  • Private custom tour with a local guide Zaragoza: $54
  • Zaragoza Private Custom Tour with Local Guide: $54

Tours and Activities in Santander

Here are a few actual costs in Santander for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Santander Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $5.77
  • Guided tour of Santander Cathedral: $14
  • The El Centro Botin Skip the Line Entry Ticket: $15
  • 1-Hour City Cruise Around the Bay: $17
  • Guided tour in English of the center of Santander: $20
  • El Sardinero Stadium Guided Tour: $21
  • Obregón: Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabárceno Entry Ticket: $30
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Train: $31
  • City Sightseeing Santander Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $31
  • Guided kayak tour of Santander Bay with a tour guide.: $41
  • Guided Tour by Electric Bike: $65
  • Santillana del Mar & Altamira Museum with tickets- small groups: $72

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zaragoza 14
    Santander 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Zaragoza

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Zaragoza:

  • Wine Tasting and Tapas: $112
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas in the ancient Town of Zaragoza: $113

Sample the Local Flavors in Santander

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Santander:

  • Wine Tourism and Cheese in Cantabria: $209


When comparing the travel costs between Zaragoza and Santander, we can see that Zaragoza is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zaragoza Expensive? and Is Santander Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Zaragoza or Santander?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Santander. When comparing the sizes of Zaragoza and Santander, 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 Zaragoza or Santander?

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 Zaragoza or Santander in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zaragoza and Santander. Most visitors come to Zaragoza for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Zaragoza is a little warmer than Santander in the summer. The daily temperature in Zaragoza averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Santander fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Santander this time of the year. In Zaragoza, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Santander during summer. Zaragoza gets 344 hours of sunny skies, while Santander receives 213 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Santander. Zaragoza gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Santander receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zaragoza 26°C (79°F) 
    Santander 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Zaragoza or Santander in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zaragoza as well as Santander. The autumn months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Zaragoza is around the same temperature as Santander. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zaragoza in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Santander averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Santander. Zaragoza gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santander receives 133 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Santander. Zaragoza usually gets less rain in October than Santander. Zaragoza gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Santander receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zaragoza 17°C (63°F) 
    Santander 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Zaragoza or Santander in the Winter?

Both Santander and Zaragoza are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year.

In January, Zaragoza is generally cooler than Santander. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 8°C (46°F), and Santander fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Santander during winter. Zaragoza gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Santander receives 91 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Santander. In January, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Santander. Zaragoza gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Santander receives 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zaragoza 8°C (46°F) 
    Santander 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Zaragoza or Santander in the Spring?

Both Santander and Zaragoza during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zaragoza for the natural beauty.

Zaragoza is a little warmer than Santander in the spring. The daily temperature in Zaragoza averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Santander fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Zaragoza. In the spring, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Santander. Zaragoza gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Santander receives 148 hours of full sun.

Santander gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Zaragoza usually gets less rain in April than Santander. Zaragoza gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Santander receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zaragoza 15°C (58°F) 
    Santander 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Santander and Zaragoza

Zaragoza Santander
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (46°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 149 mm (5.9 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 10°C (51°F) 119 mm (4.7 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 25 mm (1 in) 19°C (67°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 39 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 181 mm (7.1 in)
Dec 8°C (47°F) 26 mm (1 in) 10°C (50°F) 157 mm (6.2 in)