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

Should you visit Montpellier 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 Montpellier 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.

Montpellier

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

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a splendid, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Montpellier and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Montpellier or San Sebastian?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montpellier than San Sebastian, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Montpellier is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is known for its food, nightlife, and resorts. San Sebastian is more touristy than Montpellier and is known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Montpellier is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality. It is also home to The Place de la Comédie.

How is Montpellier different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montpellier 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 Montpellier can be an interesting and educational experience. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

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

San Sebastian is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Montpellier. The dishes are made with fresh ingredients produced in the agricultural areas just outside of town. The area is known for its seafood and fish stews.

Is Montpellier or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in San Sebastian know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Montpellier has a few options to choose from. The weather is mild, making for a nice evening out. The population is also young, so you can expect a lot of activity during the evenings, particularly in the area around Place Jean Jaurés. Make sure you enjoy local wine and champagne while you're in town.

Is Montpellier or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Montpellier is not a resort destination.

Is Montpellier or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

Montpellier and San Sebastian both offer great beaches.

Many people visit Montpellier for it's beautiful beaches. The coastline near Montpellier feels pristine and beautiful. You can also visit Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone to the southwest of town, which is a protected area.

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.

Is Montpellier or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Montpellier has a world-famous historical area. Known as L'Écusson the town's old town dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a pedestrian area that is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and churches.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Montpellier or San Sebastian?

Shopping is a popular activity in both San Sebastian and Montpellier.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Montpellier or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

San Sebastian is known to be 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.

Montpellier offers lots of family activities. Popular activities for kids include taking a ride on the carousel in the Comedie, visiting the playground - Jardin Champs de Mars, and visiting the botanical garden - Jardin des Plantes.

Is Montpellier or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Montpellier and San Sebastian both great destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Montpellier frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Rich in history and beautiful architecture, this city offers a romantic setting for a great couple's getaway.

San Sebastian is a great city if you're traveling as 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 Montpellier or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier and San Sebastian are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Montpellier is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.

San Sebastian is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Montpellier or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Montpellier is very popular for students. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Montpellier is a great destination for students. Montpellier is a popular university town that is home to many trendy university students. It's also where you'll find the youngest population of any city in France.

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

Montpellier 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 Montpellier can get you to some places easily. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

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

Is Montpellier or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

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

Montpellier is a very walkable destination. Many of the sights and attractions are easily accessible on foot and can be enjoyed as part of a self-guided walking tour.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Montpellier and San Sebastian. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Montpellier, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

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

One day in Montpellier or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling destination of Montpellier. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful city of San Sebastian. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the food. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Montpellier or San Sebastian?

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the splendid destination of San Sebastian. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Montpellier or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling destination of Montpellier. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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.

The outdoorsy city of San Sebastian offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Montpellier or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Montpellier. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Sebastian. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the food. 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 France, The Best 2-Week Tours in 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 Montpellier and San Sebastian, we can see that Montpellier 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 Montpellier would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Montpellier 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 Montpellier Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Montpellier or San Sebastian?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Montpellier 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 Montpellier 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 Montpellier or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and San Sebastian. Many visitors come to Montpellier in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Montpellier is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 23°C (73°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Sebastian this time of the year. In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Montpellier gets 351 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Montpellier usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Montpellier or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as San Sebastian. Most visitors come to Montpellier for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the shopping scene.

Montpellier is around the same temperature as San Sebastian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 15°C (60°F) in October, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Montpellier gets 187 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Montpellier receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Montpellier usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montpellier or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

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

Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Montpellier gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. In January, Montpellier usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Montpellier gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Montpellier or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Montpellier during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches.

In April, Montpellier is generally around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 13°C (55°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Montpellier. In the spring, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Montpellier gets 230 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Montpellier usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Montpellier gets 55 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 Montpellier