What to choose between Bilbao or San Sebastian
Two of the main cities of the Basque region in Northern Spain are Bilbao and San Sebastian. It’s hard to choose between Bilbao or San Sebastian since both are so different and yet so worth visiting. So how do you choose between the two, we will share the best attractions, places to visit and things to do that stands out in each city and let you make your own decision about what resonates to your interests and time frame.
About visiting Bilbao, Spain
Bilbao is situated a little further inland from the ocean but was also used as a commercial and industrial center that helped the area grow quickly and become a commercial powerhouse in Northern Spain. The city is also dazzling and fun to visit with the Old Town, Art inspiration and creativity around the city, amazing culinary scene and gorgeous surrounding landscapes and nature to explore nearby.
Bilbao has a fantastic train and bus hub that connects to national and international destinations and the airport services the same national and international locations from around the world.
Exploring the Old Town of Bilbao
Overall Bilbao’s top attractions, history and culture, gastronomy and mix of old and new is inspiring and keeps changing to new and exciting events, attractions and activities to do in the region.
About visiting San Sebastian, Spain
Located right next to the Bay of Biscay on the ocean with wide expansive beaches to enjoy some fun outdoor activities, San Sebastian has always been known as more of a tourist and go to destination from travelers around the country and international locations. With a storied past that revolves around the previous royal houses of Spain vacationing here for a change of pace and wonderful services, amenities and everything Basque focused, the rest of society followed suite and also vacationed here for the summers.
Exploring the Old Town of San Sebastian
Visitors to San Sebastian will be wowed with a gorgeous city with an Old town, gorgeous beaches, amazing Michelin star dining scene, a French inspired district with fabulous shopping, dining and hanging out and an abundance of natural and outdoor activities to keep you occupied and love exploring every facet of the city.
How long to stay in either city?
To really enjoy and relax in either city, I would suggest at least 5 days and up to a week to explore the rest of Basque country and maybe do day trips around the area to enjoy the outdoors, coastlines and surrounding areas of Basque Country.
So, which is better Bilbao or San Sebastian to visit?
It really depends on what type of vacation or exploration you like to do and how active you want to be. But for me the best answer is to actually plan a visit to both cities to get exposed to the nuances and culture and history of each city. Besides a quick hour and 20-minute bus ride will bring you directly to the central business districts of each city so it is a relatively easy and fast ride where you can do day trips if you choose.
Best time and weather to visit Bilbao or San Sebastian
To find the best weather, manageable crowds, and cultural activities, May to June and September to October are ideal for both cities.
Bilbao
- Best Time: Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October).
- Weather: During these months, the weather is comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Summer can get warmer, but it’s not usually scorching, making it ideal for exploring the city’s rich cultural sites like the Guggenheim Museum. Rain is possible, especially in spring, so packing a light jacket or umbrella is wise.
San Sebastian (Donostia)
- Best Time: Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October).
- Weather: Similar to Bilbao, San Sebastian’s weather is pleasant during these months, with temperatures averaging between 16°C and 24°C (61°F to 75°F). The city is renowned for its beaches, like La Concha, so summer (July to August) is popular with tourists, though it can get more crowded and pricier. Fall offers fewer crowds with still-warm waters and plenty of sunshine.
Check out my post on visiting Bilbao and San Sebastian below
If you are visiting the areas around Basque country, we feature some additional places and attractions to visit in the region.
Conclusion to visiting Bilbao or San Sebastian
Bilbao’s city center is a tapestry of historical and cultural landmarks, providing a delightful blend of exploration, relaxation, and discovery for visitors from all walks of life. Thanks for checking out this post on Visit Spain and Mediterranean, please do share the post with any of the social media channels around the post, thanks for visiting!
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