San Sebastian, located on the northern coast of Spain, is a city known for its stunning beaches, world-renowned culinary scene, and cultural landmarks. With its picturesque scenery and vibrant atmosphere, San Sebastian has been named as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, attracting millions of tourists every year. Whether you’re a food lover, a history buff, or just seeking a relaxing holiday, San Sebastian has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll explore the best attractions and things to do in San Sebastian to help you plan your perfect trip. From beaches to museums, from bars to monuments, you’ll find everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to San Sebastian.
The 5 Best Things to Do Today in San Sebastian
- Cider House Experience San Sebastián
- Hondarribia, San Pedro San Juan
- Biarritz Bayonne Minibus Tour
- Evening Pintxotapas Tour Discover
- Small Group Bike Tour
The 5 Best Things to Do Today in San Sebastian
1. Cider House Experience San Sebastián
Cider (named sagardo in Basque language which means apple wine) is one of the most traditional and everlasting Basque drinks. The magic that involves its production (made in traditional Basque homesteads for centuries) can still be found in cider houses (Sagardotegis in Basque language) where apart from tasting the most traditional cider house menu a guided tour of the apple trees and the different production areas is included in order to unveil every secret of this drink’s production. This small group tour (8 people max.) comes with hotel pick up and drop-off, transportation in a private vehicle with AC, access ticket to Cider House, traditional Cider House lunch (3 courses w/ dessert), and free flow of cider during lunch. The tour also has a private option available and solo travelers are welcome (check availability). Food and drinks other than the traditional menu and alcohol are not included in the tour.
2. Hondarribia, San Pedro San Juan
If you’re looking to explore the Basque coast’s coastal towns from San Sebastian, this tour to Hondarribia, San Juan, and San Pedro is perfect for you. Take in panoramic views from Mount Jaizkibel and discover the Bay of Pasaia on this small group tour. You’ll visit the charming villages of San Juan and San Pedro and enjoy a guided tour of Hondarribia, all while admiring the beautiful scenery. The tour includes hotel pickup, transport in a private vehicle with A/C, a Pasajes Bay boat fee, a local guide, rain gear, lunch, and tips. Don’t miss your chance to see many of the highlights surrounding San Sebastian including Hondarribia on this fantastic tour!
3. Biarritz Bayonne Minibus Tour
This minibus tour is an excellent opportunity to experience the Basque Country with a larger group of up to 22 people. The tour includes a visit to Bayonne, where you can explore its cathedral and market, mingle with locals at the Grand Bayonne’s shopping streets, and enjoy the confluence of the rivers Nive and Adour. The tour also takes you to Biarritz, a stately 19th-century imperial summer city with a casino and palace that still retain their original spirit. The tour is conducted in bilingual (English and Spanish), and the approximate itinerary includes a pick-up and departure from San Sebastian at 9:00 and an arrival in Biarritz at 10:00 with visits to Casino Rocher de la Vierge, Hotel du Palais, and Sainte Eug.
4. Evening Pintxotapas Tour Discover
Join a small group and experience San Sebastian’s culinary culture on an evening pintxotapas tour. With an expert guide, visit pubs and restaurants off the beaten path and indulge in five different pintxos, while learning about the local cuisine. The tour includes dinner, a gratuity for the guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Meet at the Taxi Rank on Boulevard Zumardia at 7:00 PM, and the activity ends back at the meeting point. Confirmations will be sent upon booking, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.
5. Small Group Bike Tour
Discover San Sebastian’s beaches, art, and architecture on a guided small group bike tour. With a local guide leading the way, cycle past Ondarreta, La Concha, and Zurriola beaches, and view the Comb of the Wind sculptures. Admire the city’s various architectural styles as you journey from the west to the east. Rent an e-bike for an additional fee to take the workload off. The tour includes bike and helmet rentals, bike insurance as well as rain gear, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel.
The Most Frequently Asked Questions About San Sebastian, Spain
San Sebastián, also known as Donostia in the Basque language, is a coastal city located in the north of Spain. Known for its stunning beaches, world-famous gastronomy, and vibrant nightlife, San Sebastián has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. Here are the most frequently asked questions about this beautiful city.1. What is the best time to visit San Sebastian?
San Sebastián can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is warmer and the city is livelier. July and August are the busiest months, so if you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit during May, June, or September. Keep in mind that during the summer months, the prices for hotels and restaurants can be higher.2. What are the must-visit attractions in San Sebastian?
There are numerous attractions in San Sebastián that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones include:La Concha Beach:
This is one of the most famous beaches in Spain, known for its white sand and crystal clear water.Miramar Palace:
This Neo-Gothic palace was built in the late 19th century and offers stunning views of the Bay of Biscay.Monte Igueldo:
This hill offers panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Biscay. You can reach the top by taking the funicular railway or by walking up the hill.Old Town:
The Old Town of San Sebastián is famous for its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and numerous bars and restaurants.3. What is the food like in San Sebastian?
San Sebastián is known for its gastronomy and has a high concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants. The city’s cuisine is based on fresh seafood, grilled meats, and pintxos, which are small tapas-style dishes that are a specialty of the Basque Country. Some of the must-try dishes in San Sebastián include grilled octopus, hake cheeks, and the iconic Basque dish, txangurro (spider crab).4. What is the nightlife like in San Sebastian?
San Sebastián has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs located throughout the city. The most popular area for nightlife is the Old Town, where you’ll find a wide variety of bars and restaurants. The city is also known for its pintxos bars, where you can sample the local cuisine and socialize with locals and other tourists.5. How do I get to San Sebastian?
San Sebastián has its own airport, but it only operates domestic flights within Spain. The nearest international airport is Bilbao Airport, which is approximately 100 kilometers away. From Bilbao, you can take a bus or hire a car to get to San Sebastián. The city is also well-connected by train, with regular services to Madrid and other major Spanish cities.6. Where should I stay in San Sebastian?
San Sebastián has a wide variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. The most popular areas to stay in the city are the Old Town, which is the heart of the city and ideal for nightlife and dining, and the area around La Concha Beach, which offers stunning sea views and easy access to the beach.7. Do I need to speak Spanish to visit San Sebastian?
While it’s always helpful to speak some Spanish when traveling in Spain, San Sebastián is a popular tourist destination and many locals speak English. In addition, the city has a large number of international visitors, so you’ll find that many signs and menus are in both Spanish and English.8. Is San Sebastian safe?
San Sebastián is generally a safe city, with low levels of crime. However, it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions such as keeping your valuables secure and avoiding quiet or poorly lit streets at night. In addition, be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded places such as the Old Town and on public transport.9. What is the weather like in San Sebastian?
San Sebastián has a maritime climate, with mild temperatures year-round. Summers are warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F). However, it can rain frequently throughout the year, so it’s always a good idea to bring waterproof clothing.In conclusion, San Sebastián is a beautiful city with plenty to offer visitors. From stunning beaches to world-class cuisine and vibrant nightlife, this city has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, San Sebastián is sure to leave a lasting impression.San Sebastian, a coastal city located in the Basque Country of Spain, is known for its breathtaking beaches, stunning architecture, and world-renowned cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie looking to indulge in pintxos and Basque cider or seeking out the perfect surf break, San Sebastian has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll be exploring the best attractions and things to do in San Sebastian, so whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Get ready to discover the beauty and excitement of this magical city.
The 5 Best Things to Do Today in San Sebastian
- Cider House Experience San Sebastián
- Hondarribia, San Pedro San Juan
- Biarritz Bayonne Minibus Tour
- Evening Pintxotapas Tour Discover
- Small Group Bike Tour
The 5 Best Things to Do Today in San Sebastian
1. Cider House Experience San Sebastián
Cider, one of the most traditional Basque drinks, is produced in the cider houses (Sagardotegis) that can be found throughout the area. This small group tour (8 people max.) takes visitors on a guided tour of the apple trees and different production areas to unveil the secrets behind the production of this famous drink. The tour includes a traditional cider house lunch (3 courses w/ dessert) with free flow cider included during lunch. Transportation in a private vehicle with AC, hotel pick up and drop off, and access ticket to the cider house are also included. Solo travelers are welcome to check availability. Please note that food and drinks other than the traditional menu and alcohol are not included.
2. Hondarribia, San Pedro San Juan
Visit some of the most beautiful and charming coastal towns on the Basque coast from San Sebastian. This 3-hour tour includes a guided tour of Hondarribia and visits to the charming villages of San Juan and San Pedro. Take in panoramic views from Mount Jaizkibel and discover the Bay of Pasaia on a 2-minute boat ride. Hotel pickup and drop-off, transport in a private vehicle with A/C, Pasajes Bay boat fee, local guide, rain gear, lunch, and tips are all included in this small group tour with both private and group tour options. Admire the scenery as you see many of the highlights surrounding San Sebastian including Hondarribia.
3. Biarritz Bayonne Minibus Tour
This minibus group tour, with a maximum capacity of 22 people and a minimum group set of 4 people, takes you on a journey through the Basque Country, crossing the river Bidasoa to discover the area’s many contrasts. The tour includes a stroll through Bayonne, where you’ll see its cathedral and market, breathe in the local atmosphere in the shopping streets of the Grand Bayonne, and admire the intersection of the rivers Nive and Adour. You’ll also visit the stately city of Biarritz, an imperial summer city from the 19th century that still maintains the spirit of the time with its casino and palace. The tour is conducted in bilingual (English and Spanish) and our guides will speak both languages simultaneously. The approximate itinerary includes pick up and departure from San Sebastian at 9:00, followed by arrival in Biarritz at 10:00, with stops at Casino Rocher de la Vierge, Hotel du Palais, and Sainte Eug.
4. Evening Pintxotapas Tour Discover
On this evening tour, discover some of San Sebastian’s best pintxo bars with a culinary expert guide. Join a small group of just eight people to taste some typical pintxos and learn about the culinary culture of San Sebastian. Visit pubs and restaurants off the beaten path for an intimate atmosphere. This tour includes dinner, an expert culinary tour guide, gratuities, and hotel pickup and drop-off. The meeting point is at the taxi rank located at Boulevard Zumardia 27, 20003 Donostia Gipuzkoa Spain, near the City Hall in front of the Dickens bar. The tour starts at 07:00 PM and ends back at the meeting point. Confirmation will be received at time of booking. Note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is near public transportation, and most travelers can participate.
5. Small Group Bike Tour
Discover the highlights of San Sebastian on a bike tour with a local guide. Enjoy the breeze as you ride along the famous beaches including Ondarreta La Concha and Zurriola Beaches. Admire influential public artworks and experience the city’s varied architecture as you ride from west to east. Don’t miss the opportunity to rent an e-bike for an extra charge to make the tour even more comfortable. The tour includes the local tour guide, bike and helmet, bike insurance, rain gear, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Join us for an unforgettable experience in San Sebastian.
San Sebastian: Frequently Asked Questions
San Sebastian, also known as Donostia, is a beautiful coastal city located in the Basque Country in northern Spain. Its stunning beaches, amazing food, and unique culture make it a popular tourist destination. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about San Sebastian to help you plan your trip.1. When is the best time to visit San Sebastian?
San Sebastian has a mild oceanic climate, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing during the winter months. The best time to visit depends on your preference. Summer is the tourist season, and the city can get crowded, especially during August when many Spaniards take their vacations. Spring and fall are great times to visit, with fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Winter is the quietest time, with low hotel rates, but it can be rainy.2. What are the top things to do in San Sebastian?
There are countless things to see and do in San Sebastian, but some must-see attractions include:La Concha Beach
La Concha is one of the most famous urban beaches in the world, known for its stunning crescent shape surrounded by lush green hills.The Old Town
The historic heart of San Sebastian is home to countless pintxo bars, restaurants, and shops. Take a walk through the narrow streets, and enjoy the unique Basque architecture.Monte Igueldo
This hill overlooking the city provides panoramic views of San Sebastian and its surroundings.Aquarium Donostia-San Sebastián
It is an aquarium located in the emblematic Paseo Nuevo Donostiarra.3. What is the food like in San Sebastian?
San Sebastian is famous for its food scene. Basque cuisine is renowned for its simplicity and quality ingredients. The city is home to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, but the best way to experience its food culture is by exploring the pintxo bars. Pintxos are small snacks served on a slice of bread, and they are usually eaten while standing up in a bar. Some of the most popular pintxos include tortilla de bakalao (cod omelet), gilda (a skewer with olives, anchovies, and peppers), and txangurro (spider crab).4. How do I get around San Sebastian?
San Sebastian is a pedestrian-friendly city, and most of the tourist attractions are within walking distance from each other. However, if you want to explore the surroundings, there are many options:Public transportation
San Sebastian has an efficient public transportation system, with buses and trains connecting the city to the surrounding areas.Bicycle
Bicycle rental shops are available throughout the city, and there are numerous bike paths and lanes.Taxi
Taxis are readily available, but they can be expensive.5. What is the history of San Sebastian?
San Sebastian’s history dates back to the Roman era, but it wasn’t until the 19th century when it became a popular tourist destination. The city experienced a golden age in the early 20th century when the Spanish royal family spent summers in San Sebastian. However, the Spanish Civil War and World War II had a significant impact on the city, and it wasn’t until the 1950s when it started to recover. Nowadays, San Sebastian is a thriving city with a rich cultural heritage.6. What are some cultural events in San Sebastian?
San Sebastian has a vibrant cultural scene, with many events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular ones include:San Sebastian International Film Festival
One of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, held every September.The Tamborrada
A festival in honor of San Sebastian’s patron saint held on January 20th.Semana Grande
This week-long festival in August features concerts, parades, and fireworks.7. Where can I stay in San Sebastian?
San Sebastian has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. The Old Town and the area around La Concha are the most popular areas to stay, but there are also options in other neighborhoods.Conclusion
San Sebastian is a beautiful city with a unique culture, incredible food, and numerous attractions. We hope that this blog post has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about San Sebastian and helps you plan your trip to this wonderful city.San Sebastian is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. With its stunning coastline, charming architecture, and world-class cuisine, this city has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an epicurean adventure, or a cultural immersion, San Sebastian has an abundance of attractions and experiences to satisfy your wanderlust. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best attractions and things to do in San Sebastian to help you make the most of your trip. Read on to discover the hidden gems of this enchanting city.
The 5 Best Things to Do Today in San Sebastian
- Evening PintxoTapas Tour Discover
- Customized Exclusive Private tours
- Biarritz Bayonne Minibus Tour
- Small Group Bike Tour
- Hondarribia, San Pedro San Juan
The 5 Best Things to Do Today in San Sebastian
1. Evening PintxoTapas Tour Discover
Explore the best of San Sebastian’s culinary culture with a five-taste evening pintxo tour. Your expert culinary guide will lead you to hidden pubs and off-the-beaten-path restaurants where you can get a taste of the local cuisine. With a small group of just eight people, you’ll have an intimate experience and the opportunity to get to know your fellow adventurers. This tour includes dinner, a guide, gratuities, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Meeting at the taxi stop near the City Hall at 7:00 PM, this activity ends back at the meeting point. This tour is not wheelchair accessible, but is accessible by public transportation, and most travelers can participate. Book your culinary adventure today and discover the best pintxo bars San Sebastian has to offer!
2. Customized Exclusive Private tours
This customizable tour offers the ultimate flexibility to explore the best of the Basque Country on a private tour. With no fixed route, you can personalize the itinerary to suit your interests and enjoy the freedom to discover the highlights and hidden gems of the region. Swap busy public transportation for private transportation and visit potential stops, including San Sebastian, Bilbao, and Biarritz. Your tour includes private transportation, all fees and taxes, and a private licensed tour guide service. Select a pickup point and confirm the time with the local provider in advance of your experience.
3. Biarritz Bayonne Minibus Tour
This minibus group tour is the perfect way to explore the beautiful regions of Bayonne and Biarritz. With a maximum of 22 people and a minimum group set of 4 people, this tour will take you on a journey through the Basque Country to discover its many contrasts. In Bayonne, you’ll have the opportunity to see the cathedral and the market, as well as stroll through the shopping streets of Grand Bayonne. Admire the intersection of the rivers Nive and Adour, before moving on to the stunning Biarritz. As a 19th century imperial summer city, Biarritz offers a glimpse into a bygone era with its casino and palace. The tour is bilingual, with simultaneous guides speaking both English and Spanish. The approximate itinerary includes pick-up and departure from San Sebastian at 9:00 AM, followed by arrival in Biarritz at 10:00 AM, where you’ll get to see Casino Rocher de la Vierge, Hotel du Palais, and Sainte Eug.
4. Small Group Bike Tour
Discover San Sebastian’s beauty on a small group bike tour. Follow your local guide and explore the city’s popular attractions on two wheels. Feel the breeze as you ride along the city’s famous beaches, from Ondarreta to Zurriola. Admire public artworks, such as the Comb of the Wind sculptures, as you make your way from west to east. Rent an e-bike for an extra charge and let your bike do the work while you take in the city’s varied architecture. The tour includes a bike and helmet, insurance, as well as rain gear. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available, and tips are appreciated. See San Sebastian with a fresh perspective and make unforgettable memories on this bike tour.
5. Hondarribia, San Pedro San Juan
Visit some of the most beautiful and charming coastal towns on the Basque coast from San Sebastian. This tour includes a visit to the historic town of Hondarribia and a guided tour of the charming villages of San Juan and San Pedro. Admire the scenery on a 2-minute boat ride crossing the Bay of Pasaia and take in panoramic views from Mount Jaizkibel. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport in a private vehicle with A/C, Pasajes Bay boat fee, local guide, rain gear, lunch, and tips. Enjoy a small group tour with both private and group tour options. See many of the highlights surrounding San Sebastian including Hondarribia on this 3-hour tour.
The Most Frequently Asked Questions About San Sebastian
San Sebastian is a coastal city located in the Basque Country region of northern Spain. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and world-renowned cuisine. If you are planning a trip to San Sebastian, you may have some questions about what to expect. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this charming city.1. What is the best time of year to visit San Sebastian?
San Sebastian is a popular destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The summer months (June-August) are the busiest, with warm temperatures and long days of sunlight. If you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) may be the best time to visit. Winter (December-February) can be chilly, but the city is decorated with festive lights and there are many Christmas markets to enjoy.2. How do I get to San Sebastian?
San Sebastian has its own airport (EAS) which is serviced by some international airlines, but most visitors opt to arrive at the larger airport in nearby Bilbao (BIO) and take a bus or train to San Sebastian. The journey takes approximately an hour and a half. Another option is to take a direct train from Madrid or Barcelona, which takes around five hours.3. What are the must-see attractions in San Sebastian?
San Sebastian has many amazing attractions, but some of the most popular include:- La Concha Beach – a gorgeous crescent-shaped beach with calm waters and soft sand.
- Monte Urgull – a hill in the center of the city with panoramic views and a historic castle.
- Old Town (Parte Vieja) – a charming neighborhood with narrow streets, pintxo bars, and specialty shops.
- San Telmo Museum – an impressive museum showcasing Basque history and culture.
- Miramar Palace – a stunning palace built in the 19th century with gorgeous gardens and views of the sea.
4. What is pintxos?
Pintxos (pronounced pinchos) are a type of Basque-style tapas that are a must-try in San Sebastian. They are small bites of food served on a slice of bread or skewer, often with a toothpick. Pintxos bars are plentiful in the Old Town, and visitors can hop from one bar to another trying different flavors and combinations.5. What is the dress code in San Sebastian?
San Sebastian is a stylish city, but the dress code is generally casual. During the daytime, comfortable clothing and shoes are appropriate for sightseeing and enjoying the beach. In the evenings, many restaurants and bars have dress codes or expect guests to dress smartly. If you plan on dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, be sure to dress up.6. Is San Sebastian a safe city?
San Sebastian is a safe city, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should be aware of pickpocketing and take precautions such as keeping their belongings close and secure.7. What is the currency used in San Sebastian?
San Sebastian is in Spain, and the official currency is the Euro (EUR).8. Can I get by with English in San Sebastian?
While Spanish is the official language of San Sebastian, many locals speak English, especially in the tourist areas. However, it’s always helpful to know some basic Spanish phrases to navigate the city more easily.9. What are the best day trips from San Sebastian?
San Sebastian is centrally located, making it a great base for exploring the Basque Country region of Spain. Some popular day trip destinations include:- Bilbao – a vibrant city known for the Guggenheim Museum and historic Old Town.
- Getaria – a charming fishing village with a beautiful coastline and excellent seafood restaurants.
- Hondarribia – a picturesque medieval town with narrow streets, colorful houses, and a fortress.
- Rioja Wine Region – a scenic area known for producing some of the best wine in Spain.
10. What are the best accommodations in San Sebastian?
San Sebastian has many accommodation options to fit every budget and preference. Some popular choices include:- Luxury: Hotel Maria Cristina, Hotel Londres, and Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Villa Victoria, Hotel Zenit San Sebastian, and Hotel Codina.
- Budget: Urban House Hostel, A Room in the City, and San Fermin Hotel.
Conclusion
San Sebastian is a beautiful and vibrant city with something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you are interested in the beach, food, culture, or history, San Sebastian has it all. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you can plan your trip with confidence and enjoy all that this amazing city has to offer.Table of Contents
