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

Should you visit Marseille or San Sebastian?

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

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

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

San Sebastian

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

Marseille and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marseille or San Sebastian?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marseille than San Sebastian, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Marseille is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while San Sebastian is known for its museums, resorts, and beaches. Marseille is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity. It is also home to The Vieux Port. San Sebastian is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Marseille different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

San Sebastian is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Marseille and San Sebastian both to be amazing destinations.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Marseille is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

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 Marseille or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Marseille 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.

Marseille is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.

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 Marseille or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Marseille is not a resort destination.

Is Marseille or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Marseille. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

Is Marseille or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Marseille has a world-famous historical area. The Old Port is filled with shops and boutiques, and is the most scenic part of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with history and character.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marseille or San Sebastian?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Marseille and San Sebastian.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Marseille. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

San Sebastian is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Marseille or San Sebastian Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, San Sebastian does not offer Christmas markets.

Marseille has Christmas markets worth visiting. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

San Sebastian does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Marseille or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Marseille doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Is Marseille or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Marseille and San Sebastian are both superb to visit as a couple.

Marseille makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

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 Marseille or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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.

Marseille is a good city to visit for backpackers. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

Is Marseille or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Both Marseille and San Sebastian are superb destinations for students.

Marseille is a great city to visit as a student. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Marseille and San Sebastian.

Marseille has some public transit options. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

You'll find some public transit in San Sebastian, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

Is Marseille or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Marseille and San Sebastian are superb when it comes to walkability.

Marseille is a very walkable destination. The Old Port (Vieux Port) is particularly walkable and is one of the best areas to explore on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Marseille?

How long in Marseille or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marseille and San Sebastian. In our opinion, San Sebastian has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Sebastian than Marseille. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the vibrant destination of Marseille. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of San Sebastian. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Marseille or San Sebastian?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the splendid destination of San Sebastian. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Marseille or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the energetic destination of Marseille. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of San Sebastian. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Marseille or San Sebastian?

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

San Sebastian is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, 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 Marseille and San Sebastian, we can see that Marseille 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 Marseille would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Marseille 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 Marseille Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marseille or San Sebastian?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Marseille 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 Marseille 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 Marseille or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marseille as well as San Sebastian. The summer months attract visitors to Marseille because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In July, Marseille is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Marseille average around 24°C (75°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 Marseille this time of the year. In the summer, Marseille often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Marseille gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Marseille usually gets less rain in July than San Sebastian. Marseille gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marseille or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Marseille are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marseille this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene.

Marseille is around the same temperature as San Sebastian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marseille averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marseille. Marseille usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Marseille gets 205 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, Marseille usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Marseille gets 78 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 Marseille or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Marseille during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Marseille for 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.

In the winter, Marseille is cooler than San Sebastian. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marseille in January average around 7°C (44°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Marseille often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Marseille gets 150 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. Marseille usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Marseille gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marseille or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marseille and San Sebastian. Many visitors come to Marseille in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches during these months.

In April, Marseille is generally around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Marseille average around 13°C (56°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marseille usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during spring. Marseille gets 245 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, Marseille usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Marseille gets 48 mm (1.9 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 Marseille