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

Should you visit San Sebastian or Venice?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Sebastian or Venice, 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 outdoorsy, fun-filled, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Venice

Venice is a magical, historic, and beautiful city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

San Sebastian and Venice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Venice?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Venice than San Sebastian, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Venice is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while San Sebastian is known for its food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Venice is more touristy than San Sebastian and is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also home to St. Mark's Basilica. San Sebastian is popular for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is San Sebastian different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Venice 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 Venice are among the most recognizable in the world. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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 Venice? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Sebastian is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

San Sebastian has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is San Sebastian or Venice Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is great for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to San Sebastian for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is San Sebastian or Venice Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a resort destination.

Is San Sebastian or Venice Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is great for the beach. However, Venice is not a beach destination.

San Sebastian is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is San Sebastian or Venice Better for its Old Town?

Venice is very popular for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Venice has a world-famous historical area. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Venice?

Venice 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 Venice make it a world-class shopping destination. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice Better for Families?

San Sebastian and Venice are both excellent 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 Venice. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

Is San Sebastian or Venice Better for Couples?

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

Venice has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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 Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both San Sebastian and Venice are excellent destinations for backpackers.

San Sebastian is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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 and backpackers visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

Is San Sebastian or Venice Better for Students?

Venice 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.

Venice is a great destination for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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 Venice Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Venice 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.

Venice has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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

Is San Sebastian or Venice a more walkable city?

Venice 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 Venice on foot. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Venice or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Venice?

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

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

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

One day in San Sebastian or Venice?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Sebastian. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Venice. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Venice?

San Sebastian is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Venice. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Venice?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Sebastian. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Venice. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Venice?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of San Sebastian. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the beautiful city of Venice. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Venice?

Venice has a larger population, and is about 48% larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of San Sebastian and Venice, 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 Venice?

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 Venice in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to San Sebastian as well as Venice. Most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Venice because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, San Sebastian is cooler than Venice. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Sebastian in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Venice averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Venice. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Sebastian this time of the year. In the summer, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Venice. San Sebastian gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 287 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian usually gets more rain in July than Venice. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Venice in the Autumn?

Both Venice and San Sebastian are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Venice this time of year.

In October, San Sebastian is generally a little warmer than Venice. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 16°C (60°F), and Venice fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

San Sebastian usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Venice during autumn. San Sebastian gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In October, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Venice. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Venice in the Winter?

Both Venice and San Sebastian during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Venice for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Venice. San Sebastian is much warmer than Venice in the winter. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Venice fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, San Sebastian often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Venice. San Sebastian gets 85 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 88 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in January than Venice. San Sebastian gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Venice in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Venice. Many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Venice in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, San Sebastian is around the same temperature as Venice. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Sebastian in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Venice averages at about 13°C (55°F).

San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Venice during spring. San Sebastian gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 154 hours of full sun in the spring.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Venice. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Venice and San Sebastian