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

Should you visit Dublin or San Sebastian?

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

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

Dublin

Dublin is a friendly, welcoming, and fun city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a splendid, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dublin and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or San Sebastian?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dublin than San Sebastian. Dublin is bigger than San Sebastian, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dublin is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and big city activities, while San Sebastian is more popular for its food, resorts, and beaches. Dublin is well known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. Also, Dublin is famous for The Guinness Storehouse. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Dublin different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dublin is notable 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dublin can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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

San Sebastian is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Dublin or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Dublin 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.

Dublin is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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 Dublin or San Sebastian Better for Music?

Dublin is notable for its live music scene. However, San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Dublin. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Is Dublin or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Dublin is not a resort destination.

Is Dublin or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a great destination for the beache. However, Dublin 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.

Dublin is not a beach destination.

Is Dublin or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Dublin to see the historical old town. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or San Sebastian?

Shopping is a popular activity in both San Sebastian and Dublin.

Dublin is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

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 Dublin or San Sebastian Better for Families?

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

Dublin is a very kid-friendly city. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

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 Dublin or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Dublin and San Sebastian are both superb to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway 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.

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

Dublin and San Sebastian are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dublin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

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 Dublin or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a great destination for students. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's common for students to visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Dublin and San Sebastian.

You'll find some public transit in Dublin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

While San Sebastian offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

Is Dublin or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Dublin is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Dublin on foot. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or San Sebastian?

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

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

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

One day in Dublin or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the laid-back destination of Dublin. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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 Dublin or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dublin. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Don't miss the nightlife, 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 Dublin or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the welcoming destination of Dublin. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Dublin or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Dublin. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 fun-filled 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland, 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 Dublin and San Sebastian, we can see that Dublin 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 Dublin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dublin 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 Dublin Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dublin or San Sebastian?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Dublin 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 Dublin 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 Dublin or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dublin and San Sebastian. The summer months attract visitors to Dublin 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.

Dublin is cooler than San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Sebastian this time of the year. Dublin usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Dublin gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dublin usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dublin or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dublin as well as San Sebastian. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Dublin this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Dublin is cooler than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dublin in October average around 11°C (52°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Dublin often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Dublin gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Dublin usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Dublin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Dublin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Dublin is generally much colder than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 6°C (42°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Dublin usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Dublin gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. In January, Dublin usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dublin or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Dublin during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Dublin in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches during these months.

Dublin is cooler than San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Dublin often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Dublin gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dublin usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Dublin gets 51 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 Dublin