san sebastian day trip itinerary

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in San Sebastian Itinerary

Last Updated on January 9, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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As arguably the top destination in Spanish Basque Country, planning out a 2 or 3 days in San Sebastian itinerary is a highlight of any trip to Spain! Known for its culinary chops, beautiful seaside location and compact yet cosmopolitan feel, no trip to Spain is complete without venturing to this gorgeous city.

Though small in size, there is quite a lot to do in San Sebastian and its surrounding area so planning more than a day or two is a good idea.

From eating your weight in pintxos to strolling along Playa de La Concha to enjoying the views from Monte Igeldo, San Sebastian has so much to offer to all who choose to visit.

This guide will help you figure out what to do with 2 or 3 days in the city and its surrounding area!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in San Sebastian?

How many days should you spend in San Sebastian? At first glance, it can seem like this Basque city is quite small and wouldn’t have much to do, however, you would be mistaken in that assumption.

Not only is San Sebastian absolutely gorgeous, but it has a lot of stuff to do so I would suggest planning more than a day trip to the city and mapping out at least 2 days in San Sebastian.

If you plan to spend two days in the city, you will have enough time to see the majority of the central attractions while also giving you time to enjoy the countless pintxos bars both in the Old Town and further afield (that’s why you’re coming to San Sebastian, right?).

However, if you would like to explore a bit more of the Basque Country and the surrounding area, then consider planning to spend 3 days here.

There are a lot of places where you could go on a day trip and see some areas of the region that you wouldn’t otherwise have time for. Also – more time to indulge in the sensational Basque cuisine!

Getting To and Around San Sebastian

Unfortunately, despite its popularity, San Sebastian isn’t super conveniently located to the rest of Spain and it is kind of a journey to get there if you don’t already happen to be in Basque Country. If you are arriving by air, the closest international airport is located in Bilbao , about 100 kilometres west of San Sebastian.

Getting from Bilbao to San Sebastian is pretty easy and quick no matter what mode of transport you choose. There are frequent bus connections that will get you between the cities in about an hour and it takes roughly the same time to drive if you happen to have your own vehicle.

San Sebastian can also be reached by bus or train from elsewhere in Spain, but keep in mind that it will take some time from Barcelona or Madrid . That is not to say that there aren’t options and it is relatively easy to reach San Sebastian from other areas of Spain, it just might take a while! You can view schedules here.

Once you’re in San Sebastian proper, you will find that the city is immensely walkable and you can get most everywhere that you’d like to go while relying on your own two feet.

However, especially if you’re planning 3 days in the city or want to go on some day trips, it can be very helpful to rent a car. While there are ways that you can visit some places by public transit or via organised tour, you will have a lot more flexibility to visit where you want for the amount of time that you’d like.

If you want to hire a car in San Sebastian, I suggest browsing through Rentalcars.com to find compare prices across several major and local car hire companies.

2 to 3 Days in San Sebastian Itinerary

If you only have 2 days in San Sebastion, simply plan to stay in the city itself and follow the first two days of this itinerary.

Day 1 – Explore the Old Town

Day one of this itinerary will see you exploring all of the highlights of the old town before taking a stroll along La Concha Beach and seeing some beautiful views of the city.

Old Town (Parte Vieja)

Begin your first day in the beautiful and historic Old Town, taking in all of the interesting sites of the city. You can opt to wander around independently, but it can be very worthwhile to go on a walking tour to give you more historical context.

We recommend the free walking tour with Go Local San Sebastian , however, you can also book a paid walking tour if the times don’t suit you.

The majority of San Sebastian’s old town was actually completely burned to the ground in 1813 by occupying British and Portuguese troops, so the “old” town really isn’t all that old. There are, however, some buildings that did survive the fire and are still standing today.

There is a lot to see in the old town and it is very much worth taking the time to wander through and explore at a leisurely pace. Make sure to take in the two major churches – the Church of St Vincent and the Basilica of St Mary of Coro.

Historically, the former church served residents of the city that were lower-income and the latter was considered something of the upper-class church. Both churches are some of the few buildings that survived the 1813 fire.

The Church of St Vincent was originally constructed in the 15th and 16th centuries and is notable for its Gothic style, distinct lack of windows and unfinished walls.

The Basilica of St Mary was once poised to be the main cathedral of San Sebastian, however, it did not meet certain criteria to consecrate it as such. The main cathedral — the Good Shepherd of San Sebastian — is located one kilometre away and was only consecrated in 1897.

Other major sites to take in while in the old town include the lovely Plaza de la Constitución . Traditionally used as a bullfighting venue in days past, this main square of old San Sebastian is now lined with inviting bars and restaurants.

Another beautiful place in the old town to take in is the Alderdi Eder Park . These lovely gardens are situated at the beginning of the seaside promenade and are filled with gorgeous flowers, inviting benches and even a classic carousel. The park is also located in front of the beautiful San Sebastian City Hall building.

Old Town Pintxos Crawl

After spending your first few hours wandering the old town and taking in all of the sites, it’s likely that you’ve worked up quite the appetite. Well, fortunately, you are visiting one of the top gastronomic cities in the world!

Though San Sebastian is known to have the highest concentration of Michelin stars per capita (a whopping 19 stars awarded across 11 different restaurants), you do not need to shell out €250/person to enjoy the high-quality and flavourful cuisine that the Basque Country, and San Sebastian in particular, is known for. Just head out for some pintxos!

Pintxos are the Basque version of tapas and they got their start right here in San Sebastian with the briny and savoury Gilda – a skewer of pickled peppers, green olives and anchovies so named after the 1946 Rita Hayworth film.

These days, pintxos come in all shapes and sizes and you will see some bars with lavish displays of cold pintxos behind each bar. The key to eating like a local, however, is to order “hot pintxos” off the menu.

If you’re looking for some great old town recommendations for pintxos, there are a number that are worth stopping at in the old town.

Bar Txepetxa is an excellent stop for the region’s famous anchovies. They have countless options that go down great with a traditional Basque cider or txakoli (an effervescent white wine). Bar Nestor is famous for its limited menu, which includes an excellent tomato salad, blistered padrón peppers and the famous T-bone steak known as txuleta .

Bodra Berri is well-known for its creamy orzo risotto but has plenty of other delicious dishes to sample, as well. And the inventive pulpo Gallego (Galician style octopus) at La Cuchara de San Telmo was absolutely incredible.

Keep in mind that the pintxos culture in San Sebastian sees you ordering a drink and only one or two dishes per person before moving on to the next place. It is not commonplace to order a lot of dishes at one place. Also, don’t be concerned if there is standing room only – the best pintxos bars have few (or no) tables.

If you’re intimidated by tackling pintxos bars on your own or simply would like a local guide to take you through all the customs, consider going on a guided pintxos tour of San Sebastian!

La Concha Promenade & Beach

After getting your fill of pintxos, it can be a good idea to go for a nice, long walk to help aid in your digestion and there is no better place to do that than along La Concha Beach.

There is a vast promenade that stretches from the Alderdi Eder Park all the way to Monte Igueldo which goes along La Concha and Ondarreta beaches.

The pathway is roughly 2.5 kilometres long and it is flat, so you can easily walk its entirety in about thirty minutes. There are some places to stop and take in along the way, for instance, the old bathing houses that were once used for Queen Isabel II to splash in the salty waters without being exposed to the sun.

If it is low tide when you are on your walk, you may even be able to cross from La Concha beach to the smaller Ondarreta beach, something you cannot do if the tide has come too far in.

If you want to make a detour, consider exploring the Antiguo neighbourhood near Ondarreta beach for a more local and off the beaten path vibe. If you want to grab a bite to eat while there, we recommend the Sukalde Kultura bar for some great pintxos or raciones.

Miramar Palace

Right before reaching Ondarreta beach and crossing over into the Antiguo neighbourhood, you will see the Miramar Palace.

Originally built to be the royal summer residence in the late 19th century, the palace today is used for cultural events and lectures and it isn’t open to the general public, today. Its gardens, however, are.

The gardens of Miramar Palace are vast and free to enter and have gorgeous views over La Concha Bay and Santa Clara Island. This is a wonderful place to break up your wander along the promenade, especially if you’re a fan of parks and gardens.

Peine del Viento Sculpture

At the end of the promenade, you will find yourself at the Peine del Viento, or Comb of the Wind, sculpture.

Designed by famous Spanish sculptor Eduardo Chillida, the Peine del Viento consists of three metal sculptures anchored to the rocks over the sea. They are meant to symbolise how the wind combed La Concha bay.

Monte Igueldo

If you walk back and a bit inland from the Peine del Viento sculpture, you will find the Monte Igueldo funicular, a cable car that was first built in 1912. This funicular is a lot more “old timey” than others in Europe (even in nearby Bilbao), but it just adds to its charm.

It is worth paying the €4.50 per person return fee for the funicular as you still need to pay a €2.50 entry fee into Monte Igueldo park if you choose to walk up instead.

A one-way fee for the funicular is €3. It is also worth noting that there is nowhere to purchase a ticket for the funicular at the top so if you walk up, you must walk down.

Not only does Monte Igueldo have fantastic views over the entirety of San Sebastian, La Concha Bay and Santa Clara Island, but there is also a small amusement park atop the hill.

There are classic games that are present everywhere and there is also an old wooden roller coaster that presides over the cliff edges. For the more daring among us, it is sure to provide excellent views along with a good dose of adrenaline!

Day 2 – San Sebastian’s Neighbourhoods

The second day of this itinerary is dedicated to exploring a bit beyond the old town and taking the time to get to know some other neighbourhoods of this lovely city.

La Bretxa and San Martín Markets

Begin your day by browsing one or two of San Sebastian’s market halls. There are two major food markets located in central San Sebastian that you can visit (so long as it’s not a Sunday!).

Market culture is incredibly important in all of Spain, however, it is especially important in the Basque Country where the local cuisine relies heavily on fresh, local ingredients.

If you want to see all of the local, freshly caught seafood, browse through seasonal vegetables, sample some traditional Basque pastries or pick up some aperitivos like olives and anchovies, the market is a great place to do this.

La Bretxa Market is located in the old town beneath a shopping centre. They are actually in the process of renovating the old fish hall to move this particular market above ground and to make it a more modern and gastronomical experience.

San Martín Market is another great marketplace to visit in the city centre. It is also located on the bottom two basement floors of a shopping centre and is slightly larger than La Bretxa Market.

San Telmo Museum

After exploring the markets, take the time to head over to the San Telmo Museum, located in the Old Town.

This museum is excellent to visit if you want to understand more about the culture of San Sebastian and the Basque Country, in general. This includes exhibitions about Basque history and language and also other interesting cultural exhibits.

Tickets for the museum a €6 for an adult entry and €3 for students (over age 25) and senior citizens. If you are under the age of 25, general entry into the San Telmo Museum is free of charge.

Pasealeku Berria Promenade & Zurriola Beach

From the museum, take a stroll along the pathway up Mount Urgull for views of the bay. and make your way toward the San Sebastian Aquarium. While you can visit the aquarium, we recommend taking a leisurely walk along the path that winds around directly above it.

From here, you will get a different perspective of La Concha Bay and the beaches. Though the view isn’t as nice as from Monte Igeldo, it can be worth it to climb up to the Jesus statue if that suits your fancy.

Wandering down the path, it’s time to walk in the opposite direction of the La Concha promenade along the Pasealeku Berria Promenade toward Gros and Zurriola Beach. This pathway is set directly on the wild Bay of Biscay and is a lot more dramatic than the route you would have walked yesterday.

It will take around 30 minutes to reach Zurriola Beach, which is the main surfing beach in San Sebastian. This beach is beautiful and it can be wonderful to sit on a bench and watch the surfers catch those waves.

After your walk, it’s time to explore the hip and happening neighbourhood of Gros! This area isn’t nearly as popular with tourists as the Old Town or central area, however, there are some great bars and restaurants to check out if you’re hungry. It can be a great idea to have another lunchtime pintxos crawl here!

If you want some recommendations on where to eat in Gros, consider heading to Bodega Donastiarra for a great place for some classic dishes in a lovely setting. We had some delicious griddled octopus and morcilla (blood sausage) with a pepper sauce here.

Another great place for a more rustic vibe is La Kaba which is known for their anchovy dishes. Anchovies are a local speciality in the Basque Country as a whole and they are particularly good to eat here.

Central San Sebastian

End your day exploring the lovely central area of San Sebastian. There is a lot to see and do here, including visiting Gipuzkoa Plaza and enjoying the lovely gardens here or taking in the elegant architecture of Hotel Maria Christina .

There are also some incredible places to eat in central San Sebastian that are more frequented by locals rather than tourists.

If you want to continue your pintxos crawl, we recommend heading to Bar Antonio if you’re after some more modern dishes that are absolutely amazing. This is another place that is known for their anchovies and they even cure their own in-house.

If you’re looking for a more down-home vibe, then consider heading to Bar Ciaboga . This is a bar that only has a handful of things on the menu. They’re known for their garlic potatoes, but their mushroom caps with shrimp are also absolutely delicious.

Day 3 – Explore the Surrounding Area

Day three is dedicated to heading out of the city and exploring a bit of the Basque Country in the surrounding area. Having your own car would be the ideal way to do this, but there are options if you don’t want to drive.

Any one of these options makes for a great single-day trip and unfortunately, it’s not possible to visit them all in one day! However, you can obviously add a day or two to your San Sebastian itinerary if you want to explore more!

Hondarribia, San Pedro (Pasaia) & San Juan (Pasai Donibane)

A great day trip option is to head to the towns of Hondarribia, San Pedro and San Juan.

Hondarribia is a good choice if you want to get as close to France as possible without actually crossing the border as it is the closest coastal town to France. You can even take a ferry across the harbour to visit the French side if you don’t want to drive.

San Pedro and San Juan are two small towns that are located right across from each other, situated only about 7 kilometres from the city centre of San Sebastian. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even opt to do a coastal hike from San Sebastian to San Pedro.

San Pedro (known as Pasaia in Basque) is also the main fishing port of the area, with all commercial fishing vessels having been moved from San Sebastian. As such, you can find great seafood here. If you’re looking for a good, affordable recommendation, we suggest getting a bite to eat at La Lonja .

If you wish to visit little San Juan (Pasai Donibane), there is a small ferry that can take you from San Pedro. This boat costs €0.90 per crossing and doesn’t leave on any particular schedule, just when it is needed. The crossing only takes a minute or two.

If you’re interested in taking an organised tour of these areas, this small-group tour or this small-group tour is an excellent option.

French Basque

San Sebastian is located only a stone’s throw from the French border and if you are interested in seeing how the culture is different (or similar) in French Basque Country, you can opt to visit some towns there for a day.

The towns of Biarritz, Bayonne and St Jean de Luz are all located within easy reach of San Sebastian and can be a great option for a day trip from the Spanish Basque city. You can book a guided tour here if you don’t have a car.

If you don’t have the time in your trip to visit both cities and can’t make the decision between visiting San Sebastion or Bilbao, then you can always opt to visit Bilbao as a day trip . Though we do recommend spending at least a couple of days in this city, it is incredibly doable as a day trip.

Visiting Bilbao is a good option if you want more city vibes and also if you don’t want to hire a car but still care to travel independently. There are frequent bus connections between the two cities and the journey only takes about an hour.

If you don’t mind venturing outside of Basque Country, Pamplona makes for another great day trip from San Sebastian. Located just south of the city, Pamplona is most famous for its Running of the Bulls. However, it is a lovely city and the regional capital of Navarre and very much worth visiting in its own right.

You can easily reach Pamplona via public transit, making it another great option if you haven’t hired a car. There are frequent bus and train connections and the journey time will take a bit over an hour each way.

Where to Stay in San Sebastian

Hotel Boutique Villa Favorita – If you’re after a luxury getaway in San Sebastian, then this swanky hotel is an excellent choice for you. With a location overlooking La Concha Bay, this hotel is perfectly situated for exploring San Sebastian. They have several lovely rooms to choose from, a restaurant and bar on-site and there is even free parking!

Hotel Villa Katalina – A great mid-range option, this hotel is an excellent choice in San Sebastian. They have many lovely rooms available, an excellent location within easy walking distance of all of the city’s top attractions and plenty of amenities to ensure you have a great stay.

Private Rental – If you’d like to experience San Sebastian like a local, then a private rental is an excellent choice for you. Places like this sunny apartment near La Concha beach can give you a great idea of what it might be like to live in this beautiful Basque city.

Surfing Etxea – If you’re travelling solo or on a budget, then this highly-rated hostel is a great option for you! Located in the trendy Gros neighbourhood just a stone’s throw from La Zurriola Beach, this hostel is great for those who want to try their hand at surfing or simply want an affordable and amicable place to meet other travellers!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more San Sebastian hotels!

With so much to see, do and eat, planning the perfect San Sebastian itinerary is a delightful task. No matter how long you have to spend in this beautiful Basque city, you’re sure to leave with great memories (and a full belly!).

Are you planning to visit San Sebastian? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hello Maggie, I am in the process of putting together a plan for our visit to Spain in May 2024. We are planning to travel as much of Spain as we can in 6 weeks. Would you say that you can see Pamplona in a day from San Sabastian or do you think it would be wise to spend a night or two there. I am just not sure if is worth spending more than a day in Pamplona or if we make our base San Sebastian and just go for a day. We will have a car and we will start our adventure out of Barcelona. Thank you for any insight you can provide.

Hi, can you share about visiting the wine region Rioja by public transportation? Thank you.

Unfortunately, I haven’t visited La Rioja from San Sebastian so I can’t offer any insight here 🙂

Thankyou for this very extensive over view – I am a senior Aussie & will be travelling to Spain June 2023! so this was helpful as I am a tad nervous!

Happy you found this helpful, Fran! Hope you have a great trip 🙂

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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.

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The Ultimate San Sebastian Itinerary (1-3 Days)

Does the perfect 2 or 3 day San Sebastian itinerary exist? Well, after a few years of showing family and friends around, I think I’ve given it a pretty good shot!

There are endless things to do in San Sebastian and the nearby area, yet a thought out itinerary will help you make the most of your time in the city. 

The aim of this guide is to show you how to best spend 24-hours, 48-hours, 72-hours or more in Donostia, regardless of the time of year you’re planning to visit. 

Things to know before spending a day in San Sebastian

Before we dive into the best way to spend your time, there are a few things that are worth considering first. 

1. How many days in San Sebastian?

Donostia is a fairly small, compact city. However, there’s a lot to see, crammed into the small space. 

To see all of the best that San Sebastian has to offer, we recommend a stay of 3 days.  

You can, of course, see this in a more condensed trip, which we’ll run through below. If you choose to stay a little longer, you won’t run out of things to do either. There’s plenty this city (and wider area) has to offer.

2. A well planned itinerary is key

Whilst the city is very walkable, you can rack up the miles on foot if you’re not sure where you’re going or don’t have a clear plan in mind. 

Our 1 -3 day itinerary options below are designed to keep everything fairly close together so you don’t have to consistently walk from one end of the city to the other. 

3. Pick a good base to stay

If you’ve read our guide on where to stay in San Sebastian , you’ll know that most of the main attractions are reachable on foot from certain areas. 

We recommend choosing a hotel in the Area Romantica (Centre), Old Town, Gros or Antiguo, depending on your personal preferences. If you’re travelling to San Sebastian on the budget, there are also some great hostels in these areas. 

The ultimate San Sebastian itinerary

OK, so we’ve built our itinerary based on the number of days in the city. 

If you only have 24 hours in the city, then we recommend the “day 1” activities. If you’re here for 48 hours, then you should look to cover day 1 and day 2. Finally, if you’re staying for 72 hours or more, then you can cover all 3 days.

Day 1: Parte Vieja and La Concha Highlights

After a spot of breakfast, we recommend getting stuck into arguably San Sebastian’s crown jewel, La Concha beach.

1. La Concha Beach

La Concha beach has been voted as one of the best beaches in the whole of Europe, and it’s not hard to see why. A picture-perfect setting, the view from the promenade is probably the most iconic image of San Sebastian. 

No matter what time of year you visit the city, the first thing we recommend is to take a stroll on the promenade, the Paseo de La Concha . 

Given the beach is right in the centre of Donostia, you don’t really have an excuse either!

If you’re visiting San Sebastian in the summer , it’s worth actually heading down to walk the beach. If you’re here in the winter, the promenade is the ideal location for a seaside stroll where you can admire the views of Santa Clara Island. 

Either way, make your way from the Town hall round to Miramar Palace. 

2. Miramar Palace

In the middle of the La Concha promenade is the Miramar Palace . 

The palace dates back to 1893 when Queen Maria Christina purchased the land between La Concha beach and Ondarreta beach. She ordered that her summer retreat be built on the land in the style of an English cottage. 

It covers a total of 3 and a half hectares and includes the main palace building, a number of outbuildings and the large gardens.

It’s one of the most iconic buildings in the city. On a nice day, the gardens are the perfect place to recharge your batteries with a view.

3. The Parte Vieja (Old Town)

From the Miramar Palace you can head back towards the Town Hall to explore the Parte Vieja a little bit. 

Previously, the Old Town of San Sebastian was completely surrounded by a city wall, before it was demolished in 1863 to make way for the new town.

Today, the Parte Viejas’s narrow streets are packed with pintxo bars, restaurants, bakeries and bars. The result is a thriving atmosphere full of different noises and smells. 

If you’re up for it, I’d recommend taking one of the free walking tours that cover the Old Town and a little bit of the centre . They’ll take you to most of the highlights of these areas and explain a little bit about the city’s history. 

If not, you can also cover the Old Town highlights off yourself. 

The area contains some of the most important buildings and spaces in Donostia. You can check out what’s worth visiting in our guide to the Old Town here . 

4. Pintxo Crawl

After a full-on day of walking around and visiting the city, it’s likely you’ll have worked up a bit of an appetite. 

The good news is, San Sebastian has a worldwide reputation for the quality of its food . And one of things that set’s the city apart from others, are the pintxos.

Pintxos are small, appetiser-sized portions of food served in bars (they are ordered separately to your drink which is the main difference to the typical Spanish tapas). 

The best way to get a taste for the best pintxos is to go from bar to bar in the Parte Vieja ordering a couple in each place. It’s quite a unique experience, and something a little different to other European cities.

Given its popularity, we’ve pulled together a whole separate guide on our recommended pintxo bars here .

Day 2: Monte Igueldo and Gros

Now, these two districts may sit at opposite ends of the city, but we promise you that they are both worth visiting for different reasons. 

1. Peine del Viento

Located at the bottom of Monte Igueldo, El Peine del Viento is an intriguing piece of art.

The huge steel sculptures sit on the rocks at the end of Ondarreta Beach and live in harmony with the waves. 

When the sea is rough, the sculpture is at its most impressive. Water crashes against the rocks and blasts from the number of blow holes on the viewing platform. 

2. Monte Igueldo

After visiting El Peine del Viento, it’s time to head up the mountain to the top of Monte Igueldo . 

But don’t worry, we’re not going to make you walk. 

The best way to reach the peak is actually via the funicular. It dates back to 1912, and its old equipment and wooden carriages have been expertly preserved. They are still in use today, which makes the funicular an attraction in its own right.

Once you reach the top, you’re treated with some of the best views of San Sebastian.

But this special mountain has another surprise, The Monte Igueldo Amusement Park . Opening in 1912, it’s been a prominent feature in San Sebastian for over 100 years. 

The park is a mix of history and fun. You can ride some of the old wooden roller coasters from previous generations – which are still just as fun today!

There aren’t many theme parks in the world with as good views as those from Monte Suzia and Rio Misterioso.

After the morning on the West side of town, it’s time to head East to the Gros District. 

This area has become known as the cool, hipster district of San Sebastian thanks to the Zurriola Beach , which sits at the heart of the barrio (area). 

The waves here are the best for surfing, and hundreds of surfers flock from all over the world to spend the summer months in Gros. And all the young, cool surfers have brought a chilled-out, alternative vibe to Gros.

In the afternoon and at night, the area comes alive. There are plenty of bars and terraces to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat. 

Check out our guide to the district to discover more about the things to see and do in Gros . 

4. Take in the sunset

After a long couple of days of visiting the city, it’s time to take a bit of a rest. Sit back, relax and enjoy one of San Sebastian’s spectacular shows of nature. 

Given the northern orientation of the city, the sun actually rises behind the beaches. You may notice that most of the sunbathers face away from the sea for this reason. 

But what that does mean is that the sun sets in the city are incredible. Looking out over La Concha bay or La Zurriola beach, you’re treated to some beautiful skies as the sun hides behind Monte Igueldo or Santa Clara Island late in the day.

My favourite spot to watch the sunset has to be from the port, Paseo Nuevo or Sagüés. 

Day 3: Monte Urgull, The River and The Island

Day three of our itinerary is dedicated to one of the other mountains in San Sebastian, Urgull, and the water. 

1. Monte Urgull

Standing high behind the Old Town, Monte Urgull is San Sebastian’s natural fortress.

The Castillo de la Mota (Mota Castle) sits on top of the mountain and acted as the city’s first defence. Since becoming a military base in the 12th century, Monte Urgull bears the scars of a number of sieges that have taken place in the city over the centuries. 

Much like Monte Iguelso, there are impressive viewpoints on the way to the top. For anyone who manages the hike, El Polvorín (an open terrace bar) awaits with refreshments.

2. River Urumea

Heading back down to sea level, the River Urumea is a prominent feature that divides Donosti, splitting the city centre from the Gros and Egia barrios. 

Traditionally the river was used as a means of transporting goods (mainly Basque cider) from the nearby local villages. Today however, you’re more likely to find kayakers – and even surfers! 

The riverside has a number of landmarks along the way and some beautiful walkways making it a quiet, peaceful place to escape the city. If you want to rent a bike in San Sebastian, it’s also one of the best cycle routes around.

3. Boat Trip to Santa Clara Island

At the heart of La Concha Bay, Santa Clara Island is more than just a pretty thing to look at. 

It measures just 400 metres wide, but there’s a lot packed into this small island with plenty of character. 

It’s home to a lighthouse, Hondalea (an impressive geographical sculpture), San Sebastian’s fourth beach (with its own natural swimming pool), alongside plenty of chill out spots!

During the summer months (June – September) a boat taxi runs from the port in San Sebastian to Santa Clara Island. 

The blue taxi line is a glass bottomed boat that will also give you a tour of La Concha Bay where you can get some unique views of the city and the impressive “flysch style” rock formations of Santa Clara Island. 

A late afternoon, early evening trip is the perfect way to cap off 3 days in San Sebastian. You can find out more about the taxi boat here.

FAQs about San Sebastian Itineraries

In the section below, we’ve responded to the most FAQs that we haven’t covered in our itinerary. 

If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below and we’ll get back to you!

San Sebastian is 100% worth visiting. The city has it all; an interesting history, culture, events throughout the year, beautiful architecture, beaches, mountains and not to mention the food.

San Sebastian is a compact city, so you can cover off all the main attractions in 2 days. A full thought out itinerary will help you make the most of your time, however, to get a full flavour of Donostia, we’d recommend a trip of 3 days.

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San Sebastian Itinerary for 2 – 4 Days & Top Things to Do

San Sebastian is one of Spain’s premiere food destinations. Located in Northern Spain along the picturesque Bay of Biscay and in the heart of “Green Spain,” San Sebastian is truly a delightful place to visit in Spain.

Travelers flock to San Sebastian to walk through the charming Old Town, discover the culturally rich museums, swim at the numerous beaches, and indulge in the rich food scene.

San Sebastian is located in the autonomous community of the Spanish Basque Country and has its own ancient and totally unique language (Basque or Euskara). With its seaside location, San Sebastian boasts fresh seafood, waves ideal for surfing, and nearby fishing villages worth visiting.

San Sebastian was a popular summer destination for the Spanish aristocracy and the city still feels like it was built for royalty.

Most travelers plan a San Sebastian itinerary solely around the incredible gastronomy. That’s great, but with so many things to see and do, San Sebastian warrants at least a few days to visit.

This San Sebastian itinerary focuses on a mixture of foodie experiences, hikes, and cultural things to do.

Here’s how to spend 2-4 days in San Sebastian Spain.

Table of Contents

• How to Get to San Sebastian
• San Sebastian Itinerary 2 – 4 Days
• Where to Stay in San Sebastian

Visiting San Sebastian Tips

• Conclusion Detailed San Sebastian Itinerary

How to Get to San Sebastian Spain

San Sebastian is oftentimes referred to as Donostia-San Sebastian. Donostia is the name of the city in the Basque language. Be mindful that most trains, buses, and transportation apps will refer to San Sebastian by its Basque name Donostia-San Sebastian.

San Sebastian Airport

San Sebastian has a small airport (EAS) that is located about 30 minutes from the city center in Hondarribia. This seaside town is right on the border of France. The San Sebastian airport offers direct domestic flights in Spain. Fights from Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, Valencia, Malaga, and Grand Canary arrive at the San Sebastian Airport.

Additionally, the two Basque airports of Biarritz (France) and Bilbao (Spain) have frequent international connections. Both Biarritz and Bilbao are well-connected with San Sebastian via bus or train.

Due to price and convenience, most travelers opt to reach San Sebastian via bus or train from larger airports in Spain or France.

San Sebastian has a bus terminal that offers connections from France and Spain. Popular bus companies like Alsa and FlixBus have frequent routes to San Sebastian. More local bus companies like Lurralde and Monbus also provide local bus services.

Here’s where to find the San Sebastian Central Bus Terminal on Google Maps.

The ridesharing app BlaBlaCar is also a helpful travel resource. Often shared rides on BlaBlaCar are less money than a bus ticket and get you to the destination faster.

Next door to the San Sebastian Central Bus Terminal is the Donostia-San Sebastian Train Station .

There is also the Euskotren that offers more localized train services along the Basque coastline and between Bilbao and San Sebastian. In San Sebastian, the most convenient and centrally located Euskotran station is Amara Donostia .

Euskotren can be slower than the buses but is more cost-efficient.

Camino de Santiago

San Sebastian is a popular starting point of the Camino de Santiago North Way. The official Camino del Norte starting point is in Irun with the 830 Km (515 miles) journey taking an average of 34 days to reach Santiago de Compostela .

The Camino de Santiago is one of Europe’s most popular pilgrimage routes. Pilgrims follow the yellow shell markers from France, Spain, and Portugal to the stunning Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

Those walking from the east may wish to spend a few days resting and soaking in the alluring ambiance of San Sebastian. Alternatively, pilgrims may opt to start from San Sebastian and enjoy the delights of the city by relaxing, eating, or recovering from jet lag before preparing to walk 500 miles across Spain.

If considering walking the Camino de Santiago, make sure to pack light and check out these game-changing tips for first-time pilgrims . Here are some frequently asked questions about the Camino when preparing to walk this life-changing journey.

San Sebastian Itinerary for 2 – 4 Days

There are tons of awesome things to do in San Sebastian. From markets to pintxos, beaches, and more, this San Sebastian itinerary has a little bit of everything.

Skip to San Sebastian Itinerary | Day 2 | Day 3 | Ideas for Day Trips from San Sebastian

San Sebastian Itinerary Day 1

Here’s how to spend one day in San Sebastian.

Free Walking Tour

San Sebastian has a fabulous free walking tour run by Free Walking Tour San Sebastian. Local guides run English tours that highlight the city in about two hours. The guides are fun and share some of the best tips on where to eat in San Sebastian, what to do in San Sebastian, and recommend some epic day trips.

The guides are truly enthused about sharing their city all while doing it in a fun and sustainable way.

The Free Walking tour highlights places like the Konstituzio Plaza, Old Town and significant buildings, nearby parks, and the port.

Ideally, the morning tour is best, so as to have the rest of the day to explore all their excellent recommendations.

  Free Walking Tour San Sebastian  | Daily Tours:   Most days at 10:30 & 16:00  |  Tours Depart from here:   Sarriegi Plaza  |  Duration:  around 2 hours  |  Tour Guides Rely on Tips, so share the love  |  Sign-up for Free Walking Tour San Sebastian Here

Grab Lunch or Snack on Pintxos

San Sebastian is famous for their delicious pintxos, or pinchos. Pintxos are small snacks typically served on a slice of bread or a skewer. Pintxos are super popular both in the Basque region and northern Spain. Pintxos are different than tapas as they are not included with a drink purchase, so sample and purchase as many as you wish!

San Sebastian has incredible Pintxos bars and is a top food experience you need to have when visiting San Sebastian.

Pintxos bars are open for lunch and dinner but are busiest and most lively at night. Stop in for a quick bite, but plan on saving the big “pintxos crawl” for the night.

There’s so much to see in San Sebastian so make sure the famous Basque wine of Txakoli doesn’t sneak up on you. (It has a tendency to do that!)

Climb Mount Urgull

After a quick lunch, explore one of the best places in San Sebastian, Mount Urgull. This urban San Sebastian mountain is home to an old fortress that was erected sometime in the 12th century. Numerous paths twist up the hillside that offer stunning views of San Sebastian.

The iconic Santa Clara Island sits in the center of the Bay of Biscay.  

The old fortress is free to explore and houses a restaurant and a simple museum. At the very top of the hill, find the statue Sagrado Corazón, or Sacred Heart. The statue is one of the newer additions to the hill, being constructed in the 1950s. The fortress also boasts stunning observation decks, the English Cemetery, and old defensive canyons.

The most popular way to reach the top is from behind the Basilica of Santa Maria or near the San Telmo Museum. The climb up Mount Urgull can be steep and will take around 30 minutes. There is a lot to see along the way, so dedicated a couple of hours to exploring the old fortress.

During the afternoon, all the bars, restaurants, and cafes usually shut down for a siesta. The fortress is perfect to explore during the lull time of the afternoon. Or maybe opt to see the Historic Old Town quiet during these times. The siesta time from 14:00 – 16:00 is a good time to rest and recharge.

Catch a Sunset at La Concha Beach

One of Europe’s most celebrated beaches sits in the center of San Sebastian, La Concha Beach. This spectacular sandy beach resembles a seashell, which is where the name La Concha comes from. Concha translates to shell in Spanish.

There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and hotels that line the beach. However, a sunset stroll in the sand or along the promenade at sunset is a must. Although right in the heart of San Sebastian, this beach never feels overly crowded, even though it does get busy in the summer.

La Concha Beach is one of the best views in San Sebastian.

Pintxos Crawl

Nighttime in San Sebastian is one of the most lively times to experience the many San Sebastian Pintxos Bars. The San Sebastian Old Town,  or Parte Vieja , is filled with what feels like hundreds of pintxos bars, so it’s a great place to start. It’s easy to create your own San Sebastian pintxo tour or some may feel more comfortable joining a guided food tour like this one .

Famous Pintxos Bars in San Sebastian

✔ Bar Nestor  is a San Sebastian food must for its famous tortilla, ribeye steak, and fresh tomato salad

✔ Bar Sport is a popular San Sebastian pintxos bar for locals and tourists alike. It is always busy, so don’t let that deter a visit. If it’s busy, simply make your way to the bar and enjoy the tapas out on the street.

✔ Ganbara  has delicious pinchos, especially showcasing local Basque meats and fresh mushrooms.

✔ Atari has beautifully presented cold and warm pintxos options.

✔ Simply wander the streets of the Old Town in San Sebastian. Look for busy bars, trust your nose, and enjoy!

2 Days in San Sebastian

With 2 days in San Sebastian, slow down and dive deeper into the culinary treasure of San Sebastian.

Grab a Coffee

On day 2 of this San Sebastian itinerary, wake up slow with a coffee. There are tons of cafes, some with views of the seas, others tucked away in narrow streets, and others in big open plazas. Find a coffee shop and watch San Sebastian come alive.

Stroll the San Sebastian Markets

Make sure to stroll through the many San Sebastian markets. Morning is a perfect time to see the local people shopping for fresh produce, purchasing flowers, or waiting for the fresh catch of the day to come in from the port.

One of the most lively markets in San Sebastian is the central Bretxa Market . Located right in the heart of Old Town, this market has been bustling since 1870. Inside find lots of local vendors selling and additional vendors set up outside.

The Mercado San Martín was built in 1884 but is newly remodeled. The San Martin market offers a chance to eat right in the market with a few food stalls serving pastries, burgers, Asian cuisine, and of course, fresh fish.

A stroll through the local markets is the perfect way to see why San Sebastian is such an incredible food destination. It all starts with the freshest produce and ingredients that come right from the marketplace.

San Telmo Museum

To better understand the Basque culture, a visit to the San Telmo Museum is a must. The museum focuses on the influence of the Sea, traditional ways of life, and the Basque culture. The museum is built into the cliffside of Mount Urgull and was an old monastery.

The San Telmo Museum is a fusion of art and history and is worth visiting. Additionally, the museum offers temporary exhibitions that rotate throughout the year.

The museum is rather extensive but can be visited with ease in a few hours. The entrance fee to San Telmo is free every Tuesday. Before visiting, download the free audio guide or use the informative pamphlets onsite in each exhibit. An audio guide can also be rented for 2 Euros.

  San Telmo Museum  | Hours:   Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 – 19:00, until 20:00 during the summer season  |  Find it here:   Plaza Zuloaga  |  General Admission:  € 10 (Free Tuesdays)  |  San Telmo Museum Website

Grab Lunch in Gros Neighborhood

After exploring the San Telmo Museum, spend the afternoon in the Gros neighborhood. This local neighborhood in San Sebastian is the perfect place to grab lunch, wander, or simply enjoy the beach.

Head over the famous Zurriola Bridge that connects Old Town with Gros over the Urumea River.

Many of the restaurants in Gros serve up a three-course menu del dia or a menu of the day that includes a drink. Menus are served for both lunch and dinner, but the lunch menu price is super budget-friendly at around 15 Euros.

My favorite place to eat a menu del dia in Gros is at Casa Galicia . Try to arrive before noon to avoid the huge line of locals cueing for a table.

After lunch, wander around the neighborhood. There’s a nice plaza next to San Ignazio church. There are also tons of Pintxos bars lining the streets. Gros is home to a brewery, Mala Gissona, and has the fantastic Zurriola Beach. This beach is a popular surf spot and a good place to people-watch.

After enjoying Gros, take the scenic walk towards Monte Igueldo.

Walk to Monte Igueldo Funicular

This scenic walk crosses the Zurriola Bridge and follows past the San Sebastian City Hall and the Alderdi Eder Park. Follow the shores of La Concha Beach along the promenade to Miramar Palace (Miramar Jauregia).

This old palace was the summer home of Queen María Cristina and her family. Today, the grounds are lovely to wander and appreciate the views.

After enjoying the grounds, continue next to the sea past Ondarreta Beach. At the end of the beach are signs to the hillside Funicular Monte Igueldo.

From Gros to the Igueldo Funicular takes around an hour. This path is beautiful and worth the walk, especially after all the fun food experiences.

San Sebastian is an extremely walkable city with most of the attractions being fairly close. There are pedestrian-friendly streets and promenades. Additionally, city bikes are becoming a popular way to move about. Walking is definitely the best way to discover San Sebastian.

Visit Monte Igueldo

The old wooden Funicular Monte Igueldo climbs up the mountainside to arrive at the Monte Igueldo Amusement Park at the top. Most people come strictly for the views, but there are games, rides, and even a famous rollercoaster at the top.

Monte Igueldo has sprawling views of San Sebastian, a restaurant, the hotel Mercure Monte Igueldo , and the iconic amusement park.

The funicular departs every 15 minutes for the top and has been in operation since 1912, making it the oldest railway cable car in the Basque region.

  Monte Igueldo Funicular  | Hours:   Vary by Season, but typically 10:00 – 20:00 later during the summer season  |  Find it here:   Funikular Plaza  |  Round-Trip Fare:  € 4.50  |  Official Website and Tickets Online

Splurge on a Michelin Star Restaurant Course-Tasting Menu

One thing that foodies must add to their San Sebastian itinerary is a chance to dine at a Michelin Star Restaurant. San Sebastian and the surrounding area boast 19 Michelin-star restaurants across a 25-kilometer radius. This includes nearby villages, like Getaria Spain .

If planning to dine at a Michelin Restaurant in San Sebastian you must book reservations in advance. Most Michelin Starred Restaurants in San Sebastian are booked out for at least a month or two.

If spending a few nights in the Basque region, definitely add a tasting menu to your San Sebastian itinerary.

Highly Rated Michelin Star Restaurants in San Sebastian

Most of these Michelin-star restaurants offer a tasting menu for a base fee. Typically, the wine pairing is a separate and additional fee.

✔ Restaurante Arzak | ⭐⭐⭐ | Current Tasting Menu: €280 per person

✔ Martín Berasategui   | ⭐⭐⭐ | Current Tasting Menu: €330 per person

✔ Restaurante Amelia | ⭐⭐ | Current Tasting Menu: €318 per person

✔ Restaurante Kokotxa | ⭐ | Current Tasting Menu: €148 per person / Market Menu for €98 per person

✔ Mirador de Ulía | ⭐ | Current Tasting Menu: €140 per person

3 Days in San Sebastian

With 3 days in San Sebastian, there’s even more time to explore the incredible food scene. Or, maybe discover some of the best day trips from San Sebastian independently or via a tour.

If looking for something different, Monte Ulia is a great hike offering stellar views and interesting landmarks. The loop trail can be completed in a couple of hours or hike to nearby seaside villages.

Food-Based Activities to Add to a San Sebastian Itinerary

✔ One of the best ways to explore the food scene is to take a Basque Cooking Class. This cooking class focuses on a menu highlighting regional dishes with a local chef.

✔ Explore the traditional Basque cider houses known as Sagardotegia in the nearby village of Astigarraga. The cider houses in the Basque region do things a little differently than other cider regions in Spain. A guided cider tour is a fun way to experience the revival of this popular beverage or take the short bus ride to Astigarraga and visit the Cider Museum and a Cider House .

✔ Take a wine tour of Txakoli in the nearby vineyards along the coastline. Txakoli wine is distinctive to the Basque region in Spain.

Worthwhile Day Trips from San Sebastian

There are tons of fantastic day trips from San Sebastian to nearby cities filled with museums, or small villages blessed with hiking trails.

✔ Visit the more industrial city of Bilbao which is home to the incredible  Guggenheim Museum . Appreciate the contemporary art and then stroll through Bilbao’s historic Old Town of Casco Viejo. While Bilbao is a nice day from San Sebastian, it’s ideal to spend 2 days in Bilbao .

✔ The small fishing village of Zumaia is a typical Basque fishing village and a great access point to the Flysch hiking route.  The Flysch Route  is part of the official GR-121 hiking trail and this section showcases the unique rock sediments of Flysch. The lovely trail follows the sea and cuts through the green hillsides. The Ruta de Flysch runs between Zumaia and Deba and is part of the protected Basque Coast UNESCO Global Geopark .

✔ Getaria is another fantastic Basque fishing village that is famous for its many grilled fish restaurants and Txakoli vineyards. Getaria boasts a walkable Old Town, a peninsula park with a lighthouse, and two lovely beaches.

✔ Visit the French Basque Country in the towns of Biarritz and Bayonne France . Both cities have a different feeling, with Biarritz France being more of a popular beach resort town and Bayonne having a little more gritty flare that straddles two rivers.

✔ Hop on an early morning bus to the Spanish Basque Capital City of Vitoria-Gasteiz . This underrated Basque city has a well-preserved medieval old town, a spectacular art scene, delicious pintxos bars and restaurants, and sprawling green spaces. While you could see the Old Town of Vitoria-Gasteiz in one day, it’s better to slow down and sleep here at least one night .

San Sebastian Itinerary for 4 Days

If you have more than 3 days in San Sebastian that is fantastic! Simply slow down this San Sebastian itinerary and take more day trips. It would be easy to spend at least 4 days in San Sebastian.

There are so many incredible places to see in the Basque Country , it would be ideal to base between San Sebastian and Bilbao for at least one week.

Where to Stay in San Sebastian Spain

San Sebastian has tons of accommodation options for every budget. The city is a popular tourist destination with hostels, pensions, guesthouses, hotels, converted convents, private apartments, and luxury accommodations.

• Budget  |  Koba Hostel  
• Budget  |  A Room In The City Hostel
• Moderate-Budget  |  Pension Aida
• Moderate  |  DOT ROOMS Pension Edorta
• Moderate  |  Atotxa Rooms  
• Luxury  | Zenit Convento San Martin
• Luxury  | Urbieta Centro
• High-End Luxury  | Hotel Maria Cristina

➜  Browse all the Best Places to Stay in San Sebastian Spain

For this San Sebastian itinerary, it’s best to base close to the center of the city. However, San Sebastian is extremely walkable and well-connected with lots of public transportation options for nearby day trips.

Here are some helpful tips for planning a San Sebastian itinerary.

When is the Best Time to Visit San Sebastian?

The high season for San Sebastian is during the summer months of June to September when tourists enjoy swimming in the Bay of Biscay. During the high season, hotel prices rise and rooms can be hard to find. The beaches are quite packed in San Sebastian and along the nearby coastal villages.

The winter months bring lots of rain from the middle of November to mid-March. However, San Sebastian is a coastal city, so temperate stays temperate around the mid-50s°F. Typically January is the coolest month in San Sebastian. If visiting San Sebastian to surf, the best wave conditions are during the winter and fall months.

As a lot of the activities in San Sebastian are food-based, it typically doesn’t matter when you visit San Sebastian. The shoulder months of April, May, October, and November are great to avoid crowds and still have nice days to enjoy outdoor activities.

I have visited San Sebastian at many different times, including at the end of September, in November, and during January, and could still go hiking. If visiting in the shoulder or winter months make sure to have a nice light rain jacket and layered clothing.

Is San Sebastian Expensive?

Spain, in general, is a budget-friendly country. There are plenty of ways to keep costs low including using public transportation, staying at hostels or pensions, eating menu del dias, or cooking meals from the fresh food found at the markets.

Traveling during the off-season or shoulder season will also help keep costs down.

After traveling extensively through Spain I find the Basque region a little more costly than the South of Spain, like in the Andalusia region. However, San Sebastian can easily be enjoyed by budget-conscious travelers without forgoing many of the city’s highlights.

Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?

Yes, San Sebastian is worth visiting! With a charming old town, pedestrian-friendly streets, and exciting gastronomy, San Sebastian is oftentimes a highlight when visiting the Basque region and Spain in general.

Add in the beauty of the Bay of Biscay which is home to sandy beaches, nearby fishing villages, and waves made for surfers, and to top it off with scenic mountains in the backdrop, San Sebastian truly has it all.

San Sebastian is a food destination, with a unique culture, and offers plenty of activities for nature lovers. Don’t forget one of the most beloved pilgrimage routes, the Camino de Santiago, cuts through the heart of the city.

San Sebastian is worth visiting on a trip to Spain.

More Underrated Gems Near the Basque Region in Spain

There are plenty of car rental companies in San Sebastian. If you have a few weeks to explore more of northern Spain these nearby regions of Spain outside of Basque Country are oftentimes overlooked.

✔ Logroño is the home to the Rioja region famous for the Rioja wine, fantastic monasteries like the Monasteries of Yuso and Suso , picturesque vineyards, and charming towns. The Rioja Alavesa is located in the Basque Country and has one of the most picturesque hilltop villages of Laguardia.

✔ The Picos de Europa National Park is home to some of the best hiking trails in Spain. The limestone mountains are home to activities like hiking the Cares Gorge , visiting the isolated village of Bulnes , trying Cabrales Cheese that is aged in a cave in Las Arenas de Cabrales , or exploring the many hiking trails from Poncebos .

Conclusion | Detailed San Sebastian Itinerary & Things to See

In short, this San Sebastian itinerary highlights all the incredible food experiences and natural beauty of the area. The best amount of time to spend in San Sebastian is at least two to three days. Those travelers with 3 days in San Sebastian can appreciate the many rich day trips from San Sebastian.

These detailed San Sebastian itineraries are a great starting point to design and inspire your ideal San Sebastian itinerary.

Have you been to San Sebastian in the Spanish Basque region? Let me know in the comments below!

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Hey, my name is Megs! I'm an adventure-seeking, wanna-be storyteller, with a wandering soul who is smitten with the diversity of this beautiful world. You can find me hiking in the mountains, eating delicious food, and seeking out the most authentic travel experiences possible. Experiences and memories are my most prized possessions. I love to slow travel and have been nomadic for over 12 years.

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for Solo Travel Over 50

2 Days in San Sebastian Itinerary for First Time Travel

Don’t think 2 days in San Sebastian is worth your time? Au contraire. Why would you want to miss out on breathtaking Basque beaches and scenery, exciting activities, friendly locals, culture, and culinary delights? My tried-and-true, fabulous San Sebastian itinerary for first timers has all you need to plan and book 2 days (or 3) in Donostia San Sebastián, a beautiful Basque Country city.

As you’ll notice from the tips throughout , this San Sebastian itinerary is intentionally written for the first time San Sebastián solo traveler and/or older traveler (I am over 50 and have been traveling solo FOREVER). Yet, anyone can use this travel itinerary it to plan and book 2 to 3 days in San Sebastian .

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All You Need for This 2 Day San Sebastian Itinerary

The ultimate san sebastian travel guide & video, 5 must dos in san sebastian spain video, day 1 – romantic area, playa del zurriola, la concha bay, day 2 – old town, la concha, montes urgull & igueldo, day 3 – san sebastian itinerary option.

Here are all of the sites you need to successfully book these perfect 2 days (or 3) in San Sebastian, Spain.

I even give you my suggested San Sebastion pensión as a sustainable, budget friendly, and centrally-located stay between Monte Igueldo and Old Town, and just blocks from La Concha Promenade, as an ideal location for San Sebastian solo travel on foot.

I recommend you bookmark and use these sites early to lock in your San Sebastian 2 day travel itinerary and get the best San Sebastian travel deals.

Cheap Flights to San Sebastian

Best San Sebastian City Center Hotels

Best San Sebastian City Center Pensións

San Sebastian Pensión Pick

San Sebastian Train Tickets

San Sebastian Bus Tickets

Don’t forget to use the Ultimate San Sebastian Solo Travel Guide to plan your 2 days in San Sebastian Spain. It is the ultimate one-stop-shop guide for all you need to know to plan San Sebastian solo travel with:

• Best Time to Visit San Sebastian
• Getting to San Sebastian Spain
• How to Get Around San Sebastian
• San Sebastian Solo Travel Safety
• What to Pack for San Sebastian
• Best Places to Stay in San Sebastian
• Best Things to See and Do in San Sebastian
• San Sebastian Dining, Nightlife and Shopping
• Best Booking Sites for San Sebastian Travel
• Top San Sebastian Budget and Ecotourism Travel Tips

Want to see the ultimate San Sebastian Solo Travel Guide in action instead? Watch the very popular 15 Things to Know Before You Go to San Sebastian video.

Discover San Sebastian visually while learning the top 15 things to know before you go to San Sebastian, from getting there, getting around, where to stay, top things to do in San Sebastian, eco travel tips, San Sebastian pro travel tips, and more to plan your first time travel to San Sebastian.

If you’re a first-time traveler to Spain, also use my Spain Travel Guide full of tips on culture, entry requirements, currency, tipping, using electronics, safety, and a lot more.

More Spain Solo Travel

• Pamplona in 1 Day Itinerary and Guide
• Best of Barcelona 3 Day Itinerary
• The Ultimate Madrid Solo Travel Guide
• Best Way to Spend 3 Days in Madrid Itinerary
• 7 Best Europe Beach Destinations for Solo Travelers

Book Your Flight to San Sebastián-Donostia Early to Save Money

Yes, you will get to do all of these top San Sebastian things to do in this 2 days in San Sebastian itinerary. Watch this must do things in San Sebastian Spain video and be inspired to start packing.

2 Days in San Sebastian Itinerary

This San Sebastian itinerary provides some of best and free things to do in San Sebastian alone in 2 days. This spectacular beach front city nestled next to the mountains, and but an hour from France, is a prime Spain travel location for those seeking culture, outdoor land and water activities, and amazing cuisine and wine. It all awaits you in the Basque region of Spain.

You’ll be walking leisurely about the city center, beaches and hills during these 2 days in San Sebastian. If the weather permits, the views will be so unforgettable, you’ll be dreaming about going back to visit San Sebastian again.

San Sebastian 2 Day Itinerary Tip s

• This itinerary assumes staying in the San Sebastian centro, such as within the vicinity of my suggested San Sebastian pension or at any of the best hotels or pensións noted above. You can also refer to the ‘Best Area to Stay’ accommodations in the San Sebastian Solo Travel Guide .
• This itinerary starts the day after arrival to San Sebastian assuming to allow for a full 2 days in San Sebastian.
• Travel in the shoulder season for good weather, long daylight hours, less tourists, and lower costs. Consult the San Sebastian Solo Travel Guide for events in San Sebastian you may wish to attend (or avoid, such as the San Sebastian Film Festival held in September).
• This San Sebastian itinerary is covered by walking. Much of San Sebastian is flat, but there is recommended walking up hills.Wear comfortable walking shoes .
• Dress in layers to allow for changes in weather.
• Walking, sunshine and drinking wine in San Sebastian definitely calls for sunscreen and staying hydrated. Be eco-friendly and bring your own travel water bottle , bottle sling for easy carry, and environmentally safe sunscreen .

Arriving San Sebastian

I flew from Rome into the San Sebastián Airport to start my Spain travel in San Sebastian before spending a day in Pamplona followed by 3 days in Barcelona and so on. It was beneficial to spend 3 nights in San Sebastian to get relax and get oriented before 2 days of sightseeing.

Arriving by dinner time allows you plenty of time to check-in, freshen up, and take in centro San Sebastian’s ocean air, pintxos and wine.

Stick to the “Romantic Area” of the city center south of Alameda del Boulevard and east of La Concha. It’s full of shops, restaurants and bars housed in an eclectic mix of modern and Baroque buildings. San Sebastian restaurants in this area you could try include Sukaldean Aitor Santamaría , Restaurante Bernardo Etxea , Narru Restaurant , or Rojo y Negro if you want cheaper eats.

Don’t miss the Gothic style Good Shepherd of San Sebastián Cathedral lit up at night. It’s beautiful.

There’s no rush to get up early in San Sebastian. Being on the smaller side has its advantages of not having to rush to enjoy this town.

Grab a coffee and bite at Old Town Coffee before heading back to Good Shepherd of San Sebastián Cathedral to explore the church and plaza during the daylight. Feel free to pop into the Cultural Center at the south end of the plaza.

Wand towards the Urumea River and cross the Maria Cristina bridge for fabulous photos both south and north with views of the Santa Catalina bridge and beyond. Head north along east bank pedestrian path staying to the right as bicyclists and scooter riders zip by.

After the Santa Catalina bridge, you can’t help but notice the luxurious and ornate Hotel Maria Cristina commanding the river’s west side.

Keep on past the Zurriola Bridge and Kursaal to Playa del Zurriola to lounge on the beach while watching surfers. This neighborhood is a prime spot to grab a light lunch.

After lunch, head west across the unique green and white Zurriola Bridge to Puente de Zurriola, where you’ll turn south to finish exploring the Romantic Area. Along the water you’ll walk past the Victoria Eugenia Theater and Hotel Maria Cristina and admire the De Okenda Plaza and architectural splendor.

A block further is the Gipuzkoa Plaza, worth walking through to see the flowers, ponds, beautiful swans, and the astronomical clock.

When you’ve had your fill, head west on Alameda del Boulevard towards La Concha Bay for people watching and spy the multiple boats dotted around Santa Clara Island. Low tide is a perfect time to watch locals draw detailed designs in the sand.

Wander the promenade before calling it an evening.

Again, no rush start needed on this second day in San Sebastian. Leisurely take in breakfast and then join everyone else walking east along the sweeping La Concha Promenade on way to Parte Vieja (Old Town). Pass by Alderdi Eder park with an old-fashioned carousel in front of San Sebastian City Hall.

Head east along the tree-lined pedestrian street. View the beautiful cast iron and stained glass Kiosko del Boulevard built in 1903. Make your way to El Mercado and the lively stalls full of produce and flowers.

Wander your way around Old Town (you can’t get lost) to take in the architecture, shops and restaurants. Sample some more pintxos at Beti Ai Berria as you slowly make your way to Constitution Square. Stop and have a drink in the square if you wish.

A short walk from the square is the beautiful baroque Basilica of Saint Mary, definitely worth stopping into. When ready, you’ll turn right just outside the church’s entrance west and wind you way up the path past the Port of Donostia to take on Mount Urgull and enjoy its historic military structures and panoramic ocean and city views.

There are multiple paths up Mount Urgull. You could make a day of it, but there is more to do day 2 in San Sebastian, and from Basilica of Saint Mary is the quickest way up to the top. Stop at mulitple points along the paths for different views. No 4 (Napoleon Pt) has a nice little bar with incredible bay and ocean views.

Of course, don’t miss No 5 (the Castillo) at the very top for, you guessed it, more fabulous city views. Don’t linger too long, however, because you have another mountain to tackle, which is a 30-minute walk away.

Keep heading to the end of the promendade and follow the signs for the funicular, one of the oldest in Europe. Buy your ticket there and catch a ride to the top where you get the iconic view of San Sebastian across La Concha Bay that you see every where (including the Spain Travel Guide ).

You can walk around, ride rides or just cop a squat at the cafe to dine outside with a glass of wine and soak in the sun. Just don’t miss the last funicular ride down at 8pm. From there it’s a leisurely stroll back along the promenade to watch the beach become vacant and the city lights twinkle across the ocean water.

Dine one the bay at one of the few restaurants available, or head back to Old Town, to wrap up the last of your 2 days in San Sebastian.

If you want to mix it up and join others in San Sebastian, take a food tour. A 2 to 3 hour food tour would fit nicely in this 2 day itinerary. Plus, you could take a short cruise on La Concha Bay if you want to get started earlier one day of your 2 days in San Sebastian.

Best Things to Do in San Sebastian in 2 Days

If you can, I recommend stretching your 2 days in San Sebastian to 3 Days in San Sebastian.

As you can tell from above, 2 days is enough time to experience San Sebastian’s top sights. Three days in San Sebastian, however, allows for a day trip in Basque country or to France.

If I weren’t already going to Pamplona, I would have loved to see Biarritz, France. It is only an hour from San Sebastian to Biarritz. It’s also only an hour from San Sebastian to Bilbao. So, why not take an extra day in San Sebastian? Here are some ideas for you.

Top Day Trips from San Sebastian Spain

Start planning your 2 days in san sebastian budget, let me hear from you.

I would love to hear how my 2 days in San Sebastian itinerary worked on your Spain solo travel. Post me your thoughts or questions in the Comments section below. Thank you!

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The Perfect San Sebastian Itinerary: Your Gateway to Basque Country, Spain

June 16, 2022 June 20, 2018 | Paroma

Last Updated on June 16, 2022 by Paroma

Curious about Spain’s Basque region and wondering what to do in San Sebastian? Let this post on the best things to do in San Sebastian help you craft that perfect San Sebastian Itinerary. From breathtaking views to gulping down the most delicious Pintxos, this guide to San Sebastian’s top attractions, lodging and food will have you packing your bag in no time!

Disclaimer: My blog posts may contain some affiliate links. Clicking on them to make a purchase may earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you for the product. Thank you!

Table of Contents

Why visit San Sebastian?

If Spain reminds you of colors as vibrant as the Flamenco dancer’s skirt, sun kissed beaches, the wafting aroma of paella and the glittering water of the Mediterranean, then let me transport you to a very different region which defies these stereotypes.

I am talking about the Basque autonomous region ( Euskal Herria) in the north and San Sebastian ( Donostia ) in particular, which is a beautiful city overlooking the Bay of Biscay.  In this San Sebastian itinerary , I will not only be talking about the top things to do in San Sebastian but also provide a glimpse into what makes this city and this region so unique.

I hope this  San Sebastian sightseeing guide will entice you to include magical Basque country in your Northern Spain travel itinerary . With its unique language Euskera (oldest existing proto Indo-European language in Europe), mild weather in the northern territories (San Sebastian and surroundings), distinctly different cuisine and libation  and a culture that takes immense pride in its roots, Basque country feels like an out of world place within Spain and will entice you with its food,  hospitality and spellbinding natural beauty.

A) San Sebastian itinerary: Best things to do in San Sebastian

San Sebastian is pretty as a picture and there are several points of interest in this Basque city by the Atlantic. Although known worldwide as a culinary hotspot, this city boasts of several attractions that are not to be missed. This  San Sebastian sightseeing guide  includes several such highlights of Basque art,culture and scenic views that are as enjoyable as the regional cuisine.

Almost all of these San Sebastian attractions can be covered within three days and are accessible by public transportation. These are some of the things that you should not miss in San Sebastian and they also been marked on a Google Map at the very end for your convenience.

a) Dip or toes in the sand (or, go surfing)

San Sebastian overlooks the Atlantic ocean, so it is no surprise that the city has three beautiful beaches in close proximity of each other.

Be it the tranquil Ondarreta that continues as the more famous Kontxa (Concha) or the surfers’ paradise Zurriola, considered one of the best surfing spots in Europe (in the trendy neighborhood of Gros), you are never too far away from the breaking ocean waves.

I did not find the beach too crowded during my visit in May, but if you arrive early in the morning (around 8-9AM), you will have them pretty much to yourself.

b) Stop by the Miramar Palace

Palacio de Miramar or simply Miramar palace perched atop a beautiful garden overlooks the Ondarreta beach and provides sweeping views of the city skirting the beaches. During the sweltering summer months, this used to be the residence for the Spanish monarchy during their stay in San Sebastian and was declared a public space since 1972.

The entrance to the palace grounds is free and although I did not find the palace open during my visit (I was there bright and early around 8 AM),I loved the peaceful surroundings and got some amazing photos. This green zone of tranquility with the charming red palace standing stoically in the middle of it all, is a perfect place for a morning walk to get your day started. Here is a link to more parks and gardens in San Sebastian .

c) Enjoy the panoramic views from Monte Igueldo

If you are craving for that 360 degree view of San Sebastian to blow your mind away, then promptly ride in one of the charming wooden carriages of the famed  funicular to the very top of Monte Igueldo to enjoy the spectacular and unobstructed view of the city by the Bay.

Go as early as possible to avoid unwanted selfie intrusion in your precious wide angle frame since this is a very popular tourist attraction. There is also an amusement park at the summit but it was closed during our visit.

d) Marvel at the creations of Basque sculptors

The quiet beauty of San Sebastian mingles with the salty Atlantic sea breeze riding over the foamy waves and together they come alive in Jorge Oteiza’s  and Eduardo Chilida’s giant sculptures that adorn the shores, exactly where the land meets the sea.

The first one, by the famous 20th century Basque sculptor Oteiza is on the scenic route to the San Telmo museum at the foot of Monte Urgull and is known as “Construcción Vacia”  (translates to “Empty Construction” in English). It is this giant ochre color metal structure standing on Paseo Nuevo and was created to produce the illusion of “empty” or negative space by joining vertical and horizontal planes.

The second, and possibly the more popular one that directly faces the turbulently waves of the Atlantic are a trio of cast iron and steel sculptures collectively called “ El Piene del Viento ” or “Wind Combs” sculpted by Chillida as an homage to the maritime spirit of Basque country and his beloved San Sebastian.

Installation of these giant nearly ring like sculptures at the very edge of land where it meets the unruly ocean waves foaming at their mouths was a feat of both art and engineering, thanks to the efforts of architect Luis Peńa Ganchegui, and was completed in 1977.

When visiting, you are best advised to soak in their silent beauty while braving the wind and the roar of the waves. I sure did and loved every minute of it, despite the popping up of selfie sticks everywhere (I am only mildly annoyed by selfie sticks, that’s all).

e) Explore the city center

Before we get to the heart of this San Sebastian itinerary , allow me to cause a slight divergence via a leisurely stroll in the city center starting from the Plaza del Buen Pastor or the Good Shepherd of San Sebastian Cathedral . This catholic church is an architectural beauty and is kind of the entryway into the city center where you also have the bustling Gipuzkoa Plaza.

This area, also known as the Boulevard, is a prime artery of the city and is buzzing with lots of good places to eat as well as branded retail stores. You can also cross over into the hep and trendy neighborhood (also known as the surfer hood of San Sebastian) of Gros via Zurriola Hiribidea or Puenta de Santa Katalina and spend some time there, sampling some amazing food. 

I highly recommend Bar Zabaleta, Gerald’s Bar (an Australian expat’s delightful gastronomic corner which was also where we had our last meal in San Sebastian), Bodega Donostiarra or Amalur Jatetxea for their paella (the famed rice dish from Valencia in southern Spain which is hard to come by in the north)

f) Lose yourself in Old Town

I know this comes across as a cliché seeped in touristy hokum, but there is something so utterly charming and delicious (I am using this adjective for good reason) about Parte Vieja or old town, that you will have little choice but to surrender to its narrow, dusty lanes, the mouthwatering aroma of pintxos wafting from every corner and crowded cobbled streets.

Nestled in the shadows of Monte Urgull and along the harbor and estuary of the Urumea river, old town was rebuilt from ashes after the raging fire of 1813 and is now the prime attraction of San Sebastian where the evenings come alive with the chatter of locals and tourists, clinking sound of cava filled goblets and enticing rows of pintxos (small bites/culinary gems) and other delicacies.

Crammed with innumerable pintxo bars, restaurants, cafes, local boutique shops; old town holds many a treasures in its bosom of winding lanes merging and diverging from the towering Cathedral San Bizente Eliza.

Savor a glass of wine at the footsteps of the cathedral, go on a pintxo crawl, shop at the local stores, spend a quiet afternoon in the Museo de San Telmo (an old convent now converted into a museum with splendid exhibits on Basque art, history and culture), enjoy a stroll on the Constitution plaza (an erstwhile bullfighting arena, thankfully) or simply watch the sun go down on the city from the old port. There is no right or wrong way to enjoy the sights and smells of old town as long as you are on the move-walking, exploring, discovering and eating.

g) Hike up Mont Urgull

If wandering around like an aimless soul in old town was not enough, here is some more exercise for your stubs, aka hiking up to Mont Urgull which has many a beautiful lookout points tucked in its leafy folds. You can either walk along the harbor front and go one level above via the glass elevator to where the paved path begins (this is where you will see the  Construcción Vacia )  and keep on climbing up or simply take the steep path next to the Basilica that leads to Mont Urgull.

After the first lookout point or Mirador, you will have to climb up rather than go along the winding path till you come to fortified castle aka Castillo de la Mota ( Motako gaztelua in Euskera) and the Sagrado Corazón statue, the one of Jesus with one arm raised in blessing.

You can climb all the way up to the foot of the statue and pray for your salvation (maybe ask for where to find even more delicious pintxos) or simply take in the breathtaking view of the city (it is not as panoramic as that from Monte Igueldo but pretty good).

As you hike down the summit, you can either take the first trail descending downwards to get near San Telmo museum or simply walk further and then keep on descending to see panoramic views of Santa Clara island jutting from the ocean followed by spectacular views of the old port and then re-enter the old town from the lane right next to where you started your hike from.

h) Hop on a boat to Santa Clara Island

Yes, you can visit the Santa Clara island rising from above the blue waters of the Concha bay in summer via a motorboat from the old port operated by Motoras Isla Santa Clara . Besides the lush flora, there is also a beautiful beach greeting you at the entry point to the island. You can take this boat tour and visit the island for a fun excursion from San Sebastian.

You can also swim to the island from Ondarreta beach. However, the boat service only commences in June and so we had to give it a miss since we went in May. Here is an excellent article on how to visit Santa Clara island and what to see there , should you want to include it in your San Sebastian itinerary .

i) This most important: Eat your weight in food

I am not kidding here when I say that eating out, as in sampling local cuisine , qualifies as the best San Sebastian attraction . Pigging out is not a vice, but a requirement in this food mecca.

Foodies/gourmands/worshipers of all things delicious consider Basque country a sacred pilgrimage spot thanks to the richness and uniqueness of Basque cuisine that has made this region a smoking hotbed for a slew of Michelin star restaurants vying for your taste buds.

Besides the fancy dining establishments showcasing their culinary advances, what makes San Sebastian a magnet for budget foodies are the bite sized pintxos that are simply irresistible. Not quite like their more well known southern brethren/ Tapas, the mighty pintxos are small bites of culinary marvel and comprise mostly of myriad toppings on a small piece of bread with a toothpick to hold all of the lip-smacking goodness together.

Going on a pintxo crawl in old town or devouring as many as you can in its too-many-to-count pintxo bars is the numero uno thing to do in San Sebastian (they are pretty cheap coming in at 1.5 to at most 3-4 euros each), and honestly, doing anything else would be a travesty.

Pintxo bars are open pretty late but hungry folks start pouring in from 8 PM onwards, so arrive a little early for the more famous ones like Bar Ganbara, Borda Berri, Gandarias (both restaurant and pintxo bar), Sirimiri or Astelena 148. Do not forget to stop by the unassuming one Michelin starred Bodegón Alejandro for a  quiet, yet memorable Basque meal or the famous churreria y chocolateria Santa Lucia for the thick drinking chocolate to dunk your croissant in for a hearty breakfast.

If you really want to indulge yourself and get a taste of the sophisticated in Basque cooking, make reservations at one of the many Michelin star restaurants in and around the city. We had a beautiful meal at the 3 Michelin starred Akelarre which also boasted of a splendid view of the Bay of Biscay.

I have a full fledged San Sebastian dining guide in a separate post because it deserves one (including my take on pintxo bar etiquette), but for now here is a visual taste of some of the delicious food that we gobbled down at the many pintxo bars, cafes and restaurants that I managed to hit up during my stay there, with Sirimiri and Zeruko being my favorites .

I spent a good 7-8 days in San Sebastian, thanks to a conference followed by my personal vacation which is why I could go pintxo crawling at so many of these pintxo bars in old town as mentioned above and in my guide to finding the best pintxos in San Sebastian .

If you are short on time, I highly suggest booking the ultimate pintxo and wine evening tour or gourmet pintxo tour or even better, a private pintxo tour through old town ! A walking tour of the town with Pintxo and wine in small groups is also an excellent option for sightseeing.

B) Planning a trip to San Sebastian? Here are some helpful tips

A) best time to visit san sebastian.

As per locals, Fall, i.e. September and October is the sweet spot with good weather and less crowds. May is also a good shoulder month to visit but you will get quite a bit of rain since it is still spring, just like we did.

Summer, with its gorgeous weather, is the peak tourist season and although the crowds are nothing as compared to that in Barcelona, it does get pretty busy in old town. Unlike southern Spain which gets sweltering hot in May, San Sebastian has a cooler, Atlantic climate. So please carry a jacket if you are visiting in Spring.

b) Flights from USA to San Sebastian

There are no direct flights to San Sebastian from USA, but there are several domestic flights like Iberia and Vueling that connect from Barcelona or Madrid to the tiny San Sebastian airport. You can also fly into Bilbao, another major Basque city and either drive or board a bus (takes 1.5-2 hrs) to San Sebastian. 

Nueva Estación Autobuses ply frequently between these two cities and will drop you off at the central bus station in San Sebastian . If you are flying into the airport, you can get a taxi that costs anywhere from 40-60 euros depending on where in San Sebastian your destination is.

If you do not know any Spanish then it is a good idea to print out the destination and show it to the taxi driver. To save major $$$, hop onto a city bus, such as # E21 that will take you directly to Gipuzkoa plaza, which is a stone’s throw away from old town if that is where you are headed to.

c) Where to stay in San Sebastian (hotels and lodging options)

Although San Sebastian has several thriving neighborhoods , I will actually recommend two places in this San Sebastian itinerary where I stayed during my visit, first for work and then for leisure.

The Olarain University residence , which is a good 40 minute walk from the city center (but is so very well connected by several buses), is a good, affordable option for budget travelers. Realistically, it is a dormitory for university students, but also doubles up as a hotel with rooms for out of town visitors.

You can get a room for yourself (which is just like any other hotel room with an attached bathroom) and there is also an option of including breakfast with your stay which is a modest one offered at the dining hall.

After my conference (which is when I stayed at the Olarain), I moved right into the heart of old town (Parte Vieja), the gastronomic center of the city. My husband and I opted for  an apartment via Airbnb which won us over with its location, the hospitality of the hosts and the clean, modern decor and amenities. 

If you’re looking for budget hotels, Hotel Leku Eder , Hotel Villa Katalina , Hotel Boutique Villa Favorita , Hotel BED4U Zurriola and Bidaia Boutique Hotel (both in Gros) are highly rated places to stay.

d) Public transportation in San Sebastian

San Sebastian’s public transportation is “da bomb” as in it is clean, runs like clockwork, has a bazillion buses connecting to the city center (several ply between Gipuzkoa plaza and the airport) and is all kinds of amazing. I highly recommend exploring the city via buses (fare per adult per ride is 1.75 Euros and the drivers also provide change for up to 20 Euros, how awesome!).

Interestingly, I found out that taxis can only be boarded at designated taxi stands and cannot be flagged down in the middle of the street (which is customary in USA), but fear not cause a taxi stand is right next to the bus stops at the city center/Boulevard.

C) San Sebastian Tours

There are plenty of fun tour and guided day trips that you can go on from San Sebastian if you do not have a car at your disposal (you can check out my Bilbao to San Sebastian road trip in case you rent a car). Some of these tours are:

a) Hop on Hop off city bus tour of San Sebastian (very popular with tourists)

b) Hondarribia, San Pedro, and San Juan Tour from San Sebastian (these are charming Basque villages that you should check out)

Finally, here is the promised Google Map that includes all the things to do and places to eat mentioned in this post for your convenience. You could also read my detailed Basque dining guide or enjoy my other Spain posts scattered throughout this article. Thank you again for stopping by and I hope this San Sebastian itinerary post has inspired you to explore this Basque beauty on your next Spain trip.

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5 thoughts on “The Perfect San Sebastian Itinerary: Your Gateway to Basque Country, Spain”

I think my favorite activity would be a trip with the funicular! I love amazing views! Thanks for sharing! I hope to go someday.

This post really brings back the best memories of San Sebastián for me! I absolutely loved the old town and of course, the pintxos! Your pics are incredible! Did you ever drink a Kalimotxo (part wine part cola)?

This seems bucketlist place.I loved old town and architecture is so amazing.thanks for sharing this

This is really helpful. I had to skip this during my europe trip but now I can plan better with this itinerary. Thanks

A good friend of mine lives in Basque so San Sebastian is definitely also on the list when I go see my pal. Yeah, and not to mention that I’m a major foodie, haha. Those pictures from pintxos got me drooling!

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Your San Sebastian Itinerary for Spain’s Basque Country

February 14, 2023

Plan the perfect trip to northern Spain with our hand crafted San Sebastian itinerary. Includes where to stay, what to see and the ever important Basque pintxos.

Table of Contents

How to Plan Your San Sebastian Itinerary

I’ve visited San Sebastian a number of times (or Donostia, to give it its Basque name) and fallen in love each time. It’s one of those European cities that must make the others jealous.

It has its own sandy beach, an old town of architecture and history, a food scene that explodes with colour and conversation on the bar tops across town (quite literally) and that’s just the start. It’s just about quiet enough not to be over-touristy and it has the energy for new design and hipster creations alongside all the Basque tradition.

Let me walk you through the highlights of San Sebastian. And then we’ll get right on to the that 3 day San Sebastian itinerary.

Is San Sebastian safe?

Spain’s Basque country has seen plenty of trouble within this lifetime of mine. But things have turned around. Instead of hitting the headlines for ETA’s role in terror attacks, Donostia-San Sebastian basks in a different sort of limelight.

2016 saw it relish its new role as European Capital of Culture, which specifically celebrated its transition from conflict to creativity.

Highlights of San Sebastian

Tuck into Pintxos

Half the thrill of eating in San Sebastian is the way in which you do so; the other half involves the flavour of the food itself.

Both are drunk with character; both may not to be to everyone’s taste.

Pintxos (pronounced “pinsho”) typically comes stacked up along the bar. You choose the dishes you want and pay for them at the end according to the number of toothpicks or small plates you’ve acquired…

Find out where to go using this handy guide to eating pintxos in San Sebastian. 

Learn How to Make Pintxos Yourself

Nothing beats learning a new skill you can take home with you. I spent an afternoon learning how to make San Seb pintxos and learning, through direct experience, all about the wine. Learn the traditions and new twists of Basque cuisine in El Tenedor in the Old Town

In particular, look out for the the fiery Gilda. The nickname derives from 20th century Franco’s ban on the film – combined with the sexy, salty, spicy nature of the pintxos.

Stride Along the Coast

This is no bucket and spade kind of place. Be ready to look mean, moody and cool (or windswept beyond recognition. Depends on your outlook, really.)

Enjoy the surf vibes

The coastline explains the surf vibe found in the Basque country, as shown by local hipster Pukas Surf. So you can either throw on a wetsuit and head to the waves, or enjoy sipping coffee and browsing through cool boutiques with a surf city vibe. There is no judgment here.

Instagram Like Crazy

From the narrow streets of the Old Town to the interior of the historic San Telmo museum, San Sebastian was made to make your feed look good.

Buy a Beret

You may think berets are French but it’s time to think again. Berets are also part of traditional Basque culture and you’ll see them for sale across the city.

With a spectacular beach stretching between two green mountains before it slides into the jade Cantabrian Sea, San Sebastian is the place to visit in the Basque Country. Some know it for its incredible food scene, some for its sense of history and beauty. Still others for its surf.

This city in the north of Spain, close to the French border, is somewhere where the days pass like sand slipping through your fingers and the nights hang above like a cradle of stars.

This San Sebastian itinerary is an inside guide, which will help you hit all the hot spots in town, plus all those hidden gems that await just outside.

How Many Days to Spend in San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a relatively small city, so if your focus is on sightseeing, a long weekend will do. Alternatively, if you have a week to spare, you can relax on the beach, listen to the waves breaking and eat at at different restaurant each night. It is a blissful, Babylonian experience. And definitely something to try if you have the time.

If you are fitting this into a larger itinerary through Spain and Portugal , then one day will do. Two or three days work if you not only want to see San Sebastian but also to take a day trip to nearby Bilbao or San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.

How to Travel to San Sebastian, Spain

Many roads take you to the beautiful city of San Sebastian, so you’ll find plenty of options to add the city to a Spanish road trip.

San Sebastian is easily reached from three different airports: two international and one local.

• Bilbao Airport is only 105 kilometres from the city and connects between the Basque Country and most of Europe.
• Biarritz Airport is a key hub for many Air France planes and is only 47 kilometres from San Sebastian.
• San Sebastian Airport is only kilometres from the city, but it only operates internal flights that arrive from Madrid and Barcelona.

All airports offer shuttle buses that will bring you to the city pretty easily.

From Madrid and Barcelona, the RENFE rail service connects well. The Estación del Norte train station is placed right in the centre of San Sebastian, allowing you to reach your hotel quickly. You can even walk to it if you are not carrying heavy luggage.

You can also take the Hendaye or SNCF from Bilbao or other cities along the Basque Coast. The train is known as the “Topo” or “Mole”.

The most important bus station in the city is next to Estación del Norte and receives buses from all around Spain and other places in Europe. On the bus, you can pay either cash, with an SSCARD or a BASQUECARD, but a credit card is also accepted as long as it is contactless.

We love a road trip and an amazing one do to is to tour the whole Basque Coast. You can either drive from the UK, France or Portugal or rent a car in Madrid or Barcelona if you’re putting together a wider Spanish road trip. And it’s worth noting that Spain has excellent roads. The N-1 connects San Sebastian to the rest of Spain and France, while the AP-8 brings you here from Bilbao.

How to Get Around San Sebastian

You are about to visit one of the most walkable cities in the world, so you may never need to rely on anything other than your own two feet.

Cycling is another option, though, and San Sebastian offers bike rental places and 77 kilometres of bike lanes that will get you flying between your destination points.

For those who cannot be convinced to leave their cars, the great news is that this small town has over 6,000 parking spots, which makes parking much easier than in other cities.

Public transport is also fast and cheap and probably better than driving for many different reasons.

Last but not least, a taxi is always an option if you want to get home safely at night. But keep in mind that in San Sebastian, you can’t hail a taxi from the road, so you will need to order one for your location.

Where to Stay in San Sebastian

• Hotel Maria Cristina – Designed by the same architect who created the Ritz Hotel in Paris, Hotel Maria Cristina combines a gorgeous view of the Bay of Biscay with Bell Epoque architecture and luxurious furniture and décor. As one of San Sebastian’s iconic buildings, it’s entertained aristocrats and celebrities since 1912 and is still a gorgeous location to spend the night.
• Hotel Zinema7 – People in San Sebastian are big fans of the cinema, and every year, a huge film festival is held in the city. Hotel Zinema7 brings homage to this passion for movies with suites decorated to fit the style of different famous directors. As another bonus, it’s also located close to the main attractions.
• Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra – Imagine savouring your breakfast on a luxurious private balcony overlooking the sea or walking in a huge bathroom paved with marble. This hotel offers everything you need for a relaxing weekend, from comfortable king-size beds to helpful staff and excellent restaurant service.

San Sebastian 3-Day Itinerary

Have you booked your flight and packed your bag? Then, you are ready for the ultimate San Sebastian trip. Your 3-day San Sebastian itinerary starts now.

Day 1: Panoramic Views and Lively Markets

Start your first day in San Sebastian looking at it from the best viewpoint in the city: the top of Mount Urgull. Then, descend to discover the Old Town and get a taste of the Basque cuisine that makes San Sebastian so famous.

Mont Urgull

One of the best things to do in the morning after grabbing a quick breakfast involves climbing Monte Urgull. Don’t’ stress, though. This is more a hill than a mountain, so although you will be huffing and puffing a little when you reach the top, you won’t need special climbing skill.

Three different paths lead to the summit, each of them offering a different view, either of the city or the sea. My recommendation is to start at the San Telmo Museum and then take the Paseo Nuevo.

At the top, the beautiful Castillo de la Mota awaits to tell its 800 year old story. You can stroll around the fortifications and then head to Casa de la Historia to learn about the history of the fortress through exhibitions and interactive videos.

Take a picture of the Sagrado Corazón, the huge monument overlooking the city and marvel at the splendour of the sea. Then stop to visit La Batería de la Damas and the English cemetery on your way down.

You are now close to one of the most spectacular portions of this path. It borders Mount Urgull and allows you to walk very close to the sea, admiring the waves that crash into it below. The effect is phenomenal, but it also means that you need to keep an eye on the sea, as on boisterous days, you risk getting soaked.

Your path ends on the beach after passing the “Construcción Vacía”, an impressive modernist sculpture, the Aquarium, and the Naval Museum. Feel free to stop off and visit each of them, as there is plenty of time for exploration.

Parte Vieja

I know that the beach lies ahead of you, and the temptation in summer is to kick off your shoes and head for a swim. But there’s plenty of time for that on the second day of this San Sebastian itinerary.

For today, it’s time to head to the Old Quarter, a mere eight minutes away on foot.

Plaza de la Constitución

La Plaza de la Constitución is the heart of the city, the place where every walking tour to the Old Quarter starts. With a surface of 2,000 square metres, this rectangular square was once a bullfighting arena, and you can still see where the seats used to be as their numbers are still written above each balcony. Today, it is a great place to chill, with a lot of bars and restaurants. So, if you are feeling thirsty after climbing Mount Urgull, you can stop off at one for a lemonade.

Church of San Vicente

Despite appearances, the Old Quarter isn’t actually all that old. In 1813, a great fire devastated the beautiful Gothic buildings, leaving almost nothing standing with only ashes to mark the spot. The Church of San Vicente was one of the few survivors, so it’s worth paying a visit to soak up the genuine 16th-century atmosphere.

The main attraction of this small church is the central altarpiece which represents scenes from Christ’s suffering and death. The baroque ornaments are exquisite.

Basilica of St Mary of Coro

Just a short walk from San Vicente Church, you will find another typical Basque church built in the 18th century. Its superb Baroque façade is already iconic, so snap a picture before stepping inside to admire the grandiose interior of Neo-classical, Churrigueresque, and neo-Gothic inspiration.

Alderdi Eder Park

A good place to enjoy nature without leaving the Old Quarter, Alderdi Eder Park still preserves the charm of the Belle Epoque when celebrities used to invade the town. Brimming with flowers and tamarisks, statues, and a pond, it fills with colour and perfume in the summer when locals come to relax and admire La Concha Beach.

If you are travelling will kids, they will love the carouse. Installed in 1998, the cover is hand-painted with reproductions from famous painters like Picasso and Monet and the horses, swans, and cars spin around with merry abandon.

For an iconic view of San Sebastian, don’t miss the Ferris wheel, which is installed next to the park every summer.

San Sebastian City Hall

You have probably spotted the elegant building overlooking the park if you’ve taken a stroll around.

Today the city hall, it was initially built as a casino designed to entertain tourists who spent their vacations in San Sebastian. Admire it from a bench in the park or go closer to see the outstanding details. And travel back to the 1880s.

Mercado de la Bretxa

One of the many great things you can do in San Sebastian is stroll around the 19th-century old market, which is filled with history and, of course, fresh produce. La Brexta was at first a u-shaped open market, but it evolved into a covered shopping centre where you can find basically everything, from eateries serving fish and seafood to modern shops perfect for souvenir shopping.

Where to Eat on Your First Day in San Sebastian

San Sebastian is the best place in Spain to try Basque cuisine, a bold claim but one made with good reason. This town has more Michelin stars per square kilometre than any other city in Europe. Plus, a casual evening food scene that’s a delight as well.

Here are some recommendations but don’t miss our guide to pintxos or tapas in San Sebastian.

• Lunch at Agorregi Jatetxea – run by chef Gorka Arzelus and his wife Beatriz Bengoetxea, this small restaurant is the best in town to try an Iberian pancetta cream or caramelised cheesecake.
• Dinner at Arzak – an institution in the culinary world of San Sebastian, this restaurant has 3 Michelin stars and is run by chef Juan Mari Arzak and his daughter Elena. It is the perfect place to dine in style at the end of the day with a complete tasting menu or a few dishes of your choice.

Day 2: From Mount Igueldo to the Splendid Beach of La Concha

The second day of your San Sebastian itinerary starts on Mount Igueldo, the peak at the other end of La Concha. It ends with a stroll on the beach and a delicious dinner in one of the city’s most gorgeous locations.

Monte Igueldo

If you didn’t appreciate having to walk to the top of Mount Urgull, I have great news for you. You can get to the summit of Monte Igueldo by taking a 1912 funicular and focusing more on the amazing scenery and less on getting your breath back.

Admire the best views of La Concha and Santa Clara Island as you head up and stop for a postcard-perfect picture on top of the hill with the bay stretching behind you.

Then, head to the funfair for a morning born directly from the Belle Epoque with a wooden rollercoaster, trampolines, and endless mazes. The hill’s peak also reveals an old-time casino and dance hall that will give you goosebumps and nostalgic flashbacks to times you’ve only read about.

Miramar Palace

Located in the quiet Antiguo neighbourhood, the San Sebastian residence of Queen María Cristina of Austria was once where the royal family spent every summer. It’s a beautiful spot to stroll around for an hour, taking in the green gardens of the palace and visiting the building. Each floor is decorated in a different style, with some preserving portions of the original décor.

La Concha Beach

Once you step onto La Concha, you will fall in love with San Sebastian forever. This is exactly what happened to Queen Isabel II, who came here to bathe in the sea and escape her skin problems and ended up bringing the whole court with her.

The best way to explore La Concha is in the late afternoon when the sun burns softer, allowing a more comfortable stroll along La Perla, a Spa facility right on the beach, and a restful stop in front of the Comb of the Wind, a complex of three avant-garde statues by Eduardo Chillida.

San Telmo Museum

Keep going until you reach the San Telmo Museum, originally a Dominican convent and later used as a military fortress. It is worth visiting for the Sert Canvases, a set of paintings that cover the walls of the old church to illustrate the most important scenes in Basque history.

It is the oldest museum in the Basque country and it will help you understand how the city has developed over the 19th and 20th centuries.

Zurriola Beach & Gross

Continue your walk from the museum to Zurriola Beach, the perfect place to admire La Concha Bay. This place has a more energetic, hipster atmosphere with surfers and youngsters here to enjoy the sun and the waves and have fun. Take a surf course or simply dip your feet into the sea.

Where to Eat on Your Second Day in San Sebastian

• Lunch at La Cuchara de San Telmo – this popular pintxos bar prepares everything on the spot and is known for its delicious veal cheeks in red wine and bacalao. Make sure to get here before you are too hungry, as the restaurant gets packed, especially during the high season, and you may need to wait a bit for your order.
• Dinner at Zelai Txiki – enjoy a cosy atmosphere as you dine at one of the most gorgeous Michelin restaurants in the city at the bottom of Mount Ulia. The menu is different every day, as the chef is dedicated to using only the freshest ingredients available.

Day 3: Go Beyond San Sebastian – Bilbao and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

If you have one more day to spare, consider taking a road trip to one of the beautiful cities close to San Sebastian.

You cannot leave the Spanish Basque Country without visiting Bilbao and its famous Guggenheim Museum, home to one of the most important modern and contemporary art collections in the world. A place for art and fun, with many Michelin-starred restaurants and pintxo bars, Bilbao is also that is often visited by pilgrims going to Santiago de Compostela.

Visiting Bilbao is really one of those unique things to do in Spain.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Take a day trip to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe for a dramatic Game of Thrones experience. The island is accessible from the mainland via a stone bridge, where you will find the Chapel of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe with a magical bell on the front of its façade. According to legend, if you ring the bell three times and make a wish, it will come true.

Head just out of town to learn all about Balenciaga at the Balenciaga Museum. It’s an incredible story of success, whether or not you care about fashion (and if you do, the range of gowns on display is impressive.)

When to Visit San Sebastian

Although a beach city, San Sebastian is not particularly hot all year round, so the best time to visit it is between July and September, when you will enjoy temperatures of up to 28 degrees Celsius. Unlike other parts of Spain in summer, it wont’ be too hot.

If you want to see the city without the crowds, then autumn and spring bring comfortable temperatures and are perfect visiting the palaces and museums.

The temperature can drop to 14 degrees in the winter, so you will need to bring a jacket, but it is never truly biting cold in this corner of Spain.

There’s always a sense of history

And above all, a sense of place.

Salud y topa San Sebastian!

5 thoughts on “Your San Sebastian Itinerary for Spain’s Basque Country”

This is too beautiful and I want to visit immediately!!

It’s such a fascinating place. I could visit time and time again – I’d actually love to go back in the summertime and make more of that coast.

I’m fascinated. Get the feeling something is calling me there. When is a good time to go in terms of nice weather?

Hm…I’d say April-June and Sept-Oct is best for weather. July and August can get too hot so it depends what you prefer. San Seb’s a coastal place, though, so if you like dipping into the waves then the summer can work. Bear in mind it’s right in the north so doesn’t get as ridiculously hot as Andalucia, for example…Enjoy!

Haha! That photo. Lovely post :)

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• Convention Bureau

San Sebastián in a day or more

San Sebastian is a small city but it hides a handful of corners that you should not miss. It would be a pity if you left the city without having seen at least the 10 most beautiful places in the city that we have compiled for you in " What to see in San Sebastian ".

To make your visit easier, we have created a group of tours of the city , with which you can walk through our streets and get to know the essence of San Sebastian . If you only have one day, we recommend that you follow this route through the old part, the port and Mount Urgull , you will surely like it so much that you will be looking forward to returning soon.

If you have one day more, you can not miss your walk along the coast of San Sebastian . La Concha Bay is our greatest treasure. Take a quiet walk from the old part to the Ondarreta Beach and go up to Mount Igeldo to get the best pictures of San Sebastian .

A third day in San Sebastian will allow you to discover the architecture of this wonderful city. An architecture that goes from the Belle Epoque to buildings as modern as the Kursaal.

And if you have a whole week, we recommend you do not miss visiting the Villages near San Sebastian . You can discover wonderful coastal towns such as Hondarribia or go hiking in any of our mountains.

Day 1: Treasures in the Old Town

City walls, cannons and fortresses guard san sebastian’s most precious treasures: pintxos (tapas).

In the morning, climb up Mount Urgull in the very heart of the city to enjoy the only place in San Sebastian where you can see all three beaches , observing the remains of the city wall and cannons that bear witness to the city’s military past.

To complete the historical tour, you can visit La Mota Castle , and History House or the English Cemetery.

At midday, go down to the port and stroll around the Old Town , sampling its famous pintxos , miniature culinary delights, and markets such as  La Bretxa Market .

Go to the Plaza de la Constitución , in the centre of the Old Town, to find out why its balconies are numbered.

After lunch, there is nothing better than having a coffee on one of the terrace cafés in Plaza Zuloaga, where the San Telmo Museum safely guards the secrets of the Basque culture .

In the afternoon, go on a stroll around the romantic area, towards La Concha Beach with its iconic railings, to enjoy an unforgettable sunset.

And to round off the day nicely, look for a restaurant with a view of the sea for dinner. It's not hard in a city with three beaches!

Day 2: Along the coast

Day 3: Discovering the architecture

Additional days

• Destinations
• Travel advice

One day in San Sebastian itinerary

• January 9, 2022

Table of Contents

San Sebastian is without a doubt one of the nicest cities in Spain to visit. San Sebastian is a bustling city where you can enjoy the typical Spanish culture and great nature with the mountains and beaches within walking distance.

In this article, you’ll find the best tips for getting the most out of your stay in one day in San Sebastian. San Sebastian will impress you with all the great things you can do here. Find out in this article: one day in San Sebastian itinerary.

What to do in one day in San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is a small city where you can do many fun things. Read below our San Sebastian itinerary if you just have one day.

Tip: use the below map to see where all the best things in San Sebastian are located. Click on the right top corner to view the map bigger. If you click on the star symbol next to the title you can save this map in your Google Maps account. In the map you can show or hide different categories. You can then use this map to navigate when you reach your destination.

#1 Historical center

Parte Vieja is the historic center of San Sebastian. Here you will find small cozy streets with many shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Very nice to stroll through and enjoy the cozy atmosphere. The absolute highlight is Plaza de la Constitucion, which is the town square of San Sebastian. In the past, this square is used to be an arena where bullfights were held. On top of the windows, you can still see the numbers of the stands.

#2 Kayaking

There is nothing more fun than doing something active on the water. You can do this by renting a kayak or a paddleboard. A fun activity is to visit the island of Santa Clara or simply take a boat trip in the bay. You can rent a kayak from Darwin Rentals in the port of San Sebastian or from AloKayak which is located at Ondarreta Beach.

Tip: do this activity in the morning or afternoon because of the heat. Renting a kayak costs €8 per hour.

#3 San Sebastian City Hall

On the La Concha promenade is the beautiful town hall of San Sebastian, which dates back to the 19th century. The casino used to be located here and has been the town hall of San Sebastian since 1945. An impressive building to see, nice to walk around. Pay special attention to the details of the building, for example, you can still see the bullet holes in the walls from the time of the Spanish Civil War.

Tip: order an ice cream on the boulevard behind the town hall and take a seat on one of the benches in the park (Alderdi Eder parkea) in front of the town hall. This is a relaxing way to enjoy this impressive building.

Where to stay in San Sebastian

If you travel by car and are looking for a good place to stay, Green Nest Hostel Uba Aterpetxea is highly recommended. We stayed in this hostel and recommend it because you have access to a free car parking space, the rooms are really good, and the hostel is located in the middle of a park so it is really quiet. Within 20 minutes you are in the center by bus. The benefit is the price of this hostel if you consider that if you want to stay in the center it quickly cost €25 per day to just park your car. Check actual prices here ! If you want to stay in the center, La Galería is recommended. This stylish hotel is located on Ondarreta Beach. The building dates from the 19th century, making the atmosphere unique. Due to its location, building, and all facilities, this hotel is highly valued among travelers. Check actual prices and availability here !

#4 Walk the La Concha promenade

For sure that you will walk the La Concha promenade of San Sebastian during your visit to San Sebastian. The best part of the promenade is from the historic center to Monte Igueldo, this will take +/- 30 minutes. During this walk, you will pass the beaches of La Concha and Ondarreta. You can enjoy the view of the bay and the historic buildings built along the promenade.

#5 Monte Igueldo

Monte Igueldo is the highest mountain on the west side of San Sebastian. You need to visit it because from the top you have a beautiful view of the city. Walk via the La Concha promenade to Monte Igueldo. At the foot of the mountain, you can take a funicular (cable car). At the ticket office of the funicular, you need to buy tickets for the funicular (€3.75 p.p.) and the theme park (€2.30 p.p.). The theme park is mainly for children but it is also worth buying a ticket for travelers without children. The best experience of this theme park is the view. If you only buy a ticket for the funicular, you can’t see a lot on top of the mountain.

#6 Castillo de la Mota

North of the historic center is Monte Urgull, on top of this mountain you can visit Castillo de la Mota. This fortress was built in the 12th century and was used to protect the city. Even though it was struck by lightning in 1575 and part of it burned down, it is beautiful to see the old walls and buildings. A 12.5 meter high statue of Jesus was placed on top of the mountain in 1950, which is today one of the main attractions of San Sebastian.

To reach the fortress Castillo de la Mota you have to climb 130 meters up the mountain. It is worth climbing to the top because the view is beautiful. It is recommended to wear good shoes.

Tip: visit Polboriña which is close to Castillo de la Mota. Here you can enjoy a snack and a drink with a beautiful view. An additional advantage is that the prices are very low considering the prime location. For example, a beer costs €1.50.

#7 Enjoy the beaches

The best thing about San Sebastian is that is located between mountains and beaches. It’s nice to be active during the day and relax on the beach in the afternoon.

San Sebastian has three beaches, namely Bahia de la Concha, Playa de Zurriola and Playa de Ondarreta. La Concha is located in the center and is named after the shell shape. La Concha is the most popular beach with a view of mountains and the island Santa Clara.

Playa de Zurriola is located in the north of San Sebastian and is beautiful. This beach is better for surfing because of the waves, the beach is also wider compared to the other two. The big advantage is that this beach is less touristy and is mainly visited by locals, making the atmosphere very cozy.

Playa de Ondarreta is located in the west next to La Concha and runs till Monte Igueldo. The beach is similar to La Concha, the only difference is that it is quieter than La Concha.

Tip: visit all three beaches and see for yourself which one you like best!

#8 Neighborhood Gros

The historic center is the most beautiful area for many travelers to discover in San Sebastian, however, if you cross the river east at the Puente de Sta. Catalina, you enter the working-class neighborhood Gros. During the day this looks like a normal neighborhood, however, in the afternoon all the locals come here to enjoy their evening. In this district, you see fewer tourists, even though it is only a 15-minute walk from the historic center.

Very nice to walk through the Gros neighborhood in the evening because it is the best way to experience the culture of San Sebastian. It is recommended to have diner here. An additional advantage is that this area is cheaper compared to the historic center. We enjoyed our best Pintxos in this area, you can read more about this in the next point #9.

#9 Taste the best Pintxos

Pintxos is a typical food from the north of Spain. Pintxos are similar to tapas, the difference is that tapas are small versions of a main course and pintxos are small dishes, often with a skewer on a bun. Pintxos are mainly eaten on social occasions. Pintxos are delicious because, like tapas, they are very diverse. It is also very nice when you have eaten a menu of the day (Menu del dia) in the afternoon, you don’t have to eat much in the evening, you can eat a few pintxos and then you have had enough.

The best thing is to walk into a bar and order a drink with pintxos. Our favorite place in San Sebastian to eat pintxos is Bodega Donostiarra because the food is truly delicious. It is not expensive, you can sit comfortably, there is a cozy atmosphere and the service is more than fine. The big advantage is that they only serve traditional Basque dishes. You can see from everything that this restaurant has been welcoming people since 1928, the quality is perfect!

We have tried several pintxos and can tell you that they are all delicious. However, the ones below were our personal favorites:

• Fuet iberian sausage
• Grilled black pudding with peppers
• Grilled chorizo
• Pulled beef with a tomato sauce

In chapter ‘best places to eat’ you read our other recommended places to eat in San Sebastian.

#10 Other activities

There are plenty of things to do in San Sebastian if you have one day you can’t see everything. There may be activities in the list above that you might want to swap with one of the activities below. It is also possible to add one of the activities to your schedule, but be careful not to add too many things.

If you are short on time and you want to see as much of San Sebastian as possible, a bike tour is recommended. During the bike tour of +/- 4 hours, you will visit most activities from this list with a local. Check prices here .

#10.1 Zuloaga Plaza

The Zuloaga Square is one of the most important squares in San Sebastian because museum San Telmo and Iglesia de San Vicente Mártir are located at this square. In the San Telmo Museum, you can learn everything about Basque history. The museum is located in a monastery from the 16th century where they have historical artifacts to contemporary art.

Iglesia de San Vicente Mártir is a church that was rebuilt in 1574 after a fire in 1489. This church is very impressive to see because of the size, antiquity, and condition of the building. If you pay close attention, the church was never finished. You can notice this on the north wall.

#10.2 Boat tour

Do you like to do an activity on the water but in a relaxed way, then a boat tour is something for you. During this boat tour, you will sail through the bay of San Sebastian and you can enjoy the many views. Check availability here .

#10.3 Catedral de Buen Pastor

The Catedral de Buen Pastor is the most beautiful ecclesiastical building in San Sebastian. The cathedral is a little bit away from the other sights of San Sebastian however it is 100% worth a visit. Upon arrival, it is immediately apparent that the cathedral has an imposing tower that towers high above everything. Inside the cathedral, you can see a beautiful interior. You can visit the cathedral for free every day between 8 am – 2 pm & 5 pm – 8 pm.

Tip: walk from the boulevard via Gipuzkoa Plaza to the cathedral, this is a nice walk through the shopping street of San Sebastian.

#10.4 Gipuzkoa Plaza

Not far from the boulevard you can find Gipuzkoa Plaza, a typical Spanish square that is not visited at all by tourists. Very nice to visit because there is a garden with a pond where various animals come. Also in this square, you can see several sculptures, a small meteorological pergola, and the headquarters of the Regional Council of the Basque Country. Sit on a bench and watch the locals enjoy their free time.

#10.5 Santa Clara Isla

In the Bay of San Sebastian is a small island called Santa Clara. You can visit this small island with a ferry that leaves every 30 minutes from the harbor. Costs are €4 per person. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard to sail to the island independently, read more about this at activity number 2 from this list.

Santa Clara is a small island about 400 meters wide that is worth visiting for its cliffs and the view from the island. On this island, you will find a small beach, a bar, and an old lighthouse. The only thing can you do on this island is relax.

#10.6 Miramar royal palace

Between La Concha Beach and Ondarreta is the Royal Palace Miramar. This building was built in the 19th century and used to be a summer home for the Spanish royal family. It was sold to San Sebastian in 1972 and has been used by the University of the Basque Country ever since. Courses are given here in the summer. If you want to get an idea of ​​how the Spanish Royal family enjoyed their summers you can visit the gardens of the palace. It is also possible to visit part of the palace, this is only possible by following a guided tour.

#10.7 Haizearen Orrazia

On the west side of La Concha bay, you can see three works of art by Eduardo Chillida. These three works of art resemble anchors embedded in the rocks. It is a great place to view the ocean because the waves of the sea hit the rocks hard at this place. It is also fun to take a photo because you can play with your composition through the artwork.

#10.8 Day Trips from San Sebastian

If you have more time it is worth visiting more things in the Basque Country. If you don’t have a car, a day tour to Hondarribia, San Pedro, and San Juan is recommended. These are charming fishing villages on the Basque coast. You can buy a ticket here .

If you have access to a car, visiting San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (Bermeo), Zumaia & Ermita de San Telmo, and Bilbao are highly recommended.

Zumaia & Ermita de San Telmo are close to San Sebastian and are some of the most beautiful places to visit in the Basque Country. Zumaia is known for its special rock formations, very impressive to see. On top of one of the rocks is Ermita de San Telmo located, a chapel from which you have a magnificent view. Park your car at the village of Zumaia and walk to Ermita de San Telmo, then go to the beach for a good view of the rocky coast of Zumaia.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe in Bermeo is a must to see. Here you can visit a church built on a peninsula. The hike, environment, and nature at this place are very impressive, for nature lovers this is a great activity. The reason it has become so popular in recent years is because it was a filming location on Game of Thrones. It is important that reserve your ticket upfront, it is not possible to do this at the entrance. Be on time with your booking because tickets run out quickly!

The biggest city in the Basque Country is Bilbao, a beautiful city with the main attraction of the province: the Guggenheim Museum. Read everything about Bilbao here.

Where to stay in San Sebastian?

There are many accommodations to choose from. It’s hard to find one with a good price-quality ratio. In addition, your options are often limited because many accommodations are fully booked quickly. This is because San Sebastian is very popular among the Spanish population. If you know when you will be staying in San Sebastian it is strongly recommended to book the accommodation directly. When you use the links below you can change your reservation 24 hours in advance, so you retain your flexibility.

If you travel by car and are looking for a good place to stay, Green Nest Hostel Uba Aterpetxea is highly recommended. We stayed in this hostel and recommend it because you have access to a free car parking space, the rooms are really good, and the hostel is located in the middle of a park so it is really quiet. Within 20 minutes you are in the center by bus. The benefit is the price of this hostel if you consider that if you want to stay in the center it quickly cost €25 per day to just park your car. Check actual prices here !

If you want to stay in the center, La Galería is recommended. This stylish hotel is located on Ondarreta Beach. The building dates from the 19th century, making the atmosphere unique. Due to its location, building, and all facilities, this hotel is highly valued among travelers. Check actual prices and availability here !

Where to eat in San Sebastian?

Like we mentioned at #9 Bodega Donostiarra is the best place to eat. This place is awesome because the food is truly delicious. It is not expensive, you can sit comfortably, there is a cozy atmosphere and the service is more than fine. The big advantage is that they only serve traditional Basque dishes. You can see from everything that this restaurant has been welcoming people since 1928, the quality is perfect!

Another nice place to eat is Itxaso bar, here you can order pintxos and other dishes. We enjoyed a burger menu here, for €10 you have a burger with a drink. A must is to try the beer 1870, very tasty.

Bar Gorriti is also recommended because here you can choose different pintxos at the bar. Very easy, because you can immediately see what you like. There is also a cozy atmosphere and it is not such a hip bar as some others. It is really still very traditional which only enriches the experience!

Cafe-Bar Koh Tao in San Sebastian is a cafe/bar, as the name suggests, where you can try the cuisine of Thailand. A nice place if you want something different. We have muesli with fruit here in the morning with a cappuccino, highly recommended!

In addition to the above recommendations, you can also easily find a place by walking through the historic center and visiting a place that you come across. In the historic center, there are a lot of restaurants and bars to eat, you will probably find something without too many problems.

How to get to San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is best reached by plane, car, or train. San Sebastian has a national airport, but if you fly internationally you must first fly to Bilbao. San Sebastian is close to the French border, making it an acceptable distance by car from different places in Europe. If you are in a city in Spain you can easily travel by train to San Sebastian, train tickets can be bought here (you can also buy other public transport tickets via the link). It isn’t recommended to travel by train from cities outside Spain to San Sebastian due to the long travel time.

If you travel to Spain by plane and you are looking for a car to rent, you can rent it through Rentalcars . We use Rentalcars when we want to travel by car to discover new destinations. They’re easy to use and book with.

Travel insurance

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

What is the best period to visit San Sebastian?

The best time to visit San Sebastian is during the spring and summer period from April to September. Although this is the high season, these months are the best because of the pleasant temperatures. Due to the maritime climate, it can be very cold in the autumn and winter.

Want to see more of Spain?

Do you follow our Northern Spain road trip ? If you follow our itinerary, Bilbao is your next destination. Read everything what you can do in one day in Bilbao here.

In addition to Bilbao, you can also travel from San Sebastian to Santander , Picos de Europa , the wine region La Rioja or Zaragoza .

If you are interesting to travel to Andalusia Malaga is one of the best cities to discover.

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What do you think of San Sebastian? Share your thought in the comments below!

Hello, we are Cynthia & Alexander, the team behind Travel Your Memories! Traveling is our passion. When it comes to exploration, we love sharing our tips and adventures to inspire you. Welcome to Travel Your Memories, where we share our love for travel with you! Read our story .

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Best itinerary to visit San Sebastian in 3 days

• Sofía Pozuelo
• UPDATED: 27/02/2023

Do you plan on spending 3 days in San Sebastian? If so, I am happy to tell you that I have prepared an itinerary that will allow you to get to know the best of San Sebastian. The center of San Sebastian is not very big. In fact, it can easily be visited in one day. However, the city has a lot of very attractive and pleasant places to visit.

It's a great idea to stay several days and enjoy everything the city has to offer. In addition, apart from the essential places to see in San Sebastian in 3 days, you will also be able to get to know some of the best places to visit in the outskirts of San Sebastian, Spain.

Table of contents

Where to stay in san sebastian.

The city of San Sebastian is not very big. However, it is important to choose a hotel that is well located to be close to the main tourist attractions in the city. I recommend staying in the downtown area or in the Gros neighborhood.

On my last trip to San Sebastian, I stayed at the Sansebay Hotel . This hotel is located in the Old Town, right next to the port. The location is perfect as it is in the center but the street it’s on is very quiet. You won’t have to worry about noise. Also, the views from the room are splendid.

If you are still undecided about accommodation in San Sebastian, I recommend reading my post about where to stay in San Sebastian . Below, you can find several hotels for different budgets:

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

3-day San Sebastian (Spain) itinerary

Ready to discover the best things to do in San Sebastian in 3 days? Let’s start!

Day 1: Old Town and Mount Igueldo

On the first day in San Sebastian, it is time to walk along Paseo de la Concha until you get to Mount Igueldo, passing through the Miramar Palace and first approaching Peine del Viento. Then I recommend going up to Mount Igueldo by cable car. On the summit you can appreciate beautiful views of the city.

Return to the old part of the city to walk around and taste the famous pintxos. At sunset, go up to Mount Urgull for a pleasant walk and enjoy the views of the sea.

Concha Beach and Paseo Maritimo of San Sebastian

Paseo de La Concha, an avenue that borders the Concha Bay, is one of the most famous places in the city and one of the best things to do in San Sebastian . Apart from passing by Miramar Palace, where I recommend stopping, you will also pass by the Hotel Londres and La Perla building. All this while you enjoy a pleasant walk with views of the sea along Paseo Maritimo of San Sebastian.

Miramar Palace

The Miramar Palace is located in front of Concha Bay, between Concha Beach and Ondarreta Beach. Although you cannot visit the interior, it is highly advisable to go to the palace and take a walk in the surrounding gardens. There are benches and the views are very nice. You will also find information panels, where can learn about the history of this English-style palace.

Peine del Viento

Once you pass Ondarreta Beach completely, continue along Paseo de Eduardo Chillida until you reach the end of it, where Peine del Viento is located. It is a group of three sculptures designed by Eduardo Chillida, a Gipuzkoan sculptor. Here, nature and the hand of man come together to create a unique place.

Mount Igueldo, a must-visit place in San Sebastian in 3 days

If you are going to visit Mount Igueldo by cable car, I remind you that it opens at 11:00 a.m. from Monday to Friday and at 10:30 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. After having breakfast and taking a quick walk around the city, surely the time will have come. If you are going hike to the top, you can go even earlier.

The cable car runs every 15 minutes and costs €2.55 (one-way) or €4 (roundtrip). If you go up by funicular, access to the viewpoint is included in the price of the ticket. If you hike to the top, you will have to pay €2.50 per person to access the viewpoint. As you can see, it is worth going up using the cable car. However, to head down, I do recommend walking.

Apart from enjoying the views, you can have a drink at the bar with a terrace or dare to go up one of the attractions in the Mount Igueldo Amusement Park, built in 1912.

Old Town of San Sebastian

It’s time to return to the center of San Sebastián to explore the most beautiful part of the city, the Old Town. Here you will find many of the attractions to see in this city.

The places that you can not miss during your walk through this area are the Alameda del Boulevard, the Donostia City Hall, Plaza de la Constitución, the Basilica of Santa María del Coro, San Vicente Church and San Telmo Museum.

While you visit places, be sure to enjoy some of the most famous pintxos in San Sebastián. I recommend you go to Paco Bueno, Atari Gastroleku, La Mejillonera, Borda Berri, Bar Sport, Txuleta and Bar Néstor. For dessert, don’t miss the opportunity to try La Viña’s cheesecake.

Another way to visit this part of the city is by booking a free tour of San Sebastian . It is a guided tour in which you pay a donation at the end of the tour. It is very good to know the history of the city and some interesting facts. If you like walking tours, you may want to check the best free tours in San Sebastian .

Mount Urgull

To end your first day in San Sebastián in the best possible way, I recommend you take a pleasant walk through Mount Urgull. You can go around it through Paseo Nuevo or visit the interior thanks to the different paths.

I accessed Mount Urgull through the entrance located very close to San Telmo Museum. I visited several areas of the mountain, such as Baluarte del Mirador, the English Cemetery and La Mota Castle, and I rapped the day up by watching the sunset from the bar located on the same mountain. The name is Urgulleko Polboriña.

Day 2: City Center and Gros

On the second day in San Sebastian, it is time to visit several places in the City Center and in Gros neighborhood.

Gipuzkoa Square, the first public park in San Sebastian

The first stop will be in Gipuzkoa Square, where the Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa headquarters are located. It is also the first public park in the city. The square, apart from being full of plants and flowers, houses a pond with ducks, a marble hour table and a monument dedicated to the musician from San Sebastian, José María Usandizaga.

Good Shepherd of San Sebastian Cathedral

Not far from the Gipuzkoa Square, you will find the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd of San Sebastián. It was inaugurated in 1897 and is neoclassical in style. Its tower is 75 meters high. The cathedral is located just one kilometer from the Basilica of Santa María del Coro and there is no building in between.

María Cristina Bridge

Once you have finished walking through the center of San Sebastian, cross the María Cristina Bridge and head to the other side of the Urumea River. This bridge is one of the most beautiful ones in the city. It was built in 1904 and designed by José Eugenio Ribera and Julio María Zapata.

La Tabakalera, if you enjoy cultural activities

If you like cultural activities, I recommend you take a look at the agenda of La Tabakalera , an international center for contemporary culture. If you prefer other types of plans, you can get closer to simply see the building from the outside, which was a tobacco factory for 90 years.

Cristina Enea Park

Cristina Enea Park is not usually included in many San Sebastian itineraries. It seems to me like it’s the ideal place to take a pleasant walk and take a break. You will find gardens with many trees, several paths, a pond and the Cristina Enea Fundazioa Foundation.

Gros y la Playa de Zurriola, one of the best places to visit in San Sebastian in 3 days

Once you finish visiting the park, it’s time to walk towards Gros, one of the most popular neighborhoods in San Sebastian. It is a fairly modern area with a more youthful atmosphere. In Gros, you will find many bars, cafes and shops. I recommend walking around, losing yourself in its streets and discovering some of its most interesting corners.

The main tourist attraction in Gros is Zurriola Beach, where there are usually many surfers. If you travel to San Sebastian in the summer, you can take advantage of the afternoon to stay on this beach. I also recommend you walk along the promenade until you reach the sculpture of the Paloma de la Paz.

La Zurriola Bridge

Now it’s time to return to the center of San Sebastián crossing the Zurriola Bridge, built in 1915. It draws attention for its white and green streetlights. Once you cross this famous bridge, on your left, you will have on the Victoria Eugenia Theater and the María Cristina Hotel, two of the most emblematic buildings in San Sebastian.

Santa Clara Island Boat Cruise

This activity is completely optional, but if you have time and if you feel like it, you can book this boat trip to Santa Clara Island , located in La Concha Bay. Apart from seeing this island up close, you will be able to enjoy the pleasant archway. The visit lasts half an hour and costs €7 per person.

Day 3: Outskirts of San Sebastian

There is much to see in San Sebastian and even more if we take into account the incredible places in the outskirts of the city. On the third day in San Sebastian, I am going to recommend several places. Choose the ones you most want to visit and end your visit in the capital of Gipuzkoa in the best way possible.

Hike in Mount Ulia until you get to Pasajes

Something that I really enjoyed on my visit to San Sebastian was hiking in Mount Ulia until I reached the town of Pasajes. Even if you don’t have time to complete the entire route, I do recommend that you don’t miss out on hiking Mount Ulia to see the views of the city from there.

If you’re like and want to walk to Pasajes, you should know that the route lasts 2 hours. Once you get to Pasajes, you can take the boat that takes you from San Pedro to San Juan and take a walk there. It’s very pretty. I recommend you return to San Sebastian by bus.

Bathe in La Concha Beach

If on your third day in San Sebastian you feel like doing something more relaxing, I recommend spending the morning or afternoon at Concha Beach. Did you know that it is listed as one of the best urban beaches in the world?

Tour of the outskirts of San Sebastian

In the surroundings of San Sebastian, you will find many places worth visiting. Since you are going to spend 3 days in San Sebastian, it is not a bad idea to visit places like Hondarribia, Zarautz, Getaria or Zumaia. All of them are very charming places.

If you want to know other places to visit near San Sebastian, I recommend my article on the best day trips from San Sebastian .

If you have your own vehicle, I encourage to use it because it’s the most comfortable option. You can opt for public transportation or booking an organized tour if you don’t have a vehicle:

• Hondarribia, San Juan & San Pedro Tour .
• Zumaia, Zarautz & Getaria Day Trip .
• Biarritz & French Coast Day Trip .
• Traditional Cider House Tour .

Visit Chillida Leku

A few kilometers from San Sebastian, you’ll find Chillida Leku museum, founded by Eduardo Chillida , the creator of the Peine del Viento. The museum is housed in a farmhouse located in the town of Hernani. It is a landscaped space full of several varieties of trees and steel and granite sculptures. If you are interested in art, it can be a very interesting visit.

Map to visit San Sebastian in 3 days

In the following map of San Sebastian, you can see all the places that I have mentioned in this article and the hotel I recommend:

I hope that this post about how to visit San Sebastian in 3 days has been very useful for you in planning your trip to this beautiful city and its surroundings. If you want to tell me about your experience in the city or have any questions, I encourage you to leave a comment. Until 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).

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San Sebastian in a Day: A Whirlwind Tour of Coastal Beauty

March 29, 2024 · 1 min read

Embark on a whirlwind adventure through San Sebastian with our meticulously crafted one-day itinerary. Start your journey at the historic Urgull, a hill crowned with a majestic sculpture statue that offers panoramic views of the city. Allocate around 3 hours to fully appreciate its grandeur and the surrounding vistas. Next, dive into the underwater world at the Aquarium, where you'll spend an hour marveling at marine life and the intricate sculptures that stand as guardians of the sea. Afterward, bask in the sun and relax on the sands of the iconic Beach of La Concha for 2 hours, letting the waves soothe your senses. Conclude your day with a brief yet unforgettable visit to Haizearen Orrazia, a stunning sculpture by Eduardo Chillida that pays homage to the wind. This half-hour stop is the perfect way to reflect on the day's experiences. With each attraction offering its own unique sculpture statue, your day in San Sebastian will be a journey through art, nature, and the city's vibrant culture.

• Day 1: Scenic San Sebastian - A Day of Statues and Shorelines

Kickstart your San Sebastian adventure with a morning ascent to Urgull, a historic hill offering panoramic views of the city. Nestled at Monte Urgull Street, this natural vantage point is not just a feast for the eyes but also a cultural treasure trove, crowned with an iconic sculpture statue that stands as a silent sentinel over the town. Allocate around 3 hours to fully immerse yourself in the scenic beauty and historical aura that Urgull exudes.

Attraction Info

• Monte Urgull Street 20003 Donostia Gipuzkoa
• Suggested tour duration: 3-5 hour

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

After soaking in the vistas from Urgull, dive into an underwater world at the Aquarium, located at Plaza de Carlos Blasco Imaz. With just an hour's visit, you'll encounter a mesmerizing collection of marine life, all elegantly swimming around another enchanting sculpture statue. This aquatic haven is a perfect segue from the historical heights to the depths of oceanic wonders.

• 1 Plaza de Carlos Blasco Imaz, 20003 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open on Tue-Fri,10:00am-7:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,10:00am-8:00pm

Beach of La Concha

As the afternoon sun warms the sands, make your way to the Beach of La Concha, a pristine stretch of coastline that's a heartbeat of San Sebastian. Here, spend a leisurely 2 hours basking in the sun, sand, and sea, with the backdrop of yet another sculpture statue that adds an artistic touch to the natural splendor of this popular seaside destination.

• Beach of La Concha, 20007, Gipuzkoa, Spain
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour

Haizearen Orrazia

Conclude your day with a brief yet memorable stop at Haizearen Orrazia, where Eduardo Chillida's masterful sculpture awaits. This half-hour visit to Eduardo Chillida Pasealekua will allow you to witness a statue that captures the spirit of the wind, a fitting end to a day spent among the artistic and natural beauty of San Sebastian.

• Eduardo Chillida Pasealekua, s/n, 20008 Donostia, Gipuzkoa
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
• Open 24 hours

Where to Stay Tonight

Mercure monte igueldo, hotel ezeiza, hotel ilunion san sebastian, top things to do in san sebastian-2024.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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3-Day San Sebastian - Donostia Itinerary

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• San Sebastian - Donostia in 3 days
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Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: center of town, day 3: off the beaten path, beach of la concha.

Zurriola beach

Gipuzkoa Plaza

San martin merkatua, miramar jauregia, funicular monte igueldo, haizearen orrazia, where to eat, rojo y negro, arnoldo izozki-denda.

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Garbera Merkataritza Gunea

Cristina enea parkea, san telmo museum, good shepherd of san sebastián cathedral, aiete parkea, la cuchara de san telmo, labe restaurant.

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Parque de Atracciones Monte Igueldo

Hotel nh collection san sebastián aránzazu, ondarreta beach, motako gaztelua, koruko andre mariaren basilika, maria cristina zubia, atari gastroleku, kokotxa jatetxea, kafe botanika, igeldo jatetxea. arrain eta itsaskien berezitasuna.

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Popular road trips from San Sebastian - Donostia

What's the weather like in san sebastian - donostia.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in San Sebastian - Donostia for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in San Sebastian - Donostia in January
• Weather in San Sebastian - Donostia in February
• Weather in San Sebastian - Donostia in March
• Weather in San Sebastian - Donostia in April
• Weather in San Sebastian - Donostia in May
• Weather in San Sebastian - Donostia in June
• Weather in San Sebastian - Donostia in July
• Weather in San Sebastian - Donostia in August
• Weather in San Sebastian - Donostia in September
• Weather in San Sebastian - Donostia in October
• Weather in San Sebastian - Donostia in November
• Weather in San Sebastian - Donostia in December

All road trips from San Sebastian - Donostia

• San Sebastian - Donostia to Barcelona drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Paris drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Madrid drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to London drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Rome drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Lisbon drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Amsterdam drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Valencia drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Florence drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Bilbao drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Berlin drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Milan drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Seville drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Prague drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Bordeaux drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Venice drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Edinburgh drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Porto drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Dublin drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Budapest drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Zaragoza drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Brussels drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Vienna drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Granada drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Turin drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Marrakech drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Munich drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Cordoba drive
• San Sebastian - Donostia to Burgos drive

Explore nearby places

• San Sebastian - Donostia
• Astigarraga
• Hondarribia
• Vera de Bidasoa
• Saint-Jean-de-Luz

All related maps of San Sebastian - Donostia

• Map of San Sebastian - Donostia
• Map of Pasaia
• Map of Pasajes
• Map of Astigarraga
• Map of Hernani
• Map of Lezo
• Map of Zubieta
• Map of Oiartzun
• Map of Usurbil
• Map of Urnieta
• Map of Andoain
• Map of Orio
• Map of Zizurkil
• Map of Irun
• Map of Hondarribia
• Map of Zarautz
• Map of Hendaye
• Map of Vera de Bidasoa
• Map of Getaria
• Map of Biriatou
• Map of Errenteria
• Map of Tolosa
• Map of Urrugne
• Map of Lesaka
• Map of Zumaia
• Map of Igantzi
• Map of Zestoa
• Map of Ciboure
• Map of Lasarte
• Map of Saint-Jean-de-Luz
• Map of Leiza

San Sebastian - Donostia throughout the year

• San Sebastian - Donostia in January
• San Sebastian - Donostia in February
• San Sebastian - Donostia in March
• San Sebastian - Donostia in April
• San Sebastian - Donostia in May
• San Sebastian - Donostia in June
• San Sebastian - Donostia in July
• San Sebastian - Donostia in August
• San Sebastian - Donostia in September
• San Sebastian - Donostia in October
• San Sebastian - Donostia in November
• San Sebastian - Donostia in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in San Sebastian - Donostia?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 3-Day Saint-Jean-de-Luz Itinerary
• 3-Day Hendaye Itinerary
• 3-Day Zarautz Itinerary
• 3-Day Ciboure Itinerary
• 3-Day Urrugne Itinerary
• 3-Day Getaria Itinerary
• 3-Day Zumaia Itinerary

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3 Days in San Sebastian, Spain

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Looking for the top things to do in San Sebastian? From cooking classes to food tours, this is how to have the best 3 days in San Sebastian!

San Sebastian has been at the top of our bucket list for years. As foodies, how could it not be?

When Chloe and I first started dating, we used to go out for dinner all the time, and that started our long love affair with food and fine dining. Every meal was an array of decadent dishes, and we’d travel around the world jumping from one restaurant to the next.

As our chats centered around food, it wasn’t long before we were mentally planning 3 days in San Sebastian in Spain . For us, this was our foodie Mecca, but we wanted to do it right. That meant eating everything from pinchos all the way through to Michelin-starred food.

As this trip is something we’ve been planning for years, we teamed up with Original Travel to bring it to life.

These guys create luxurious itineraries – you give them a theme, and they run with it. For our trip to San Sebastian, naturally we wanted to focus on food. All the food.

So on this trip we went on not one, not two, but three different food tours all arranged by Original Travel. We also ate at a Michelin starred restaurants with one of the best views I’ve ever seen (more on that later!)

I know this is going to sound cliched, but the food really is on another level here. Each bite is to be savoured; each meal is a joyous celebration you don’t want to stop.

If you’re looking at spending 3 days in San Sebastian, then this is my San Sebastian itinerary for you. I really hope you find this useful when planning your trip here. Just remember to bring those extra loose trousers; you’re going to need them!

Planning a bigger trip to Spain? Then check out my guides to Barcelona and the ultimate adventures in Spain .

Are you planning an amazing holiday to San Sebastian? If so, you may want to book your hotels and tours asap to ensure availability. Here are some links to quickly help plan your trip!

Best hotels and apartments in San Sebastian:

• Hotel Maria Cristina (top rated 5* hotel)
• Zenit Convento San Martin (top rated 4* hotel)
• Villa Eugenia Boutique Hotel (top rated 3* hotel)

Best activities and tours in San Sebastian :

• Guided Food Tour with Pintxo Tasting & Wines (I loved this tour!)
• Guided E-Bike Tour (great way of seeing the city)
• Boat Tour with Stop at Santa Clara (so cheap!)

Where is San Sebastian?

Located in northern Spain , San Sebastian is a smallish town in the Basque Country very close to the French border. Either side of it are the cities of Bilbao (where most tourists fly into) and Santander.

San Sebastian is also one of the stops on the Camino de Santiago . This is one of the world’s best known hiking trails from Saint Jean Pied de Port in France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain over 800 kms away.

Getting to San Sebastian is fairly straight forward, but it does take a bit of time.

We flew from London Gatwick to Bilbao airport (flight time 1h:30m). From there, we were picked up with a driver organised by Original Travel who drove us to our hotel 1h:20m away.

There are buses and trains from Bilbao airport, but as we only had 3 days in San Sebastian we wanted to maximise our time in the town. Anything to squeeze in one more meal!

3 days in San Sebastian itinerary

Day 1 in san sebastian.

We arrived in San Sebastian around 2pm in the afternoon, so we dumped our bags at Hotel Villa Soro and walked into town to explore the place.

Lunch at Bodega Donostiarra Gros

I was absolutely starving as I stepped off the plane, so the first thing I wanted to do in San Sebastian was kick off our food Odyssey.

Bodega Donostiarra Gros was recommended to us by a few people, so we wanted to check out this restaurant first.

As we arrived, the first thing I noticed was it was packed full of locals – always a very good sign!

The food was even better. We picked up a few pinchos of smoked salmon on bread, an unctuous pig’s cheek in a tomato sauce that simply melted in the mouth, and the grilled octopus on a bed of smoky sweet potato mash. This was the just the start of great things to come in San Sebastian.

However, the winning dish for me was the grilled peppers drowning in local olive oil and a lashing of salt across the top. It was such a simple dish, but so delicious. This was actually one of my favourite dishes in San Sebastian, so it’s worth coming here for this dish alone!

You can check out some of the top dishes in the country in this guide all about food in Spain .

Walk along Playa de la Concha

If you didn’t know already, San Sebastian is one of those towns with an absolutely stunning beach a short walk from the Old Town.

It is this perfect crescent shaped beach with a little island right in the middle of it. For me, this really is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world . The aerials of the beach are drool-worthy.

Playa de la Concha is 1.4 km in length, so it takes a good 20 minutes to walk along the promenade overlooking the beach to the very end.

On a hot and sunny day, the beach is the place to be. A part of me wished I brought a towel so I could laze away the afternoon – there were so many people doing the same while we were there.

Even though the water is cold, we saw plenty of swimmers, paddleboarders and kayakers out in the water.

It’s very poplar hiring a kayak and paddling out to Santa Clara, the little island just off the beach, so you can potentially add that into your 3 days in San Sebastian. It’s definitely one for the adventurers in you!

Eat your way through the Old Town on a Pinchos Food & Wine tour

If you’re looking at getting an authentic pinchos experience while learning all about the food from San Sebastian, then I’d really recommend a pinchos food and wine tour.

We went on a tour with Mimo Bite the Experience and it was just brilliant. I can honestly say is one of the best food tours I’ve ever been on – it’s no wonder this tour is ranked in the top 10 food tours in the world on TripAdvisor. It really is that good!

So why should you go on a food tour?

Obviously you can just walk into any pinchos bar and start ordering, but it’s actually surprisingly daunting walking into a place packed full of locals and tourists when you don’t know what you’re doing or what to order.

What I loved about this tour was it made everything easy. Not only did our guide Veronica go through the process of how to order, but she also gave us loads of advice and information on what to do and what not to do.

For example, you’ll see locals just chuck used napkins on the floor like they’re trashing the place. Actually, they do this because it’s much more hygienic to throw a used napkin on the floor and kick it under the counter than to leave it on the bar where anyone else might come into contact with it.

I would’ve never have known that if I just walked into a bar and saw people throwing their napkins on the floor!

Our tour started at 6:30pm and went on till well after 9:30pm. In that time we went to 5 of the best pinchos bars in Old Town. At each bar we had one or two pinchos, always washed down with a local wine from the region. This is where we tried txakoli for the first time, the slightly sparkling white wine from the Basque Country (more on that later though).

I always recommend people do a food tour at the start of their trip. I genuinely think it’s the best way of getting to know a place, and often you get loads of tips on where to eat too.

As I said, this is one of the best food tours I’ve ever been on, so I can’t recommend it enough. There’s no better overview of the city’s food scene, and it’s very different to the food in Barcelona too.

Day 2 in San Sebastian

For our second day in San Sebastian, we delved deeper into the Basque cuisine and why this is one of the best places in the world for food.

Learn Basque cuisine on a cooking course

Chloe & I absolutely love cooking, so we were really excited that Original Travel booked us onto a cooking course. This is an activity they thought we’d really enjoy, so it was nice having a recommendation personalised just to us.

On the morning of our second day in San Sebastian, we met our guide and chef Patricio Fuentes at Mimo cooking school . Now Patricio is genuinely one of the most passionate foodies I’ve ever come across. His enthusiasm is infectious and he is so proud of Basque and Spanish cuisine. He’s also worked in a fair few Michelin starred restaurants, so he really knows his stuff.

Out tour was all about fish and seafood, so our day started off at Sagastume, a local fish market. Here they were selling everything from fresh oysters to lobster to cod cheeks for the famous kokotxas dish.

I’ve always been intimidated by the fish mongers as I don’t know what to look for when buying fish. Well, Patricio dispelled a lot of the fear. He showed me exactly what to look for in a fresh fish, and it was nice having someone holding my hand and walking me through the basics.

One of the other things I learned from Patricio was to always use fresh and seasonal ingredients.

From the fish market, we went to buy some vegetables from a few stalls dotted around the central market. It was here that I discovered green tears. I’d never come across this ingredient before, but they are tiny oval peas that pop in your mouth and have the freshest taste. They were going in our cod dish, so we picked up a bag of these as they were in season.

Once we had all our ingredients, we went back to the cooking school. From that point onwards it was a culinary masterclass in Basque cuisine. I learned so much in just a few hours.

In our cooking classed we made a prawn tartar garnished with the green tears, a version of kokotxas where we cooked with cod jowl, a red mullet dish with a subtle dashi, and we even cooked the very rare gooseneck barnacles which I’ve wanted to try for years.

To be honest with you, I could talk about this course for hours. I think my biggest take away was how emotional food can be. You should be cooking because it makes you enjoy it and it makes you happy. If you can do that, you can create something truly remarkable.

Once again, I can’t recommend this tour enough, and it’s perfect for your 3 days in San Sebastian itinerary. This one if definitely for all you foodies out there.

Climb to the top of Monte Urgull

We left our cooking class more than a little tipsy and very full, so we decided some fresh air would do us the world of good.

Just a short walk from the beach is Monte Urgull. You can see the statue of Jesus Christ overlooking the beach – that’s where you’re aiming for.

Even though this “mountain” looks pretty steep, its only 123 metres tall, so it only takes around 20 minutes walking to the top. Here you’ll find Mota Castle, a 16 th century defensive fortification at the top of San Sebastian.

There are a number of different pathways taking you up to the top. All of them and signposted, so it doesn’t really matter which one you take.

Once you make it to the top you have one of the best views overlooking Playa de la Concha. We also found this amazing bar Urgulleko Polborina inside the old fortification walls. This is the perfect spot for a refreshing drink after a lovely walk to the mirador.

The drinks are cheap and the views are even better. This is an amazing sunset spot too for those of you who want to bed in for the afternoon!

Bar hop around Gros

After another long day of eating and drinking, we headed back to our hotel to rest and relax for a bit.

Thankfully, San Sebastian being very Spanish, the bars and restaurants are open very late, so we headed out for dinner at about 9pm once we could stomach a few more pinchos.

Instead of going back to Old Town, we went bar hopping around the Gros neighbourhood. From our tours, our guides all said that the Old Town was for tourists, and Gros was for locals, so we wanted to see what the local vibe was like.

Armed with our knowledge from the pinchos food tour, we went to three different pinchos bars in Gros. Bergara, Ricardo and Pagadi which were all recommend to us, and it was great eating outside long into the night.

Day 3 in San Sebastian

For our last day in San Sebastian, we learned all about txakoli wine from a local vineyard. We also finished our 3 days in San Sebastian on a high by going to one of the many Michelin starred restaurants in the area.

Go on a txakoli wine tour at Hiruzta Bodega

As I’ve already mentioned, txakoli is a slightly sparkling white wine produced in the Basque country. It is the wine most people drink at all the pinchos bars in town. It is super cheap and surprisingly refreshing.

We learned all about txakoli at a vineyard just 20 minutes outside of San Sebastian. It’s amazing that you can go from the beach to the mountains and vineyards in just 20 minutes.

Hiruzta Bodega is in such a stunning location overlooking the vineyards. They also produce a damn fine txakoli which has even picked up a platinum award at the Decanter Awards, the first txakoli wine in the region to do so.

Here we had a lovely tour where we worked our way through a few txakoli wines while having a fair few pinchos too (because it’s impossible to have a glass of wine without a pinchos in San Sebastian!)

Saying that, the whole point of these pinchos were to see how they paired with food and how the acidic notes can cut through the fatty foods.  

I knew absolutely nothing about txakoli wine before coming to San Sebastian, so it was great going on a tour and discovering more about the wine that everyone drinks in the region.

Catch the funicular to Monte Igueldo

Once we got back into San Sebastian, we headed back to Playa de la Concha and walked towards Monte Igueldo.

From here we caught the funicular to the top of the mountain for one of the best viewpoints overlooking the beach and the town.

There’s a café at the top, so we grabbed a coffee and drunk in the beautiful views. This was definitely one of my favourite spots in San Sebastian.

On the weekend and during the summer season, there’s also a mini-theme park at the top of Monte Igueldo too. I’m not going to lie, I was absolutely gutted this was closed when we visited as it looks brilliant.

There’s this old fashioned mine train ride that looks 100 years old that takes you around the theme park, and the views just look spectacular.

I’d definitely recommend visiting when the theme part is open, especially if you’re travelling with little ones.

Dine at Mirador de Ulia

Did you know San Sebastian has the highest concentration of Michelin starred restaurants in the world? 11 different restaurants have 24 stars between them, and Arzak is regarded as one of the best restaurants in the world.  

Because we couldn’t afford the 250 euro per person menus at the 3* restaurants, we opted to dine at Mirador de Ulia , a 1* restaurant overlooking San Sebastian. This easily has one of the best viewpoints I’ve ever seen from a restaurant – I actually wish we came for lunch instead of dinner so we could’ve enjoyed the view for longer.

We had the 11-course tasting menu at Mirador de Ulia and it was fantastic. I always think fine dining should be about the experience as much as the food. Well, at Mirador de Ulia they really deliver on the experience too with dishes such as live clams being cooked in fire beside the table.

This menu is very much in keeping with the Basque cuisine, so expect some thought-provoking dishes such as pork tartar and the deep-fried pig’s ear. Chloe & I discussed that one long into the night!

The food was world-class though, and it was amazing going from the pinchos from Old Town to fine-dining overlooking the town below. It really completed our culinary Odyssey in San Sebastian.

Where to stay in San Sebastian

Hotel villa soro.

We stayed in a lovely 4* hotel just on the outskirts of San Sebastian called H otel Villa Soro .

To be honest with you, this felt like a 5* hotel masquerading as a 4*. The building is an opulent 19 th country chateau with a stunning carved wooden staircase, high vaulted ceilings and large lounges dotted around the ground floor. There’s even a diminutive chapel with stained-glass windows at the top of the staircase as you walk up to your rooms.

Hotel Villa Soro was like a refuge from all the eating in San Sebastian, a place where we could lounge and relaxing before mustering up the energy for another meal.

Our room was huge with a king-sized double bed and smartly decorated bathroom with a lovely deep bath . With the mahogany desk and porcelain vase, it really did feel in keeping with the 19 th century mansion.

The nearest beach is an 11-minute walk away, and it took us about 20 minutes walking into the centre of Old Town. Even though this is a little further out than other accommodation options in San Sebastian, it did give us plenty of opportunity to burn off a fair few of those calories!  

Travelling with Original Travel

Our trip was organised by Original Travel , the luxury tailor-made holiday specialists. With their team of travel consultants and experts, these guys put together the most incredible itineraries perfect catered towards your needs and desires for that ultimate trip of a lifetime. Their team took care of all the hard work planning our trip to San Sebastian, so all we had to do was just enjoy ourselves. They do the hard be, we did the easy bit!

One of my favourite things about using a company like Original Travel was using their ‘meet & assist’ concierge service at Gatwick Airport. When we arrived at the airport, Paul from the concierge team who took us straight to the front of the premier check in desk. From there, he whisked us through fast-track security to one of the Gatwick lounges to relax before our flight.

Now I travel a lot, and I didn’t think this ‘meet & assist’ service would be very useful for a frequent traveller, but it took out all the stress and importantly queuing time while at the airport. I think this service would be particularly good for anxious or elderly travellers who don’t fly a lot.

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.

If you’re the type of person short on time, or you’re looking for someone to come up with an itinerary that’s personalised to you, then I can’t recommend Original Travel enough. They really do deliver stress-free luxury holidays – all you need to do is enjoy every moment of it!

San Sebastian packing list

As you can imagine, I travel a lot. It comes with the territory of being a travel blogger! That being said, there are some things that I now can’t travel without. If you’re planning your San Sebastian itinerary, I’d really recommend taking these items with you:

• Sunglasses: Mens | Womens – These are an absolute must as soon as you step off the plane, holiday mode very firmly on!
• Cool felt hat – I always love travelling with a hat these days, especially during summer when the sun’s out.
• Rain jacket: Mens | Womens – Sorry guys, but it’s always a good idea to travel with a pac-a-mac or rain jacket that packs down small. Fingers crossed you won’t need to use it.
• Bum bag – Very easy and simple for wandering around a city and it means you can leave a big bag at the hotel room.
• Sleep mask – 100% take this with me on every trip.
• Ear plugs – Even if you’re staying in a 5* hotel, you might need ear plugs.

• Water bottle – I am a water bottle convert and I barely leave the house without one now. This is a great water bottle with a built in straw – it’s surprisingly handy!
• Waterproof phone carrier – Another game changer. I always use this when I’m on the beach to protect my phone from sand or when I’m kayaking to protect it from water.
• Portable charger – Does anyone travel without these now? This one is my favourite – just make sure you charge it before you get on the plane!
• Jabra earbuds – After trying so many different types of earbuds, these are now my go-to ones. Great for wandering around a city.
• Multi-adapter plug – This is the one item you’re most likely to forget.

This post was in association with Original Travel promoting some of their luxury itineraries around the world. As always, all views are entirely my own and without bias.

Are you planning a weekend in San Sebastian? What are you looking to do? You can let me know in the comments below!

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About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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10 Outstanding Day Trips From San Sebastian

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San Sebastian is one of the best cities to visit in Spain, both because of its phenomenal pintxo culture as well as its natural beauty along the coast. However, while it is a wonderful city, there are also fantastic day trips from San Sebastian that make for incredible getaways to places that are far different from the Basque city.

These 10 day trips from San Sebastian all offer something different, so read through them all and find the ones that best suit what you are looking for in a day trip!

1. Zarautz and Zumaia

Zarautz and Zumaia are both small coastal towns in the Basque Country that have astonishing beaches and world-class restaurants.

Sounds like San Sebastian, right?

Well, they are definitely similar in what they offer, but Zarautz and Zumaia offer a small town, pueblo , vibe that will help you escape that larger city feel of San Sebastian.

Zarautz and Zumaia are both well-known for their prime surfing spots along Spain’s northern coast. While the water will most likely be cold, both Basque towns are great for surfing.

If you are not into surfing, perhaps food is more your style? Yeah, we thought so.

Zarautz is home to one of the most famous chefs in the world, Karlos Arguiñano, who owns Hotel Restaurante Karlos Anguiñano and the Aiala cooking school . There are also other wonderful restaurants and places to eat in Zarautz if this is a little above your budget.

While Zarautz has a fantastic gastronomic cuisine, Zumaia isn’t about to be overshadowed by them. Zumaia is famous for its connection to octopus as they are, and have been for centuries, fished right off the shore. It’s the perfect city if you want the freshest possible octopus in Spain!

All in all, Zarautz and Zumaia make for the perfect, short day trips from San Sebastian, for food, surfing, and natural beauty.

Zarautz Distance from San Sebastian: About 21 kilometers (13 miles) or 28 minutes by car

Zumaia distance from san sebastian: about 34 kilometers (21 miles) or 35 minutes by car.

San Sebastian often outshines this bigger Basque city because of its coastal location, but the port city of Bilbao is actually almost twice the size of San Sebastian and offers a lot that you can’t see in there.

Bilbao might not be as beautiful from a nature standpoint, but it offers much more of a big city feel. In fact, it’s the biggest city of all these day trips from San Sebastian at about 345,000 people.

The top thing to do in Bilbao is the Guggenheim Museum . Built in 1997, this architectural wonder sticks out from almost everything else around it and really is a fixture in the center of Bilbao. Walking the river and at least marveling at the Guggenheim from the outside is a must-do when visiting Bilbao.

The art inside is very modern but truly world-class. If modern art isn’t your thing or you just don’t want to pay for admission, consider skipping it. If it’s within your travel budget, consider going inside as it is one of the world’s best art museums, and it’s always good to try to expand your view of art.

Aside from the Guggenheim, make sure to wander the streets of the Casco Viejo when on your day trip to Bilbao. These winding streets are filled with picturesque buildings and hole-in-the-wall pintxo bars. Stop by the Plaza Nueva to grab some Txakoli , sparkling wine from the Basque country.

If you find yourself with more time, head up to Mount Artxanda for an outstanding view of Bilbao from above. This might not be a must-do on your day trip, but we’re a sucker for views which is why we recommend it.

The more industrial Bilbao makes for a great day trip from San Sebastian, especially if you are wanting to explore another bigger Basque city!

Bilbao Distance from San Sebastian: About 102 km (63 miles) or 1 hour 11 minutes by car

3. pamplona.

Made famous by San Fermín , or the Running of the Bulls for many, Pamplona is the first day trip from San Sebastian on this list that is outside of the País Vasco autonomous community.

Pamplona is in the nearby autonomous community of Navarra that sits just south of País Vasco . Although it’s in Navarra, Pamplona is actually closer to San Sebastian than Bilbao, making it a very convenient day trip!

As mentioned, Pamplona is home to the San Fermín festival which happens every year from July 6 to July 14. This is basically a constant party throughout the week with drinking, eating, and running with the bulls if you so choose.

If you are taking a day trip from San Sebastian to Pamplona during any other time fo the year, there is still plenty to do, including visiting some of Ernest Hemingway’s old haunts. The most famous of these is Café Iruña in the Plaza del Castillo in the center of town.

Pamplona is not a hugely visited city outside of San Fermín , but it’s a nice day trip from San Sebastian and allows you to visit Navarra.

Pamplona Distance from San Sebastian: About 82 km (51 miles) or 1 hour 4 minutes by car

4. bayonne and biarritz.

Visiting Bayonne and Biarritz is a unique day trip from San Sebastian because you actually leave the country and head to France!

While Bayonne and Biarritz are technically in France, they’re still is the Basque County, just the French Basque Country, or Pays Basque . The culture between the Spanish and French Basque countries are very similar as it is still more Basque than either Spanish or French.

Bayonne and Biarritz make the list of day trips from San Sebastian as a tandem because they are so close teach other, sitting only about 30 minutes apart by bus and even less by car.

Both cities are different and have their own distinct vibes. Biarritz is a glitzy coastal city with plenty of resorts and visitors, while Bayonne is inland and more of an industrial city. In a way, they are similar to Bilbao and Biarritz, but much smaller and much closer together.

If you are taking a day trip from San Sebastian to Bayonne or Biarritz, definitely make a visit to both to see which one you prefer!

For more information on visiting Bayonne and Biarritz, read our full post Visiting Bayonne and Biarritz: Two Basque Cities in France .

Bayonne and Biarritz Distance from San Sebastian: About 50 km (31 miles) or 45 minutes by car

5. bakio, san juan de gaztelugatxe, bermeo, bosque oma, and guernica.

Well, we’re backing the Basque Country for this day trip from San Sebastian, and it’s quite the itinerary of places to see throughout the northern Basque Country.

These 5 places can all be combined into one road trip from San Sebastian that can all be done in one day since you won’t really be in any one place too long, and they are all connected.

Starting out, you will head to the small coastal town of Bakio before visiting the spectacular San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. This little hermitage sits out in the Bay of Biscay and is connected to the mainland by a bridge. It’s history dates back as early as the 9th century!

There are 231 steps that wind up the side of the rocky islet to the little hermitage. Once on top, there’s also a little shelter where you can relax that protects you from the strong winds off the sea. According to legend if you ring the bell 3 times and make a wish, it will come true.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is one of the must-see places in the Basque Country! It’s absolutely stunning and picturesque. Make sure you stop and appreciate the beauty of the bridge and stairs leading up to it along with the natural beauty surrounding it. This is probably why HBO’s Game of Thrones used it as a filming location for Dragonstone. Although, they digitally constructed a castle on top of it.

Bermeo is the next stop after San Juan de Gaztelugatxe on this day trip. It sits just east of it, whereas Bakio sits just west. Bermeo is another small Basque village on the coast that is worth a quick stop. These beautiful villages, while all alike in some ways, each have their own unique styles.

After Bermeo, you’ll stop at the Bosque de Oma, or Oma Forest. It’s an artist’s installation where trees are painted on and different objects appear as you walk through the forest depending on where you’re standing.

The last stop on this day trip from San Sebastian is Guernica. This small Basque village is most famous for being represented in Picasso’s Guernica painting. In 1937, the town was bombed by Hitler and 1,354 people were killed. Picasso’s painting depicts the horrors of this day.

Aside from this horrific historical event, Guernica is a small, quiet town with a market and the world’s largest jai alai stadium. It’s a great place to end your day trip before returning to San Sebastian.

Total Distance: 240 km (150 miles) or 3 hours 47 minutes by car without stopping

6. vitoria-gasteiz.

Staying within the Basque Country again, Vitoria-Gasteiz makes for a perfect day trip to the Basque Country’s capital city.

It’s the least well-known of the 3 major Basque cities—Bilbao, San Sebastian, and Vitoria-Gasteiz—but it is the capital and houses all the autonomous community’s government buildings. Rumor has it that because the more popular Bilbao and San Sebastian kept fighting and could not decide on who should be the capital, they just decided to give it to Vitoria-Gasteiz.

The city’s population sits right between San Sebastian and Bilbao’s making it a medium-sized city. It is not often visited by foreign travelers or Spaniards, so you will be able to stay away from tourists here. Outside of the typical cathedral and museums, the best thing to do in Vitoria-Gasteiz is to eat pintxos, which are much cheaper than in the other two major Basque cities.

Vitoria-Gasteiz might not be the most exciting day trip from San Sebastian on this list, but it is another major Basque city to explore and can always be combined with another day trip on this list.

Vitoria-Gasteiz Distance From San Sebastian: About 100 km (62 miles) or 1 hour 19 minutes by car

Much like Vitoria-Gasteiz, Logroño is a capital city that is not often visited by travelers or Spaniards. It is the capital of La Rioja, an autonomous community just south of the Basque Country.

While Logroño nor La Rioja is visited much, it is very well-known, and if you recognize the name it’s probably from wine. That’s right. La Rioja wine, one of the best wines in the world, comes from this region in Spain, which means that there is plenty of inexpensive, but amazing, wine for you to drink here!

Logroño makes for an easy day trip from San Sebastian because its so close too. It’s the furthest from San Sebastian on this list, but still under 2 hours away.

There is plenty to do in Logroño, and you can read all about what to do when visiting Logroño in our post. However, if you don’t feel like reading all that right now, the number one thing to do in Logroño is visit the famous Calle Laurel .

Calle Laurel is Logroño’s famous pintxo street which is lined with bars that serve up various pintxos and wine, beer, or non-alcoholic beverages. With just 10€, you will be able to eat and drink at about 4 different places giving you a great bang for your….euro?

If you are a food lover and looking for a day trip from San Sebastian to another one of Spain’s best food cities, go to Logroño!

Logroño Distance From San Sebastian: About 150 km (93 miles) or 1 hour 50 minutes by car

8. aiako harria – peñas de aya .

Aiako Harria Natural Park is a fantastic getaway for those looking to do some hiking or outdoor exploring. It’s also known as Peñas de Aya Natural Park in Spanish. Aiako Harria is the Basque name.

The national park is very close to San Sebastian making for an easy day trip, but there are countless trails to explore in this area. You can even get some marvelous views over some of the Basque towns on the coast.

Aiako Harria Distance from San Sebastian: About 24 km (15 miles) or 42 minutes by car

9. zegama and aizkorri-aratz natural park.

The Basque town of Zegama and Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park are other outdoorsy day trips from San Sebastian. Zegama sits right outside of Aizkorri-Aratz and is the perfect place to go eat after a day exploring the park, the Basque Country’s second largest.

Zegama is a very small Basque town in the mountains but hosts one of the most famous trail races in Spain: Zegama-Aizkorri .

This trail race starts and ends in Zegama and brings some of the best trail runners from around the world. Whether you’re a runner or not, the excitement and energy around Zegama during the race is outstanding.

If you are just looking for a quick day trip from San Sebastian to get out and hike in the Basque mountains, Aizkorri-Aratz is a wonderful place to do it!

Zegama Distance from San Sebastian: 54 km (34 miles) or about 49 minutes by car

10. hondarribia.

The last on these 10 day trips from San Sebastian is actually one of the closest. Hondarribia is basically the next larger town just northeast of San Sebastian when combined with Irun.

Hondarribia is right on the Spanish-French border and the Bay of Biscay and is a prominent Basque fishing village. One of the best things to do in Hondarribia is to go to the Barrio de la Marina , Marine District, to explore the local pintxo bars and stunning architecture.

Of course with being on the coast, the beach in Hondarribia is also one of the top things to do in Hondarribia, especially during the hot summer months.

If you can’t spend a full day in Hondarribia, combine it with a trip to Irun, Behobia, and Hendaye (just across the border in France), or stop at a Basque Sidrería near San Sebastian. A sidrería is a cider house, which are pretty famous in the Basque Country. They serve steaks, along with a bunch of sides, and their own cider that you often serve yourself from huge barrels.

Hondarribia Distance from San Sebastian: About 23 km (14 miles) or about 24 minutes by car

When visiting San Sebastian , you might not ever want to leave as its a wonderful city that offers so much. However, if you are there for a long time and looking for day trip from San Sebastian, these 10 day trips offer a host variety of options for you depending on what type of day trip you are looking for!

Looking for trip planning advice? We offer travel planning services where we work with you to help you plan your trip. It can be an entire travel itinerary or just a day trip! Please contact us if you have any questions.

Have you taken a day trip from San Sebastian? How did you like it? What other day trips from San Sebastian do you recommend?

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Things we love about living abroad in spain, 4 fantastic bars for tapas in alcalá de henares, how to spend one day in segovia: day trip from madrid.

Your pictures are stunning! Did you take them? I would love to do part of the Camino de Santiago one day.

Thank you, James! We took almost all of the pictures on our own. The ones we didn’t take all have a source under them. We hope to do the Camino de Santiago one day too. It’s right at the top of our travel list!

Great recommendations! We are going to San Sebastián in August. A few days already booked in SS but looking for suggestions for another few days somewhere not too far but maybe a smaller town for some relaxing. Would Hondarribia be a good spot for a few days? Thanks!

How fun! Hondarribia would be a fantastic town to stay in for a few days. It’s definitely smaller, but it’s a beautiful city surrounded by some nature if you want a more relaxing spot.

Hi Travel BF,

A quick note to say “5.Bakio, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo, Bosque Oma, and Guernica” needs an update. San Juan De Gaztelugatxe is now ticketed and books out well in advance, Bosque Oma is closed and has been for a while now. We learnt the hard way when we arrived and couldn’t see either.

Thanks, Jess

Hi Jess! Thank you so much for the update!

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4 nights or 3 days in S. S is Saturday , sunday and Monday.

_One day we want to go to pamplona,

_Another day go to Sare, Ainhoa,Espelette and Maybe Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

_One day to explore D.S.S

We don't know how to split these days, as We have a Sunday and many places are closed . The question is, better to dedicated Sunday for which of those three? Pamplona or Sare - Ain hoa ...... or Stay in S. S?

Note 1, on our way from Bilbao to D.S.S, plan to Visit Bermeo,Lekeitio and Getaria. So they are done.

Note 2, our Biarritz plan is full,don't want to postpone Any place I mentioned for Biarritz.

5 replies to this topic

When you say that on Sunday "places are closed", what type of places are you referring to? Only most shops, all banks and supermarkets close, but bars and restaurants will be very open, it´s a great business day for them. Museums and touristy attractions will also be open. Consider Hondarribia and Pasai Donibane as two must-sees. Inland, I would no doubt visit the sanctuary of Loyola, the impressive monastery of Arantzazu and beautiful Oñati. Near Biarritz (which is not very interesting, IMO), you may consider Bayonne and St Jean de Luz.

Thanks a lot mikel.

Hondarribia and Pasai Donibane , also Sant J D luz, We will visit on the day We leave S. S to Biarritz. Bayonne the day after.

I want to ask, If we go to Sare, Espelette and Ainhoa in Sunday, We may Miss Something? Someone go there to enjoy nature and Charming Small Villages, and May encounter a closed Cafe 's, or all shops, like deserted area. I am afraid of that. Always I afraid of Sundays . If I Stay sunday in More big Cities like S. Sebastien, perhaps it is more wise.

Just join the festive moment!

If you go inland to visit Sare, Espelette and Ainhoa I would also go to Saint Jean Pied de Port.

At the end of your trip if you have time on your drive to Toulouse you can stop at Navarrenx.

We try to do Navarrenx, Sauveterre de bearn,Salais de Bearn on last day, on the way from Biarritz to Toulouse.

Just want to know, if we don't have time to visit all these 3, which one Is more important and which one Can be omit?

And please add Saint Jean Pied de Port to these three then Categories them, because on the day We visit Ainhoa and Sar ...... We may lack of the time to go S. J peid deport.

In Case, We May have time to Visit just 2 Among these 4.

Appreciate all of you.

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Your 14-Day Road Trip Itinerary in Zaragoza, Spain

S pain is a country renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant cities. While destinations like Madrid, Barcelona , and Seville often steal the spotlight, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

One such gem is Zaragoza, a historic city located in the heart of Spain. Zaragoza offers a perfect starting point for an epic road trip adventure through the stunning Spanish countryside.

In this blog post, we’ll take you on a virtual journey through Zaragoza and explore a 14-day road trip itinerary that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

*Guest post. Post may contain affiliate links. Full disclosure can be viewed here .

Getting Started: Zaragoza Road Trip Kick-off

Your Zaragoza road trip begins in this charming city, which is the capital of the Aragon region. With a history dating back over two thousand years, Zaragoza is steeped in culture and boasts a plethora of architectural wonders. Spend a day or two exploring its historic sites, including the iconic Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar and the Aljafería Palace.

Day 1: Arrival in Zaragoza

Upon your arrival in Zaragoza, take some time to settle in and get acclimated to the Spanish way of life. Wander through the picturesque streets of the city, savour authentic Spanish cuisine at local restaurants, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Zaragoza.

Day 2: Zaragoza City Tour

Begin your exploration with a visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, a magnificent example of Baroque architecture. Stroll along the Ebro River promenade and admire the Puente de Piedra (Stone Bridge). In the afternoon, explore the Aljafería Palace, a stunning Moorish fortress-palace that reflects the city’s rich history.

Day 3: Setting Off – Zaragoza to Pamplona

It’s time to hit the road and start your 14-day road trip from Zaragoza. Your first destination is Pamplona, famous for the Running of the Bulls during the San Fermín festival.

Morning : Zaragoza to Pamplona (174 km)

Drive northwest from Zaragoza to Pamplona, which is approximately a 2-hour journey. Along the way, you’ll be treated to picturesque views of the Spanish countryside.

Afternoon : Explore Pamplona

Upon arrival in Pamplona, explore the historic old town with its charming streets and squares. Be sure to visit the Plaza del Castillo, a bustling hub of activity. Pamplona’s cuisine is also a highlight, so indulge in some Basque pintxos and regional wines.

Day 4: Pamplona – A Taste of Spanish Tradition

In Pamplona, you can experience some of Spain’s most famous traditions, including the Running of the Bulls during the San Fermín festival if your visit coincides with this event.

Morning : San Fermín Route

Take a walk along the San Fermín route to see the streets where the famous bull run takes place during the festival. Even if you’re not here during the festival, you can appreciate the historical significance of this event.

Afternoon : Bullfighting Experience

Visit the Plaza de Toros de Pamplona, a bullring with a rich history. You can explore the museum and, if you’re inclined, attend a bullfight to witness an integral part of Spanish culture.

Day 5: Pamplona to San Sebastián – Coastal Beauty Awaits

Bid farewell to Pamplona and make your way to the coastal city of San Sebastián, known for its beautiful beaches and culinary delights.

Morning : Pamplona to San Sebastián (87 km)

The drive to San Sebastián is relatively short, taking just over an hour. As you approach the city, the dramatic coastal landscapes will come into view.

Afternoon : San Sebastián Beaches and Gastronomy

San Sebastián boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Spend your afternoon relaxing on La Concha Beach or Zurriola Beach. In the evening, indulge in pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, at local bars.

Day 6: San Sebastián – A Food Lover’s Paradise

San Sebastián is often hailed as one of the world’s top culinary destinations. Today, you’ll delve into its gastronomic treasures.

Morning : Market Visit

Start your day with a visit to La Bretxa Market, where you can explore stalls filled with fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Basque cuisine.

Afternoon : Cooking Class

Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Basque dishes. You’ll get hands-on experience and enjoy the fruits of your labour for lunch.

Day 7: San Sebastián to Bilbao – Art and Architecture

Today’s journey takes you to Bilbao, home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum.

Morning : San Sebastián to Bilbao (119 km)

The drive from San Sebastián to Bilbao takes approximately 1.5 hours. On arrival, make your way to the Guggenheim Museum.

Afternoon : Guggenheim Museum and Old Town

Explore the Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of modern architecture. Inside, you’ll find a world-class collection of contemporary art. Later, wander through Bilbao’s charming Old Town and dine at a traditional Basque restaurant.

Day 8: Bilbao to Santander – Coastal Charms

Today’s journey continues along the northern coast of Spain, where you’ll discover the coastal beauty of Santander.

Morning : Bilbao to Santander (98 km)

The drive from Bilbao to Santander is relatively short, taking about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, head to the beautiful El Sardinero Beach for some relaxation.

Afternoon : Magdalena Peninsula and Palace

Visit the Magdalena Peninsula, home to the stunning Magdalena Palace. Explore the palace and take a leisurely stroll around the peninsula to enjoy the coastal views.

Day 9: Santander to Oviedo – Asturias Adventure

Today, your road trip adventure takes you to Oviedo, the capital of the Asturias region.

Morning : Santander to Oviedo (201 km)

The drive from Santander to Oviedo takes approximately 2.5 hours. As you travel through the Asturian countryside, you’ll be surrounded by lush green landscapes.

Afternoon : Explore Oviedo

In Oviedo, take a walk through the charming old town, which is home to impressive Gothic and Romanesque architecture. Don’t miss the Oviedo Cathedral and the historic University of Oviedo.

Day 10: Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela – Pilgrimage Destination

Today, you’ll continue your journey westward to Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

Morning : Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela (319 km)

The drive from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela is longer, taking approximately 3.5 hours. As you approach Santiago, you’ll notice the increase in pilgrims walking the Camino.

Afternoon : Santiago de Compostela Old Town

Explore the historic old town of Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, which is believed to house the remains of Saint James the Apostle.

Day 11: Santiago de Compostela – Pilgrimage Reflection

Spend an extra day in Santiago de Compostela to soak in the spiritual atmosphere and reflect on your road trip adventure.

Morning : Pilgrimage Reflection

Consider attending the Pilgrim’s Mass at the cathedral, a special experience for pilgrims who have walked the Camino de Santiago. Take time to explore the city at your own pace.

Afternoon : Park of Santo Domingo de Bonaval

Visit the Park of Santo Domingo de Bonaval, a tranquil green space that provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Day 12: Santiago de Compostela to Lugo – Roman Wall Adventure

Depart from Santiago de Compostela and head to Lugo, known for its remarkably preserved Roman walls.

Morning : Santiago de Compostela to Lugo (104 km)

The drive to Lugo takes around 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, head straight to the Lugo Roman Wall.

Afternoon : Lugo Roman Wall and Historic Centre

Explore the Lugo Roman Wall, one of the best-preserved Roman fortifications in the world. Stroll through Lugo’s historic centre and discover its charming squares and churches.

Day 13: Lugo to León – A Journey Through History

Continue your road trip adventure with a visit to León, a city steeped in history.

Morning : Lugo to León (222 km)

The drive from Lugo to León takes approximately 2.5 hours. Upon arrival, make your way to León Cathedral.

Afternoon : León Cathedral and Historic District

Visit the magnificent León Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Explore the historic district, including the Barrio Húmedo, known for its lively atmosphere and tapas bars.

Day 14: León to Zaragoza – Journey’s End

As your 14-day road trip adventure comes to a close, make your way back to Zaragoza, where you’ll conclude your journey.

Morning : León to Zaragoza (324 km)

The drive from León to Zaragoza is longer, taking approximately 3.5 hours. Take breaks along the way to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Spanish countryside.

Afternoon : Zaragoza Farewell

Arrive in Zaragoza in the afternoon and spend your final evening in Spain reminiscing about your incredible 14-day road trip adventure.

Wrapping Up: The Zaragoza Road Trip

A 14 days roadtrip from Zaragoza offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes, cultures, and traditions of Spain.

From the historic streets of Zaragoza to the coastal beauty of San Sebastián, the culinary delights of Bilbao, and the spiritual journey in Santiago de Compostela, this road trip showcases the best of Spain.

So, pack your bags, hit the road, and use this itinerary as a guide for an unforgettable adventure through Zaragoza, Spain. This Zaragoza road trip itinerary is a gateway to discovering the hidden treasures of this magnificent country.

The post Your 14-Day Road Trip Itinerary in Zaragoza, Spain appeared first on Major League Mommy .