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

Should you visit Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Piazza Armerina and San Sebastian. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a historic, charming, and authentic town. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a fun-filled, beautiful, and splendid city. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Piazza Armerina and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Sebastian than Piazza Armerina, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Sebastian is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Piazza Armerina is more popular for its museums and historical sights. San Sebastian is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Also, San Sebastian is famous for La Concha Bay. Piazza Armerina is well known for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

How is Piazza Armerina different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina can be an interesting and educational experience. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.

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 Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through San Sebastian, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Piazza Armerina is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is notable for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

San Sebastian has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Is Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a good destination for its resorts. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a resort destination.


Is Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is notable for the beache. However, Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

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.

Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

Is Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

Piazza Armerina is notable for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Piazza Armerina to see the historical old town. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian?

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

San Sebastian is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

San Sebastian is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.

Is Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Piazza Armerina is a good town for couples to visit. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.

Is Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is notable for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

San Sebastian is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.


Is Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is notable for students. However, Piazza Armerina is not popular with students.

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.

Piazza Armerina is not popular with students.

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

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

Both Piazza Armerina and San Sebastian offer notable public transit options.

Piazza Armerina has a few public transit options. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.

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

Is Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Piazza Armerina
San Sebastian

Piazza Armerina and San Sebastian both are great when exploring on foot.

Piazza Armerina is a very walkable town. You can explore most of the old and new towns 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 Piazza Armerina Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Piazza Armerina?

How long in Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Piazza Armerina and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Sebastian than in Piazza Armerina. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Piazza Armerina, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

Families should spend more time in San Sebastian than Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina 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.


  • How many days in Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian? Ideal Length of Stay
    Piazza Armerina 1-2 
    San Sebastian 2-3

One day in Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic destination of Piazza Armerina. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

The beautiful destination of San Sebastian offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Piazza Armerina. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

The city of San Sebastian offers food and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the charming destination of Piazza Armerina. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town 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. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian?

You'll find museums and food around the town of Piazza Armerina. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Sebastian. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, San Sebastian or Piazza Armerina?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Piazza Armerina is €93, while the average daily cost in San Sebastian is €90. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Piazza Armerina and San Sebastian in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Piazza Armerina 56
    San Sebastian 40
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Piazza Armerina 112
    San Sebastian 80
Compare Hotels in Piazza Armerina and San Sebastian

Looking for a hotel in Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Piazza Armerina


Hotels in San Sebastian


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices and San Sebastian Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    San Sebastian 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $106

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Sebastian

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Sebastian:

  • Private Transfer from the Airport to San Sebastian City: $84
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian city to Pamplona Airport : $245
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian Airport to Pamplona city: $247
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian city to Bilbao Airport: $268
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian to Bilbao: $268
  • San Sebastián-Bilbao city or airport private transfer: $273
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian to Vitoria: $291

Is it cheaper to fly into Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian?

Prices for flights to both San Sebastian and Piazza Armerina change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Piazza Armerina 33
    San Sebastian 31

Typical Food Prices in San Sebastian

Some typical examples of dining costs in San Sebastian are as follows:


  • Dinner for 2
    55
  • Lunch for 2
    10
  • Lunch for 2
    31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Sebastian

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in San Sebastian.

  • San Sebastian Walking and Food Tour: $104
  • Insider Best Culinary Gems Guided Food Tour in San Sebastian: $109
  • Basque Cuisine Cooking Class with Market Visit: $148
  • Full Day San Sebastian Food Tour : $150
  • I travel for Food Tour in San Sebastian: $152
  • Authentic Basque Cooking Class in the Old Town: $152
  • Private San Sebastian Walking Food Tour: $158
  • Michelin Star Secrets Cooking Class in San Sebastian: $213
  • Food tour in San Sebastian and Visit to a Gastronomical Club: $224
  • History and flavors of San Sebastian for Dinner with Eskerne Falcón: $235

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    San Sebastian 33

Tours and Activities in Piazza Armerina

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Piazza Armerina are as follows:

  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $225
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $241

Typical Entertainment Prices in San Sebastian

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in San Sebastian are as follows:


  • Valle de los Caídos Monument
    6.00

Tours and Activities in San Sebastian

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for San Sebastian are as follows:

  • San Sebastian Walking Tour With Pintxo And Drink: $16
  • Guided tour of San Sebastián: $19
  • Walking Tour in San Sebastian: $43
  • Electric scooter city tour: $45
  • City tour, bike ride: $45
  • San Sebastian : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $49
  • City tour, by electric bicycle: $50
  • Private Walking Tour in San Sebastian with Pintxo and Drink: $54
  • San Sebastián City Bike tour : $54
  • Private Guided Sightseeing Bike Tour of San Sebastian: $60
  • Hondarribia, S.Juan & S.Pedro Small Group Tour from San Sebastian: $60
  • Small-Group Electric Bike Tour in San Sebastián : $61

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Piazza Armerina 13
    San Sebastian 20

Sample the Local Flavors in San Sebastian

Also in San Sebastian, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ultimate San Sebastian Pintxos & Wine Tour (Evening): $141
  • Getaria Txakoli Wine Tour with Hotel Pick-up from San Sebastian: $148
  • Best quality food & wine tasting tour in San Sebastian. : $191
  • Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries Visit with Tasting from San Sebastian: $240
  • Rioja Wine Tour: Winery, Tasting & Lunch from San Sebastian: $251
  • Full Rioja Wine Tour with Lunch from San Sebastian Private Tour: $298


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


Which is Bigger, Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Piazza Armerina. When comparing the sizes of Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian in the Summer?

Both San Sebastian and Piazza Armerina are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Piazza Armerina in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Piazza Armerina averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, 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 Piazza Armerina. Piazza Armerina usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Piazza Armerina gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Piazza Armerina 26°C (79°F) 
    San Sebastian 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Piazza Armerina during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Piazza Armerina in October average around 19°C (67°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Piazza Armerina often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Piazza Armerina gets 189 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. Piazza Armerina usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Piazza Armerina gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Piazza Armerina 19°C (67°F) 
    San Sebastian 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Piazza Armerina and San Sebastian. The winter months attract visitors to Piazza Armerina because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In January, Piazza Armerina is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Piazza Armerina average around 10°C (51°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Piazza Armerina usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Piazza Armerina gets 153 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, Piazza Armerina usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Piazza Armerina gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Piazza Armerina 10°C (51°F) 
    San Sebastian 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Piazza Armerina as well as San Sebastian. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches.

Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Piazza Armerina averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Piazza Armerina this time of the year. In the spring, Piazza Armerina often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Piazza Armerina gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Piazza Armerina usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Piazza Armerina gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Piazza Armerina 15°C (58°F) 
    San Sebastian 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for San Sebastian and Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina San Sebastian
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)