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

Should you visit San Sebastian or Reykjavik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Sebastian or Reykjavik, 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a clean, green, and safe city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

San Sebastian and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Sebastian than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Sebastian is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. San Sebastian is famous for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. It is also well known for La Concha Bay. Reykjavik is famous for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is San Sebastian different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Sebastian is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

San Sebastian is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

San Sebastian is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Reykjavik. Traditional Icelandic food may not have the best reputation, but restaurants these days are pretty good with a variety of dishes to choose from. Popular foods in the area include fish, lamb, and Icelandic skyr (a type of yogurt).

Is San Sebastian or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

San Sebastian has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Reykjavik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city offers the best nightlife in Iceland and you'll be surprised at the number of clubs, bars, and craft breweries that you can choose from. Almost all of the popular nightlife spots are around Laugavegur, a major shopping street in town.

Is San Sebastian or Reykjavik Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Is San Sebastian or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is San Sebastian or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Reykjavik draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city offers easy access to some of the world's most spectacular scenery. There are many hikes that you can easily reach from town. They pass through diverse landscapes that include waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and beaches.

San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Reykjavik?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Reykjavik offers some nice shopping areas. The city's main shopping street is Laugavegur, which is where you'll find the most activity around town as well as a bustling atmosphere.

Is San Sebastian or Reykjavik Better for Families?

San Sebastian and Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik. With its many outdoor activities and hands on museums, the city is great for kids. The cafes and restaurants are family-friendly and their are plenty of entertainment options for the whole family.

Is San Sebastian or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

San Sebastian and Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are museums, outdoor activities, and even the northern lights that make this city very romantic. The cafes are laid-back and the atmosphere is friendly.

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

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

San Sebastian is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Reykjavik is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Is San Sebastian or Reykjavik Better for Students?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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.

Reykjavik is popular with students. Students will enjoy a unique experience in this city. There are good academic programs as well as beautiful outdoor settings that you can explore.

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

Both San Sebastian and Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik has some public transit options. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is San Sebastian or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

San Sebastian and Reykjavik both are superb 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.

Reykjavik is a very walkable destination. The city is small and compact, so it's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Reykjavik?

In either San Sebastian or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik.

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

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 nightlife and shopping when visiting the friendly destination of Reykjavik. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, 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 Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled 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 Reykjavik. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, 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 Reykjavik?

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

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 shopping and nightlife around the beautiful city of Reykjavik. 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 Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Reykjavik?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of San Sebastian and Reykjavik, 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 Reykjavik?

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 Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and San Sebastian during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

In July, San Sebastian is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 20°C (68°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in San Sebastian. In the summer, San Sebastian often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. San Sebastian gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian usually gets more rain in July than Reykjavik. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Reykjavik. The shopping scene are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. San Sebastian is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

San Sebastian usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. San Sebastian gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to San Sebastian as well as Reykjavik. Many travelers come to San Sebastian for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, San Sebastian is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Sebastian in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, San Sebastian often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. San Sebastian gets 85 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the winter. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in January than Reykjavik. San Sebastian gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and San Sebastian are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to San Sebastian in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. In April, San Sebastian is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 12°C (54°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

San Sebastian usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik during spring. San Sebastian gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In April, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and San Sebastian