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

Should you visit San Sebastian or Dubrovnik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Sebastian or Dubrovnik, 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 outdoorsy, fun-filled, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a cultural, coastal, and historic coastal town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

San Sebastian and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Dubrovnik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although San Sebastian and Dubrovnik are both popular with visitors, Dubrovnik has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dubrovnik is more popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while San Sebastian is known for its nightlife, beaches, and shopping. Dubrovnik is more touristy than San Sebastian and is popular for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows. It is also home to The Old Town Walls. San Sebastian is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is San Sebastian different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik can be an interesting and educational experience. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.

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

Both San Sebastian and Dubrovnik offer fantastic 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 Dubrovnik have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.

Is San Sebastian or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for nightlife.

The nightlife in San Sebastian has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Dubrovnik. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

Is San Sebastian or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

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

Dubrovnik is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.

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 San Sebastian or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is a moderate coastal town for its diving and snorkeling. However, San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Dubrovnik. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Sebastian or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a great city for the beach. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its beaches.

San Sebastian is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Dubrovnik to enjoy the beach. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

Is San Sebastian or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is very popular for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Dubrovnik has a world-famous historical area. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is San Sebastian or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

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

Dubrovnik is a popular spot for hiking. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Dubrovnik?

San Sebastian is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for shopping.

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.

Dubrovnik is a great destination for shopping. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is San Sebastian or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

San Sebastian and Dubrovnik are both very good destinations for the whole family.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dubrovnik. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.

Is San Sebastian or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

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

Dubrovnik has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is very popular for backpackers. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Dubrovnik. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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 San Sebastian or Dubrovnik Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Dubrovnik 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.

Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

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

Both San Sebastian and Dubrovnik offer good public transit options.

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

Dubrovnik has some public transit options. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is San Sebastian or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik on foot. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls 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 Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Dubrovnik?

In either San Sebastian or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than San Sebastian because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Sebastian, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

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

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

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

One day in San Sebastian or Dubrovnik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of San Sebastian. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal destination of Dubrovnik. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Dubrovnik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of San Sebastian. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of San Sebastian. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming destination of Dubrovnik. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastal 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 Dubrovnik?

San Sebastian is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful coastal town of Dubrovnik. 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.

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 Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Dubrovnik?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of San Sebastian and Dubrovnik, 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 Dubrovnik?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to San Sebastian as well as Dubrovnik. Many visitors come to San Sebastian in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, San Sebastian is cooler than Dubrovnik. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Sebastian in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 25°C (77°F).

San Sebastian usually gets more rain in July than Dubrovnik. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

Both Dubrovnik and San Sebastian are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, San Sebastian is generally cooler than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 16°C (60°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In October, San Sebastian usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dubrovnik. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

Both Dubrovnik and San Sebastian during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

San Sebastian is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the winter. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Dubrovnik 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 more rain in January than Dubrovnik. San Sebastian gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Dubrovnik. The beaches are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, San Sebastian is cooler than Dubrovnik. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Sebastian in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the spring. San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Dubrovnik. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and San Sebastian