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

Should you visit Paphos or San Sebastian?

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

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

Paphos

Paphos is a ancient, beautiful, and cultural town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a splendid, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Paphos and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or San Sebastian?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and San Sebastian are popular destinations, Paphos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paphos is very popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian attracts visitors for its nightlife. Paphos is famous for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park. San Sebastian is famous for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Paphos different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paphos 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 Paphos are among the most recognizable in the world. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at amazing restaurants in both Paphos and San Sebastian.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paphos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

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 Paphos or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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 Paphos has a few options to choose from. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

Is Paphos or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

Paphos is very popular for its resorts. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

Paphos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

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.

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

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

Paphos has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

Paphos is very popular for the beache. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beach.

The beaches in Paphos are among the best in the world. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

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.

Is Paphos or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Many people head to Paphos to see the old town. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or San Sebastian?

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

Paphos is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

San Sebastian is well-known for its shopping. 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 Paphos or San Sebastian Better for Families?

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

Paphos is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, San Sebastian is very family-friendly. 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 Paphos or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Paphos is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Paphos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable trip.

San Sebastian makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Paphos or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos and San Sebastian are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Paphos. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

Many 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 Paphos or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a great destination for students. However, Paphos is not popular with 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.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

Paphos 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 Paphos can get you to some places easily. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

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

Is Paphos or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

San Sebastian is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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.

Paphos is a somewhat walkable place. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Paphos Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or San Sebastian?

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

Families should spend more time in Paphos than San Sebastian. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paphos, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Paphos or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the overlooked destination of Paphos. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Paphos or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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 Paphos or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the overlooked destination of Paphos. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town 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 Paphos or San Sebastian?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the beautiful town of Paphos. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Paphos and San Sebastian, we can see that Paphos 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 Paphos Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paphos or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos 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 Paphos 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 Paphos or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and San Sebastian. The summer months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In the summer, Paphos is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Sebastian this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paphos as well as San Sebastian. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene.

In October, Paphos is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Paphos usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or San Sebastian in the Winter?

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

Paphos is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Paphos gets 180 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, Paphos usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Paphos during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Paphos in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches during these months.

In the spring, Paphos is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Paphos gets 270 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. Paphos usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 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 Paphos