Istanbul vs San Sebastián

Istanbul

Istanbul has a transitional climate between Mediterranean and oceanic, with hot summers and cool, rainy winters. The Bosphorus creates microclimates — the Asian side tends to be slightly warmer than the European side.

San Sebastián

San Sebastián has an oceanic climate — milder and wetter than the Mediterranean coast. Summers are warm but rarely scorching, winters are cool but mild. Rain is frequent year-round, especially in autumn and spring. The Basque coast is greener than southern Spain for a reason.

Istanbul

Istanbul has an expanding metro, tram, funicular, and ferry network all accessible with the Istanbulkart rechargeable transit card. Get one immediately at any metro station or kiosk — single tickets are expensive. Traffic is notoriously bad, so use rail and ferries whenever possible.

Walkability: The historic peninsula (Sultanahmet, Eminonu, Bazaar Quarter) is very walkable but hilly. The Beyoglu/Galata area involves steep hills and stairs. The Asian side neighborhoods of Kadikoy and Moda are flat and pleasant on foot. Traffic and wide highways make some areas pedestrian-unfriendly.

San Sebastián

San Sebastián is wonderfully compact and best explored on foot. The entire city from Monte Igueldo to Zurriola beach is walkable within 40 minutes. Local buses cover the wider metropolitan area, and the historic funicular climbs Monte Igueldo.

Walkability: San Sebastián is one of Spain's most walkable cities. The entire center — from the old town to Gros, La Concha to Monte Urgull — is flat and pedestrian-friendly. The elegant waterfront promenade is a joy to walk day or night. Only Monte Igueldo requires a climb (or funicular).