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

Should you visit Nantes or San Sebastian?

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

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

Nantes

Nantes is a friendly, historical, and beautiful city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

San Sebastian

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

Nantes and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantes or San Sebastian?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in San Sebastian than Nantes. While Nantes is larger than San Sebastian, San Sebastian has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Sebastian is more popular for its resorts and beaches, while Nantes is known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. San Sebastian is more touristy than Nantes and is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. It is also home to La Concha Bay. Nantes is popular for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens.

How is Nantes different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nantes 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 Nantes can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantes is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Nantes and San Sebastian.

Nantes has a large number of nightlife venues. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

San Sebastian is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Nantes or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Nantes is not a resort destination.

Is Nantes or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for the beach. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a beach destination.

Is Nantes or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

Nantes is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Nantes to see the old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantes or San Sebastian?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nantes. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

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 Nantes or San Sebastian Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nantes. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

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 Nantes or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

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

Nantes makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

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 Nantes or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Nantes or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

San Sebastian is a great city to visit as a student. There are good educational programs in town, as well as nice beaches and a good student population. The locals are also welcoming and friendly.

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

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

Nantes 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 Nantes can get you to some places easily. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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

Is Nantes or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

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

Nantes is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Nantes?

How long in Nantes or San Sebastian?

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Nantes. Don't miss the food, 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 Nantes or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantes. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Nantes or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming destination of Nantes. 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.

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 Nantes or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Nantes. 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 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) 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 Nantes and San Sebastian, we can see that Nantes 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 Nantes would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nantes 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 Nantes Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nantes or San Sebastian?

Nantes has a larger population, and is about 51% larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Nantes 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 Nantes 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 Nantes or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nantes as well as San Sebastian. The summer months attract visitors to Nantes because of 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, Nantes is generally around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 19°C (67°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 Nantes this time of the year. In the summer, Nantes often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Nantes gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets less rain in July than San Sebastian. Nantes gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantes or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Nantes 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 Nantes this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene.

Nantes is cooler than San Sebastian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nantes averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Nantes usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Sebastian during autumn. Nantes gets 141 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, Nantes usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Nantes gets 79 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 Nantes or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Nantes during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nantes for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Nantes is much colder than San Sebastian. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nantes in January average around 6°C (42°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Nantes often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Nantes gets 72 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. Nantes usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Nantes gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantes or San Sebastian in the Spring?

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

In April, Nantes is generally cooler than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 11°C (51°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Nantes usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during spring. Nantes gets 187 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, Nantes usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Nantes gets 50 mm (2 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 Nantes