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

Should you visit San Sebastian or Bellagio?

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

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

Bellagio

Bellagio is a glamorous, opulent, and beautiful town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and shopping.

San Sebastian and Bellagio: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Bellagio?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Sebastian than Bellagio, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Sebastian is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Bellagio is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Bellagio is more touristy than San Sebastian and is known for its luxurious villas, stunning views, and charming boutique lined streets. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Also, San Sebastian is famous for La Concha Bay.

How is San Sebastian different from Bellagio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bellagio 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 Bellagio?

San Sebastian is a city with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Bellagio specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town's atmosphere and views are what attract the tourists, but if you're looking for historical sights, check out the Basilica of San Giacomo.

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

San Sebastian is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Bellagio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Bellagio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many fine dining restaurants that offer a luxurious atmosphere and well crafted dishes. There are also Michelin starred restaurants in town which offer a unique, world-class experience.

Is San Sebastian or Bellagio Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

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.

Bellagio doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town is filled with opulence and luxury, and the nightlife is no exception. Sip cocktails and fine wine while you listen to music or take in the atmosphere.

Is San Sebastian or Bellagio Better for Resorts?

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

Bellagio is not a resort destination.

Is San Sebastian or Bellagio Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a great destination for the beache. However, Bellagio is not a beach destination.

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.

Bellagio is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Bellagio?

San Sebastian is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bellagio 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.

Bellagio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find traditional shops mixed in with modern stores. There are high end brands and more local specialty markets that are fun to peruse.

Is San Sebastian or Bellagio Better for Families?

San Sebastian is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bellagio 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.

Bellagio offers lots of family activities. The town has a playground, a small train, and a Museum of Navigational Instruments that kids may enjoy. There's also a beach where everyone can take a swim.

Is San Sebastian or Bellagio Better for Couples?

San Sebastian and Bellagio are both high quality to visit as a couple.

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.

Bellagio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town is a favorite on Lake Como, and couples will appreciate its charming atmosphere and beautiful lake front setting. In a few hours you can soak up the character and magic or this beautiful area.

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

San Sebastian is a great destination for backpackers. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options 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.

Bellagio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people visit the town as a day trip, as it can easily be explored in a few hours. Backpackers who don't want to pay the high hotel prices can still enjoy the setting without staying the night.

Is San Sebastian or Bellagio Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a great destination for students. However, Bellagio 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.

Bellagio is not popular with students.

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

Both San Sebastian and Bellagio 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.

Bellagio has some public transit options. There are buses and ferries to town, or you can take a taxi.

Is San Sebastian or Bellagio a more walkable city?

Bellagio 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 Bellagio on foot. The town is small and compact with many pedestrian streets that are best explored 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 Bellagio Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bellagio or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Bellagio?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in San Sebastian or Bellagio to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in San Sebastian than Bellagio because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Sebastian, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bellagio.

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

The city of San Sebastian offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Bellagio is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

A weekend in San Sebastian or Bellagio?

San Sebastian is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Sebastian, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bellagio. 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 Bellagio?

San Sebastian is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bellagio is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

A week in San Sebastian or Bellagio?

San Sebastian is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Bellagio is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome.

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

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Bellagio?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Bellagio. When comparing the sizes of San Sebastian and Bellagio, 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 Bellagio?

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 Bellagio in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Bellagio. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bellagio for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

San Sebastian is cooler than Bellagio in the summer. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Bellagio fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bellagio this time of the year. In San Sebastian, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Bellagio during summer. San Sebastian gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Bellagio receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, San Sebastian usually receives less rain than Bellagio. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Bellagio in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Sebastian as well as Bellagio. Many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Bellagio in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, San Sebastian is around the same temperature as Bellagio. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Sebastian in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Bellagio averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, San Sebastian often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bellagio. San Sebastian gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bellagio. San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the autumn. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in October than Bellagio. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Bellagio in the Winter?

Both Bellagio 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 Bellagio for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bellagio can be very cold during winter. In January, San Sebastian is generally much warmer than Bellagio. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 8°C (47°F), and Bellagio fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Bellagio during winter. San Sebastian gets 85 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In January, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Bellagio. San Sebastian gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Bellagio in the Spring?

Both Bellagio and San Sebastian during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bellagio because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Bellagio. San Sebastian gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 176 hours of full sun.

Bellagio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. San Sebastian usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bellagio. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bellagio and San Sebastian