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

Should you visit Heraklion or San Sebastian?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Heraklion and San Sebastian can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a historic, vibrant, and accessible 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 food.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a beautiful, splendid, and outdoorsy city. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Heraklion and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or San Sebastian?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Heraklion than San Sebastian. While San Sebastian is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is better known for its museums and big city activities, while San Sebastian is more popular for its food, resorts, and shopping. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Heraklion is famous for The Palace of Knossos. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Heraklion different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Heraklion 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 Heraklion can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

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

San Sebastian is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Dining out in Heraklion is an experience not to be missed. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

Is Heraklion or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and San Sebastian.

Heraklion has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

San Sebastian is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Heraklion or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Heraklion 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.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

Both Heraklion and San Sebastian are considered to be high quality beach destinations.

The beaches at Heraklion attract visitors from all over. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

San Sebastian is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Heraklion to go shopping. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Is Heraklion or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, San Sebastian is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Heraklion. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.

Is Heraklion or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and San Sebastian are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Heraklion makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

Couples visit San Sebastian frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Heraklion or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and San Sebastian are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

San Sebastian is a very popular city 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 Heraklion or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

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.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Heraklion and San Sebastian.

Heraklion has some public transit options. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

You'll find some public transit in San Sebastian, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

Is Heraklion or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Heraklion and San Sebastian are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Heraklion is a very walkable city. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or San Sebastian?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling destination of Heraklion. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of San Sebastian. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the splendid destination of San Sebastian. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling destination of Heraklion. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of San Sebastian. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 34% larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion 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 Heraklion 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 Heraklion or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as San Sebastian. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than San Sebastian. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In the autumn, Heraklion is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Heraklion usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and San Sebastian. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the spring for the beaches.

Heraklion is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 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 Heraklion