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

Should you visit Palermo 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 Palermo 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.

Palermo

Palermo is a colorful, diverse, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

San Sebastian

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

Palermo and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or San Sebastian?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palermo than San Sebastian, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Palermo is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is known for its food and resorts. San Sebastian is more touristy than Palermo and is known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also home to The Cathedral.

How is Palermo different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Palermo or San Sebastian.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Palermo. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

San Sebastian is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Palermo or San Sebastian? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Sebastian is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palermo. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

Is Palermo or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Both Palermo and San Sebastian are high quality when it comes to partying.

Palermo offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

San Sebastian has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Palermo or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Palermo is not a resort destination.

Is Palermo or San Sebastian Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palermo has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

Both Palermo and San Sebastian are considered to be high quality beach destinations.

The beaches at Palermo attract visitors from all over. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Many people visit San Sebastian for it's beautiful beaches. 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 the Shopping Better in Palermo or San Sebastian?

Both Palermo and San Sebastian are high quality shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

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 Palermo or San Sebastian Better for Families?

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

Palermo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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 Palermo or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

San Sebastian is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Palermo or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

San Sebastian is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Palermo or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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

San Sebastian is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

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

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palermo and San Sebastian. In our opinion, San Sebastian has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Sebastian than Palermo. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Palermo, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the colorful destination of Palermo. 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.

In San Sebastian, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Palermo or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

In San Sebastian, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Sebastian has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the fun destination of Palermo. 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.

San Sebastian is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Palermo or San Sebastian?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the city of Palermo. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Sebastian. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Sebastian. One reason most visitors come is for the food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Palermo and San Sebastian, we can see that Palermo is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Palermo Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palermo or San Sebastian?

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

Both San Sebastian and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and 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.

In July, Palermo is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 25°C (76°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in San Sebastian. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Palermo during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Palermo because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

Palermo is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Palermo usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and San Sebastian. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Palermo is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palermo in January average around 12°C (53°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palermo as well as San Sebastian. Many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Palermo is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 15°C (58°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the spring, Palermo often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Palermo usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 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 Palermo