A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amsterdam vs. San Sebastian for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Amsterdam or San Sebastian?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or San Sebastian, 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.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a canal-lined, party-oriented, and laid-back city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a splendid, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Amsterdam and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or San Sebastian?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than San Sebastian. Amsterdam is bigger than San Sebastian, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is more popular for its food, resorts, and beaches. Amsterdam is more touristy than San Sebastian and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Amsterdam different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Sebastian and Amsterdam. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Amsterdam or San Sebastian?

Amsterdam is notable for its sights and museums. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around San Sebastian. Head to Castillo de la Mota for nice views and walks. Museo San Telmo offers an overview of Basque culture and Palacio de Miramar is another interesting place to visit.

Is the Food Better in Amsterdam or San Sebastian? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Sebastian is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, San Sebastian is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It is a famed culinary capital of not just Spain, but the entire world. The city has many Michelin-starred restaurants where you can experience modern or traditional recipes prepared by world class chefs. There are also pintxo bars, food markets, and gourmet food shops, that sell local ingredients and dishes. Much of the cuisine includes seafood, but you'll also find a local twist on traditional tapas. Dining is a true experience in this town.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Amsterdam or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Amsterdam is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

San Sebastian has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. You can expect a lively nightlife scene around town with many bars and places to hang out. Some of the best nightlife is found in and around Parte Vieja, Centro, Reyes Católicos and Gros.

Is Amsterdam or San Sebastian Better for Music?

Amsterdam is very popular for its live music scene. However, San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Amsterdam The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, San Sebastian makes a nice vacation spot. It's both a city and a resort vacation destination with many beachside resorts that are popular during the summer months.

Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Is Amsterdam or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is well known for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Sebastian. The city has three urban beaches that are a huge attraction during the summer months. For surfing and a lively atmosphere, head to the Playa de la Zurriola. The playa de la Concha is the most photographed and famous beach in town and Ondarreta is another beautiful option.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Amsterdam or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is notable for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Amsterdam to see the historical old town. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or San Sebastian?

Shopping is a popular activity in both San Sebastian and Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in San Sebastian. A mix of familiar brands and locally made items make shopping a fun activity. You'll also find many artisan food shops around town where you can take home some local wine or other culinary treats.

Is Amsterdam or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

San Sebastian is a very kid-friendly city. This city is surprisingly family-friendly. Not only is there the beach, but there are playgrounds everywhere. There's also the fun Monte Igueldo San Sebastian Amusement Park and the San Sebastian Aquarium. You could also take a boat ride or explore the many parks and gardens around town. And, of course, there are the many ice cream shops to check out.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Amsterdam or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Amsterdam and San Sebastian are both superb to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

San Sebastian is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With its nice beaches, stunning view points, and world class restaurants, this city makes an excellent couple's destination. There are Michelin star restaurants to dine in and many parks and gardens where you can take a stroll as well.

Is Amsterdam or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is very popular for backpackers. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Amsterdam. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit San Sebastian. There are a number of hostels around town, and you'll find enough other backpackers looking to meet up so you'll never be lonely.

Is Amsterdam or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is well known for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

San Sebastian is a great city to visit as a student. There are good educational programs in town, as well as nice beaches and a good student population. The locals are also welcoming and friendly.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Is Amsterdam or San Sebastian Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Amsterdam is very popular for its public transit. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Amsterdam has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

San Sebastian has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

Is Amsterdam or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Amsterdam on foot. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

San Sebastian is a very walkable destination. It's a great city for walking, with many pedestrian areas and places where you can take a stroll along the river or seaside.

For even more information, also check out Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Amsterdam and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in San Sebastian. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than San Sebastian. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Amsterdam that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than San Sebastian 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 Amsterdam.

One day in Amsterdam or San Sebastian?

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of San Sebastian. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of San Sebastian. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or San Sebastian?

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful city of San Sebastian. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or San Sebastian?

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

San Sebastian is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and San Sebastian, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is San Sebastian much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Sebastian would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Sebastian 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 Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam than you might in San Sebastian.

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or San Sebastian?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and San Sebastian, 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 Amsterdam or San Sebastian?

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 Amsterdam or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and San Sebastian. The summer months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

Amsterdam is cooler than San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Sebastian this time of the year. In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Sebastian during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as San Sebastian. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is cooler than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Amsterdam usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Amsterdam. In January, Amsterdam is generally much colder than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. In January, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Amsterdam during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches during these months.

Amsterdam is much colder than San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Amsterdam usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Sebastian and Amsterdam