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

Should you visit Munich or San Sebastian?

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

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

Munich

Munich is a multicultural, economically thriving, and bustling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

San Sebastian

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

Munich and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Munich or San Sebastian?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Munich than San Sebastian, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Munich is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while San Sebastian is known for its food, resorts, and beaches. Munich is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace. San Sebastian is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Munich different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Munich 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 Munich can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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

San Sebastian is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, San Sebastian is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Munich. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Is Munich or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Munich 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.

Munich is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich or San Sebastian Better for Music?

Munich 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 Munich The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Is Munich or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Munich is not a resort destination.

Is Munich or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is well known for the beach. However, Munich is not a beach destination.

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.

Munich is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Munich or San Sebastian?

Munich 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 Munich make it a world-class shopping destination. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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 Munich or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Munich and San Sebastian are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Munich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

San Sebastian is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Munich or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Munich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

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 Munich or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich 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 Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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 Munich or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Munich 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.

Munich is a great destination for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international 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.

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

Munich 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.

Munich has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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

Is Munich or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Munich and San Sebastian both are superb when exploring on foot.

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Munich?

How long in Munich or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Munich and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than in San Sebastian. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Munich, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Munich 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 Munich.

One day in Munich or San Sebastian?

Munich is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Munich or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. 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 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 Munich or San Sebastian?

Munich is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Munich or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Munich. 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.

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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, 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 Munich and San Sebastian, we can see that Munich 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 Munich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Munich 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 Munich Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Munich or San Sebastian?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Munich 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 Munich 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 Munich or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Munich and San Sebastian. The summer months attract visitors to Munich because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In July, Munich is generally around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 20°C (68°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 Munich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Munich usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Munich gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Munich usually receives around the same amount of rain as San Sebastian. Munich gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Munich or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Munich as well as San Sebastian. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Munich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene.

Munich is cooler than San Sebastian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Munich averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Munich often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Munich gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Munich usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Munich gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Munich or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Munich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Munich for the museums, 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.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Munich. In the winter, Munich is much colder than San Sebastian. Typically, the winter temperatures in Munich in January average around -1°C (31°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Munich usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Munich gets 30 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, Munich usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Munich gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Munich or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Munich during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Munich in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches during these months.

In April, Munich is generally around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 11°C (53°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Munich often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Munich gets 172 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. Munich usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Munich gets 48 mm (1.9 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 Munich