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

Should you visit Berlin or San Sebastian?

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

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

Berlin

Berlin is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a outdoorsy, fun-filled, and beautiful city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Berlin and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Berlin or San Sebastian?

You'll generally find more things to do in Berlin than San Sebastian. Berlin is bigger than San Sebastian, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Berlin is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while San Sebastian is more popular for its food, resorts, and beaches. Berlin is well known for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. Also, Berlin is famous for the Brandenburg Gate. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Berlin different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Berlin 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 Berlin are among the most recognizable in the world. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

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

San Sebastian is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and 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.

Dining out in Berlin is an experience not to be missed. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

Is Berlin or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Berlin 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.

Berlin is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

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 Berlin or San Sebastian Better for Music?

Berlin 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 Berlin From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Is Berlin or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Berlin 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.

Berlin is not a resort destination.

Is Berlin or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a great city for the beache. However, Berlin 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.

Berlin is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Berlin or San Sebastian?

Berlin 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 Berlin make it a world-class shopping destination. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

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 Berlin or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Berlin and San Sebastian are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Berlin is very family-friendly. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

San Sebastian is known to be 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 Berlin or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

San Sebastian is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Berlin is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

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

Berlin 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 Berlin. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

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 Berlin or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Berlin is very popular for students. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Berlin is a great destination for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

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

Berlin 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.

Berlin has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

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

Is Berlin or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

San Sebastian is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Berlin?

How long in Berlin or San Sebastian?

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

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

One day in Berlin or San Sebastian?

Berlin is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Berlin or San Sebastian?

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

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 Berlin or San Sebastian?

Berlin is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Berlin or San Sebastian?

Berlin is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 splendid 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 Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, 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 Berlin and San Sebastian, we can see that Berlin 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 Berlin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Berlin 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 Berlin Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Berlin or San Sebastian?

Berlin has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Berlin 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 Berlin 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 Berlin or San Sebastian in the Summer?

Both San Sebastian and Berlin during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Berlin because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

Berlin is around the same temperature as San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, 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 Berlin. In the summer, Berlin often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Berlin gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Berlin usually gets less rain in July than San Sebastian. Berlin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berlin or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Berlin and San Sebastian. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Berlin this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Berlin is much colder than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Berlin in October average around 10°C (50°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Berlin usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Berlin gets 106 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, Berlin usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Berlin gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Berlin or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Berlin as well as San Sebastian. Many travelers come to Berlin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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 Berlin. In January, Berlin is generally much colder than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Berlin average around -0°C (31°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Berlin often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Berlin gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Berlin usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berlin or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Berlin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Berlin in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches during these months.

Berlin is cooler than San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Berlin usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during spring. Berlin gets 160 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, Berlin usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 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 Berlin