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

Should you visit Avignon 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 Avignon 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.

Avignon

Avignon is a picturesque, historical, and quaint town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

San Sebastian

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

Avignon and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Avignon or San Sebastian?

Both San Sebastian and Avignon have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Avignon is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm, while San Sebastian is known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Avignon is popular for its architectural beauty and historical importance. San Sebastian is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Avignon different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Avignon 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 Avignon are among the most recognizable in the world. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at world-class restaurants in both Avignon and San Sebastian.

Eat your way through Avignon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in town.

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 Avignon or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

San Sebastian has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Avignon or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Avignon 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.

Avignon is not a resort destination.

Is Avignon or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for the beach. However, Avignon 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.

Avignon is not a beach destination.

Is Avignon or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Avignon has a world-famous historical area. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Avignon or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Avignon is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Is Avignon or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in San Sebastian. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Avignon. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

Is Avignon or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Avignon and San Sebastian both great destinations for a couple.

Avignon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

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 Avignon or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Avignon. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

Is Avignon or San Sebastian Better for Students?

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

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

Avignon is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Avignon and San Sebastian.

Avignon has some public transit options. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.

You'll find some public transit in San Sebastian, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

Is Avignon or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Avignon 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 Avignon on foot. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore 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 Avignon Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Avignon?

How long in Avignon or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Avignon and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Sebastian than in Avignon. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Avignon, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

Families should spend more time in San Sebastian than Avignon. 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 San Sebastian than Avignon. 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 San Sebastian than Avignon 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 San Sebastian.

One day in Avignon or San Sebastian?

Even though Avignon is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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 Avignon or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Avignon. 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.

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 Avignon or San Sebastian?

Avignon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

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 Avignon or San Sebastian?

Avignon is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, 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 Avignon and San Sebastian, we can see that Avignon 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 Avignon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Avignon 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 Avignon Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Avignon or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Avignon. When comparing the sizes of Avignon 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 Avignon 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 Avignon or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Avignon as well as San Sebastian. Many visitors come to Avignon in the summer for the small town charm 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, Avignon is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Avignon average around 24°C (75°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 Avignon this time of the year. In the summer, Avignon often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Avignon gets 354 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Avignon usually gets less rain in July than San Sebastian. Avignon gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Avignon or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Avignon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Avignon for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the shopping scene.

Avignon is around the same temperature as San Sebastian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Avignon averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Avignon usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Avignon gets 178 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. It's quite rainy in Avignon. In October, Avignon usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Avignon gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Avignon or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Avignon during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Avignon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In the winter, Avignon is cooler than San Sebastian. Typically, the winter temperatures in Avignon in January average around 7°C (44°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Avignon often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Avignon gets 146 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. Avignon usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Avignon gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Avignon or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Avignon and San Sebastian. The small town charm are the main draw to Avignon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches.

In April, Avignon is generally around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Avignon average around 13°C (56°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Avignon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Avignon usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during spring. Avignon gets 218 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, Avignon usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Avignon gets 57 mm (2.2 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 Avignon