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

Should you visit San Sebastian or Amalfi?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Sebastian or Amalfi, 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.

San Sebastian

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

Amalfi

Amalfi is a stunning, dramatic, and charming town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

San Sebastian and Amalfi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Amalfi?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Amalfi than San Sebastian, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Amalfi is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and shopping. Amalfi is more touristy than San Sebastian and is known for its dramatic views, charming character, and excellent limoncello. Also, Amalfi is famous for the dramatic coastline. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is San Sebastian different from Amalfi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both San Sebastian and Amalfi.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Amalfi. The town is an attraction in and off itself. It's filled with charm and character and visitors spend much of their time simply walking around and soaking up the atmosphere.

Is the Food Better in San Sebastian or Amalfi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both San Sebastian and Amalfi offer first-rate local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, San Sebastian is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Many restaurants in Amalfi have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town's access to the beautiful sea means that many dishes use a variety of seafood. Eggplant is also a common ingredient and you'll find everything from pastas to elegant desserts around town.

Is San Sebastian or Amalfi Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both San Sebastian and Amalfi.

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.

Amalfi has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There's a good number of bars and clubs in town that often have live music or DJs. Alternatively, there are also clubs that dot the entire coastline.

Is San Sebastian or Amalfi Better for Resorts?

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

Amalfi is not a resort destination.

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

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

Amalfi has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. You'll find snorkeling trips that take you along the coastline and stop at several places so you can take a peak at the underwater world.

San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Sebastian or Amalfi Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is well known for the beache. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Amalfi offers a nice beach destination. The beaches tend to be pebbly and rocky. During the summer months they can get very crowded, but taking a swim is a great way to escape the heat for a bit.

Is San Sebastian or Amalfi Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Amalfi to see the historical old town. The town is charming and filled with great shops and restaurants. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is San Sebastian or Amalfi Better for Hiking?

Amalfi is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Amalfi is a popular spot for hiking. The coastline is filled with great trails that offer stunning views. Hiking is a top way to see the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and catch a glimpse at some of the best beaches.

San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Amalfi?

San Sebastian is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Amalfi has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find many great shops that sell everything from clothing to fine wine, local foods, or limoncello.

Is San Sebastian or Amalfi Better for Families?

San Sebastian is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Amalfi offers lots of family activities. The town is positioned in the middle of the Amalfi Coast, making it a great base for exploring the area. It's also one of the larger towns so you'll find more energy and things to do with kids, including the Museum of Paper.

Is San Sebastian or Amalfi Better for Couples?

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

Amalfi has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The Amalfi Coast is a world class honeymoon destination and couples will enjoy staying in the lively town of Amalfi. It's a quaint and beautiful town in the middle of everything, so you'll have access to all that the area has to offer.

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 San Sebastian or Amalfi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Sebastian is well known for backpackers. However, Amalfi is not particularly known 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.

Amalfi is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The area has a couple of hostels around, but in general this is a difficult place to visit as a backpacker. There are SITA buses that offer transportation, and because the town is in the middle of the coastline, it offers decent access to everything.

Is San Sebastian or Amalfi Better for Students?

San Sebastian is well known for students. However, Amalfi is not popular with students.

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.

Amalfi is not popular with students.

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

Both San Sebastian and Amalfi offer notable public transit options.

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

Amalfi has some public transit options. The SITA buses offer transit between many of the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

Is San Sebastian or Amalfi a more walkable city?

Amalfi 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 Amalfi on foot. It's a compact and charming town that is a bit flatter than some nearby villages so it's easy to explore 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 San Sebastian Worth Visiting? and Is Amalfi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Amalfi or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Amalfi?

Both San Sebastian and Amalfi have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amalfi than in San Sebastian. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Sebastian, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amalfi.

Families should spend more time in San Sebastian than Amalfi. 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 Amalfi than San Sebastian. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Amalfi 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 Amalfi 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 San Sebastian or Amalfi?

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.

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

A weekend in San Sebastian or Amalfi?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amalfi. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the food, 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.

Five days in San Sebastian or Amalfi?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the dramatic destination of Amalfi. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

A week in San Sebastian or Amalfi?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the splendid 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful town of Amalfi. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Sebastian and Amalfi, we can see that Amalfi 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 Amalfi would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amalfi 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 San Sebastian Expensive? and Is Amalfi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Amalfi?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Amalfi. When comparing the sizes of San Sebastian and Amalfi, 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 San Sebastian or Amalfi?

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 San Sebastian or Amalfi in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Amalfi. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Amalfi for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

San Sebastian is cooler than Amalfi in the summer. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Amalfi fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Amalfi this time of the year. In San Sebastian, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Amalfi during summer. San Sebastian gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Amalfi. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Amalfi in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Sebastian as well as Amalfi. Many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Amalfi in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Amalfi. San Sebastian gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Amalfi. San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the autumn. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in October than Amalfi. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Amalfi in the Winter?

Both Amalfi and San Sebastian are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to San Sebastian in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Amalfi for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Amalfi during winter. San Sebastian gets 85 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Amalfi. It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In January, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Amalfi. San Sebastian gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Amalfi in the Spring?

Both Amalfi and San Sebastian during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Amalfi because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

San Sebastian is around the same temperature as Amalfi in the spring. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Amalfi fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Amalfi. San Sebastian gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in April than Amalfi. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amalfi and San Sebastian