A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. San Sebastian for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and San Sebastian can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a authentic, vibrant, and historic 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 splendid, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Thiva (Thebes) and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Thiva (Thebes) than San Sebastian, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Thiva (Thebes) is better known for its museums and big city activities, while San Sebastian is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. San Sebastian is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Thiva (Thebes) is well known for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is famous for The Archeological Museum.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian?

Thiva (Thebes)
San Sebastian

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in San Sebastian have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

Thiva (Thebes)
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a city with good options for its resorts. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a great destination for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian?

Thiva (Thebes)
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

San Sebastian is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Couples visit San Sebastian frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a great destination for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian Better for Students?

Thiva (Thebes)
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a great destination for students. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
San Sebastian

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Thiva (Thebes) and San Sebastian.

You'll find some public transit in Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

While San Sebastian offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Thiva (Thebes) and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Sebastian than in Thiva (Thebes). Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

Families should spend more time in San Sebastian than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    San Sebastian 2-3

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Thiva (Thebes). 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.

In San Sebastian, you'll find museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thiva (Thebes). 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic destination of Thiva (Thebes). 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Sebastian. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Thiva (Thebes). 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of San Sebastian. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, San Sebastian or Thiva (Thebes)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in San Sebastian is €90. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Thiva (Thebes) and San Sebastian in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    San Sebastian 40
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    San Sebastian 80
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and San Sebastian

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in San Sebastian


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: San Sebastian Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    San Sebastian 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Sebastian

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Sebastian:

  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian Airport to Pamplona city: $247
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian city to Bilbao Airport: $268
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian city to Pamplona Airport : $245
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian to Bilbao: $268
  • Private Transfer from San Sebastian to Vitoria: $291
  • Private Transfer from the Airport to San Sebastian City: $84
  • San Sebastián-Bilbao city or airport private transfer: $273

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian?

Prices for flights to both San Sebastian and Thiva (Thebes) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    San Sebastian 31

Typical Food Prices in San Sebastian

Some typical examples of dining costs in San Sebastian are as follows:


  • Dinner for 2
    55
  • Lunch for 2
    10
  • Lunch for 2
    31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Sebastian

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in San Sebastian.

  • San Sebastian Walking and Food Tour: $104
  • Insider Best Culinary Gems Guided Food Tour in San Sebastian: $109
  • Basque Cuisine Cooking Class with Market Visit: $148
  • Full Day San Sebastian Food Tour : $150
  • I travel for Food Tour in San Sebastian: $152
  • Authentic Basque Cooking Class in the Old Town: $152
  • Private San Sebastian Walking Food Tour: $158
  • Michelin Star Secrets Cooking Class in San Sebastian: $213
  • Food tour in San Sebastian and Visit to a Gastronomical Club: $224
  • History and flavors of San Sebastian for Dinner with Eskerne Falcón: $235

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    San Sebastian 33

Typical Entertainment Prices in San Sebastian

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in San Sebastian are as follows:


  • Valle de los Caídos Monument
    6.00

Tours and Activities in San Sebastian

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for San Sebastian are as follows:

  • San Sebastian Walking Tour With Pintxo And Drink: $16
  • Guided tour of San Sebastián: $19
  • Walking Tour in San Sebastian: $43
  • Electric scooter city tour: $45
  • City tour, bike ride: $45
  • San Sebastian : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $49
  • City tour, by electric bicycle: $50
  • Private Walking Tour in San Sebastian with Pintxo and Drink: $54
  • San Sebastián City Bike tour : $54
  • Private Guided Sightseeing Bike Tour of San Sebastian: $60
  • Hondarribia, S.Juan & S.Pedro Small Group Tour from San Sebastian: $60
  • Small-Group Electric Bike Tour in San Sebastián : $61

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    San Sebastian 20

Sample the Local Flavors in San Sebastian

Also in San Sebastian, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ultimate San Sebastian Pintxos & Wine Tour (Evening): $141
  • Getaria Txakoli Wine Tour with Hotel Pick-up from San Sebastian: $148
  • Best quality food & wine tasting tour in San Sebastian. : $191
  • Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries Visit with Tasting from San Sebastian: $240
  • Rioja Wine Tour: Winery, Tasting & Lunch from San Sebastian: $251
  • Full Rioja Wine Tour with Lunch from San Sebastian Private Tour: $298


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


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian?

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 Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and San Sebastian. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Sebastian this time of the year. In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    San Sebastian 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as San Sebastian. The autumn months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the shopping scene are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in October average around 19°C (67°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    San Sebastian 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 10°C (51°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    San Sebastian 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Thiva (Thebes) during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the spring for the beaches.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    San Sebastian 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for San Sebastian and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) San Sebastian
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)