A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Seville vs. San Sebastian for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Seville or San Sebastian?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Seville and San Sebastian. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Seville

Seville is a historic, energetic, and elegant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Seville is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the theater, nightlife, and food. See Seville travel costs.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a outdoorsy, fun-filled, and beautiful city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping. See San Sebastian travel costs.

Seville and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seville or San Sebastian?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seville than San Sebastian. Seville is bigger than San Sebastian, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seville is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while San Sebastian is more popular for its food, resorts, and beaches. Seville is more touristy than San Sebastian and is popular for its Moorish and Islamic architecture, its colorful Flamenco dancing, and its local tapas and wine. Also, Seville is famous for the Real Alcázar. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Seville different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Sebastian and Seville. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Seville or San Sebastian?

Seville 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 Seville are among the most recognizable in the world. This elegant city is filled with historic buildings and world famous architecture. From the iconic Catedral de Sevilla to the Real Alcázar and Plaza de España, there is an endless supply of world class sights around town.

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 Seville or San Sebastian Better for Theater?

Seville is a nice place to visit for its theatre productions. However, San Sebastian is not a theatre destination.

Seville offers a number of shows and performances. Flamenco shows are a highlight for many visitors. You can sip wine and enjoy tapas as you take in this dramatic dance form.

San Sebastian is not a theatre destination.

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

San Sebastian is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Seville is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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 Seville is an experience not to be missed. The city is filled with cafes that spill into the streets. Locals live their lives outdoors, and the cafe terraces are filled with chattering guests from breakfast until late in the evening. The food includes many typical Spanish favorites such as Iberian pork, stewed meats, and other local tapas.

Is Seville or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Seville and San Sebastian.

The nightlife in Seville has something for everybody. The excellent nightlife scene includes local bars, Flamenco shows, and student focused parties. The Triana District is a popular nightlife area, particularly for the Flamenco shows. There are also a lot of bars along Calle Betis and upscale ambiance can be found in La Alameda.

San Sebastian offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Seville or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Seville is not a resort destination.

Is Seville or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a great city for the beach. However, Seville 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.

Seville is not a beach destination.

Is Seville or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

Seville is notable for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Seville to see the historical old town. Barrio de Santa Cruz is the old town of Seville. This is where you'll find the Jewish Quarter and many of the city's historic landmarks.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Seville or San Sebastian?

If you're looking to go shopping, Seville and San Sebastian both offer plenty of great spots.

Seville is well-known for its shopping. There is a great combination of shopping streets, high end shopping malls, and local markets. Calle Sierpes, Calle Tetuan, and Calle Asuncion are some of the best places for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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 Seville or San Sebastian More Beautiful?

Seville is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, San Sebastian is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Seville is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The impressive architecture and relaxing green spaces make this one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.

San Sebastian is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Seville or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Both Seville and San Sebastian are great family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Seville is very family-friendly. There are parks where kids can run around. There's also the Seville Aquarium as well as Isla Mágica, which is a small amusement park. Other fun family-friendly activities include taking a boat ride on the Guadalquivir River and seeing a Flamenco Show.

San Sebastian is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Seville or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Seville and San Sebastian both great destinations for a couple.

Seville is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Romantic walks, beautiful parks, and world class attractions make this a truly romantic city. Couples will enjoy an evening out with dinner and a Flamenco show, or visiting the Arab baths.

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.

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

For backpackers, both Seville and San Sebastian are great places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Seville. It's a well established backpacker destination with a large supply of hostels and plenty of eager travelers ready to head out on the town.

San Sebastian is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Seville or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Seville 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.

Seville is a great destination for students. It's a top destination for international students who appreciate the many great educational institutions, beautiful year-round weather, and many festivals and evening activities.

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

Seville and San Sebastian both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Seville offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel through the entire city. There is also a tram system that has 4 stops and travels 1.4 kilometers.

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

Is Seville or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Seville and San Sebastian are great when it comes to walkability.

Seville is a very walkable city. There are many parts of the city that are very walkable. It takes about 45 minutes to walk across the city center in its entirety.

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 Seville Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Seville?

How long in Seville or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Seville and San Sebastian. In our opinion, Seville has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Seville than San Sebastian. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in San Sebastian than Seville. 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.

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

One day in Seville or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the energetic destination of Seville. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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.

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.

A weekend in Seville or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seville. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Don't miss the museums, 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.

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.

Five days in Seville or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the elegant destination of Seville. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city 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.

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.

A week in Seville or San Sebastian?

You'll find shopping and museums around the beautiful city of Seville. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid.

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

Which is Bigger, Seville or San Sebastian?

Seville has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Seville and San Sebastian, 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 Seville or San Sebastian?

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 Seville or San Sebastian in the Summer?

Both San Sebastian and Seville during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Seville in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Seville is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Seville averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In San Sebastian, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Seville. In the summer, Seville often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Seville gets 360 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Seville usually gets less rain in July than San Sebastian. Seville gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seville or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Seville and San Sebastian. Most visitors come to Seville for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Seville is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seville in October average around 20°C (67°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In Seville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seville usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Seville gets 208 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Seville usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Seville gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seville or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Seville as well as San Sebastian. The winter months attract visitors to Seville because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In January, Seville is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Seville average around 11°C (51°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Seville often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Seville gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Seville usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Seville gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seville or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Seville are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Seville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches.

Seville is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Seville averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seville. Seville usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during spring. Seville gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. In April, Seville usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Seville gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Sebastian and Seville