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

Should you visit Cannes or San Sebastian?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cannes and San Sebastian can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cannes

Cannes is a luxury, lavish, and glitzy resort city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a fun-filled, beautiful, and splendid city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cannes and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cannes or San Sebastian?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cannes than San Sebastian. While San Sebastian is larger than Cannes, Cannes has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cannes is more popular for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is known for its museums. Cannes is more touristy than San Sebastian and is known for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. It is also home to Boulevard de la Croisette. San Sebastian is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Cannes different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

San Sebastian is very good for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cannes and San Sebastian can be difficult as they are each terrific in their own way.

Cannes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

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.

Is Cannes or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Both Cannes and San Sebastian are excellent when it comes to partying.

Cannes offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

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.

Is Cannes or San Sebastian Better for Music?

Cannes 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 Cannes The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Is Cannes or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

Cannes 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.

Cannes offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

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 Cannes or San Sebastian Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Cannes has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cannes or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

Cannes and San Sebastian are excellent choices for a beach vacation.

Cannes is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

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.

Is Cannes or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Cannes to see the historical old town. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cannes or San Sebastian?

Cannes 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 Cannes make it a world-class shopping destination. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

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 Cannes or San Sebastian Better for Families?

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

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.

Cannes is a family-friendly resort city. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Is Cannes or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Cannes is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Cannes has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

San Sebastian makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

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

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

San Sebastian is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.

Is Cannes or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for students. However, Cannes is not popular with students.

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

Cannes is not popular with students.

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

Both Cannes and San Sebastian offer good public transit options.

Cannes has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel around the city.

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

Is Cannes or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Cannes and San Sebastian both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Cannes is a very walkable destination. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

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 Cannes Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Cannes?

How long in Cannes or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cannes and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cannes than in San Sebastian. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cannes, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Sebastian than Cannes 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 Cannes or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the lavish destination of Cannes. 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.

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 Cannes or San Sebastian?

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

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 Cannes or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the luxury destination of Cannes. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort 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.

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 Cannes or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful resort city of Cannes. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful 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 Bicycle Tours in France, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers 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 Cannes and San Sebastian, we can see that Cannes 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 Cannes would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cannes 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 Cannes Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cannes or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cannes. When comparing the sizes of Cannes 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 Cannes 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 Cannes or San Sebastian in the Summer?

Both San Sebastian and Cannes are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cannes this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cannes is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Cannes average around 23°C (73°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In July, Cannes usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Cannes gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cannes or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Cannes during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cannes for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Cannes is around the same temperature as San Sebastian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cannes averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Cannes. Cannes usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Cannes gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cannes or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cannes and San Sebastian. Many visitors come to Cannes in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Cannes is around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cannes in January average around 9°C (48°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 8°C (47°F).

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cannes usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Cannes gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cannes or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cannes as well as San Sebastian. Most visitors come to Cannes for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the beaches.

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

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Cannes usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Cannes gets 62 mm (2.4 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 Cannes