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

Should you visit San Sebastian or Ravenna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Sebastian or Ravenna, 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 beautiful, splendid, and outdoorsy city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Ravenna

Ravenna is a historic, off-the-beaten-path, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

San Sebastian and Ravenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Ravenna?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Sebastian than Ravenna. San Sebastian is bigger than Ravenna, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Sebastian is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Ravenna is more popular for its museums and small town charm. San Sebastian is more touristy than Ravenna and is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Also, San Sebastian is famous for La Concha Bay. Ravenna is well known for its many stunning mosaics which date back to the early Christian and Byzantine empires.

How is San Sebastian different from Ravenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ravenna 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 Ravenna can be an interesting and educational experience. Most sights in town are centered around the the beautiful mosaics. Neonian Baptistery is a good place to begin your visit. Other highlights include San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.

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 Ravenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Sebastian is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through San Sebastian, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Dining out in Ravenna is an experience not to be missed. The region is most known for its first course dishes, so pasta lovers will enjoy dining on homemade egg pasta dishes that are served with meat or cheese sauces. You'll also find lots of grilled meats and many great desserts.

Is San Sebastian or Ravenna Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

San Sebastian has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Ravenna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find most of the pubs and clubs in town around Marina di Ravenna. There are a couple of places that attract a crowd, but many are open only during the summer months.

Is San Sebastian or Ravenna Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is not a resort destination.

Is San Sebastian or Ravenna Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for the beache. However, Ravenna is not a beach destination.

Many people visit San Sebastian for it's beautiful 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.

Ravenna is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Ravenna?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

San Sebastian is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Ravenna to go shopping. There are some nice shopping streets in town where you can buy locally made mosaics. You'll also find art studios and artisan shops, as well as your typical souvenir shops and clothing stores. Via Cavour, via Diaz, and via Cairoli are some of the most popular shopping streets.

Is San Sebastian or Ravenna Better for Families?

San Sebastian and Ravenna are both great 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 Ravenna. In town you'll find mosaics, museums, and a charming town, and ten kilometers outside of town you'll find Italy's largest amusement park - Mirabilandia. The city is also filled with parks where kids can explore and learn, and the food, like any Italian city, is very kid-friendly.

Is San Sebastian or Ravenna Better for Couples?

San Sebastian and Ravenna are both great 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.

Ravenna makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Many visitors to Italy don't add this charming town to their itinerary, but for couples who want to experience a small town setting with beautiful art and architecture, then Ravenna is a great option. There are parks to explore and great restaurants to experience as well.

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

San Sebastian is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ravenna. It's a bit off-the-beaten path, so you won't find a large number of hostels or a lot of backpackers to hang out with. That doesn't mean it won't make a great addition to your itinerary though.

Is San Sebastian or Ravenna Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Ravenna is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Ravenna is not popular with students.

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

Both San Sebastian and Ravenna 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.

Ravenna has some public transit options. Buses in and around town are managed by START ROMAGNA and offer access to many nearby towns.

Is San Sebastian or Ravenna a more walkable city?

San Sebastian and Ravenna both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Ravenna is a very walkable destination. There are care-free areas to the town that can only be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ravenna or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Ravenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in San Sebastian or Ravenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in San Sebastian than Ravenna 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 Ravenna.

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

In San Sebastian, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Even though Ravenna 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 Ravenna?

In San Sebastian, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Sebastian has to offer.

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

San Sebastian is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Ravenna 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 Ravenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Sebastian. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Sebastian. One reason most visitors come is for the food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Ravenna 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Ravenna?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 36% larger than the population of Ravenna. When comparing the sizes of San Sebastian and Ravenna, 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 Ravenna?

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 Ravenna in the Summer?

Both Ravenna and San Sebastian during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ravenna in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

San Sebastian is cooler than Ravenna in the summer. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Ravenna fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

San Sebastian usually gets more rain in July than Ravenna. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Ravenna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Ravenna. Many visitors come to San Sebastian in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ravenna for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, San Sebastian is a little warmer than Ravenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Sebastian in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Ravenna averages at about 14°C (58°F).

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Ravenna. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Ravenna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to San Sebastian as well as Ravenna. Most visitors come to San Sebastian for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Ravenna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ravenna can be very cold. In January, San Sebastian is generally much warmer than Ravenna. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 8°C (47°F), and Ravenna fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the winter. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in January than Ravenna. San Sebastian gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Ravenna in the Spring?

Both Ravenna and San Sebastian are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the beaches. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Ravenna this time of year.

San Sebastian is around the same temperature as Ravenna in the spring. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Ravenna fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In April, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Ravenna. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ravenna and San Sebastian