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

Should you visit Heidelberg or San Sebastian?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Heidelberg and San Sebastian. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a charming, scenic, and character-filled town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

San Sebastian

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

Heidelberg and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heidelberg or San Sebastian?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Sebastian than Heidelberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Sebastian is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Heidelberg is known for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heidelberg is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. San Sebastian is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. It is also home to La Concha Bay.

How is Heidelberg different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

San Sebastian is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

San Sebastian is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through San Sebastian, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Heidelberg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Is Heidelberg or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Heidelberg has something for everybody. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

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 Heidelberg or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is not a resort destination.

Is Heidelberg or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a great city for the beach. However, Heidelberg is not a beach destination.

Many people visit San Sebastian for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Heidelberg is not a beach destination.

Is Heidelberg or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg is very popular for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Heidelberg has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heidelberg or San Sebastian?

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

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Heidelberg or San Sebastian Better for Families?

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

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Heidelberg or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Heidelberg and San Sebastian both great destinations for a couple.

Heidelberg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

San Sebastian is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Heidelberg or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Heidelberg and San Sebastian are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 Heidelberg or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for students.

Many students visit 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.

Heidelberg is a good town to visit for students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

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

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg can get you to some places easily. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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

Is Heidelberg or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Heidelberg and San Sebastian are great when it comes to walkability.

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heidelberg and San Sebastian. In our opinion, San Sebastian has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Sebastian than Heidelberg. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heidelberg, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the energetic destination of Heidelberg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the splendid city of San Sebastian, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Heidelberg or San Sebastian?

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

With nightlife and food around the destination of San Sebastian, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Heidelberg or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the energetic destination of Heidelberg. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or San Sebastian?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful town of Heidelberg. 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.

San Sebastian is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, 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 Heidelberg and San Sebastian, we can see that Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg or San Sebastian in the Summer?

Both San Sebastian and Heidelberg during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heidelberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Heidelberg is generally around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 21°C (69°F), 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 Heidelberg. In the summer, Heidelberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as San Sebastian. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as San Sebastian. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heidelberg or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and San Sebastian. Most visitors come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the shopping scene.

Heidelberg is cooler than San Sebastian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Heidelberg gets 102 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. In October, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heidelberg or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as San Sebastian. The winter months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

The weather in Heidelberg can be very cold. In the winter, Heidelberg is much colder than San Sebastian. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heidelberg in January average around 3°C (37°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Heidelberg usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heidelberg or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches.

In April, Heidelberg is generally around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 11°C (52°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Heidelberg usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during spring. Heidelberg gets 155 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, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 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 Heidelberg