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

Should you visit York or San Sebastian?

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

Should I visit York 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.

York

York is a medieval, fanciful, and historic city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

San Sebastian

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

York and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in York or San Sebastian?

Visitors will generally find more to do in York than San Sebastian. While San Sebastian is larger than York, York has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. York is very popular for its museums and historical sights, while San Sebastian attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, and shopping. York is famous for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. It is also well known for The Shambles. San Sebastian is famous for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is York different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

York 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 York can be an interesting and educational experience. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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

Foodies will find both York and San Sebastian both to be fantastic destinations.

For foodies, York is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

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.

Is York or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

Both York and San Sebastian are very good when it comes to partying.

York offers plenty to do in the evening. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

San Sebastian has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 York or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

York is not a resort destination.

Is York or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for its beaches. However, York is not a beach destination.

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.

York is not a beach destination.

Is York or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

York is very popular for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

York has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in York or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

San Sebastian is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is York or San Sebastian Better for Families?

York is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

York is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in San Sebastian. 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 York or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both York and San Sebastian make for a very good place to visit.

York is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

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.

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

Both York and San Sebastian are very good destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

Many 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 York or San Sebastian Better for Students?

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

San Sebastian is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are good educational programs in town, as well as nice beaches and a good student population. The locals are also welcoming and friendly.

York is not popular with students.

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

Both York and San Sebastian offer nice public transit options.

York has a few public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

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

Is York or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

San Sebastian is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

San Sebastian is very walkable. It's a great city for walking, with many pedestrian areas and places where you can take a stroll along the river or seaside.

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or York?

How long in York or San Sebastian?

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

Families should spend more time in York than San Sebastian. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in York, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in San Sebastian than York. 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 York 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 York or San Sebastian?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the medieval destination of York. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the food, 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of San Sebastian. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in York or San Sebastian?

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

San Sebastian is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in York or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the medieval destination of York. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of San Sebastian. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in York or San Sebastian?

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

The outdoorsy city of San Sebastian offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, 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 York and San Sebastian, we can see that York 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 York would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in York 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 York Expensive? and Is San Sebastian Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, York or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of York 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 York 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 York or San Sebastian in the Summer?

Both San Sebastian and York are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to York for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Sebastian in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, York is cooler than San Sebastian. Typically, the summer temperatures in York in July average around 16°C (62°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in San Sebastian. York usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Sebastian during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, York usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit York or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

Both San Sebastian and York during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to York in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, York is generally cooler than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in York average around 11°C (52°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, York often gets less sunshine than San Sebastian. York gets 112 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. York usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit York or San Sebastian in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both York and San Sebastian. Most visitors come to York for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

York can be very cold during winter. York is much colder than San Sebastian in the winter. The daily temperature in York averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

York usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. York gets 61 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, York usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit York or San Sebastian in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to York as well as San Sebastian. Additionally, the beaches are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

In the spring, York is much colder than San Sebastian. Typically, the spring temperatures in York in April average around 8°C (46°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, York often gets around the same amount of sunshine as San Sebastian. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. York usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. York gets 47 mm (1.9 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 York