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

Should you visit Toulon or San Sebastian?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Toulon and San Sebastian can help you decide which place is right for you.

Toulon

Toulon is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and real world port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a fun-filled, beautiful, and splendid city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Toulon and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Toulon or San Sebastian?

Visitors will generally find more to do in San Sebastian than Toulon. While Toulon is larger than San Sebastian, San Sebastian has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. San Sebastian is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Toulon attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and impressive beauty. San Sebastian is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. It is also well known for La Concha Bay. Toulon is famous for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Toulon different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Toulon and San Sebastian have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Toulon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

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.

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

San Sebastian is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its 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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Toulon or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is Toulon or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is very good for its resorts. However, Toulon is not a resort destination.

San Sebastian has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's both a city and a resort vacation destination with many beachside resorts that are popular during the summer months.

Toulon is not a resort destination.

Is Toulon or San Sebastian Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is a moderate port city for its diving and snorkeling. However, San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Toulon or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beache.

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.

Toulon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Is Toulon or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

Toulon is a moderate port city for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Toulon or San Sebastian?

Both Toulon and San Sebastian are excellent shopping destinations.

Toulon is an extremely popular place for shoppers. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

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.

Is Toulon or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

San Sebastian is 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.

Toulon is a family-friendly port city. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Toulon or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

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

San Sebastian is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

Is Toulon or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for students. However, Toulon is not popular with students.

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.

Toulon is not popular with students.

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

Both Toulon and San Sebastian offer nice public transit options.

Toulon has a few public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

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

Is Toulon or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

Toulon and San Sebastian both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Toulon is very walkable. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

San Sebastian is a very walkable port 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.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Toulon?

How long in Toulon or San Sebastian?

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

Families should spend more time in San Sebastian than Toulon. 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 Toulon. 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 Toulon 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 Toulon or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Toulon. 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.

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.

A weekend in Toulon or San Sebastian?

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

Five days in Toulon or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the real world destination of Toulon. This port 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. 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.

A week in Toulon or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and shopping around the port city of Toulon. 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 fun-filled 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to France, The Best Budget Tours to France, 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 Toulon and San Sebastian, we can see that Toulon 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 Toulon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Toulon 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 Toulon Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Toulon or San Sebastian?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 63% larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Toulon 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 Toulon 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 Toulon or San Sebastian in the Summer?

Both San Sebastian and Toulon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Toulon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Toulon is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the summer temperatures in Toulon in July average around 24°C (75°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in San Sebastian. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. Toulon usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Toulon gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Toulon usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Toulon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Toulon or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Toulon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Toulon for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Toulon is generally around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Toulon average around 16°C (61°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. In the autumn, Toulon often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Toulon gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Toulon usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Toulon gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulon or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulon and San Sebastian. Many visitors come to Toulon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Toulon is cooler than San Sebastian in the winter. The daily temperature in Toulon averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Toulon usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Toulon gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Toulon usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Toulon gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Toulon or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Toulon as well as San Sebastian. Most visitors come to Toulon for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the beaches.

In the spring, Toulon is around the same temperature as San Sebastian. Typically, the spring temperatures in Toulon in April average around 13°C (56°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. In the spring, Toulon often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Toulon gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Toulon usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Toulon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Sebastian and Toulon