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

Should you visit Lille or San Sebastian?

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

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

Lille

Lille is a culinary, friendly, and historic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

San Sebastian

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

Lille and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lille or San Sebastian?

Visitors will generally find more to do in San Sebastian than Lille. While Lille is larger than San Sebastian, San Sebastian has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. San Sebastian is better known for its museums, resorts, and beaches, while Lille is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. San Sebastian is more touristy than Lille and is known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Also, San Sebastian is famous for La Concha Bay. Lille is well known for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene.

How is Lille different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

San Sebastian is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

San Sebastian offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

While most people don't head to Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

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

Both Lille and San Sebastian offer amazing local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lille is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

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.

Is Lille or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are superb in both Lille and San Sebastian.

Lille has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

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 Lille or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Lille is not a resort destination.

Is Lille or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is notable for the beache. However, Lille 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.

Lille is not a beach destination.

Is Lille or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Lille to see the historical old town. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lille or San Sebastian?

Lille is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Lille make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

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 Lille or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

San Sebastian is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Lille or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

San Sebastian is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Lille is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

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

San Sebastian is notable for backpackers. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

San Sebastian is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Lille is a good city to visit for backpackers. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Is Lille or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Lille and San Sebastian are both superb destinations for students and younger travelers.

Lille is a great city to visit as a student. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

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

Lille 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 Lille can get you to some places easily. There is a metro as well as trams and 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 Lille or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Lille 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 Lille on foot. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored 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 Lille Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Lille?

How long in Lille or San Sebastian?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the friendly destination of Lille. 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.

In San Sebastian, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this splendid destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Lille or San Sebastian?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Sebastian. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Lille or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Lille. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in 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.

San Sebastian is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of San Sebastian. Lots of people come for the food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lille or San Sebastian?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful city of Lille. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the fun-filled destination of San Sebastian. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, 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 Lille and San Sebastian, we can see that Lille 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 Lille would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lille 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 Lille Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lille or San Sebastian?

Lille has a larger population, and is about 63% larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Lille 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 Lille 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 Lille or San Sebastian in the Summer?

Both San Sebastian and Lille are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Lille because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

Lille is cooler than San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in San Sebastian. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lille. Lille usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Sebastian during summer. Lille gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lille usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Lille gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lille or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Lille during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lille this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Lille is cooler than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lille in October average around 12°C (54°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Lille often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Lille gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lille usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Lille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lille or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lille and San Sebastian. Many travelers come to Lille 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 Lille. In January, Lille is generally much colder than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Lille average around 3°C (38°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Lille usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Lille gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Lille usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Lille gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lille or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lille as well as San Sebastian. Many visitors come to Lille in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches during these months.

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

In the spring, Lille often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Lille gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Lille usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Lille gets 45 mm (1.8 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 Lille