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

Should you visit Vilnius 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 Vilnius 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.

Vilnius

Vilnius is a surprising, undiscovered, and authentic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a fun-filled, beautiful, and splendid city. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Vilnius and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or San Sebastian?

Visitors will generally find more to do in San Sebastian than Vilnius. While Vilnius is larger than San Sebastian, San Sebastian has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. San Sebastian is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Vilnius is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. San Sebastian is more touristy than Vilnius and is known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Also, San Sebastian is famous for La Concha Bay. Vilnius is well known for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Vilnius and San Sebastian.

Vilnius offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has fascinating museums relating to Soviet times. These include the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights and the Lithuanian Diaspora Art Museum. Other notable sights include the Three Crosses Monument and the St. Anne's and Bernardine Church Complex.

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

San Sebastian is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

Vilnius is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is hearty with plenty of meat and potatoes. There are also soups and herring dishes as well as great desserts. Popular dishes in the area include cepelinai (meat filled potato dumplings), kibinai (a pastry), and potato pancakes.

Is Vilnius or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are great in both Vilnius and San Sebastian.

Vilnius has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The large student population is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene. You'll find most of the activity centered around three streets - Vilniaus, Islandijos and Vokiečių. These areas have a number of bars and clubs, and they draw the biggest crowds.

San Sebastian has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Vilnius or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Vilnius is not a resort destination.

Is Vilnius or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is notable for the beache. However, Vilnius 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.

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Vilnius to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with history, architecture, and churches. It's also where you'll find Vilnius University. At the heart of the area is Pilies Gatve (Castle Street), which has shopping, cafes, and restaurants.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Vilnius or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Vilnius has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. For quaint shops, head to old town, particularly around Pilies Gatve. The city also has an open air market, Kalvarijų Turgus, that is popular on Saturdays. There are also a few shopping malls around town.

Is Vilnius or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Vilnius is a family-friendly city. The city has a number of historic sights, but once your kids have had their fill, you can head to one of the outdoor or indoor play areas in the city center. There's also a toy museum and an Energy and Technology Museum that kids will enjoy. After a busy day, make sure you grab some ice cream to lift everyone's spirits.

Is Vilnius or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

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

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.

Vilnius is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with viewpoints, from hill tops to towers, where you can enjoy romantic views over the landscape. You can also dine in a local restaurant or enjoy a picnic in one of the outdoor settings.

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

Both Vilnius and San Sebastian are great destinations for backpackers.

Vilnius is a great city to visit for backpackers. For backpackers who want to escape the crowds, this off-the-beaten path European capital is a great option. It has history, charm, and an authenticity that is hard to find in a more touristy area. It's also an affordable city, with hostels and plenty of cheap places to eat.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Is Vilnius or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is notable for students. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit 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.

Plenty of students visit Vilnius. The city is small but charming with a number of places where international students can study. It's an affordable city with a lively atmosphere and an authenticate and genuine personality.

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

Both Vilnius and San Sebastian offer notable public transit options.

Vilnius has a few public transit options. Bus and trolleybuses are available.

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

Is Vilnius or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

San Sebastian is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Vilnius is a somewhat walkable city. The old town is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Vilnius and San Sebastian. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vilnius than in San Sebastian. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the religious destination of Vilnius. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 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 Vilnius or San Sebastian?

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

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 Vilnius or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the undiscovered destination of Vilnius. 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 Vilnius or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Vilnius. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilnius, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Lithuania, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Vilnius and San Sebastian, we can see that Vilnius is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Vilnius Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or San Sebastian?

Vilnius has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius 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 Vilnius 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 Vilnius or San Sebastian in the Summer?

Both San Sebastian and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Vilnius is around the same temperature as San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in San Sebastian. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vilnius. Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Sebastian during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of rain as San Sebastian. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vilnius or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and Vilnius during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Vilnius is much colder than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vilnius in October average around 8°C (46°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. Vilnius gets 94 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. Vilnius usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and San Sebastian. The winter months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

The weather in Vilnius can be very cold. In January, Vilnius is generally much colder than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around -5°C (23°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Vilnius gets 36 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, Vilnius usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vilnius or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as San Sebastian. The natural beauty are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches.

Vilnius is much colder than San Sebastian in the spring. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Vilnius often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Vilnius usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 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 Vilnius