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

Should you visit Santiago de Compostela or Bergen?

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

Should I visit Santiago de Compostela or Bergen? 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 historic, religious, and inspirational city. Santiago de Compostela offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Santiago de Compostela travel costs.

Bergen

Bergen is a laid back, nostalgic, and friendly city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Bergen travel costs.

Santiago de Compostela and Bergen: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will generally find more to do in Santiago de Compostela than Bergen. While Bergen is larger than Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Santiago de Compostela is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bergen is known for its small town charm. Santiago de Compostela is more touristy than Bergen 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 home to the Cathedral of Santiago. Bergen is popular for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty.

How is Santiago de Compostela different from Bergen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Santiago de Compostela is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Santiago de Compostela on the map. 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.

Bergen is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

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

Santiago de Compostela is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Santiago de Compostela is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bergen. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bergen Better for Nightlife?

Santiago de Compostela is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Santiago de Compostela has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bergen. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

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

Santiago de Compostela is very popular for its historic old town charm. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

Santiago de Compostela has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Bergen is a good destination for visiting its old town. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bergen Better for Hiking?

Santiago de Compostela is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Bergen 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.

Bergen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santiago de Compostela or Bergen?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bergen and Santiago de Compostela.

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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bergen. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bergen More Beautiful?

Santiago de Compostela is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Bergen is not a destination known for its beauty.

Santiago de Compostela offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Impressive gardens, detailed architecture, and the iconic cathedral all make this a beautiful city.

Bergen is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bergen Better for Families?

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

Bergen is a very kid-friendly city. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

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 Santiago de Compostela or Bergen Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Bergen frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

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 Bergen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela is notable for backpackers. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Santiago de Compostela is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Bergen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Is Santiago de Compostela or Bergen Better for Students?

Santiago de Compostela and Bergen are good 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 Bergen. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

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

Bergen 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.

Bergen has some very good public transit options. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

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 Santiago de Compostela or Bergen a more walkable city?

Santiago de Compostela and Bergen 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.

Bergen is a very walkable destination. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Santiago de Compostela or Bergen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Santiago de Compostela and Bergen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bergen 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 Bergen.

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

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

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 Bergen offers museums and nightlife. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A weekend in Santiago de Compostela or Bergen?

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 friendly destination of Bergen offers nightlife and food. This city 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.

Five days in Santiago de Compostela or Bergen?

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 Bergen. 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 Bergen?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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.

Bergen is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Bergen. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Spain, The Best 2-Week Tours in Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Norway, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway.

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

Which is Bigger, Santiago de Compostela or Bergen?

Bergen has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Santiago de Compostela. When comparing the sizes of Santiago de Compostela and Bergen, 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 Bergen?

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 Santiago de Compostela or Bergen in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Santiago de Compostela is a little warmer than Bergen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Bergen averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Santiago de Compostela usually receives less rain than Bergen. Santiago de Compostela gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Santiago de Compostela as well as Bergen. 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. Also, many travelers come to Bergen for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Santiago de Compostela is generally much warmer than Bergen. Daily temperatures in Santiago de Compostela average around 16°C (61°F), and Bergen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. Santiago de Compostela receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Santiago de Compostela usually gets less rain in October than Bergen. Santiago de Compostela gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

Bergen can get quite cold in the winter. Santiago de Compostela is much warmer than Bergen in the winter. The daily temperature in Santiago de Compostela averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Bergen fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. It's quite rainy in Santiago de Compostela. In January, Santiago de Compostela usually receives less rain than Bergen. Santiago de Compostela gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

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

In the spring, Santiago de Compostela is much warmer than Bergen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Santiago de Compostela in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Bergen averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Santiago de Compostela usually gets less rain in April than Bergen. Santiago de Compostela gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bergen and Santiago de Compostela