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

Should you visit San Sebastian or Varenna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Sebastian or Varenna, 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.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

San Sebastian and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Varenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Sebastian than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Sebastian is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Varenna is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Also, San Sebastian is famous for La Concha Bay. Varenna is well known for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is San Sebastian different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both San Sebastian and Varenna.

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 Varenna. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

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

Both San Sebastian and Varenna offer world-class 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 Varenna have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Is San Sebastian or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

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.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Is San Sebastian or Varenna Better for Resorts?

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

Varenna is not a resort destination.

Is San Sebastian or Varenna Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Varenna 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.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is San Sebastian or Varenna Better for Hiking?

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

Varenna is a popular spot for hiking. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Varenna?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna 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 Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is San Sebastian or Varenna Better for Families?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, San Sebastian is very family-friendly. 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 kid-friendly things to do in Varenna. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

Is San Sebastian or Varenna Better for Couples?

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

Varenna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

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 Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna 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 Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Is San Sebastian or Varenna Better for Students?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna 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.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

Both San Sebastian and Varenna 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.

Varenna has some public transit options. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is San Sebastian or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna 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 Varenna on foot. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored 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 Varenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Varenna or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Varenna?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Sebastian than Varenna 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 Varenna?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the scenic destination of Varenna. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Varenna?

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 Varenna. 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 Varenna?

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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the pristine destination of Varenna. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This village 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 Varenna?

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.

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful village of Varenna. 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 Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Varenna?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 220 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of San Sebastian and Varenna, 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 Varenna?

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 Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna 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. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

San Sebastian is cooler than Varenna in the summer. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Varenna, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in San Sebastian. In the summer, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Varenna. San Sebastian gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. San Sebastian usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Varenna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Varenna. Many visitors come to San Sebastian in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Varenna for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, San Sebastian is around the same temperature as Varenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Sebastian in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Varenna averages at about 15°C (58°F).

San Sebastian usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Varenna during autumn. San Sebastian gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Varenna. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Varenna in the Winter?

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

The weather in Varenna can be very cold. In January, San Sebastian is generally much warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 8°C (47°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Varenna. San Sebastian gets 85 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit San Sebastian or Varenna in the Spring?

Both Varenna 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 natural beauty are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

San Sebastian is around the same temperature as Varenna in the spring. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Varenna during spring. San Sebastian gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In April, San Sebastian usually receives around the same amount of rain as Varenna. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Varenna and San Sebastian