sebastijan travel

Gradimo mostove između ljudi i destinacija.

Preko 50.000 zadovoljnih klijenata u 25 godina rada., putovanja bez granica, otkrij svijet.

• VILA SEBASTIJAN LJETO 2024

• HRVATSKA LJETO 2024

HURGADA LJETO 2024

ANTALIJA LJETO 2024

• ALBANIJA LJETO 2024

• TUNIS LJETO 2024

WELLNESS & SPA

• HOTEL TALIA LJETO 2024

• KOSTA BRAVA LJETO 2024

• CRNA GORA LJETO 2024

2500+ DESTINACIJA

Otkrijte svijet, putovanja iz snova sa sebastijan turističkom agencijom.

Ostale usluge

Fly fishing, nezaboravna avantura na bistrim rijekama i jezerima bosne i hercegovine.

PROFESIONALNI VODIČI

Zaronite u svijet ribolova s našim stručnim vodičima koji će vas voditi kroz nevjerojatna iskustva na vodi. iskusite vrhunski ribolov uz naše profesionalne vodiče, pružajući vam nezaboravne trenutke i uspomene koje će trajati cijeli život..

USLUGA ALL INCLUDED

Opušteno uživajte u ribolovu bez brige o detaljima uz naš all-inclusive paket. sve što vam je potrebno za nezaboravno iskustvo na vodi, uključujući opremu, čeka vas, omogućujući vam potpuno posvećivanje trenucima na jezeru ili rijeci..

©Justin Folkes/Lonely Planet

San Sebastián

Framed by golden beaches and lush hillsides, San Sebastián has undeniable allure, from its venerable dining scene to its grand architecture and packed cultural calendar.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Playa de la Concha

Fulfilling almost every idea of how a perfect city beach should be formed, Playa de la Concha (and its westerly extension, Playa de Ondarreta) is easily…

Parte Vieja

Fear for your life as huge sharks bear down behind glass panes, or gaze at otherworldly jellyfish. The highlights of a visit to the city's excellent…

Playa de la Zurriola

Stretching 800m in front of Gros, from the Kursaal to Monte Ulía, 'Zurri', as it's known locally, has some excellent waves that draw surfers from near and…

Designed by Rafael Moneo and opened in 1999, the Kursaal is one of the city's most striking buildings. Consisting of two cubes made of translucent glass…

San Telmo Museoa

One of the best museums in the Basque Country, the San Telmo Museoa has a thought-provoking collection that explores Basque history and culture in all its…

Parque de Cristina Enea

Created by the Duke of Mandas in honour of his wife, the Parque de Cristina Enea is a favourite escape for locals. This formal park, the most attractive…

Sun-drenched cultural space Tabakalera occupies a beautifully reconfigured tobacco factory dating from 1913. It's a hub for the arts and design, as well…

Peine del Viento

A symbol of the city, the Peine del Viento (Wind Comb) sculpture, which lies at the far western end of the Bahía de la Concha, below Monte Igueldo, is the…

Plan with a local

Experience the real Spain

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from San Sebastián

Dec 9, 2019 • 4 min read

While plenty flock to this picturesque coastal city for summertime surf and sun, a trip to San Sebastián in January affords advantages travelers may have not…

Dec 3, 2019 • 1 min read

Jan 29, 2016 • 7 min read

Jul 12, 2010 • 3 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in San Sebastián

San sebastián and beyond.

Change location

• UK / International
• Call toll-free from 9am EDT
• 617-223-4521 617-223-4767 or
• REQUEST A QUOTE

Visit San Sebastián, Spain

• Accommodation
• Things to do

San Sebastián’s setting recalls Rio de Janeiro ‘s topography, if not its climate: this Bay of Biscay municipality sits amid rounded, bosky peaks and cockle-shaped beaches. Inland, gently swelling green hills and pastureland resemble Switzerland. And, architecturally, it recalls Paris, or the old-world air of the French resort of Biarritz, 50 km (31 miles) to the north.

Belle Époque mansions and hotels still speak of San Sebastián’s fin-de-siècle glory days, when Queen Isabella II of Spain bathed here. Following her visit, Donostia (to use its Basque name) quickly became the de-facto summer residence of the Spanish (and other European) royals. Where they led, the glitterati followed.

There’s a good reason why San Sebastián’s beaches and food have attracted people for more than a century. But, I also enjoy the genteel Victorian architecture, where you can really see the city’s British influence.

Things to see and do in San Sebastián

Gastronomy and pintxos.

For a small city, San Sebastián boasts the densest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants per capita. Good food is deeply ingrained in its heritage beginning with the summer influx of royals and nobility during the 19th century. Many brought their own French chefs to rustle up high-end cuisine and so established the city as a culinary pacesetter. In turn, these chefs helped bring about the advent of nouvelle cuisine: French-style cooking, but lighter and less reliant on the use of butter.

You might also see a bit of clever artistic trickery in pinxtos bars: pinxtos creators are known for disguising dishes to look like other foods. A lemon dessert might be served in the form of an egg, or a beef pie dressed up to resemble a chocolate brownie.

For the best introduction, simply walk into one of the musty, unassuming pintxos bars that are crammed into every nook and cranny of the city, especially in the old town. They should have legs of jamón (ham) hanging from the ceiling rafters and a floor littered with discarded napkins — it’s customary to throw yours on the floor after eating. Different bars also have their own signature pintxos or house specials.

We recommend taking a tour with a guide, who’ll sneak you into their most beloved (and the most authentic) bars.

Today, all over the city (and in the Basque Country as a whole), groups of friends meet to cook for each other in the local ‘sociedad gastronómica’ (gastronomic societies): it’s even possible to attend one of these exclusive gourmet gatherings yourself.

Drinks-wise, San Sebastián’s classic tipples include zurito (a small pouring of Spanish Basque beer), txikitos (cider), txakoli (a piquant apple wine), vermouth, and a cocktail made with dry ice.

San Sebastián’s old town (the Parte Vieja) sits between the foot of Monte Urgull, one of the forested hills that stand sentry either side of the city, and the Urumea River. It’s a cluster of narrow passages — many pedestrian-only — overlooked by iron French balconies. Pintxos bars, ice-cream places and family-owned businesses line the streets.

At its heart is the Plaza de la Constitución, a one-time bullring that’s now an airy square fringed with alfresco restaurants. The plaza is also the venue for annual feast-day celebrations, which traditionally begin and end with the raising and lowering of the city’s flag.

The Parte Vieja is also home to several notable buildings. One of the most prominent is the ayuntamiento (city hall), a grand old bayside building of buttery-yellow stone built in 1882 whose first incarnation was as a casino. The modernist-looking glass façade of the Museo San Telmo, a museum devoted to Basque society and citizenship, occupies a handsome Dominican convent with preserved Renaissance-style cloisters. While the original market building is no longer used for this purpose, you can head underground to see the new modern structure below, filled with a host of excellent local delicacies and fresh produce.

You’ll also find the city’s most handsome church in this district. Santa María del Coro (Our Lady of the Choir) has a busy Churrigueresque frontage topped with a statue of the city’s arrow-pierced patron saint.

The city’s most prominent beach, La Concha, sweeps from the Parte Vieja to the hill of Monte Igueldo in the west. Its sands are fine-grained, soft underfoot and honey-gold. Spanish queens would bathe here (the royal bathhouse, the Casa Real de Baños, still overlooks the ocean).

A long promenade (sometimes lined with temporary public art installations) borders Zurriola Beach, which lies to the northeast of La Concha. The waves are rougher on this more exposed beach, making it popular with local surfers.

The smallest beach, Ondarreta, is flanked by a promenade, gardens and the wooded hump of Monte Igueldo. It looks onto the green islet of Santa Clara and plays host, at one end, to a sculpture by artist Eduardo Chillida named Peine del Viento (Wind Comb). Visit on a blustery day, and you might hear its interlinked iron rings producing all kinds of sounds when buffeted by the wind and waves.

Standing on the same spot since 1928, San Sebastián’s aquarium was built by the Gipuzkoa Oceanographic Society for their laboratory research — it was, in fact, Spain’s first natural science museum.

It has since been extensively revamped, and is now one of the most sophisticated aquariums in the country, with a large underwater tunnel bisecting its oceanarium section. Bull sharks and stingrays waft overhead as you walk through.

You can also study different geographically themed tanks, and there’s a children’s touch pool and an area devoted to the history of whaling on Spain’s Atlantic coast.

Best time to visit San Sebastián

San Sebastián can be visited almost all year round. The town is at its busiest between May and September, but the excellent weather during this period means you can enjoy the beaches as well as the local gastronomy. Winter (December to February) can be rainy, but the majority of restaurants and pintxos bars stay open year round.

Start planning your tailor-made trip to San Sebastián by contacting one of our Spain specialists

• 617-223-4521 617-223-4767
• Make an inquiry

Suggested itineraries featuring San Sebastián

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in San Sebastián, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Basque Country explorer: Bilbao, La Rioja & San Sebastián

7 days from $6,265pp

Culinary highlights of Seville & San Sebastián

8 days from $7,670pp

Madrid, San Sebastián & La Rioja tour

7 days from $8,920pp

Map of San Sebastián

Places & hotels on the map, places near san sebastián.

• The Basque Country and La Rioja 45 miles away
• Bilbao 49 miles away
• La Rioja 66 miles away
• Segovia 198 miles away
• Catalonia 215 miles away
• El Escorial & Valle de los Caídos 219 miles away
• Madrid 220 miles away
• Montserrat 229 miles away
• Cava wine region 231 miles away
• Ávila 232 miles away
• Salamanca 250 miles away
• Barcelona 251 miles away
• Girona 262 miles away
• Toledo 262 miles away

Photos of San Sebastián

Accommodation choices for San Sebastián

We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit San Sebastián. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra

Hotel Maria Cristina

Ideas for experiencing san sebastián.

Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting San Sebastián, and which use the best local guides.

Pintxos tasting tour

You’ve an opportunity to sample some of the best pintxos in the Basque Country on this half-day tour of San Sebastián. You’ll try a wide range of typical local dishes with the help of an expert guide, as you wander from bar to bar.

Basque cooking class

As part of this hands-on half-day cooking class in San Sebastián, you’ll learn about the culinary heritage of the Basque Country. You get an introduction to typical ingredients and dishes from the region, and cook a multi-course meal, paired with local wines.

Bilbao and the Guggenheim Museum

Industrial hub turned cultural hothouse, Bilbao is home to Frank Gehry’s groundbreaking Guggenheim as well as a lively cultural and culinary scene. On this tour, you explore the city with a private guide for an insight into its changing fortunes and engineering marvels.

San Sebastián

San Sebastián, or Donostia in the Basque language, is a playground for the senses: Framed by the aquamarine Bay of Biscay and a ring of green mountains, the European beach town is as lovely as it is rich in culture. Part of Spain’s autonomous Basque Country, the region is home to a proud and independent people, and the city’s unique language and culture bear little relation to the rest of the Iberian peninsula. Many of the world’s top chefs list San Sebastián as their favorite destination, and the city has more Michelin stars per inhabitant than any other city in the world.

• Copy Link copied

Photo By Bear Fotos/Shutterstock

When’s the best time to go to San Sebastián?

Winters are cloudy and wet (though still warm), making summer the ideal time to visit. The population of the city increases considerably from June through August, but unlike other European cities, the crowds aren’t large enough to make a trip unpleasant. San Sebastián’s food scene is delicious all year round, though restaurant hours can be limited in the winter. To really live like a local, plan a trip around one of San Sebastián’s many festivals, when the city comes alive with, say, film buffs (September’s San Sebastián Film Festival), drummers (January’s Tamborrada festival), farmers (December’s Santo Tomas), and summer revelers (August’s Great Week).

How to get around San Sebastián

San Sebastián has a tiny and pleasantly dated airport (EAS) located in the nearby village of Hondarribia. From there, you can take a city bus or a taxi, which will run you about 30 euros. Flying into Bilbao (BIO) is another easy option. A bus leaves from the airport exit to the center of San Sebastián every 45 minutes past the hour and costs about 16 euros.

Once you arrive, San Sebastián is best experienced on foot. The city can be walked end to end in about an hour (this is a favorite local pastime). City buses are plentiful, punctual, and straightforward. Taxis (+34 943 46 46 46) begin at 6 euros for a journey within city limits. San Sebastián is well-connected to other cities by bus and train, though buses are usually more efficient (if you have the option). The Renfe train connects to the rest of Spain, while the Euskotren connects San Sebastián to France and Bilbao.

Can’t miss things to do in San Sebastián

There’s not much that beats watching the sun set behind Monte Urgull from a bar in the Old Quarter. Order a mojito and see if, from a distance, you can spot the tiny bar built into the side of the mountain.

Food and drink to try in San Sebastián

Follow the locals to any pintxo bar. Order one pintxo and one drink, and then move on. Pintxos on the bar are up for grabs, and you pay when you are finished. Lunch hours usually run from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Kitchens typically open for dinner at 8 p.m. and allow seating up to 10:30 or 11 p.m. It can be difficult to find substantial food outside of these hours. Expect wine and beer pours to be smaller than in your home country, but also expect them to be cheaper. If you want an even smaller serving (all those pintxos , all those wines...) you can ask for a zurito (small beer) or txikito (small wine).

Culture in San Sebastián

San Sebastián is home to Basque people who are culturally and genetically distinct from other Europeans. They speak Euskara, a language isolate that is unrelated to the Romance languages of the region. Learn a few words, if you’re aiming to please: kaixo means “hello,” and agur is “good-bye.” Basques know how to celebrate their uniqueness—whether with a day dedicated to Euskara, or by partying on Calle San Juan de Bilbao in the Parte Vieja (Old Quarter).

Basques love a good party. The Tamborrada (held on January 20) celebrates the city’s patron saint with a 24-hour festival in which participants walk through the city, drumming. Saint Thomas’s Day (December 21) commemorates the day that farmers used to travel to the city to pay their yearly rent; festivities include traditional dress, generous quantities of cider, and the eating of txistorra (a Basque pork sausage). For a more modern cultural event, check out the September film festival, Zinemaldi, which is one of Europe’s most important.

Local travel tips for San Sebastián

At a restaurant or bar, don’t pay for your food or drink until you’re on the way out. Tip only if you’re feeling too lazy to pick up the change. When walking avoid the red paths, which are for cyclists only. Do not forget your umbrella as the city sees many rainy days, even in summer.

Local Resources

• DonostiKultura
• DiarioVasco
• San Sebastián Tourism

Guide Editor

Marti Kilpatrick

Best itinerary to visit San Sebastian in 2 days

• Sofía Pozuelo
• UPDATED: 23/02/2023

In this post, you’ll learn how to spend 2 days in San Sebastian. I had visited San Sebastian several times in the past; however, I finally decided to spend several days in the city to get to know it properly. I was able to discover why San Sebastian has such a good reputation and why it is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. It’s a lovely city!

So that you too can enjoy a spectacular stay in this Basque city, I have designed this 2-day itinerary in San Sebastian, where you will find the best places to visit in the city during your stay.

Table of contents

Where to stay in san sebastian.

I stayed at Sansebay Hotel . It is located in the Old Town, right next to the beautiful port. You can walk anywhere in ​​the city from the hotel. I loved the staff, the breakfast, and the spaciousness of the rooms. Mine had views of the entire bay. I highly recommend it!

If you are interested in staying in another area of ​​the city or you rely on a specific budget, here are other recommendations on where to stay in San Sebastian .

• Hostels: Surfing Etxea , Koba Hostel .
• $: Pensión San Jerónimo .
• $$: Pensión Ondarra .
• $$$: Boulevart Donostia .
• $$$$: Maria Cristina .

2 days in San Sebastian: itinerary and tips

Ready to discover the best 2-day itinerary to visit San Sebastian? Let’s begin!

Day 1 in San Sebastian

On your first day in San Sebastian, I recommend visiting the following places:

San Sebastian’s Old Town

Your visit to San Sebastian in 2 days cannot start anywhere else other than in the Old Town. It’s the most emblematic and charming area of ​​the city. Its streets are full of life. You can spend an entire morning visiting the Old Town. You will definitely take several breaks to eat exquisite pintxos. I’ll share some places to eat pintxos later in the post.

Begin by contemplating the exterior of Basilica of Our Lady of the Choir and walking down Mayor Street, located right in front of it. Look out over the Bahía de la Concha from San Sebastián’s port. Visit the Donostia Town Hall, a building that formerly housed a casino, and take a relaxing walk through the Alderdi Eder Park.

Continue to explore the Old Town by visiting Bretxa Market, where you can get a taste of local food. Enjoy the beautiful Plaza de la Constitución. Visit San Vicente Church. Lastly, if you like museums, visit to San Telmo Museum to learn more about Basque history and culture.

These are some of the best bars to eat pintxos in the Old Town of San Sebastián: La Cuchara de San Telmo, La Viña, Borda Berri, Bar Sport and Bar Txepetxa.

Gros Neighborhood

After visiting the Old Town and eating pintxos, walk along Alameda del Boulevard and cross the Zurriola Bridge to get to Gros. Gros is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city and one of the main places to visit in San Sebastian . It has a much more relaxed and youthful atmosphere. It is a surfer’s paradise in San Sebastian.

I recommend strolling along Zurriola Beach. You can start your walk at Kursaal Elkargunea Center towards the Paloma de la Paz sculpture. You can take a break and watch how surfers catch some waves. I also recommend strolling through the streets of Gros and having a break in one of the many cafeterias. Do not forget to visit Plaza Cataluña. It has a nice atmosphere.

Sunset from Monte Ulía

There are three mountains in San Sebastian that I recommend visiting: Monte Ulía, Monte Gross and Monte Igueldo. Mount Ulía is located in the eastern part of Gros. It is possible to cross it entirely until Pasajes. As this takes several hours, I simply recommend enjoying the incredible views of San Sebastián from Mount Ulía. If you visit during sunset, it’s even better!

The climb isn’t easy; however, the landscape that you can see from the different points of the mountain is spectacular.

🎫 If your are interested in knowing more about the history of the places you visit, I recommend booking a free guided tour. A great option is this free tour of San Sebastian . Along with a guide and a small group of people, you’ll be able to visit some of the city’s most important places for about 2 hours an a half. Check other free tours in San Sebastian .

Day 2 in San Sebastian

On your second day in San Sebastian, I recommend visiting the following places:

La Concha Beach Promenade

Start your second day in San Sebastian by taking a pleasant walk along Paseo de la Concha. You can walk along the beach or along the boardwalk. Both options are very nice. Did you know that La Concha Beach is considered one of the most beautiful urban beaches in the world?

Halfway there you will come across La Perla, a spa center. When you reach the end of the beach, continue along Ondarreta Beach to the next place on this 2-day itinerary in San Sebastian.

View from Monte Igueldo

From Monte Igueldo, you can enjoy some of the most beautiful views of San Sebastián. I recommend walking through Playa de la Concha very early to arrive at Monte Igueldo soon and enjoy the place with more peace. Although if you want to go up by funicular, you should know that it does not open until 11 a.m. If you want to go earlier, you will have to walk up. The path is quite steep but spectacular views await you at the top. You can do it!

You can have a drink in a bar and visit an old amusement park. I recommend walking down so you can visit the lighthouse and enjoy the views for a while longer. When you go down, you can follow the path to Peine del Viento which is one of Eduardo Chillida’s most emblematic sculptures.

Miramar Palace, a must-see place if you visit San Sebastian in 2 days

On your way back to the the city center, you should definitely consider stopping at Miramar Palace. It is located between Concha Beach and Ondarreta Beach. This palace was built by Maria Cristina who frequently spent the summer here. Entrance to the palace is not permitted to the public; however, it is definitely worth visiting this stunning palace and taking a stroll through its gardens.

San Sebastian’s City Center

Time to explore the city center! This area of the city is a large commercial hub. In Urbieta, Fuenterrabia or Getaria streets, you will find many shops and boutiques. In the city center you will find the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd , another essential to visit in San Sebastian.

Other places that you should include in your route through the center of San Sebastian are the Plaza de Gipuzkoa, the Hotel Maria Cristina, the Victoria Eugenia Theater and the Santa Catalina Bridge.

Sunset at Monte Urgull

It’s time to explore Mount Urgull! I recommend going along Paseo Nuevo and then access it through the entrance that is next to San Telmo Museum. It has a lot of paths and places to explore.

I recommend visiting Baluarte del Mirador, the Cemetery of the English, the Castle of La Mota and the Napoleon’s Battery. You can have a drink at Polboriña bar, which is located at the top of the mountain. You can enjoy a spectacular sunset at the top.

After coming down from Monte Urgull, I recommend walking through the Old Town to enjoy the atmosphere at night. End the day in the best possible way with some appetizing pintxos.

On the following map you can see the places that I recommend in this guide (and other sites), the hotel that I recommend and some of the pintxos bars that I have mentioned:

If you have more time in the city, check my 3-day itinerary in San Sebastian and the best day trips from San Sebastian . Also, don’t miss my Spain travel guide .

I hope that this itinerary of San Sebastian in 2 days has been very useful for you and has helped you plan your trip to this beautiful city in the Basque Country. If you want to tell me about your experience in this city or have any questions, leave a comment down below. See you next time, traveler!

• PLAN A TRIP STEP BY STEP

↠ Book free tours and guided visits on Civitatis or GetYourGuide . I always use these platforms to check what organized activities there are at my destination.

↠ To pay with card in foreign currency or withdraw money from ATMs, I always use this card (there are free and paid plans). It works the best!

↠ Traveling with travel insurance to a destination where you don’t have healthcare coverage is a must. Get your insurance 5% cheaper with this link .

↠ If you want to have cellphone data at your destination from the moment you land and don’t want to waste time, there is nothing like this eSIM . Use the code “comeamaviaja” for a 5% discount.

↠ Check out Booking’s offers , a platform I always use, as I always find very good options thanks to its search engine with filters.

↠ For destinations where I need to rent a car, I always check Discover Cars and Auto Europe search engines. I recommend them!

↠ If you still need to buy flights for your trip, there is no better search engine than Skyscanner (although I always recommend booking the flight on the company’s website).

RELATED POSTS

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Restaurants

Chutney Gastrobar, a mix of flavors from around the world

San Sebastian with kids

San Sebastian in 1 day: What to do and see

San Sebastian in two days: What to do and see

• Best things to do in San Sebastian

Urgull Mount

Recent posts.

• attractions

SAN SEBASTIAN: TRAVEL AND TOURISM GUIDE

San Sebastian is the capital of Guipuzcoa  (Gipuzkoa in Euskera),  being the smallest province in Spain , however, it is definitely one of the most attractive for tourists. If you are thinking of visiting Donostia (as it is known in Basque) in the near future, here you have this guide to San Sebastian where we shared with you all the secrets to enjoy your trip to the maximum.

• Recommended hotels

Best hotels in San Sebastian

Best pintxos bars in San Sebastian

Best museums.

• Best San Sebastian Museums, Donostia

Chillida Leku

Eureka Museum of Science

San Telmo museum

San Sebastian Aquarium

Biarritz and Bayonne tour

Zumaia, Zarautz and Getaria Tour

San Sebastian Free Tour

San Sebastian + Biarritz Tour (+french coast)

Sightseeing Bus Tour: San Sebastian Hop-on Hop-off

Latest posts.

• Around San Sebastian

Zarauz: What to see and do

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Sanctuary of Aranzazu (Santuario de Aránzazu)

Santuario de Loyola (Sanctuary of Loyola )

Best things to do in Bayonne

Best hotels.

Recent Reviews

Why visit san sebastian.

San Sebastian is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a  holiday weekend , but to get the most out of the city it’s advisable to spend 3 or 4 days , this way you will be able to enjoy its beaches, restaurants and excursions to the fullest. The mere fact of strolling around its streets full of charm, walking along its  beaches  or indulging in a whimsy tasting of the  best pintxos  in town could be just a few reasons to visit Donostia.

The foreign tourism that the city receives does it not only for its unquestionable beauty but also mainly due to the reputation that its cuisine has far from our borders. This outstanding cuisine drives a  great number of visitors to come to Donosti in order to discover the best food and tastes . Michelin-starred restaurants are in high demand by those who visit us following the recommendations of the most prestigious gastronomic magazines in the world. However, if you are planning to go to one of these restaurants, we recommend that you book your table in advance as it is often difficult to get a reservation at short notice, especially in the summer, when more people visit the city.

In addition to the  famous restaurants , the  cider houses  (commonly known as “sidrerías”), and primarily the cider houses of Astigarraga and Hernani,  are a distinct “must to do” within the Basque culinary culture . If you’ve never been to one before, you should definitely try them on your next visit. It is a unique and very advisable experience, not only for the food and the cider but also for the good atmosphere and the laughter you get with the famous Txotx!

If you  come in summer  you can take advantage of the good weather and go to one of  its beaches . The best thing about them is that they  are located in the heart of the city , which gives them an unparalleled charm. Recently,  ‘ La Concha ’ beach has been named the best beach in Europe and the sixth in the world by Tripadvisor users  (Year 2017).

If you travel with the youngest members of the house, you will also find  a lot to do with your children in San Sebastian . The  Aquarium , for example, is a must see. It is one of the largest in Europe and is the attraction that receives more tourists throughout the year. Riding the tourist train is another good way to see the city at a glance while the children have a great time, just like the tourist bus. Undoubtedly these two options are highly recommended to see San Sebastian with the little ones and, this way, they do not get too tired.

Another good option is to visit to the  top of Monte  Igueldo , where in addition to seeing the curious amusement park, you will have the best views of San Sebastian and the bay of La Concha. You can either take ‘the funicular’ (cable car), go by bus, or for the most adventurous, trek up to the top.

For film lovers, the  San Sebastian Film Festival , one of the most prestigious film festivals in Europe, will be a must, where the main stars of Spanish and international cinema congregate every year. Likewise, the Jazz Festival is another of the highlights of the summer, together with the celebration of the festivities of ‘Semana Grande’ of San Sebastian, where the international fireworks competition is its highlight.

How to travel to San Sebastian

San Sebastian has easy access by train and bus, although its airport ( Hondarribia airport ) is somewhat more limited, and unless you fly from Madrid or Barcelona, the access by plane is more complicated.

One option in this case, if you want to  come by plane , is to fly to Bilbao and then transfer to Donosti with the hourly bus connection from Bilbao airport (17€ one way). In just one hour you will be at the bus station in the heart of the city, next to the train station. You can also search for flights to Biarritz in France, which is very close to San Sebastian.

If you  come by car , it is best to park it in the hotel car park or in a public car park during your stay in the city. The best way to get around Donosti is by walking or taking the bus in certain cases, but it is not worthwhile to get around in your own vehicle as it is difficult to park and the distances are too short to get around by car. Our recommendation is that you forget about it while you enjoy the city.

Do you have your accommodation?

One of the most complicated matters when it comes to coming to the capital of Gipuzkoa is undoubtedly the accommodation. The high demand for both  apartments  and  hotels in San Sebastian  strongly increases prices if not booked well in advance.

Our recommendation is to  book your accommodation as soon as possible  to ensure a good price on your reservation. On  websites like Booking  you can book your accommodation right now and cancel it up to 48 hours before your arrival, so if for whatever reason you do not make the trip, nothing happens, you cancel it and do not lose your money.  This way you can find up to 60% cheaper prices for your stay .

The best guide to San Sebastian

In our guide you will find  all the relevant information about  what to see and do in San Sebastian , so that you can get a good shot and don’t waste your time looking for information. We show you all the essential visits and day itineraries, for instance, so that you can organize yourself well and not leave anything behind.

The information you see here has been gathered from our own experience. If you see an error or believe that some information is not correct, you can contact us and we will solve it.

• Destinations
• Travel Guides
• For The Home
• Privacy Policy

Spain , Travel Guides

San sebastian travel blog – how to visit san sebastian spain.

We first thought about San Sebastian travel options after watching an episode of Anthony Bourdain years ago. At the time, we knew nothing about the city or its cuisine. But, after living in Spain it has become one of our favorite destinations in Spain. This is why we wanted to create a comprehensive San Sebastian travel guide.

*This post contains compensated links. Find more info in my  DISCLAIMER . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

How To Visit San Sebastian Spain

In this San Sebastian travel blog, we share our top travel tips on what and how to eat well in San Sebastian, one of the best food cities in  Spain .

We also provide practical San Sebastian tips including the best places to stay in San Sebastian, how to get to San Sebastian, and some recommended San Sebastian day trips.

How To Book Hotels In Spain

Since leaving the US over a decade ago, we’ve traveled to Spain numerous times. We’ve even lived in Spain for over three years.

During these trips to Spain, we learned a few things about booking hotels in Spain. We’ve stayed at stunning luxury hotels like the Hotel Alfonso XIII in Seville and the W Barcelona . And sadly we have stayed in our fair share of not-so-great hotels in Spain.

When planning our trips to Spain, we use Booking.com for hotels in Spain. In addition to booking hotels, we’ve used them to book apartments in Spain for longer stays.

When we’ve wanted something special, we’ve used Booking to find stunning villas in Spain . We’ve even found some charming and less expensive guest houses in Spain on Booking.com.

Where Is San Sebastian Spain

When we first learned about how great the food is in San Sebastian, the first question we had was where is San Sebastian located in Spain anyhow? It’s just not a corner of Spain that many travelers were clued into until relatively recently.

Arguably one of the best food destinations in the world, San Sebastian is in Spain’s  Basque Country . The Basque Country is an Autonomous Community within Spain.

They speak Spanish there as well as Basque (Euskara). Signs and menus are often in both languages. You often see references to Donostia too, which is the Basque word for San Sebastian. 

Located on the Bay of Biscay to the north, the city is a mere 12 miles (20km) from the French border. San Sebastian’s beach, the “Playa de la Concha” with its horseshoe shape, dominates the city and is considered to be one of Europe’s best beaches.

Divided in two by the Urumea River, San Sebastian is a pedestrian-friendly city with miles of foot and cycling paths around the city. Most of the San Sebastian tourist attractions sit along the river, or along the beach.

Get our Ultimate Guide to Packing For Spain 

Best Time To Visit San Sebastian Spain

Thanks to its location on the Bay of Biscay, San Sebastian experiences mild weather compared with other Spanish cities making it a year-round destination. Summer months are warm and comfortable, and not as hot as their southern counterparts.

San Sebastian winters are cool but not cold with temperatures generally staying above freezing. Rain is more prevalent in San Sebastian due to its coastal location. There are similarities in the climate between San Sebastian and its northern neighbors in the British Isles.

Like other European destinations, the high season of July and August can be a lot more expensive, particularly for hotels. The shoulder seasons are more reasonable. During the winter months, accommodations become almost dirt cheap.

Traveling to San Sebastian between January and April leaves open the possibility of a cider house visit, as discussed below).

The city hosts various events and  festivals throughout the year, including a Tango Festival in May, horse races in June, a sailing regatta and International Jazz Festival in July, and a San Sebastian  Gastronomika  Congress in October.

Things To Do In San Sebastian Spain – Top San Sebastian Attractions

Taking a food tour in san sebastian.

People often ask us how we find great food in a city we’ve never visited. In addition to doing our own research and asking friends, we always take a food tour. Not only will you learn what to eat and where, but food tours are also a great way to learn your way around a city.

There are lots of great food tours in San Sebastian and choosing the right one is tricky. We are big fans of  Devour Tours . Devour Tours does a great job of explaining the food and drink in a city.

They have the local knowledge to discover off-the-beaten-path bars and restaurants only locals go to. Over the past decade, we’ve easily been on a dozen Devour food tours across Spain.

In San Sebastian, Devour Tours offers a mix of food tours and sightseeing tours. Tour prices range from $70 to $130 per person. Most of Devour’s tours max out at 12 guests making it a more enjoyable experience.

Here are the food tours Devour currently offers in San Sebastian.

San Sebastian Ultimate Pintxos & Wine Tour

Authentic Basque Cooking Class in San Sebastian

Meeting The Legend Chef Juan Mari Arzak Of Arzak Restaurant San Sebastian

Michelin Star Restaurant Hopping

Although there is no Michelin Guide to San Sebastian, the Michelin Guide for Spain is bursting with options for fine dining. Although there are a few options within the city, many of the region’s top restaurants are in the surrounding areas.

Our top recommendation is  Arzak , a 3 Michelin Star Restaurant just up the road from the center of San Sebastian.

Other restaurants that require a day trip away from the city include Martin Berasategui and Mugaritz. Reservations are always required and must be made well in advance. 

Wondering what to see in San Sebastian that doesn’t involve food? While eating local pintxos and drinking cider might be the main reason to visit San Sebastian, the city offers travelers both natural and man-made attractions to explore.

Famous San Sebastian Sites

La Catedral del Buen Pastor (Church of the Good Shepherd Cathedral) is a neo-Gothic cathedral inaugurated in 1897. It’s San Sebastian’s most important religious building. The spire stands 246 feet (75m) tall and dominates the San Sebastian skyline.

Overlooking San Sebastian and providing breathtaking views of both the city and the Bay of Biscay is Monte Urgull. About 400 feet (120m) at its peak, hiking up Monte Urgull is the perfect activity to burn off the day’s culinary activities.

Also check out Ayuntamiento de San Sebastián (City Hall), which was constructed in 1882 and stands near the famous “Playa de la Concha.” Once the site of a famous standoff during the Spanish Civil War, travelers can still see bullet holes from this troubling period.

Top Things To Do in San Sebastian Spain – Tripadvisor San Sebastian 

 Check out our Ultimate San Sebastian Food Guide

San Sebastian Day Trips

The perfect San Sebastian weekend can be spent doing nothing more than hopping around pintxos bars and deciding which is your favorite bite. But, if you have a bit more time here are a few recommended day trips from San Sebastian.

Visit The Cider Houses

Although it is possible to drink cider at most San Sebastian bars and restaurants, there is a Basque ritual that occurs each winter.

If visiting San Sebastian between January and April, it is worth it to visit Astigarraga, only a few miles away from San Sebastian. You can take the city bus in about thirty minutes and arrive in this small cider-focused town.

Book a lunch or dinner at one of the many cider houses, which includes a set menu and all-you-can-drink cider. Astigarraga is definitely a food and drink destination. We recommend  Sidreria Zapiain . Reservations are required. 

Day Trip From San Sebastian to Bilbao

Bilbao is another city in the Basque Country and is the tenth largest city in Spain. It makes a perfect day trip, particularly for art and museum lovers.

The city is host to the  Guggenheim Museum Bilbao , one of the most famous museums in the world, in part due to the architecture of the building itself.

Or, check out the Museum of Fine Arts Bilbao or the Bilbao Cathedral. Wander around Bilbao Old Town, or Casco Viejo for a little lunch and Rioja wine before returning to San Sebastian. You can take a train or a bus from San Sebastian to Bilbao in a little over an hour.

Mediavine Video Placeholder Video only displays when ad script wrapper is loaded on page

FAQs – How To Visit San Sebastian Spain

Without a doubt, food. San Sebastian is one of the best food cities in Spain and in the World. Basque cuisine ranks amongst the best and is why many people flock to San Sebastian.

San Sebastian is located in northern Spain along the Bay of Biscay. It’s approximately 5 hours drive from both Madrid and Barcelona. It can be reached by train which takes over 3 hours.

No. The nearest commercial airport is one hour away in Bilbao. The airport has flights around Spain and Europe. There are no flights from the United States.

Eric Hoffman

Eric Hoffman is the co-founder of Food And Drink Destinations. Eric is a lifelong traveler who is passionate about helping people learn how to travel for food. He lives with his wife, Amber, in Limerick, Ireland, after spending 3 years living in Spain. Over the last 20 years, they've traveled to over 70 countries together, always in search of great food travel experiences. Eric also loves cooking at home, always looking to perfect his Italian recipes.

The Ultimate San Sebastian Itinerary – A Compact City Break For Foodies

From where to eat the best pintxos to the most beautiful city views, this San Sebastian itinerary is the perfect introduction to the city.

Question: do you have a bucket list? That list of places that you hope to visit one day in your life.

One thing I love about a bucket list is that they’re 100% personal. A place that’s top of my list might not be somewhere you’ve ever dreamt of travelling to, and vice-versa. As a foodie, there were seven cities I’ve always wanted to eat my way around: Tokyo, Bologna, Lyon, Singapore, Montreal, New Orleans and San Sebastian.

Over the last few years I’ve eaten fresh sushi in Tokyo , sampled rich Lyonnaise cuisine in Lyon , cracked some crawfish in New Orleans , and just weeks ago I feasted on fresh tortellini in Bologna . There was only one dream foodie city left on my foodie bucket list, and it turns out I might have saved the best until last!

San Sebastian is renowned for its amazing food scene. Every year, many people visit this city in northern Spain for a wining and dining experience like no other. It’s hardly surprising, after all San Sebastian in Spain’s Basque Country has the most Michelin-starred eateries per capita in Europe. In fact, there are more in this one city per capita than in London, and that’s really saying something!

There are two sides to eating out in San Sebastian. You can opt for high-end cuisine, enjoying Michelin starred tasting menus, or eat the local way with dish after dish of pintxos.

Pintxos are small dishes, often placed on a slice of bread or a skewer, providing tasty flavour experiences. They’re usually devoured in a few mouthfuls, so the best way to immerse yourself in the food scene is to bar hop around the old town, enjoying a little bite and a drink at several spots. Basically, it’s time to go on your very own pintxos tour !

While the excellent cuisine might be the main reason for your visit, it turns out San Sebastian is a beautiful city with plenty to do. There are pretty walks, great viewpoints, historic landmarks, great shops and plenty more on offer. Lucky really, as if you’re really going to get the most out of your city break in San Sebastian, you’ll need to walk off a few pintxos to make room for the next round!

While the top-notch cuisine might be the main reason for your visit, it turns out San Sebastian is also a really beautiful city with plenty to do. I’ve always loved cities by the ocean (Barcelona, Nice, Split to name a few) so I had a feeling I’d like it in San Sebastian. There are pretty walks, pretty viewpoints, historic landmarks, quirky shops and plenty more. Pretty lucky really, as if you’re really going to truly this city, you’ll need to walk off a few pintxos to make room for the next round!

If you’re just starting to plan your San Sebastian itinerary, I’ve packed this guide full of travel tips, so you can make the most of every single second!

Travelling with Original Travel

Our trip was organised by Original Travel, who specialise in luxury tailor-made holidays. They believe that as no two travellers are the same, no two itineraries would ever be identical either. Their team took care of all the hard work, so that all we had to do was relax and enjoy ourselves.

We spoke to the team and outlined the kind of trip we’d be interested in doing, how many days we had available and what our interests are. They then plotted out an itinerary with a mix of guided and self-guided elements, plus travel and accommodation.

One of my favourite things about this trip was the ‘meet and assist’ service at Gatwick Airport. I’m a frequent traveller, so why would I need help checking in and going through security? Well, I don’t but wow does it have perks! We were met from our train by Paul, who then fast-tracked us to the premier check in desk, then whizzed us through the fast-track security to a fancy lounge. He collected us just before our flight and waved us off! What a luxury service, and something that’d be ideal for anxious or elderly travellers, or those with children. It really did make the airport experience stress-free.

Original Travel also included three tours on our San Sebastian itinerary: a pintxos tour, a wine tour and a cookery class. Each was the ideal fit for our interests. There was even an app and a personal concierge service, meaning we could call or text someone on the ground in Spain, who would help sort any queries during the holiday.

The accommodation that was selected for us was also a great match for our travel style. We were thoroughly impressed with the service by Original Travel and would definitely recommend the company if you’re looking for a stress-free personalised luxury holiday. While we tested out one of their Spain holidays , they can organise trips worldwide, so I’d recommend taking a look at the website here for more information.

So, back to the itinerary. Are you ready to dive in and find out my top tips for visiting San Sebastian? Vamos!

The Ultimate San Sebastian Itinerary

Go on a pintxos tour in san sebastian old town.

It can be a bit of a minefield knowing where to eat in a new city, so I was so happy that Original Travel found a great food tour for our first evening. Our guide Veronica was passionate about food, storytelling and the history of the city. Over the course of three hours we ate our way around the pretty streets of the Parte Vieja (Old Town).

We learned all about the pintxos culture, what to order, how to order and where to find the tastiest morsels in town! Oh, and of course we needed a drink to go with each dish, so we were pretty merry by the end, sampling numerous local wines throughout the evening!

I’d 100% recommend adding a food tour to your San Sebastian itinerary. Yes, you could easily bar hop on your own, but you’ll appreciate the ingredients, the dishes and the Basque Country cuisine a whole lot more with a bit of insider knowledge.

If you’re visiting the city for a foodie break too, I’d recommend reading my guide to the best pintxos in San Sebastian . This post includes a really handy map to make eating your way around the city even easier!

Catch the Monte Igueldo Funicular

San Sebastian city centre is nestled between some small mountains, with lush, green undulating scenery all around. One of my favourite activities in San Sebastian is to catch the old funicular up to the top of Monte Igueldo . I loved hopping on board the ancient carriages of the bright red funicular (built in 1912) and watching as the views expanded below. It takes you up around 350m, which would be pretty painful to walk! 

Once at the top you’ll have one of the best views of San Sebastian, stretching right along La Concha beach to the old town and Monte Urgull. It’s spectacular! If you’ve seen photos of the city, with Santa Clara Island in the centre, most likely they were taken from this spot.

Sadly, during our visit, the famous fairground at the top was closed. In peak season though you can enjoy stepping back in time on the vintage fairground rides, which include a wooden rollercoaster, a haunted house and a traditional carousel.

Book a cookery class in San Sebastian

I’ve already mentioned how visiting pintxos bars with a local gave me a greater understanding of the Basque culture. But, shopping for ingredients in the local markets and cooking with a chef gave me a whole new appreciation for the regional cuisine. Original Travel organised a five-hour cookery experience with a top chef from Mimo, focused on fresh fish and seafood.

We started the day at a marisqueria (fish market) in the centre of the city, learning about all of the interesting sea creatures caught close by. We also went to Mercado de la Bretxa, the city’s main market to pick up more ingredients, including some tasty Basque cheeses. Seeing the locals go about their daily shopping, interacting with market stall owners and sampling the fresh produce gave us lots of guidance, but also the confidence to return on our own!

Back in the kitchen at Mimo we created several dishes with the help of skilled chef Pato. These included gooseneck barnacles, a raw prawn carpaccio, cod jowl with green tear peas and red mullet in a dashi broth with smoky aubergine. It’s fair to say we made some gourmet dishes, but most were with ingredients I’d never worked with before. What a great introduction to modern Basque cuisine!

Trek to the top of Monte Urgull

In between all the feasting, you’ll no doubt be looking for a few places for some exercise! I mean you need to burn off a few pintxos to make room for your next plate! One of my favourite scenic hikes was from next to the San Telmo Museum up to the top of Monte Urgull. There are several options of trails, and the one we picked offered a lovely mix of coastal views and woodland.

At the top you’ll find the 12m Sagrado Corazón statue, Castillo de la Mota, a chapel and the English Cemetery. The views over La Concha and the coast are stunning, especially if you visit on a sunny day.

If you get thirsty, I’d recommend stopping at Urgulleko Polboriña . This small café bar is perched on the edge of Monte Urgull and offers one of the best views in the entire city. For a couple of Euros, you can relax with that epic view as a backdrop – heavenly!

Sample some of San Sebastian’s most famous dishes

While I’d definitely recommend booking a pintxos tour for your trip to San Sebastian, there are a few bars that are pretty legendary, for all the right reasons. They’ve been serving great food for a long time, are mentioned in all the guides, and they’re busy because they’re good!

So what would I recommend? Well, you simply have to try San Sebastian’s most famous pintxos: the Gilda. This is a skewer stacked with three pickled peppers, two olives and one anchovy. It’s salty, spicy and pickley all in one.

I’d recommend visiting Bar Nestor or La Viña for the city’s famous txuleta – a rib steak that’s usually enormous and served pink with a tasty crack of salt over the top. Order sides of tomato salad and pimientos (fried padron peppers) to go with it. YUM!

To finish? You have to try the famous San Sebastian cheesecake at La Viña! It’s a baked cheesecake, with a smooth, creamy middle and a burnt caramelised outside. I can confirm, after two portions (!!) it’s absolutely delicious!

Relax on La Concha

How about spending the day on San Sebastian’s most famous beach? La Concha is often regarded as one of the best urban beaches in Europe. The large bay is just under a mile long and has glorious golden sand, a chic promenade and is topped with a scattering of bars and restaurants. Set behind you’ll be able to spot the vast Miramar Palace, a late 19th-century palace built for the Spanish Royal Family.

Choose your patch of sand, enjoy a spot of sunbathing or take a refreshing dip in the water. The water here is sheltered by the peninsulas of Mount Urgull and Mount Igueldo, as well as Santa Clara Island. It’s also a lovely place to go stand up paddle boarding or kayaking.

Learn about Txakoli on a wine tour

Before our pintxos tour in San Sebastian, I’d never heard of Txakoli. It’s a variety of wine produced in this region of Spain, that’s dry and lightly sparkling. I quickly learned how delicious it was, and had several glasses on our city break!

It turns out some of the vineyards are just 20-minutes from the city centre making this one of the best day trips from San Sebastian. Isn’t that amazing? Original Travel organised for us to visit Hirutza for a wine tour and tasting. I was in awe of the scenery! Big mountains, sweeping valleys and rows of vines lay before us. It really is the most spectacular location!

After touring the winery and learning about the production of Txakoli, we sat down in the sunshine and enjoyed three wines paired with tasty pintxos. This was one of the highlights of our San Sebastian itinerary! Sitting there enjoying the natural beauty of northern Spain while sipping on light and elegant wines – what’s not to love?!

Go shopping in San Sebastian Old Town

It’s a given that you’ll spend a lot of your evenings in San Sebastian old town, but I’d recommend making time to visit the skinny streets during the daytime too. While some of the tapas bars will be closed, you’ll discover a maze of independent stores selling stylish clothing, homewares and foods. I particularly liked the surfer shops, selling cute and colourful beachwear.

Many tourist city centres are filled with souvenir stores, but the heart of San Sebastian doesn’t seem to have that. You really can have an enjoyable and authentic shopping experience.

Catch some surf on Zurriola Beach

One of the things we enjoyed about the location of our accommodation was that it was a few minutes’ walk from La Zurriola. This beach is popular with surfers and is a great place for people watching. From complete beginners having their first lessons, to pros tearing up the waves, you’ll find people of all abilities here.

There are several restaurants and cafes across the road in the Gros neighbourhood too. This district is pretty hip and cool, and has a younger feel than the old town.

Walk or run along Paseo Nuevo

I love it when a destination has a proper promenade along the coast, and in San Sebastian there’s Paseo Nuevo. This ‘new promenade’ surrounds the base of Mount Urgull and provides a great route for walkers, joggers, dog walkers and cyclists who love to get close to the ocean!

I loved my early morning run along here. With the sea breeze in my hair and sounds of the crashing waves – it definitely made a change to my London park runs!

Enjoy a Michelin-Starred meal

There are 11 Michelin-starred restaurants in San Sebastian, so if you’re visiting for a foodie-themed trip, I’d recommend booking one special meal. Yes, they’re expensive, but they offer a chance to try some of the best food on the planet. This is a city filled with top chefs, expressing their creativity through food. How exciting is that?!

The top ranking of three stars goes to Arzak, Akelarre and Martin Berasategui, while Mugaritz and Amelia have two Michelin stars. I dream of visiting one of these one day, but we decided to start with one star restaurant Mirador de Ulia . This is a restaurant offering a gastronomic experience packed full of Basque Country flavours and ingredients, with the most incredible view. It’s located in the hill overlooking Zurriola Beach, so from your table you’ll have sweeping panoramas of the entire city.

We enjoyed an 11-course tasting menu, which featured duck, artichoke, pork tartar, fish and clams. One of my favourite dishes looked just like an apple, but actually contained a cider granita! It really played with my mind! There were also some fun moments of theatre as clams were set on fire by the table and a crepe suzette was scorched with a blow torch.

Get to know the Gros neighbourhood

Looking for the trendy side of San Sebastian? Leave the old town behind and head to the Gros neighbourhood. This youthful part of the city has La Zurriola surf beach at the front, followed by several streets of lively pintxos bars, hipster cafes and clothing stores.

Looking for somewhere to eat? Don’t miss Bergara, Bar Ricardo, Pagadi, Matalauva, The Loaf bakery and the ever-popular Bodega Donostiarra Gros. For a gastronomic (and very photogenic) food experience check out the tasting menu at Galerna Jan Edan. In terms of shops, don’t mix Six Store on the seafront and Oh Lala.

Where to stay in San Sebastian

We stayed at Hotel Villa Soro , a boutique luxury hotel with a country-house feel, selected by Original Travel. Once a large family home, this smart villa oozes charm and sophistication with its high ceilings, vast lobby and grand staircase. We stayed in one of the best rooms (13). It was once the master’s bedroom and has a wide balcony overlooking the lawn.

This hotel is just a fifteen-minute walk to the old town, and five minutes from La Zurriola Beach. If the walk feels like too much effort, the hotel offers free bikes, making it easy to get around and see the sights.

Service was exceptional, and while it’s a bit further out than many of the city’s hotels, you get a wonderful feeling of tranquillity by not being right in the hustle and bustle.

How to get to San Sebastian

If you’re looking for international flights to San Sebastian Airport, you’ll be disappointed! The city has a commercial airport (in Hondarriba) but it’s mainly for internal flights. Most people fly to Bilbao, which is around one hour away by taxi or bus.

A big thanks to Original Travel for organising our dream foodie holiday to San Sebastian. It really was a big bucket list tick! You can find out more about travelling to Spain with Original Travel here . As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Don’t forget to check out my guide to the best pintxos in San Sebastian , which includes a really handy map of all the best pintxos bars.

If you’re looking for other ultimate foodie breaks, I’d recommend reading my guides to Bologna and Valencia . Or for other travel tips for this region of Spain, check out my Northern Spain road trip itinerary .

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

9 Amazing Experiences In Coastal San Sebastian, Spain

• Destinations

Welcome to Basque Country, located in the northern part of Spain along the Atlantic Ocean bordering France and the western Pyrenees. This region has its own history, language, traditions, and culinary delights, offering visitors a range of distinctive, unique, and memorable travel experiences.

San Sebastian — known to locals as Donostia-San Sebastián — is considered the most popular tourist destination in Basque Country. You can sense the impact of both Spanish and French influences in every aspect of Basque Country culture and cuisine. Blessed with gorgeous mountains, sparkling blue beaches, and rolling vineyards, San Sebastian will win you over with her many charms. 

Here are some amazing experiences you should not miss in San Sebastian .

I was a guest of the Spanish Office of Tourism, Chicago, but my opinions are my own. 

1. The Hotel Maria Cristina

The jewel of San Sebastian is the Hotel Maria Cristina , a Luxury Collection Hotel named after the popular Spanish queen. Opened in 1912, the hotel was actually inaugurated by the queen herself who overlooked the construction of the great building and added some of the finishing touches. The Queen also launched the new property, arriving in an elegant carriage with her lady-in-waiting.

Since the hotel opened, the 136-room Maria Cristina has played host to royalty and high society in San Sebastian. When I told a friend I would be staying there, she told me it was her favorite hotel in the world. After being a guest here, I tend to agree.

An opulent design coupled with a gracious atmosphere, outstanding service, over-the-top cuisine, and attention to detail make this a decadent stay. You’ll know you’ve arrived somewhere special when you stand in awe of the grand staircase and imagine yourself floating down the steps, heading to the opera during the Belle Epoch period.

Situated right next to the River Urumea, the hotel has a great location with easy access to all of the heralded tourist sites.

Did I tell you about the cushy linens that made my bed a welcome destination after a day of touring? With a variety of suites and guest rooms to choose from, the hotel will more than exceed your expectations.

2. Michelin-Starred Restaurants

Some people come to Basque Country for its extensive culinary table. Why? Because Basque Country boasts the greatest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. San Sebastian has 11 of its own . Restaurant Magazine also lists many of San Sebastian’s fine restaurants in the “50 Best Restaurants in the World.” Akelarre holds three Michelin stars, while other noteworthy restaurants include Mugaritz (with its 20-course tasting menu), Azark, and Amelia. Their innovative chefs blend traditional Basque recipes that have been handed down over generations with fresh, local ingredients to create dishes that engage all of the senses.

Pro Tip: Many of these award-winning restaurants offer tasting menus, so be sure to ask.

3. Pintxos Bars

The authentic taste of Basque Country is pintxos, more complex and intricate than tapas in other parts of Spain. Known for their unique combinations of meats, vegetables, cheeses, and toppings, pintxos are served on a baguette or skewer. They’re usually paired with a tantalizing glass of txakoli , a sparkling white wine. Pintxos bar-hopping is the way to go. Stop at Antonio’s Bar for a few pintxos like their deep-fried and creamy chicken croquettes, prawn ravioli, or braised ox cheek served with a crispy wonton. Then head to another bar for a heavenly dessert like Basque cheesecake or a torrija , a fried-bread pudding and ice cream.

Pro Tip: Many of the bars feature pre-made pintxos on display when you enter, so it’s easy just to point and say, “one of those, one of these, etc.” Or, you can also order off the menu board.

4. La Concha Beach

The most famous icon of San Sebastian is the windswept La Concha Beach, surrounded by Monte Urgull, Monte Igueldo, and Santa Clara Island. Considered the best beach in Spain and Europe, La Concha is shaped like a shell, which gives the beach its lovely name. Walk along the soft golden sand, or go paddleboarding, surfing, or sailing. Be on the lookout for Comb of the Wind , a collection of three massive curved sculptures by local artist Eduardo Chillida. Take the funicular to the top of Monte Igueldo for spectacular views for miles. Admire the architecture of Miramar Palace overlooking the beach, once the home of Queen Maria Christina, now used as a school. And yes, this is the same La Concha Beach mentioned in Ernest Hemingway’s classic, The Sun Also Rises .

5. La Parte Vieja (Old Town)

La Parte Vieja, or Old Town, is one of the most popular neighborhoods in San Sebastian with buildings dating back to the mid-19th century. Navigate these small streets and alleyways. Stop for a snack at a pintxos bar or two and shop for artisan goods. Start out at Plaza de la Constitution, the center of all the action, and see the San Vicente Gothic-style church, the oldest in the city. Check out La Bretxa, the open-air market, where you’ll undoubtedly see some of San Sebastian’s top chefs buying ingredients for the day’s meals. Go down the escalator and discover the fresh fish, olive oil, cheeses, and baked goods that the locals shop for. 

6. San Sebastian International Film Festival

Every September, since 1953, San Sebastian has hosted the San Sebastian International Film Festival , welcoming such luminaries as Alfred Hitchcock, Audrey Hepburn, Quentin Tarantino, and Bette Davis. In fact, the Hotel Maria Cristina even has a Bette Davis suite where you can stay and recreate the glamor. Every year, this event brings more visitors to the city than any single event. Usually, more than 150 films are screened in cinemas throughout the city. The opening and closing nights feature the same red-carpet excitement. 

7. Traditional Cider Bars

When you’re in San Sebastian, one must-visit is a cider bar to enjoy the most traditional of Basque drinks. At a cider bar, you’ll discover where history, culture, and culinary expertise come together for a fabulous gastronomical experience. The cider is considered still, without carbonation, and has a tart, vinegary taste and about 4 percent alcohol. Made from several varieties of apples, production has been taking place for more than 600 years. Learn how this traditional drink is made, then enjoy a typical cider house lunch or dinner menu which could include: a cod omelet, premium steak, nuts, quince and cheese, and unlimited cider from the gigantic wood barrels. The really fun part is learning to position your glass at just the right angle to catch the cider as it falls from the spigot. Alorrenea Cider House is a recommended spot to enjoy some cider.

8. Mimo Cooking School

Discover the secrets of traditional Basque cuisine with a demonstration or hands-on experience at Mimo’s Cooking School , next to the Hotel Maria Cristina. Our group watched as the two chefs prepared a six-course menu right in front of our eyes. They told us about the ingredients, recipes, and techniques — and then we got to taste it for ourselves. The entire experience felt like cooking at someone’s home together with family and friends. Additional offerings include a trip to the market with the chef to buy fresh ingredients before preparation, a walking food tour, and a wine and tapas tour.

Pro Tip: Culturally in Basque Country, it is customary to have lunch at 2 p.m. and dinner later in the evening. They believe meals are meant to be savored and enjoyed with family or friends, not rushed.

9. Museums In San Sebastian

Chillida leku museum.

One of San Sebastian’s favorite sons, Eduardo Chillida, became an artist and sculptor of world renown, creating works in the abstract. Chillida Leku is a unique museum, both indoors and out, where nature and art come together. Visit the gardens and see inside the Zabalaga Country House, which features more than 100 of his small works in alabaster, iron, murals, and collages. What gets you as you walk through this lovely sculpture park is how truly peaceful it is.

Explore The San Telmo Museum

This two-part museum is housed in both a 16th-century convent and a contemporary architectural extension situated right next to each other. Together, the San Telmo Museum tells the fascinating history of the Basque people in the heart of Old Town. Learn about their culture, challenges, and how their civilization adapted from a rural way of life to a more industrialized society. See more than 100 years of Basque art. Through paintings, artifacts, and audio-visual presentations, you’ll come away with a better understanding of what makes Basque so unique. Check out the tombstones, coat of arms, and special exhibits.

Pro Tip: Download the San Telmo Museum app and choose from a 1- or 2-hour guide through the museum’s permanent collection.

Bonus: Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum In Nearby Getaria

The only museum in the world dedicated to a fashion designer, the Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum showcases the genius of his contributions to the creation of haute couture in the 20th century. See his elegant evening wear as well as more casual suits and dresses on display that captured the industry for more than 5 decades. His techniques and dedication to perfection made Christian Dior call Balenciaga the “master of us all.”

While you’re in Getaria, stop in the most famous gelato place in Basque Country, called Dona Doni for their award-winning mango with espelette (pepper). It was refreshing and delicious with just a slight bit of kick.

Pro Tip: For the latest information on how to get around San Sebastian using public transportation, download this app .

No matter what you discover in San Sebastian, you’re sure to bask in the glory of northern Spain!

For more beautiful but unique Spanish getaways, check out these articles:

• 9 Reasons You Need Spain’s Gorgeous Palma De Mallorca On Your Travel List
• Why I Want To Retire In The Gorgeous Andalusian Region Of Spain
• 9 Amazing Experiences In Coastal A Coruña, Spain

Her stories have appeared in UrbanMatter, Orbitz, Travelocity, Red Tricycle, Tinybeans, and Splash Magazines Worldwide. She is a proud member of Society of American Travel Writers and a former member of International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association. Sporting plenty of bling with notebook in hand, she is always ready for her next adventure. You can further follow her travels on her website, Mira Temkin Travel .

San Sebastian   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Krzysztof Baranowski | Getty Images

Why Go To San Sebastian

With all of its remarkable offerings, it's hard to believe that San Sebastian isn't as popular as neighboring Madrid or Barcelona . But this oceanfront resort town deserves the same regard reserved for Spain's most popular metropolises. San Sebastian's timeless beauty has a tendency to put travelers into a trance, that is, if its world-class culinary offerings don't take hostage of their taste buds first. The Basque Country lends a kind of cultural experience that deviates from what some might see as the norm in Spain. Here, flamenco and bullfighting aren't sought-after cultural activities in the same way that pintxo bar hopping is. And while siestas are still practiced and Spanish is still spoken, much of the city's residents are bilingual (San Sebastian has the highest number of Basque speakers in the Basque province) and opt to surf in their spare time.

It was the former Queen Maria Cristina who initially made this destination famous by vacationing here during the 19th and 20th centuries. Nowadays, when the heat of the south becomes too much to bear, Spaniards flock to San Sebastian's cooler shores for a reprieve. But the most interesting thing about San Sebastian, whether you've heard of it or not, or regardless of who has come before you, is its ability to maintain a small-town feel. Isolated spots along the ocean, between narrow calles and atop its famous hillsides, make San Sebastian feel like it's a place all your own.   

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• # 6 in Best Beaches in Spain
• # 11 in Best Places to Visit in Spain

Best of San Sebastian

Best hotels in san sebastian.

• # 1 in Hotel Arbaso
• # 2 in Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra
• # 3 in Hotel Maria Cristina, A Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian

Best Things to Do in San Sebastian

• # 1 in Parte Vieja
• # 2 in Pintxos Food Tours
• # 3 in La Concha Beach

Popular Tours

Ultimate San Sebastian Pintxos & Wine Tour (Evening)

(764 reviews)

from $ 142.64

San Sebastian Pintxo, Wine & Market Foodie Tour(Small Group)

(258 reviews)

from $ 154.80

Biarritz and French Coast Small Grop Tour from San Sebastian

(108 reviews)

from $ 87.35

San Sebastian Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit San Sebastian is from May to July. While the majority of this time period falls during peak tourist season, these months offer the best temperatures. San Sebastian is generally a cooler destination, with spring and fall temperatures seldom topping 65 degrees. Not only that, but summer sees the least amount of rain compared to the rest of the year. Night owls should plan their visit during August and September, when the city plays hosts to numerous cultural events, including Europe's longest running classical music festival. October is a sweet spot where visitors can experience the last of fall's lukewarm temperatures without sharing the street with too many tourists, however, October sees some of the heaviest rainfall of the entire year. If deals are what you're after, a winter visit may be worth the chilly temperatures. What's more, regional Txakoli wine and cider season start to rev up in February. 

Weather in San Sebastian

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• There are two languages Though Spanish is primarily spoken between San Sebastian residents, Euskara, or Basque, is also used.
• Pack an umbrella Aside from summer, San Sebastian can experience a lot of rain. In some months, there can be an average of 16 rainy days.
• It's a foodie capital San Sebastian is considered one of the best foodie destinations in the world. To skimp on its culinary offerings, including its version of tapas (pintxos) or its Michelin-rated restaurants, would be akin to not having crepes in Paris or pizza in New York.

How to Save Money in San Sebastian

• Don't stay in Parte Vieja Parte Vieja is the most popular neighborhood in San Sebastian, frequented by both locals and tourists. As such, lodging prices are high. Opt for the nearby Gros or Antiguo neighborhoods for more reasonable rates.
• Walk San Sebastian isn't that big. The city's top attractions are at most a mile apart from one another, so you don't need a set of wheels to get around .
• Partake in pintxo-pote Otherwise known as San Sebastian's happy hour. On certain days of the week, bars offer discounted pintxo and drink combos.

Culture & Customs

San Sebastian is a city the Basque Country, a region in Spain. While the Basque Country still adheres to Spanish cultural norms (think siestas, late night dinners), it does have its own distinct personality.

For starters, the Basque Country has its own language, Euskara, or Basque. It is one of the oldest languages in Western Europe and quite unique. In the Basque language, all letters are pronounced, there is no gender and its alphabet doesn't use the letters c, q, v, w or y. Though both Basque and Spanish are the official languages, Spanish is the most widely spoken. You may see some signs in Basque and some culinary delicacies (for example, Txakoli wine) referred to in their Basque name. However, you can order items in Spanish and still be understood.

Aside from its unique language, the most prevalent characteristic of Basque culture is its culinary arts. Pintxos are the Basque version of tapas and can't be found outside of the Basque region, so indulge accordingly. If you want to learn more about the Basque culinary culture, consider taking a cooking class at the Basque Culinary Center, one of only two culinary universities in Europe.

Like the rest of Spain, San Sebastian uses the euro. Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, check the current exchange rate before you go . Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops. It's not customary to tip, however, if you are pleased with your service, 5 percent is sufficient. If you are dining in one of the city's top restaurants, you may be charged a service fee, and you can tip as you normally would in the United States.

What to Eat

San Sebastian is serious about its culinary scene. If you weren't aware of its glowing reputation in the foodie world, you're in for a treat. And luckily, you don't have to pay a fortune to sample it (though, if you're willing to splurge, San Sebastian certainly has its fair share of Michelin-starred restaurants, including Mugartiz , Arzak , Akelarre and Martin Berasategui ).

If you can't spring for one of these world-class dining experiences, take part in the time-honored pintxos tradition. Pintxos (pronounced "peen-chos") originated in San Sebastian and are essentially the Basque Country's take on Spanish tapas, infusing French nouvelle culinary traditions, which focus on presentation as an art. While most other places in Spain serve patrons a plate of tapas with the order of a drink, pintxos are laid out in bulk on the bar, allowing diners to pick what they want.

Traditional pintxos typically consist of a slice of a baguette with any kind of food on top (or anything that can fit on a single skewer). It's not uncommon to see Spanish staples, such as Iberian ham, manchego cheese or even a helping of the greasy tortilla Española, atop a thick piece of pintxo bread. The most traditional pintxo you can have is gilda , where guindilla peppers, a green olive and anchovy meet on a very small skewer.

You can find pintxos bars all over San Sebastian (there are more than 200, to be exact), but travelers say Parte Vieja is the best place to start your culinary tour, thanks to the neighborhood's large concentration of pintxos bars. Wherever you end up on your pintxos tour, adhere to the honor system. At pintxos bars in San Sebastian, you don't pay after every drink or pintxo you order. Rather you order whatever you want and tell the barman when you leave what you ordered. For more information on how to conduct your own pinxtos food tour, as well as great pinxtos bars to visit, read our guide to pinxtos food tours .

You can't sample any pinxto without a glass of cider or Txakoli wine. Txakoli is a fruity white wine produced exclusively seaside in the Basque Country. Cider or txotx , is another staple. It is produced only in the Gipuzkoa area of the Basque Country and is made from fermented apple juice with no added sugar or carbonate. If you want to learn more about San Sebastian's world-famous foodie scene, visit the tourism board's website .

Getting Around San Sebastian

The best way to get around San Sebastian is on foot. The city's size is manageable, and many of San Sebastian's top attractions are about a mile apart from one another (such as La Concha Beach , Monte Urgull and the Aquarium , to name a few). However, if your feet start to tire, you can rely on the city's bus system, which transports travelers to key neighborhoods and top points of interest, as well as some hotels. Taxis are also available 24 hours a day and there are bike rental stations situated throughout San Sebastian, including near Playa De Concha's seaside promenade. For more information about bike rentals in San Sebastian, check out the tourism board's website .)

It's important to know that San Sebastian doesn't have an international airport. If you're already in Spain, you can fly into the San Sebastian Airport (EAS), located a little less than 13 miles northeast of the city center. Otherwise, your option is to fly into either Bilbao Airport (BIO), located 62 miles west, or Biarritz Airport (BIQ) in France (30 miles east), both of which welcome international carriers. Many international carriers also offer flights with layovers in Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) before continuing on to San Sebastian.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A valid passport is required for United States citizens traveling outside the mainland by air or sea, as well as for U.S. citizens trying to re-enter the country. Your passport must be valid for three months beyond your departure date. You won't need a visa unless you plan on staying longer than 90 days. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for the latest information on foreign exit and entry requirements.

San Sebastian is a popular place for vacationing Spaniards. During the summer, the expansive La Concha Beach is filled to the brim with local tourists, so make sure to claim your stretch of sand early. 

Explore More of San Sebastian

Things To Do

Best hotels.

You might also like

# 3 in  Best Places to Visit in France

# 3 in  Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024

# 2 in  Best Family Vacations in Europe

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

View prices for your travel dates

• Excellent 0
• Very Good 0
• English ( 0 )

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.