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

Should you visit San Sebastian or Lillehammer?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Sebastian or Lillehammer, 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. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a natural, adventure-filled, and sporty city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

San Sebastian and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Lillehammer?

Both Lillehammer and San Sebastian have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. San Sebastian is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Lillehammer attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. San Sebastian is more touristy than Lillehammer and is known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Lillehammer is famous for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is San Sebastian different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is San Sebastian or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer is notable for snow skiing. However, San Sebastian is not a skiing destination.

People head to Lillehammer specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

San Sebastian is not a skiing destination.

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

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both San Sebastian and Lillehammer.

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 Lillehammer. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

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

San Sebastian is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Lillehammer has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Is San Sebastian or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is well known for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

San Sebastian is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Lillehammer has a few options to choose from. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

Is San Sebastian or Lillehammer Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Lillehammer is not a resort destination.

San Sebastian has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's both a city and a resort vacation destination with many beachside resorts that are popular during the summer months.

Lillehammer is not a resort destination.

Is San Sebastian or Lillehammer Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is well known for its beaches. However, Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Sebastian. 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.

Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

Is San Sebastian or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

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

Lillehammer is a popular spot for hiking. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Lillehammer?

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

San Sebastian is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is San Sebastian or Lillehammer Better for Families?

San Sebastian and Lillehammer are both superb 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 Lillehammer. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

Is San Sebastian or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

San Sebastian and Lillehammer are both superb 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.

Lillehammer makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

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

San Sebastian is well known for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is San Sebastian or Lillehammer Better for Students?

San Sebastian is well known for students. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

San Sebastian is a great city to visit as a student. There are good educational programs in town, as well as nice beaches and a good student population. The locals are also welcoming and friendly.

It's common for students to visit Lillehammer. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

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

Both San Sebastian and Lillehammer offer nice public transit options.

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

Lillehammer has some public transit options. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is San Sebastian or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

San Sebastian is well known for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

San Sebastian is very walkable. It's a great city for walking, with many pedestrian areas and places where you can take a stroll along the river or seaside.

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

For even more information, also check out Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting? and Is Lillehammer Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either San Sebastian or Lillehammer. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lillehammer due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Sebastian, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lillehammer.

Families should spend more time in San Sebastian than Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the splendid city of San Sebastian. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the food. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Lillehammer. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of San Sebastian. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lillehammer. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Lillehammer?

The beautiful city of San Sebastian offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the natural destination of Lillehammer. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city 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 Lillehammer?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Sebastian. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Lillehammer. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.

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

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Lillehammer?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of San Sebastian and Lillehammer, 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.