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

Should you visit Izmir 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 Izmir 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.

Izmir

It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food. See Izmir travel costs.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a splendid, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See San Sebastian travel costs.

Izmir and San Sebastian: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Izmir or San Sebastian?

Visitors will generally find more to do in San Sebastian than Izmir. While Izmir is larger than San Sebastian, San Sebastian has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. San Sebastian is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Izmir attracts visitors for its big city activities. San Sebastian is more touristy than Izmir 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. Izmir is famous for

How is Izmir different from San Sebastian?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

San Sebastian is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.

San Sebastian is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.

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

San Sebastian is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Izmir 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.

Izmir has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Located on the coast, the city is known for its fresh seafood like grilled fish, calamari, and midye dolma (stuffed mussels). Kumru, a local sandwich made with sesame-crusted bread and filled with sucuk or cheese, is a must-try street food. Also popular are meze, which are small plates of appetizers like hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and zeytinyağlılar (vegetables cooked in olive oil).

Is Izmir or San Sebastian Better for Nightlife?

San Sebastian is a great destination for nightlife. However, Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Izmir or San Sebastian Better for Resorts?

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

Izmir is not a resort destination.

Is Izmir or San Sebastian Better for Beaches?

San Sebastian is a great destination for its beaches. However, Izmir 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.

Izmir is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Izmir or San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is a great destination for shopping. However, Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Izmir or San Sebastian Better for Families?

Both Izmir and San Sebastian are great family-friendly destinations.

Izmir is a very family-friendly place to visit. A visit to Kültürpark, a large park in the city center, is perfect for children to enjoy playgrounds, open spaces, and even a small amusement park. The Izmir Wildlife Park, located just outside the city, is another great spot, where kids can explore and interact with a variety of animals in a natural setting. For an educational experience, the Izmir Natural History Museum provides fascinating exhibits on local wildlife and natural science. Families will also enjoy taking a boat ride on the Izmir Bay or visiting the Aqua City Water Park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, San Sebastian is very family-friendly. 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 Izmir or San Sebastian Better for Couples?

San Sebastian is a great destination for romance. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Izmir makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy walking along the scenic Kordon promenade at sunset or having a drink at a local cafe. You can also explore the Kadifekale Castle, which offers panoramic views of Izmir and is another great spot for watching the sunset together. Also popular is taking a boat tour around Izmir Bay, which lets you see the city from a different perspective.

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

Izmir and San Sebastian are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Izmir. It's a popular stop off for backpackers who enjoy the cultural scene around town. There are many hostels to choose from, particularly in areas like Konak and Alsancak.

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 Izmir or San Sebastian Better for Students?

San Sebastian is a great destination for students. However, Izmir 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.

Izmir is not popular with students.

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

Izmir 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 Izmir can get you to some places easily. The public transit system is diverse and includes a metro with two lines, buses, ferries, and dolmuses (shared minibuses). In general, the system is reliable and affordable.

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

Is Izmir or San Sebastian a more walkable city?

San Sebastian is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Izmir is a somewhat walkable place. Some of the most pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods include Konak, Alsancak, and Kordon where you can easily walk between attractions, cafés, shops, and parks. The Kordon waterfront promenade is a popular place for strolling, jogging, or simply relaxing.

Should I spend more time in San Sebastian or Izmir?

How long in Izmir or San Sebastian?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Izmir and San Sebastian. In our opinion, San Sebastian has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Sebastian than Izmir. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Izmir. 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.

In San Sebastian, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this outdoorsy destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Izmir or San Sebastian?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Sebastian. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Izmir or San Sebastian?

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Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Izmir. This 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of San Sebastian. Lots of people come for the food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Izmir or San Sebastian?

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You'll find food around the of Izmir. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the outdoorsy destination of San Sebastian. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, The Best 3-Day Tours from Istanbul, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, and The Best Adventure Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Izmir and San Sebastian, we can see that San Sebastian is more expensive. And not only is Izmir much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Izmir would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Izmir 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 San Sebastian would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Sebastian than you might in Izmir.

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

Which is Bigger, Izmir or San Sebastian?

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

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

In the summer, Izmir is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the summer temperatures in Izmir in July average around 28°C (82°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Sebastian this time of the year. In Izmir, it's very sunny this time of the year. Izmir usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during summer. Izmir gets 378 hours of sunny skies, while San Sebastian receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Izmir usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Izmir gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Izmir or San Sebastian in the Autumn?

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

In October, Izmir is generally a little warmer than San Sebastian. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 19°C (67°F), and San Sebastian fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Izmir this time of the year. In the autumn, Izmir often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Izmir gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Sebastian receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. Izmir usually gets less rain in October than San Sebastian. Izmir gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Izmir or San Sebastian in the Winter?

Both San Sebastian and Izmir are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Izmir because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Sebastian this time of year.

Izmir is around the same temperature as San Sebastian in the winter. The daily temperature in Izmir averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and San Sebastian fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Izmir usually receives more sunshine than San Sebastian during winter. Izmir gets 131 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. It's quite rainy in Izmir. In January, Izmir usually receives less rain than San Sebastian. Izmir gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while San Sebastian receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Izmir or San Sebastian in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Izmir is a little warmer than San Sebastian. Typically, the spring temperatures in Izmir in April average around 16°C (61°F), and San Sebastian averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Izmir. In the spring, Izmir often gets more sunshine than San Sebastian. Izmir gets 231 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. Izmir usually gets less rain in April than San Sebastian. Izmir gets 45 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 Izmir