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

Should you visit Athens or San Sebastian?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and San Sebastian. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a historic, ancient, and vibrant city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a outdoorsy, fun-filled, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Athens and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or San Sebastian?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Athens than San Sebastian, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Athens is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is known for its resorts, beaches, and shopping. Athens is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. San Sebastian is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Athens is very popular 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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Athens are among the most recognizable in the world. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and San Sebastian can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Athens, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

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.

Is Athens or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Athens 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.

Athens is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

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 Athens or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Athens is not a resort destination.

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.

Athens is not a resort destination.

Is Athens or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is great for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Many people visit San Sebastian for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

Athens is very popular for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Athens has a world-famous historical area. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

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.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Both Athens and San Sebastian are great family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

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 Athens or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

San Sebastian is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

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

Athens 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 Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

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 Athens or San Sebastian Better for Students?

For students, both Athens and San Sebastian are great places to visit.

Many students visit Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

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.

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

Athens 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 Athens can get you to some places easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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

Is Athens or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Athens and San Sebastian are great when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

San Sebastian is very walkable. 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 Athens Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Athens?

How long in Athens or San Sebastian?

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

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

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

One day in Athens or San Sebastian?

Athens 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Sebastian. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

San Sebastian is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or San Sebastian?

Athens 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Sebastian. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

A week in Athens or San Sebastian?

Athens 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled destination of San Sebastian. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, 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 Athens and San Sebastian, we can see that Athens 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 Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens 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 Athens Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or San Sebastian?

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

Both San Sebastian and Athens during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Athens is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In San Sebastian, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than San Sebastian. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and San Sebastian. Most visitors come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the shopping scene.

Athens is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Athens usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Athens or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Athens as well as San Sebastian. The winter months attract visitors to Athens because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In the winter, Athens is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Athens usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches.

In April, Athens is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. In April, Athens usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Athens gets 25 mm (1 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 Athens