A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Malaga vs. San Sebastian for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Beaches

Should you visit Malaga or San Sebastian?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Malaga and San Sebastian. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Malaga

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

San Sebastian

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

Malaga and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or San Sebastian?

You'll generally find more things to do in Malaga than San Sebastian. Malaga is bigger than San Sebastian, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Malaga is better known for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Malaga is well known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Also, Malaga is famous for The Alcazaba. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Malaga different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

San Sebastian is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

San Sebastian is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through San Sebastian, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Malaga has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to any of the local food markets and seafood shops to try local cuisine. Also make sure you try tapas and a filling Andalusian breakfast.

Is Malaga or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Malaga 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.

Malaga is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has some of the most active nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of opportunities to party in Malaga and you'll find the most vibrant nightlife in the Centro Historico.

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 Malaga or San Sebastian Better for Music?

Malaga is notable for its live music scene. However, San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Malaga. The city has venues that offer pop, rock, blues, soulful, and more. Some of the most popular include ZZ club, Clarence Jazz Club, and Velvet Club.

San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a good destination for its resorts. However, Malaga 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.

Malaga is not a resort destination.

Is Malaga or San Sebastian Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Malaga has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Water temperatures are mild enough for diving or snorkeling near Malaga. For the best diving, head to Cala del Canuelo Beach. Closer by, Penon del Cuervo Beach offers diving and snorkeling as well.

San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for the beache. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the 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.

Malaga is a good option for a beach vacation. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Is Malaga or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Malaga to see the historical old town. The city's old town is compact and small, making it a fun place to walk. There are historic buildings, museums, churches, and squares, as well as many restaurants and shops.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

San Sebastian is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Malaga has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Is Malaga or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city 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.

Malaga is a family-friendly port city. The city has castles that you can explore as well as a waterpark.

Is Malaga or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port 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.

Malaga is a good port city for couples to visit. It has a beautiful coastline and a rich history that makes it unique.

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

Malaga 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 Malaga. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

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 Malaga or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Malaga and San Sebastian are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

Many students visit Malaga. The city has many opportunities to learn Spanish. It's also an affordable city with a young population and a lively atmosphere that appeals to international students.

San Sebastian is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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 Malaga or San Sebastian Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Malaga and San Sebastian offer notable public transit options.

Malaga has a few public transit options. There is an efficient bus system as well as a light metro system.

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

Is Malaga or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Malaga and San Sebastian both are great when exploring on foot.

Malaga is a very walkable port city. It has a very compact and walkable historic center with most of the tourist attractions easily accessible 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 Malaga Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or San Sebastian?

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

Families should spend more time in San Sebastian than Malaga. 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 Malaga. 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 Malaga 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 Malaga.

One day in Malaga or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the friendly destination of Malaga. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the nightlife, 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.

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 Malaga or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malaga. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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 Malaga or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Malaga. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This port 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 Malaga or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful port city of Malaga. 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 beautiful 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 Budget Tours to Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Malaga and San Sebastian, we can see that Malaga 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 Malaga would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Malaga 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 Malaga Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Malaga or San Sebastian?

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

Both San Sebastian and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Malaga in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Malaga is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 25°C (77°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 Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Malaga usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Malaga or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Malaga during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Malaga is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the autumn, Malaga often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Malaga gets 213 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. Malaga usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and San Sebastian. The winter months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

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

Malaga usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Malaga gets 171 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, Malaga usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Malaga or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Malaga as well as San Sebastian. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches.

Malaga is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In the spring, Malaga often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Malaga usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 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 Malaga