A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. San Sebastian for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Attractions

Should you visit Antalya or San Sebastian?

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

Should I visit Antalya or San Sebastian? 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a beautiful, splendid, and outdoorsy city. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or San Sebastian?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antalya than San Sebastian, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Antalya is more popular for its museums, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while San Sebastian is known for its food. Antalya is more touristy than San Sebastian and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. San Sebastian is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Antalya different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Antalya 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 Antalya can be an interesting and educational experience. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

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 Antalya or San Sebastian? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Sebastian is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, San Sebastian is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Antalya makes for a great culinary experience. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Is Antalya or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and San Sebastian.

Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

San Sebastian is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Antalya or San Sebastian Better for Music?

Antalya is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Antalya active and fun. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

Antalya is very popular for its resorts. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

Antalya offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

San Sebastian has a few great resort options. It's both a city and a resort vacation destination with many beachside resorts that are popular during the summer months.

Is Antalya or San Sebastian Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

Antalya is very popular for the beache. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beach.

The beaches in Antalya are among the best in the world. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

The beaches at San Sebastian attract visitors from all over. 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.

Is Antalya or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Antalya to see the historical old town. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is Antalya or San Sebastian Better for Hiking?

Antalya is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Antalya is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or San Sebastian?

Antalya is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antalya make it a world-class shopping destination. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

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 Antalya or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or San Sebastian.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

San Sebastian is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Antalya or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Antalya and San Sebastian make for a very good place to visit.

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Couples visit San Sebastian frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Antalya or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya and San Sebastian are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 Antalya or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

San Sebastian is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are good educational programs in town, as well as nice beaches and a good student population. The locals are also welcoming and friendly.

Antalya is not popular with students.

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

Antalya is notable 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.

Public transit in Antalya can get you to some places easily. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

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

Is Antalya or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antalya and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than in San Sebastian. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya 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 Antalya.

One day in Antalya or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the vibrant destination of Antalya. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

In San Sebastian, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antalya or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

In San Sebastian, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Sebastian has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Antalya. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This vacation spot 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.

San Sebastian is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Antalya or San Sebastian?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful vacation spot of Antalya. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Sebastian. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Sebastian. One reason most visitors come is for the food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, 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 Antalya and San Sebastian, we can see that Antalya 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 Antalya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antalya 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 Antalya Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antalya or San Sebastian?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antalya or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Antalya as well as San Sebastian. Many travelers come to Antalya for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Antalya is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than San Sebastian. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antalya in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene during these months.

Antalya is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. In October, Antalya usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Antalya during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Antalya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Antalya is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than San Sebastian. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and San Sebastian. The spring months attract visitors to Antalya because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In April, Antalya is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Antalya usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Sebastian and Antalya