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

Should you visit Nuremberg or San Sebastian?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nuremberg and San Sebastian can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a historic, fascinating, and charming 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 splendid, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Nuremberg and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nuremberg or San Sebastian?

You'll generally find more things to do in Nuremberg than San Sebastian. Nuremberg is bigger than San Sebastian, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Nuremberg is better known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is more popular for its food, resorts, and beaches. Nuremberg is well known for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. Also, Nuremberg is famous for Nuremberg Castle. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Nuremberg different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nuremberg is very popular 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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Nuremberg are among the most recognizable in the world. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

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

San Sebastian is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Nuremberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

Is Nuremberg or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nuremberg and San Sebastian.

Nuremberg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

Many people head to San Sebastian for the nightlife scene. 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 Nuremberg or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a city with good options for its resorts. However, Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg is not a resort destination.

Is Nuremberg or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches at San Sebastian attract visitors from all over. 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.

Nuremberg is not a beach destination.

Is Nuremberg or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Nuremberg has a world-famous historical area. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nuremberg or San Sebastian?

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

Nuremberg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

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 Nuremberg or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Both Nuremberg and San Sebastian are high quality to visit with kids.

Nuremberg is a very kid-friendly city. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

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.

Is Nuremberg or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Both Nuremberg and San Sebastian are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Nuremberg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

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 Nuremberg or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nuremberg and San Sebastian are high quality places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Nuremberg is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

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 Nuremberg or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Nuremberg and San Sebastian are high quality places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Nuremberg. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

Many students visit 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 Nuremberg or San Sebastian Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg can get you to some places easily. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.

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

Is Nuremberg or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Nuremberg and San Sebastian both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Nuremberg is a very walkable city. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored 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 Nuremberg Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Nuremberg?

How long in Nuremberg or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

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

One day in Nuremberg or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Nuremberg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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.

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 Nuremberg or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nuremberg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Don't miss the museums, 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.

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 Nuremberg or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming destination of Nuremberg. 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 splendid 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 Nuremberg or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Nuremberg. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking 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 Nuremberg and San Sebastian, we can see that Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nuremberg or San Sebastian?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nuremberg and San Sebastian. Most visitors come to Nuremberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Nuremberg is around the same temperature as San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Nuremberg averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, 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 Nuremberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nuremberg usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Nuremberg gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nuremberg usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Nuremberg gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nuremberg or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nuremberg as well as San Sebastian. The autumn months attract visitors to Nuremberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In the autumn, Nuremberg is cooler than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nuremberg in October average around 12°C (53°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Nuremberg often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Nuremberg gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Nuremberg usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Nuremberg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nuremberg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Nuremberg in the winter. In January, Nuremberg is generally much colder than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Nuremberg average around 1°C (34°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Nuremberg usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Nuremberg gets 47 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, Nuremberg usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nuremberg or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Nuremberg during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nuremberg for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the spring for the beaches.

Nuremberg is cooler than San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Nuremberg averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Nuremberg often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Nuremberg gets 166 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. Nuremberg usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg