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

Should you visit Interlaken or San Sebastian?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Interlaken and San Sebastian can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a world-class, stunning, and adventurous town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a beautiful, splendid, and outdoorsy city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Interlaken and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Interlaken or San Sebastian?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Sebastian. Although Interlaken and San Sebastian are popular destinations, San Sebastian has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Sebastian is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than San Sebastian and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. San Sebastian is famous for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. It is also well known for La Concha Bay.

How is Interlaken different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or San Sebastian Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is a nice place to visit for snow skiing. However, San Sebastian is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

San Sebastian is not a skiing destination.

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

San Sebastian is very good for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

San Sebastian is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

San Sebastian has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Is Interlaken or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Interlaken or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Interlaken is not a resort destination.

San Sebastian has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's both a city and a resort vacation destination with many beachside resorts that are popular during the summer months.

Interlaken is not a resort destination.

Is Interlaken or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Interlaken is not a beach destination.

San Sebastian is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Interlaken is not a beach destination.

Is Interlaken or San Sebastian Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Interlaken draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Interlaken is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Interlaken is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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 Interlaken or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Interlaken is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Interlaken has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

San Sebastian makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Interlaken or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

San Sebastian is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

Is Interlaken or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with students.

San Sebastian is very popular with students. There are good educational programs in town, as well as nice beaches and a good student population. The locals are also welcoming and friendly.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Interlaken 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 Interlaken can get you to some places easily. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

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

Is Interlaken or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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.

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Interlaken Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or San Sebastian?

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Sebastian than Interlaken 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 Interlaken or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the adrenaline-filled destination of Interlaken. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, 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.

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful 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 Interlaken or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, 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.

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 Interlaken or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the breathtaking destination of Interlaken. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town 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.

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 Interlaken or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and skiing around the beautiful town of Interlaken. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich, 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 Interlaken and San Sebastian, we can see that Interlaken 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 Interlaken would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Interlaken 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 Interlaken Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Interlaken or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken 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 Interlaken 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 Interlaken or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as San Sebastian. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Interlaken is around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Typically, the summer temperatures in Interlaken in July average around 21°C (70°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 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 Interlaken this time of the year. In the summer, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in July than San Sebastian. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Interlaken is generally cooler than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 13°C (56°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 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, Interlaken usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Interlaken or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Interlaken during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the winter for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Interlaken can get quite cold in the winter. Interlaken is much colder than San Sebastian in the winter. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Interlaken gets 55 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. Interlaken usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and San Sebastian. Most visitors come to Interlaken for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the beaches.

In the spring, Interlaken is around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Typically, the spring temperatures in Interlaken in April average around 12°C (53°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Sebastian during spring. Interlaken gets 150 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, Interlaken usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Interlaken gets 79 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 Interlaken