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

Should you visit Belfast or San Sebastian?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast 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.

Belfast

Belfast is a under-rated, authentic, and affordable city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife and shopping.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a fun-filled, beautiful, and splendid city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Belfast and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Belfast or San Sebastian?

Visitors will generally find more to do in San Sebastian than Belfast. While Belfast is larger than San Sebastian, San Sebastian has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. San Sebastian is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Belfast attracts visitors for its big city activities. San Sebastian is more touristy than Belfast and is known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. It is also well known for La Concha Bay. Belfast is famous for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

How is Belfast different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

San Sebastian is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

San Sebastian is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

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

San Sebastian is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

San Sebastian offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Is Belfast or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

San Sebastian has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's both a city and a resort vacation destination with many beachside resorts that are popular during the summer months.

Belfast is not a resort destination.

Is Belfast or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

San Sebastian is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Belfast. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Is Belfast or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Is Belfast or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

San Sebastian is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

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

San Sebastian is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for students. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Belfast. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

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

San Sebastian is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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.

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Belfast and San Sebastian. In our opinion, San Sebastian has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Sebastian than Belfast. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Belfast, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

Families should spend more time in San Sebastian than Belfast. 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 Belfast. 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the authentic destination of Belfast. 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 Belfast or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belfast. 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 Belfast or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the under-rated destination of Belfast. This city 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 Belfast or San Sebastian?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the city of Belfast. 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 Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, 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 Belfast and San Sebastian, we can see that Belfast 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 Belfast would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Belfast 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 Belfast Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Belfast or San Sebastian?

Belfast has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Belfast 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or San Sebastian in the Summer?

Both San Sebastian and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Belfast because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In the summer, Belfast is cooler than San Sebastian. Typically, the summer temperatures in Belfast in July average around 15°C (59°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in San Sebastian. Belfast usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Belfast usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Belfast or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Belfast during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Belfast this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene.

In October, Belfast is generally much colder than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 9°C (48°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Belfast often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Belfast usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Belfast or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and San Sebastian. Many travelers come to Belfast for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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 Belfast. Belfast is much colder than San Sebastian in the winter. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Belfast usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Belfast or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Belfast as well as San Sebastian. Many visitors come to Belfast in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches during these months.

In the spring, Belfast is much colder than San Sebastian. Typically, the spring temperatures in Belfast in April average around 8°C (46°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Belfast often gets around the same amount of sunshine as San Sebastian. Belfast gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Belfast usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Belfast gets 50 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 Belfast