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

Should you visit Linz 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 Linz 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.

Linz

Linz is a beautiful, cultural, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

San Sebastian

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

Linz and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Linz or San Sebastian?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Sebastian. Although Linz and San Sebastian are about the same size, San Sebastian has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Sebastian is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Linz is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Linz is well known for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Also, San Sebastian is famous for La Concha Bay.

How is Linz different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Linz 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 Linz can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art Museum.

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

San Sebastian is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Linz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Linz or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Linz or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Linz is not a resort destination.

Is Linz or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for the beache. However, Linz is not a beach destination.

The beaches at San Sebastian attract visitors from all over. 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.

Linz is not a beach destination.

Is Linz or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Many people head to Linz to see the old town. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Linz or San Sebastian?

Both Linz and San Sebastian are high quality shopping destinations.

Linz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

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 Linz or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Linz is a family-friendly town. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Linz or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

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

Linz is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

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 Linz or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

Is Linz or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for students. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not popular with students.

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

Both Linz and San Sebastian offer notable public transit options.

Linz has a few public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

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

Is Linz or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Linz and San Sebastian both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Linz is a very walkable town. The tourist areas are easy to explore 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 Linz Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Linz?

How long in Linz or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Linz and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Sebastian than in Linz. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Linz, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the historic destination of Linz. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of San Sebastian. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Linz or San Sebastian?

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

San Sebastian is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Linz or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Linz. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of San Sebastian. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Linz or San Sebastian?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful town of Linz. 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.

The splendid city of San Sebastian offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Linz or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Linz. When comparing the sizes of Linz 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 Linz 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 Linz or San Sebastian in the Summer?

Both San Sebastian and Linz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Linz for 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.

Linz is around the same temperature as San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Linz averages around 20°C (68°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 Linz. Linz usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Linz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Linz usually receives more rain than San Sebastian. Linz gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Linz or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Linz during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Linz because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In the autumn, Linz is cooler than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Linz in October average around 11°C (52°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Linz often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Linz gets 129 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. Linz usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Linz gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Linz or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Linz and San Sebastian. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Linz this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Linz in the winter. In January, Linz is generally much colder than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Linz average around -0°C (31°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Linz usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Linz gets 57 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, Linz usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Linz gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Linz or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Linz as well as San Sebastian. Many travelers come to Linz for the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the spring for the beaches.

Linz is cooler than San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Linz averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Linz often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Linz gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Linz usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Linz gets 57 mm (2.2 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 Linz