San Sebastian is a charming coastal city located in northern Spain’s Basque Country. Known for its picturesque scenery, delicious cuisine, and stunning beaches, San Sebastian is a must-see destination for all globetrotters. But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. Fear not! In this post, we’ll highlight the top three best things to do in San Sebastian that are sure to make your trip memorable. So, pack your bags, grab your cameras, and let’s explore the best of San Sebastian together!

The 3 Best Things to Do in San Sebastian

1. From San Sebastian: Biarritz and Bayonne Minibus Tour
2. From San Sebastian: Hondarribia San Pedro & San Juan Tour
3. Cider House Experience From San Sebastián

The 3 Best Things to Do in San Sebastian

1. From San Sebastian: Biarritz and Bayonne Minibus Tour

This minibus group tour takes a maximum of 22 people and requires a minimum group of 4 people. The tour will take us to Bayonne where we can roam and have the opportunity to see its cathedral and market, and also admire the intersection of the rivers Nive and Adour. In Biarritz, we will be visiting Casino Rocher de la Vierge Hotel du Palais and Sainte Eug. The bilingual (English and Spanish) guides will keep us informed about the places we are visiting throughout the tour. The departure point is at San Sebastian at 9:00 am sharp.

2. From San Sebastian: Hondarribia San Pedro & San Juan Tour

Visit some of the most beautiful and charming coastal towns on the Basque coast from San Sebastian with this 3-hour small group tour. The trip includes pickup from your hotel, as well as transportation in a private vehicle with air conditioning. After a 25-minute drive, you’ll have a guided tour of Hondarribia, which is a charming and historical walled city. You will then make your way to Mount Jaizkibel, where you can take stunning panoramic photos and admire the views of the Bidasoa River. The tour continues with guided tours of the nearby villages of San Juan and San Pedro. Finally, you’ll go to see the Bay of Pasaia, from where you’ll take a 2-minute boat ride to admire the beautiful scenery. The Pasajes Bay boat fee is already included in the tour. Additionally, the tour comes with complimentary rain gear for the rare, rainy day in beautiful San Sebastian. Lunch is also part of the tour package. Please note that tipping is optional but appreciated.

3. Cider House Experience From San Sebastián

Experience the most traditional and everlasting Basque drink, Cider, on this small group tour with a maximum of 8 people. Solo travelers are welcome to join (subject to availability) or make it private for you and your companions. Discover the secrets of cider production during a guided tour of apple trees and different production areas at cider houses (Sagardotegis in Basque language). Enjoy a traditional cider house menu with free flow of cider during lunch. The experience includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation in a private vehicle with AC, access ticket to the cider house, a 3-course lunch with dessert, and of course, free flow of cider. Food and drinks other than the traditional menu and alcohol are not included. Unveil the magic behind cider production and tantalize your tastebuds with the Cider House Experience from San Sebastián.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About San Sebastian Answered

San Sebastian, located in the Basque Country of Spain, is a beautiful coastal city famous for its beaches, culinary scene, and cultural offerings. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the city and their answers.

1. What is the best time to visit San Sebastian?

The best time to visit San Sebastian is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect large crowds and higher prices. The off-season months, from October to April, have fewer tourists, lower prices, and cooler weather, but still provide plenty of opportunities to explore the city and its surroundings.

2. What are the must-see attractions in San Sebastian?

Some of the top attractions in San Sebastian include:

a. La Concha Beach

La Concha Beach is one of the most famous urban beaches in Europe, known for its golden sand, clear water, and stunning views of the city and mountains. It is an ideal spot for swimming or sunbathing, and there are also plenty of bars, cafes, and restaurants nearby.

b. Mount Igueldo

Mount Igueldo is a scenic hill overlooking San Sebastian, accessible by funicular railway or by car. It offers panoramic views of the city and bay, as well as an amusement park with vintage rides and attractions.

c. Old Town

The Old Town of San Sebastian, also known as Parte Vieja, is a charming neighborhood with narrow streets, traditional Basque architecture, and numerous pintxos bars. It is an ideal place to wander, taste local food and drinks, and soak up the local culture and history.

d. San Telmo Museum

The San Telmo Museum is a fascinating museum of Basque history and culture, housed in a former 16th-century convent. It features a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive installations that showcase the region’s traditions, customs, art, and identity.

3. What is the Basque cuisine and where can I try it in San Sebastian?

The Basque cuisine is one of the most celebrated regional cuisines in the world, known for its fresh ingredients, simplicity, and creativity. Some of the signature Basque dishes include pintxos (small plates of various ingredients served on bread), bacalao al pil-pil (cod fish in garlic and olive oil sauce), and chuleta (grilled ribeye steak). The best places to try Basque cuisine in San Sebastian are the pintxos bars in the Old Town and the Michelin-starred restaurants in the city and its surroundings.

4. What are the best ways to get around San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is a fairly compact city that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. There are also several public transportation options available, including buses, trains, and taxis. The city also has a hop-on, hop-off tourist bus that covers the main attractions and offers audio commentary in several languages.

5. Where is the best place to stay in San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. The best place to stay in San Sebastian depends on your budget, preferences, and itinerary. Some of the most popular areas to stay in San Sebastian include:

a. Old Town

The Old Town is a vibrant and central location with plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops. It is ideal for those who want to experience the local culture and nightlife.

b. La Concha Promenade

The La Concha Promenade is a scenic and upscale area near the beach, with plenty of luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and shops.

c. Gros

Gros is a trendy and laid-back neighborhood that offers a variety of accommodations, from boutique hotels to self-catering apartments. It is ideal for those who want to be close to the beach and surf spots.

Conclusion

San Sebastian is a magnificent city that offers plenty of attractions, activities, and experiences for all kinds of travelers. By knowing the answers to the above frequently asked questions, you can plan your trip to San Sebastian with confidence and make the most of your time in this beautiful Basque destination.

The 3 Best Things to Do in San Sebastian: Frequently Asked Questions

San Sebastian, also known as Donostia in Basque, is a beautiful coastal city located in the Basque Country region of Spain. This stunning city is not only known for its impressive Basque cuisine, but also for its breathtaking beaches, incredible architecture, and vibrant culture.

If you’re planning a trip to San Sebastian, you might be wondering about the top things to do during your stay. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the most frequently asked questions about the 3 best things to do in San Sebastian.

1. What are the best beaches in San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is known for its picturesque beaches that boast crystal clear waters and soft sand. Here are the top 3 beaches that you shouldn’t miss during your stay in San Sebastian:

1.1 La Concha Beach

La Concha Beach is one of the most popular beaches in San Sebastian, and for good reason. This stunning beach is located in front of the historic Old Town and is considered one of the best urban beaches in Europe. With its calm waters and scenic views, La Concha Beach is the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and even paddleboarding.

1.2 Zurriola Beach

Zurriola Beach is another popular beach in San Sebastian that is perfect for surfers and sun-seekers alike. This beach boasts a lively atmosphere and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Zurriola Beach also boasts impressive views of Mount Ulia and is a great place to watch the sunset.

1.3 Ondarreta Beach

Ondarreta Beach is located on the western end of La Concha Bay and is a more relaxed alternative to La Concha Beach. This serene beach is surrounded by lush greenery and is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing swim.

2. What are the best cultural activities in San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is filled with cultural activities that showcase the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Here are the top 3 cultural activities that you should not miss during your stay in San Sebastian:

2.1 San Telmo Museum

The San Telmo Museum is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts. This museum is located in a charming 16th-century convent and showcases the Basque Country’s cultural heritage through interactive exhibits and displays.

2.2 Basque Culinary Center

The Basque Culinary Center is a world-renowned institution that is dedicated to promoting Basque cuisine and gastronomy. This center offers cooking classes, workshops, and lectures that showcase the best of Basque cuisine.

2.3 Tabakalera

Tabakalera is a former tobacco factory that has been transformed into a contemporary cultural center. This vibrant space houses art exhibitions, film screenings, workshops, and other cultural events that are sure to impress.

3. What are the best outdoor activities in San Sebastian?

San Sebastian boasts beautiful natural surroundings that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are the top 3 outdoor activities that you should not miss during your stay in San Sebastian:

3.1 Paseo de la Concha

Paseo de la Concha is a beautiful promenade that stretches along the stunning La Concha Bay. This scenic walk takes visitors past beautiful gardens, fountains, and some of the city’s most impressive architecture.

3.2 Mount Urgull

Mount Urgull is a hill located in the heart of San Sebastian and is home to some of the city’s most impressive landmarks, including the Castillo de la Mota and the Naval Museum. The hill offers visitors breathtaking views of the city and is a popular spot for hiking.

3.3 La Vuelta del Castillo

La Vuelta del Castillo is a beautiful park located near the Old Town and offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride through lush greenery. This park also boasts stunning views of the city and the Bay of Biscay.

Conclusion

San Sebastian is a vibrant city that has something to offer for every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in relaxing on the beach, exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage, or experiencing the great outdoors, San Sebastian has you covered. By checking out these top 3 things to do in San Sebastian, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.