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

Should you visit San Sebastian or Rome?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Sebastian or Rome, 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Rome

Rome is a popular, ancient, and archeological city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

San Sebastian and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than San Sebastian, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is known for its resorts and beaches. Rome is more touristy than San Sebastian and is known for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also home to The Colosseum. San Sebastian is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

The Colosseum

How is San Sebastian different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rome is very popular 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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Rome are among the most recognizable in the world. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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 Rome? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both San Sebastian and Rome offer first-rate 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 Rome have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Is San Sebastian or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Rome is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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.

Is San Sebastian or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is very popular for its live music scene. However, San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Rome Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

San Sebastian is not a live music destination.

Is San Sebastian or Rome Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a city with good options for its resorts. However, Rome is not a resort destination.

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.

Rome is not a resort destination.

Is San Sebastian or Rome Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a great destination for the beach. However, Rome 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.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Rome?

Rome is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Rome make it a world-class shopping destination. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

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.

Is San Sebastian or Rome Better for Families?

San Sebastian and Rome are both high quality 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 Rome. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

Is San Sebastian or Rome Better for Couples?

San Sebastian and Rome 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.

Rome makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

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

Rome 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 Rome. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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 Rome Better for Students?

Rome is very popular for students. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Rome is a great destination for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

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.

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

Rome is very popular for its public transit. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Rome has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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

Is San Sebastian or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome 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 Rome on foot. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Rome?

Both San Sebastian and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in San Sebastian. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Sebastian, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

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

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

One day in San Sebastian or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of San Sebastian. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Rome is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Rome?

San Sebastian is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in San Sebastian or Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of San Sebastian. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Rome is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Rome?

The beautiful city of San Sebastian offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Rome is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Rome?

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

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 Rome in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Rome. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. In San Sebastian, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Rome during summer. San Sebastian gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Rome. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Sebastian as well as Rome. Many travelers come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Rome in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, San Sebastian is generally around the same temperature as Rome. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 16°C (60°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Rome. San Sebastian gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the autumn. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in October than Rome. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Rome in the Winter?

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

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

San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Rome during winter. San Sebastian gets 85 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In January, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Rome. San Sebastian gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome 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 Rome because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Rome. San Sebastian gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in April than Rome. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rome and San Sebastian