A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint-Tropez vs. San Sebastian for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian?

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

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a extravagant, luxurious, and glamourous resort town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and food.

San Sebastian

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

Saint-Tropez and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint-Tropez than San Sebastian, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint-Tropez is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is more popular for its museums and food. Saint-Tropez is well known for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy. Also, Saint-Tropez is famous for The Old Port. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

The Old Port

How is Saint-Tropez different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

San Sebastian offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Sebastian is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, San Sebastian is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Saint-Tropez is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is all about the local flavors. You'll find plenty of local seafood as well as local organic meats, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and truffles. Cheese is a common ingredient as well. There are many different soups and stews, and bouillabaisse is a common fish soup found in the restaurants around town. Daube is another popular stew that is made with beef. Ratatouille is a vegetable casserole that has made a name for itself both inside and outside of France. And, of course, you have to try the local salads and pastries. Because it's such a touristy area, there are many restaurants geared specifically to the tourists, many of which are overpriced.

Is Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Tropez is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Saint-Tropez is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.

San Sebastian has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

Saint-Tropez 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.

Saint-Tropez offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Luxury and extravagance is what this resort town is all about. If you have the money to spend, you'll have no trouble finding a glamourous villa or luxury hotel where you can relax, party, or soak up the French Riviera sun.

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 Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Saint-Tropez specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. There are wreck dives including the most famous, The Rubis, a submarine that is surrounded by marine life. Although you're not allowed to enter the vessel, there is still plenty to see. There are also plenty of dive spots that feature rock formations, schools of fish, and lobsters.

San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Saint-Tropez and San Sebastian are very good choices.

Saint-Tropez is considered a top beach destination. The beaches are frequented by celebrities, so you'll find plenty of glitz and glamour by the water. For some of the best beaches, you'll want to head a little out of town. The most famous beach in the area is Pampelonne Beach which is popular with Hollywood celebrities during the summer months. Bouillabaisse Beach is the place to go if you want to look at the yachts, but for a more natural setting head to Graniers Beach.

San Sebastian is a very popular place to visit for its 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 Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian?

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Saint-Tropez make it a world-class shopping destination. Surrounded by luxury, shopping is a must in this glamourous resort town. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. Whether you're looking for yachting clothes, cigars, jewelry, or perfume, this is one of the best shopping destinations along the Cote d'Azur. Art is a particularly popular item to purchase while you're in town.

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 Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Saint-Tropez is an amazing family-friendly resort town to visit. With great beaches, several amusement parks, waterparks, and even Marineland, there are an endless supply of activities for kids. There's also a zoo and nature reserve for wildlife enthusiasts. For adventure lovers, there are a number of different watersports to try and if the weather isn't cooperating, there are a few good museums and other indoor activities as well.

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 Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

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

Saint-Tropez has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Whether you're honeymooning or taking a short getaway to the French Riviera, this is a great option for couples. You can take a stroll at sunset, relax on one of the beautiful beaches, dine on local seafood, and soak up the rich local culture. The romance and beauty of this French Riviera city make it a world class romantic destination.

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 Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Sebastian is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Saint-Tropez is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. For many backpackers it may seem cost prohibitive to visit the French Riviera, but for those with the money, it is well worth the splurge. You can save some money by staying outside of town or finding a vacation rental where you can cook meals. There are also hostels and rooms in local homes that come at a more reasonable price.

Is Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a great destination for students. However, Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

San Sebastian is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are good educational programs in town, as well as nice beaches and a good student population. The locals are also welcoming and friendly.

Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Saint-Tropez and San Sebastian.

You'll find some public transit in Saint-Tropez, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.

While San Sebastian offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

Is Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Saint-Tropez on foot. It's easy to explore many places on foot, passing by beautiful beaches, stunning views, impressive yachts, and glamourous villas.

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 Saint-Tropez Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Saint-Tropez?

How long in Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint-Tropez and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint-Tropez than in San Sebastian. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint-Tropez, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

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

Couples should spend more time in Saint-Tropez than San Sebastian. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the ritzy destination of Saint-Tropez. 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.

In San Sebastian, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Tropez. 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.

San Sebastian is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the celebrity-filled destination of Saint-Tropez. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of San Sebastian. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful resort town of Saint-Tropez. 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.

San Sebastian is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples 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 Saint-Tropez and San Sebastian, we can see that Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Saint-Tropez. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Tropez and San Sebastian. Many travelers come to Saint-Tropez for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Saint-Tropez is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint-Tropez averages around 23°C (73°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 Saint-Tropez, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint-Tropez usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Saint-Tropez gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint-Tropez usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Saint-Tropez gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint-Tropez as well as San Sebastian. Many visitors come to Saint-Tropez in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Saint-Tropez is around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint-Tropez in October average around 17°C (63°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint-Tropez this time of the year. In the autumn, Saint-Tropez often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Saint-Tropez gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Saint-Tropez receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Saint-Tropez usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Saint-Tropez gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Saint-Tropez are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint-Tropez for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Saint-Tropez is generally around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Saint-Tropez average around 9°C (48°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Saint-Tropez usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Saint-Tropez gets 150 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, Saint-Tropez usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Saint-Tropez gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Saint-Tropez during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Saint-Tropez because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

Saint-Tropez is around the same temperature as San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint-Tropez averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Saint-Tropez. In the spring, Saint-Tropez often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Saint-Tropez gets 245 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. Saint-Tropez usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Saint-Tropez gets 62 mm (2.4 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 Saint-Tropez