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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or San Sebastian?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or San Sebastian? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a vibrant, high energy, and bustling city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a beautiful, splendid, and outdoorsy city. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or San Sebastian?

You'll generally find more things to do in Thessaloniki than San Sebastian. Thessaloniki is bigger than San Sebastian, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Thessaloniki is better known for its museums and big city activities, while San Sebastian is more popular for its food, resorts, and beaches. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Also, Thessaloniki is famous for The Monument of Rotonda. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Thessaloniki different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Thessaloniki is notable 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Thessaloniki can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

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 Thessaloniki or San Sebastian? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Sebastian is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, San Sebastian is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Thessaloniki is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

Is Thessaloniki or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Both Thessaloniki and San Sebastian have very good vibes after the sun sets.

Thessaloniki has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

The people in San Sebastian know how to have a good time. 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 Thessaloniki or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

Is Thessaloniki or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

San Sebastian is considered a top beach destination. 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.

The beach in Thessaloniki is worth checking out. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or San Sebastian?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Thessaloniki and San Sebastian.

Thessaloniki is well-known for its shopping. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

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 Thessaloniki or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

Is Thessaloniki or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Thessaloniki is a good city for couples to visit. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

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

Thessaloniki and San Sebastian are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Thessaloniki or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Both Thessaloniki and San Sebastian are very good destinations for students.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

San Sebastian is very popular with students. 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 Thessaloniki or San Sebastian Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Thessaloniki and San Sebastian.

Thessaloniki has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

You'll find some public transit in San Sebastian, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

Is Thessaloniki or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

San Sebastian is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Thessaloniki and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Thessaloniki than in San Sebastian. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

Families should spend more time in San Sebastian than Thessaloniki. 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 Thessaloniki. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Sebastian 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 Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high energy destination of Thessaloniki. 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, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. 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.

San Sebastian is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the high energy destination of Thessaloniki. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of San Sebastian. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Thessaloniki or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Thessaloniki. 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.

San Sebastian is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or San Sebastian?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 93% larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as San Sebastian. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thessaloniki this time of the year. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than San Sebastian. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Thessaloniki during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Thessaloniki is generally much colder than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than San Sebastian. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and San Sebastian. The spring months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 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 Thessaloniki