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

Should you visit Lisbon or San Sebastian?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or San Sebastian? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a beautiful, splendid, and outdoorsy city. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or San Sebastian?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon than San Sebastian, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Lisbon is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is known for its resorts and beaches. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. San Sebastian is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Lisbon different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon is very popular 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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lisbon are among the most recognizable in the world. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and San Sebastian can be an enjoyable experience.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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.

Is Lisbon or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Lisbon is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon or San Sebastian Better for Music?

Lisbon is very popular for its live music scene. However, San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Lisbon The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Lisbon or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

San Sebastian is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Is Lisbon or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Lisbon has a world-famous historical area. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or San Sebastian?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or San Sebastian.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

San Sebastian is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Lisbon or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and San Sebastian make for a very good place to visit.

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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 Lisbon or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lisbon. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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 Lisbon or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and San Sebastian are very good destinations for students.

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international 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.

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

Lisbon is very popular 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.

Lisbon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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

Is Lisbon or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisbon and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in San Sebastian. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than San Sebastian. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lisbon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lisbon than San Sebastian. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lisbon that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than San Sebastian 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or San Sebastian?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Sebastian. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

San Sebastian is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or San Sebastian?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Sebastian. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or San Sebastian?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the splendid destination of San Sebastian. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, 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 Lisbon and San Sebastian, we can see that Lisbon 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 Lisbon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisbon 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 Lisbon Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or San Sebastian?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as San Sebastian. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), 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 Lisbon this time of the year. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than San Sebastian. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene during these months.

Lisbon is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 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, Lisbon usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Lisbon during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Lisbon is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Lisbon gets 144 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and San Sebastian. The spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In April, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during spring. Lisbon gets 235 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, Lisbon usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 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 Lisbon