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

Should you visit Glasgow or San Sebastian?

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

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

Glasgow

Glasgow is a friendly, cultural, and historic 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 outdoorsy, fun-filled, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Glasgow and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Glasgow or San Sebastian?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Glasgow than San Sebastian, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Glasgow is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and big city activities, while San Sebastian is known for its food, resorts, beaches, and shopping. San Sebastian is more touristy than Glasgow and is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Glasgow is popular for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population. It is also home to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

How is Glasgow different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Glasgow 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 Glasgow can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

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

San Sebastian is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Glasgow 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.

Glasgow offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene continues to grow and innovate. You'll find plenty of seafood options as well as international cuisine and everything from fine dining to local cafes.

Is Glasgow or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Glasgow 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.

Glasgow is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

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 Glasgow or San Sebastian Better for Music?

Glasgow 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 Glasgow Known to some as "the city of music", you'll find a wide range of music venues, live shows, festivals, and even a great underground music scene.

San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Is Glasgow or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Glasgow is not a resort destination.

Is Glasgow or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

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

Glasgow is not a beach destination.

Is Glasgow or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

Glasgow is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Glasgow to see the old town. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is great for its shopping areas. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

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.

Glasgow is a great destination for shopping. The city has independent boutique shops as well as major brands. Head to the "Style Mile" for some of the best shopping. It's a district that offers pedestrian-friendly shopping and includes high end boutiques and independent markets. Also check out The Barras Market, Buchanan Street, and High Street.

Is Glasgow or San Sebastian Better for Families?

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

Glasgow is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has some family-friendly museums including the hands on The Burrell Collection, the Glasgow Science Center, and The Riverside Museum. If you have older kids who enjoy the water, there are some water activities in town. Check out Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow Wake Park or Outdoor Pursuits. There are also climbing gyms and skate parks.

Is Glasgow or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

San Sebastian is great for couples. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Glasgow is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy a museum or one of the parks around town. There are also river cruises and spas. For a more locally specific activity, check out the Bothwell Castle.

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

San Sebastian is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Glasgow is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.

Is Glasgow or San Sebastian Better for Students?

For students, both Glasgow and San Sebastian are superb places to visit.

Glasgow is a great city to visit as a student. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

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

Glasgow 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 Glasgow can get you to some places easily. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

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

Is Glasgow or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

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

Glasgow is a very walkable destination. The city center is generally walkable and can be explored 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 Glasgow Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Glasgow and San Sebastian. In our opinion, San Sebastian has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Sebastian than Glasgow. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in San Sebastian than Glasgow. 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 Glasgow. 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 Glasgow 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 Glasgow or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historic destination of Glasgow. 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, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Glasgow or San Sebastian?

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

In San Sebastian, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Sebastian has to offer.

Five days in Glasgow or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the high energy destination of Glasgow. This 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.

San Sebastian is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Glasgow or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Glasgow. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Sebastian. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Sebastian. One reason most visitors come is for the food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, 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 Glasgow and San Sebastian, we can see that Glasgow 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 Glasgow would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Glasgow 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 Glasgow Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Glasgow or San Sebastian?

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

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

In July, Glasgow is generally cooler than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 15°C (59°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In San Sebastian, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in July than San Sebastian. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

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

Glasgow is much colder than San Sebastian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Glasgow gets 69 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. Glasgow gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Glasgow usually receives around the same amount of rain as San Sebastian. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Glasgow or San Sebastian in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Glasgow. In the winter, Glasgow is much colder than San Sebastian. Typically, the winter temperatures in Glasgow in January average around 3°C (38°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Glasgow receives a lot of rain in the winter. Glasgow usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or San Sebastian in the Spring?

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

In April, Glasgow is generally much colder than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 7°C (45°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Glasgow usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Sebastian during spring. Glasgow gets 134 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, Glasgow usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 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 Glasgow