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

Should you visit Delphi or San Sebastian?

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

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

Delphi

Delphi is a fascinating, world-renowned, and historic archeological site. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a outdoorsy, fun-filled, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Delphi and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Temple of Apollo
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Delphi or San Sebastian?

Both San Sebastian and Delphi have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Delphi is more popular for its museums and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Delphi is more touristy than San Sebastian and is popular for its world renowned archeological ruins and its connection to Greek mythology. San Sebastian is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Delphi different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Delphi
San Sebastian

Delphi 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 Delphi are among the most recognizable in the world. This is one of the most popular archeological sites in Greece. You will find the Temple of Apollo and most of the monuments are dedicated to this God. There is an Ancient Theatre, an Ancient Stadium, as well as an Archaeological Museum. There's also the Sanctuary of Athena Pronea and the Treasury of the Athenians.

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

Delphi
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site 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.

Delphi offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of restaurant options in the area, some of them offering spectacular views. There are traditional Greek restaurants as well as modern cafes with international cuisine. You'll find all of the standard Greek staples such as gyros, lamb chops, and seafood.

Is Delphi or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Delphi
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is great for its evening party scene. However, Delphi is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to San Sebastian for the nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Delphi for the nightlife. This is a quiet town that shuts down in the evening. If you're looking for more of a nightlife scene, head to nearby Arachova, which is just a 10 minute drive away.

Is Delphi or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

Delphi
San Sebastian

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

Delphi is not a resort destination.


Is Delphi or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

Delphi
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is great for the beach. However, Delphi 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.

Delphi is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Delphi or San Sebastian?

Delphi
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is great for its shopping areas. However, Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Delphi or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Delphi
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site 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.

Delphi is a family-friendly place to visit. The archeological ruins are world class, and kids who enjoy mythology and history will love this place. It's the perfect place for kids to let their imagination run wild.


Is Delphi or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Delphi
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is great for couples. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for romance.

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.

Delphi is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination that is a great addition to any couple's itinerary to Greece.

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

Delphi
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site 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.

Delphi is a good archeological site to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two in the area, and the prices are reasonable for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Delphi or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Delphi
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Delphi 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.

Delphi is not popular with students.


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

Delphi
San Sebastian

Delphi and San Sebastian both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Delphi offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel to Delphi from Greece.

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

Is Delphi or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Delphi
San Sebastian

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

Delphi is a very walkable destination. Both the museum are archeological site are within walking distance of the town. The town is also small enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Delphi?

How long in Delphi or San Sebastian?

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

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


  • How many days in Delphi or San Sebastian? Ideal Length of Stay
    Delphi 1-2 
    San Sebastian 2-3

One day in Delphi or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the world-renowned destination of Delphi. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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.

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 Delphi or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Delphi. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Delphi or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic destination of Delphi. This archeological site 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 Delphi or San Sebastian?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful archeological site of Delphi. 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 outdoorsy 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 G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, San Sebastian or Delphi?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Delphi is €102, while the average daily cost in San Sebastian is €90. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Delphi and San Sebastian in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Delphi 59
    San Sebastian 40
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Delphi 118
    San Sebastian 80
Compare Hotels in Delphi and San Sebastian

Looking for a hotel in Delphi or San Sebastian? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Delphi


Hotels in San Sebastian


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: San Sebastian Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Delphi 8.57
    San Sebastian 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Sebastian

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Sebastian:

  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian to Vitoria: $291
  • San Sebastián-Bilbao city or airport private transfer: $273
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian city to Bilbao Airport: $268
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian to Bilbao: $268
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian Airport to Pamplona city: $247
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian city to Pamplona Airport : $245
  • Private Transfer from the Airport to San Sebastian City: $84

Is it cheaper to fly into Delphi or San Sebastian?

Prices for flights to both San Sebastian and Delphi change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Delphi 36
    San Sebastian 31

Typical Food Prices in San Sebastian

Some typical examples of dining costs in San Sebastian are as follows:


  • Dinner for 2
    55
  • Lunch for 2
    10
  • Lunch for 2
    31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Sebastian

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in San Sebastian.

  • San Sebastian Walking and Food Tour: $104
  • Insider Best Culinary Gems Guided Food Tour in San Sebastian: $109
  • Basque Cuisine Cooking Class with Market Visit: $148
  • Full Day San Sebastian Food Tour : $150
  • I travel for Food Tour in San Sebastian: $152
  • Authentic Basque Cooking Class in the Old Town: $152
  • Private San Sebastian Walking Food Tour: $158
  • Michelin Star Secrets Cooking Class in San Sebastian: $213
  • Food tour in San Sebastian and Visit to a Gastronomical Club: $224
  • History and flavors of San Sebastian for Dinner with Eskerne Falcón: $235

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Delphi 11
    San Sebastian 33

Tours and Activities in Delphi

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Delphi.

  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in Earth's Navel: $4.60
  • Audiovisual self-guided tour with 3D models: $7.48
  • Delphi Audiovisual Self-guided Tour with 3D Representations: $7.59
  • Delphi Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Tour: $13
  • Ticket & Audio Tour for Delphi's Oracle. Listen to Ancient Echoes: $13
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Guide: $16
  • Self-Guided Virtual Tour Experience from your Home: $17
  • Self-guided Virtual Tour of The Google of the Ancient world: $17
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Refundable Ticket with Audio: $18
  • Audio Guided tour of the sites in French or English: $19
  • Athens: Mythology of Delphi and Museum Guided Day Tour: $26

Typical Entertainment Prices in San Sebastian

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in San Sebastian are as follows:


  • Valle de los Caídos Monument
    6.00

Tours and Activities in San Sebastian

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for San Sebastian are as follows:

  • Biarritz & La Côte Basque Private tour: $246
  • Biarritz and French Coast Small Grop Tour from San Sebastian: $86
  • Bilbao city and Guggenheim Museum small group tour: $164
  • Chef-Led Market Tour & Pintxo Lunch: $163
  • Chef-Led Walking Pintxo Tour of San Sebastián : $272
  • Cider House Experience From San Sebastian: $120
  • City tour, bike ride: $45
  • City tour, by electric bicycle: $50
  • Coastal "Winery Camino Trail" Walking Tour from San Sebastian: $186
  • Electric scooter city tour: $45
  • Evening Pintxo-Tapas Tour with Discover San Sebastian: $191
  • Exclusive Private Pintxos Adventure with Premium Spanish Wines": $175

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Delphi 13
    San Sebastian 20

Sample the Local Flavors in San Sebastian

Also in San Sebastian, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ultimate San Sebastian Pintxos & Wine Tour (Evening): $141
  • Getaria Txakoli Wine Tour with Hotel Pick-up from San Sebastian: $148
  • Best quality food & wine tasting tour in San Sebastian. : $191
  • Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries Visit with Tasting from San Sebastian: $240
  • Rioja Wine Tour: Winery, Tasting & Lunch from San Sebastian: $251
  • Full Rioja Wine Tour with Lunch from San Sebastian Private Tour: $298


When comparing the travel costs between Delphi and San Sebastian, we can see that Delphi is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Delphi Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Delphi or San Sebastian?

Delphi has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Delphi 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.