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

Should you visit Corfu or San Sebastian?

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

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

Corfu

Corfu is a relaxing, stunning, and natural island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

San Sebastian

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

Corfu and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Corfu or San Sebastian?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Corfu than San Sebastian, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Corfu is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is more popular for its museums. Corfu is well known for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. Also, Corfu is famous for Canal d'Amour. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Corfu different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

San Sebastian offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Corfu and San Sebastian both to be amazing destinations.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Corfu is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

Many restaurants in San Sebastian have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Corfu or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Corfu and San Sebastian.

The nightlife in Corfu has something for everybody. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

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.

Is Corfu or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

Corfu 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.

Corfu offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

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 Corfu or San Sebastian Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Corfu to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Corfu or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

Corfu is very popular for the beache. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beach.

The beaches in Corfu are among the best in the world. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

The beaches at San Sebastian attract visitors from all over. 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 Corfu or San Sebastian Better for Hiking?

Corfu is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Corfu draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or San Sebastian?

If you're looking to go shopping, Corfu and San Sebastian both offer plenty of superb spots.

Corfu is well-known for its shopping. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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 Corfu or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Corfu is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Corfu is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

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.

Is Corfu or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

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

Corfu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

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 Corfu or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Corfu and San Sebastian are superb places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Corfu. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

San Sebastian is a very popular island 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.

Is Corfu or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Corfu is not popular with students.

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.

Corfu is not popular with students.

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

Corfu 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 Corfu can get you to some places easily. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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

Is Corfu or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Corfu and San Sebastian are superb when it comes to walkability.

Corfu is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Corfu and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Corfu than in San Sebastian. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

Families should spend more time in Corfu than San Sebastian. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Corfu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Corfu or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the natural destination of Corfu. 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.

In San Sebastian, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this outdoorsy destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Corfu or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Corfu. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Sebastian. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Corfu or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the breathtaking destination of Corfu. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island 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.

San Sebastian is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of San Sebastian. Lots of people come for the food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Corfu or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful island of Corfu. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the fun-filled destination of San Sebastian. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

Which is Bigger, Corfu or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Corfu. When comparing the sizes of Corfu 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 Corfu 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 Corfu or San Sebastian in the Summer?

Both San Sebastian and Corfu during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Corfu because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

Corfu is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 25°C (76°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 Corfu. In the summer, Corfu often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Corfu gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Corfu usually gets less rain in July than San Sebastian. Corfu gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Corfu and San Sebastian. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Corfu this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Corfu is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Corfu in October average around 18°C (65°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Corfu usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Corfu gets 178 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. Corfu gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Corfu usually receives around the same amount of rain as San Sebastian. Corfu gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Corfu or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Corfu as well as San Sebastian. Many travelers come to Corfu for 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.

In January, Corfu is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 10°C (49°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Corfu often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Corfu gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Corfu receives a lot of rain in the winter. Corfu usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Corfu gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or San Sebastian in the Spring?

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

Corfu is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Corfu usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during spring. Corfu gets 195 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, Corfu usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Corfu gets 62 mm (2.4 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 Corfu