SAN SEBASTIAN: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
San Sebastián, located in Spain's Basque Country, is a coastal gem celebrated for its world-class cuisine, breathtaking beaches, and rich cultural heritage. From indulging in mouthwatering pintxos to basking on the golden sands of La Concha Beach, and exploring the vibrant old town, San Sebastián promises an unforgettable experience. To help you plan your trip, we've created the ultimate San Sebastian itinerary. Let’s uncover why San Sebastián is regarded as one of the best destinations in Spain!
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HIGHLIGHTS
Before diving into our recommended itineraries, here’s a quick overview - a helpful snapshot of what to expect and a concise summary to simplify your planning:
Day 1: Historical Charm & Scenic Views
Parte Vieja, Basilica of Santa María del Coro, San Telmo Museum, Monte Igueldo, Paseo Nuevo
Day 2: Coastal Beauty & Mount Urgull
La Concha Beach, Mount Urgull, Castillo de la Mota, Catamaran Tour
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, Guided E-Bike Tour, Gaztelugatxe & Guggenheim Museum Tour, Cultural Walking Tour, Authentic Basque Cooking Class
Bilbao, Biarritz (France), Pamplona, Hondarribia, San Juan de Luz (France)
GETTING AROUND SAN SEBASTIAN
San Sebastián is compact and easily walkable, with most attractions concentrated near the city center. Highlights like Parte Vieja, La Concha Beach, and Mount Urgull are just a short walk from each other. For farther destinations, the city offers an efficient public transportation network with buses and taxis. Renting a bike is another great option, allowing you to explore the coastline at your own pace. For breathtaking views, take the funicular to Monte Igueldo, a must-see for panoramic vistas.
San Sebastián is well-connected by train to major cities in Spain. The Donostia-San Sebastián train station offers direct connections to cities like Madrid (~5.5 hours), Barcelona (~6 hours), and Bilbao (~2 hours), making it an accessible destination if you're exploring the Basque Country and beyond. For high-speed rail, you can connect through nearby cities like Vitoria-Gasteiz or Bilbao.
San Sebastián Airport (EAS) connects the city to several major destinations, while Bilbao Airport (BIO), approximately 100 km away, offers a wider range of international flights. From either airport, you can reach the city via bus, train, or car rental. If you prefer driving, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore nearby gems like Hondarribia, Getaria, or Zumaia at your own pace.
1-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Historical Charm & Scenic Views
Morning: Start your day in San Sebastián’s Parte Vieja, the historic Old Town. Wander its narrow streets and take in its unique charm, then visit the Basilica of Santa María del Coro, a stunning Baroque gem. Next, head to the San Telmo Museum to immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture and history.
Lunch: Treat yourself to pintxos at La Cuchara de San Telmo, a renowned eatery celebrated for its creative and flavorful dishes.
Afternoon: Take the funicular to Monte Igueldo, where panoramic views of San Sebastián and the Bay of Biscay await. The mount also offers charming attractions, including a historic amusement park perfect for all ages. One of its standout features is the Swiss Mountain (Montaña Suiza), a historic attraction and one of the world's oldest operating roller coasters. This thrilling ride combines vintage charm with breathtaking views, making it a must-try experience during your visit.
Evening: End your day with a walk along Paseo Nuevo, a scenic path where waves crash against the cliffs. Stay to watch the sunset over the horizon.
2-DAY ITINERARY
Planning to spend 2 days in San Sebastián? Make the most of your visit by including these must-see activities:
Day 2: Coastal Beauty & Mount Urgull
Morning: Head to La Concha Beach, one of Europe’s most iconic urban beaches. Relax on the golden sands, take a refreshing swim in the clear waters, or take a walk along the vibrant promenade.
Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Basque meal at Gandarias, a highly-rated restaurant renowned for its authentic pintxos and delicious local dishes.
Afternoon: Head to Mount Urgull, a scenic and historic hill overlooking the city. Wander along its lush trails, explore the centuries-old Castillo de la Mota, and take in panoramic views of La Concha Bay and beyond.
Evening: Set sail on a panoramic catamaran tour of San Sebastián’s stunning bay and coastline. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the city, surrounding hills, and sparkling waters during this relaxing and scenic experience. For an unforgettable touch, try to book the tour at sunset to enjoy the golden hues and serene ambiance of the evening.
WHERE TO STAY
San Sebastián offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of our top recommendations:
Budget:
Hotel Leku Eder: A cozy hotel with a peaceful ambiance and breathtaking views of the coastline, nestled in a serene hillside setting.
Pensión Alemana: A welcoming guesthouse with comfortable rooms and an excellent location near the beach and Old Town.
Mid-Range:
Hotel Niza: A charming hotel with elegant decor and stunning views of La Concha Beach, conveniently located for exploring the city.
Intelier Villa Katalina: A boutique hotel with modern design and a historic setting, ideally located near San Sebastián’s key attractions.
Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra: A classic hotel with timeless charm and a prime location along the seafront promenade.
Luxury:
Hotel Maria Cristina: A luxurious hotel with opulent decor and exceptional service, perfectly situated in the city center.
Akelarre Hotel: A stunning retreat with modern elegance and Michelin-starred dining, offering spectacular views of the Basque coastline.
EXTRA ACTIVITIES TO EXPLORE
If you find yourself with extra time in San Sebastián, consider including these activities in your plans:
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: Explore San Sebastián at your own pace with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Visit major attractions like La Concha Beach, Parte Vieja, and the Miramar Palace. Book here →
Guided E-Bike Tour: See the best of San Sebastián with ease on a guided e-bike tour. Cycle along the coastline, explore hidden spots, and learn about the city’s history from a knowledgeable guide. Book here →
Gaztelugatxe & Guggenheim Museum Tour: Take a day trip from San Sebastián to visit the iconic Gaztelugatxe (famous for its role in Game of Thrones) and the stunning Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. Experience both natural beauty and modern art in one unforgettable tour. Book here →
Cultural Walking Tour: Immerse yourself in San Sebastián’s rich history and culture with a guided walking tour. Discover iconic landmarks, learn local stories, and see the city through a cultural lens. Book here →
Authentic Basque Cooking Class: Dive into Basque culinary traditions with a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef. Learn to make classic dishes and enjoy your creations. Book here →
BEYOND SAN SEBASTIAN
While San Sebastián has lots to offer, there are also several amazing places nearby worth exploring:
Bilbao: Explore the world-famous Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of modern architecture, and wander through the lively streets of the old town, sampling Basque cuisine at local pintxos bars. Check out our ultimate Bilbao itinerary →
Biarritz (France): Just across the border, this chic coastal retreat offers stunning beaches, luxury boutiques, and a relaxed ambiance. Don’t miss the iconic Rocher de la Vierge or the vibrant surf scene. Book here →
Pamplona: Dive into history and culture in the city famous for its Running of the Bulls. Visit the stunning Cathedral of Santa María and stroll through the charming medieval streets.
Hondarribia: A picturesque fishing village known for its colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and excellent seafood. Explore the charming Old Town and the historic Santa María Gate. Book here →
San Juan de Luz (France): A charming French Basque town with a delightful harbor, sandy beaches, and a rich history. Don’t miss the Church of Saint John the Baptist, where King Louis XIV was married. Book here →