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

Should you visit Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a historical, less touristy, and undiscovered 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. See Bucharest travel costs.

San Sebastian

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

Bucharest and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or San Sebastian?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bucharest than San Sebastian. Bucharest is bigger than San Sebastian, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bucharest is better known for its historical sights and big city activities, while San Sebastian is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. San Sebastian is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. Also, Bucharest is famous for The Palace of Parliament.

How is Bucharest different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Bucharest offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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

San Sebastian is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

San Sebastian is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Bucharest is not a resort destination.

Is Bucharest or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is well known for the beach. However, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Is Bucharest or San Sebastian Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Bucharest to see the old town. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or San Sebastian Better for Families?

San Sebastian is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

San Sebastian is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known 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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

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

San Sebastian is well known for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Bucharest or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is well known for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

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.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Bucharest is notable for its public transit. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Bucharest can get you to some places easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

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

Is Bucharest or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

San Sebastian is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bucharest and San Sebastian. In our opinion, San Sebastian has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Sebastian than Bucharest. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Sebastian.

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the undiscovered destination of Bucharest. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of San Sebastian. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or San Sebastian?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of San Sebastian. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or San Sebastian?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical destination of Bucharest. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the splendid city of San Sebastian. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or San Sebastian?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Bucharest. 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 choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, and The Best Adventure Tours to Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or San Sebastian?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of San Sebastian. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or San Sebastian in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and San Sebastian. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Bucharest is a little warmer than San Sebastian in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°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 Bucharest, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bucharest usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bucharest or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as San Sebastian. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Bucharest is cooler than San Sebastian. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Bucharest 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 Bucharest can be very cold. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Bucharest usually receives less sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Bucharest gets 71 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, Bucharest usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Bucharest gets 40 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 Bucharest or San Sebastian in the Spring?

Both San Sebastian and Bucharest during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches.

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

In the spring, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Bucharest gets 185 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. Bucharest usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Bucharest 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 Bucharest