The Ultimate Travel Guide to San Sebastian, Spain

San Sebastián has a way of pulling you in almost instantly. There’s an energy to the city that feels both lively and nostalgic, wrapped in stunning scenery and an unbeatable food culture. Once a summer escape for Spanish royalty, this seaside gem—known as San Sebastián (or Donostia in the Basque language)—has long mastered the art of charm.

From its elegant belle époque architecture to its rich cultural identity and miles of golden sand, San Sebastián feels effortlessly captivating. Life here revolves around good food, beautiful views, and slow, intentional moments—whether that’s lingering over pintxos in the Old Town or strolling along La Concha as the sun sets. Ideally, San Sebastián deserves three to four days to truly savor everything it has to offer. But even with just two days, you can still experience the heart of the city. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the must-see sights, where (and what) to eat, and how to make the most of a short stay—without feeling rushed.

Whether you’re here for the culture, the coastline, or the food (or all three), San Sebastián has a way of staying with you long after you leave. So pack light, bring your appetite, and get ready to fall in love with one of Spain’s most beautiful cities by the sea.

Getting to San Sebastián, Spain

Getting to San Sebastián is fairly straightforward, though it usually requires a little planning—especially if you’re traveling from the United States. San Sebastián’s airport is quite small, so most international travelers will need to connect through a larger city like Madrid or Barcelona. The main airlines flying into San Sebastián are Iberia and Vueling. Another excellent option—and the one I personally chose—is flying into Bilbao, which is the nearest major international airport. From Bilbao, San Sebastián is only about a 1.5-hour drive or bus ride away, making it a very easy connection.

I decided to rent a car and drive from Bilbao to San Sebastián, and I’m so glad I did. Having a car gave me the freedom to explore the surrounding Basque countryside and stop in nearby towns along the way. The drive itself is beautiful, with rolling green hills, charming villages, and coastal views that make the journey feel like part of the trip rather than just a transfer.

A quick note if you choose to drive: in Spain, cars drive on the right side of the road, and you’ll need a valid driver’s license. If driving abroad feels intimidating, no worries—Spain’s bus and train systems are reliable, affordable, and easy to navigate, especially between Bilbao and San Sebastián.

Whether you arrive by plane, car, bus, or train, getting to San Sebastián is simple—and once you’re there, you’ll quickly realize the journey was well worth it.

Getting Around in San Sebastián, Spain

Getting around San Sebastián is refreshingly easy. The city is compact, beautifully laid out, and most of the main sights are within comfortable walking distance. Honestly, walking is one of the best ways to experience San Sebastián—you’ll naturally stumble upon beaches, cafés, pintxos bars, and scenic viewpoints along the way.

That said, when your feet need a break (especially after a full day of eating your way through the city), the local bus system is a great option. Buses are clean, reliable, and easy to use, making them a convenient way to get from one neighborhood to another without any stress.

Another option I loved is biking. Renting a bike lets you see the city from a different perspective and feels especially nice along the waterfront. It’s a fun, active way to balance out all the pastries and pintxos, and it’s also very budget-friendly. The bike paths are well-maintained, and cycling through the city feels safe and enjoyable.

Bus fares:

• Standard fare: €1.70

• Night fare: €2.10

Bike rental:

• Basque Country Cycling

Whether you explore on foot, by bus, or on two wheels, San Sebastián makes it incredibly easy to get around—and that ease is part of what makes the city so enjoyable to experience at a relaxed pace.

Things to Do in San Sebastian, Spain

Parte Vieja (Old Town)

Parte Vieja, San Sebastián’s Old Town, is where the city’s soul really comes alive. Set at the foot of Mount Urgull, this neighborhood is buzzing, historic, and completely irresistible. It’s easily one of the most popular areas in the city—and for good reason. The narrow, cobblestone streets practically beg you to wander without a plan. This is the kind of place where you start with one destination in mind and end up spending hours getting happily lost. Every corner reveals something new: lively pintxos bars spilling out onto the streets, tucked-away plazas, and buildings that feel layered with centuries of history.

Parte Vieja is best explored slowly. Pop in and out of bars, admire the architecture, people-watch from a plaza, and let the rhythm of the neighborhood guide you. It’s energetic without feeling chaotic, and somehow manages to feel both local and celebratory at the same time.

You could easily spend an entire day here—and honestly, you probably should. While you’re exploring Parte Vieja, there are a few must-see spots you won’t want to miss, all woven right into the fabric of this unforgettable part of San Sebastián.

Mercado La Bretxa

Starting your day at Mercado La Bretxa feels like getting a behind-the-scenes look at San Sebastián’s food culture. This bustling market is where locals shop for their daily ingredients—and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a Michelin-star chef picking out the best produce of the day. The stalls are filled with beautifully displayed, locally sourced fruits, vegetables, seafood, and meats, and it’s such a joy to wander through and take it all in. One thing you absolutely shouldn’t skip is tasting Idiazabal cheese, a beloved local specialty. If you see the Mausitxa brand, grab it—locals swear by it, and after trying it, I completely understand why.

Once you’ve explored the main market, head downstairs to the underground level. This is where things get especially tempting. You’ll find incredible sweets, rich jamón, and all kinds of edible souvenirs that make it very hard to leave empty-handed. Mercado La Bretxa isn’t just a place to shop—it’s an experience. It’s lively, authentic, and the perfect introduction to the flavors that define San Sebastián.

Plaza de la Constitución

Plaza de la Constitución is one of those places you naturally end up lingering in—sometimes longer than planned. Located right in the heart of Parte Vieja, this historic square was once used as a bullring, originally known as Plaza de Toros. If you look closely at the surrounding buildings, you’ll notice numbers on the balconies—remnants from its bullfighting days, when spectators watched from above.

Today, the square feels lively and relaxed, lined with bars, cafés, and small shops. It’s the perfect spot to grab a drink, rest your feet, and soak in the atmosphere of the Old Town. I loved sitting here with a glass of wine, people-watching, and letting the energy of San Sebastián unfold around me.

Fermin St. & Mayor St.

If you thought Mercado La Bretxa was the only place to eat well in San Sebastián, think again. Head straight to Fermín Calbetón Street and Mayor Street—this is the true gastronomic heartbeat of the city. These streets are packed with buzzing bars serving some of the best pintxos and sidra you’ll find anywhere, and hopping from one spot to the next is practically a rite of passage here. This is where the city feels most alive. Plates stacked with pintxos line the counters, glasses of cider are poured high with flair, and the energy spills out into the street. It’s casual, social, and incredibly fun. I loved wandering without a plan—just stopping wherever looked busy (which, honestly, is everywhere).

Between bites, you’ll also find souvenir shops and local boutiques worth popping into, making it easy to mix shopping with snacking. As you walk down Mayor Street, you’ll eventually reach the stunning Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus. Its grand Baroque façade is impossible to miss and feels like the perfect architectural finale to an already beautiful street.

Fermín Calbetón and Mayor Street perfectly capture what San Sebastián does best: incredible food, lively streets, and moments that feel effortlessly memorable.

El Ayuntamiento (City Hall)

El Ayuntamiento is one of those buildings that quietly tells a big story. Today it serves as San Sebastián’s city hall, but it wasn’t always so buttoned-up. During the city’s glamorous heyday, this beautiful building functioned as a casino—back when San Sebastián was a playground for royalty and high society.

When gambling was banned in 1924, the building was repurposed and transformed into the administrative heart of the city. Even so, it never lost its elegance. The architecture still carries that belle époque charm, and it’s hard not to imagine what it must have been like when guests arrived here dressed to the nines for an evening at the casino.

Set right beside Plaza Gipuzkoa, El Ayuntamiento creates a stunning backdrop for one of the city’s most picturesque green spaces. Whether you’re passing by on a walk or stopping to admire it from the square, it’s one of those landmarks that effortlessly blends history, beauty, and everyday city life—classic San Sebastián.

Puente de María Cristina (María Cristina Bridge)

Puente de María Cristina is one of those places that quietly takes your breath away. Located just outside the Old Town, it’s an easy walk and absolutely worth the short detour. Standing on the bridge, you get beautiful views of the river and the elegant cityscape unfolding around you.

Among all the bridges in San Sebastián, this one truly stands out for its sophistication. The most striking detail is the four 18-meter obelisks, one at each corner, each topped with intricate sculptures that give the bridge its regal presence. It feels grand without being overwhelming—refined, balanced, and very much in line with San Sebastián’s elegant character.

I loved walking across it slowly, taking in the details and snapping photos from different angles. It’s especially beautiful during golden hour, when the light hits just right and the city feels calm and luminous.

Playa de la Concha

Playa de la Concha is one of those places that lives up to every bit of its reputation—and then some. If you can, make it here for sunset. The skies in the Basque Country are famous for their cotton-candy pinks and soft lavender hues, and watching the sun dip behind the bay is pure magic.

Often considered one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe, La Concha sits right in the heart of San Sebastián. The bay stretches from the city hall all the way to the rocky Pico del Loro, framed perfectly by Mount Urgull on one side and Mount Igueldo on the other. In summer, the 1.5 km stretch of golden sand is ideal for sunbathing and swimming, with calm waters that feel inviting and relaxed.

I visited in the winter, so swimming wasn’t in the cards—but honestly, I didn’t feel like I missed out. Walking along the promenade was still absolutely spectacular. I loved admiring the iconic white Concha railings and the elegant lampposts at the entrance to the beach. Even in cooler weather, the views across the bay were breathtaking and peaceful.

Concha Promenade

A stroll along the Concha Promenade is one of those simple pleasures that ends up being a highlight of San Sebastián. This beautiful seaside walkway runs alongside Playa de la Concha, offering uninterrupted views of the bay and the soft curve of the shoreline. Walking here feels calm and grounding. You can hear the waves crashing gently against the seawall, feel the ocean breeze, and watch locals and visitors alike enjoying the moment—jogging, strolling, or stopping to take photos. The iconic white railings add so much character and make the promenade instantly recognizable.

Mirador del Baluarte

Mirador del Baluarte is one of those places that instantly reminds you just how beautiful San Sebastián really is. Perched at the top of Mount Urgull, this viewpoint offers sweeping, panoramic views over the city, the coastline, and the surrounding mountains. From up here, you can see Playa de la Concha and La Concha Bay stretched out below you, perfectly framed by the landscape. It’s peaceful, quiet, and feels worlds away from the energy of the Old Town—even though it’s just a short walk away.

I loved how tranquil it felt at the top. The fresh air, the open space, and the perspective of seeing the city from above make it a perfect place to pause, take photos, or simply sit and take it all in. If you can time your visit for sunrise or sunset, even better—the sky lights up with vibrant colors that make the view even more unforgettable.

Where to Eat in San Sebastian, Spain

Restaurante Ubarretxena

Restaurante Ubarretxena was one of those meals that felt quietly special. Tucked right in the heart of San Sebastián, the space is warm and cozy—nothing flashy, just inviting and comfortable, which lets the food take center stage. The menu focuses on traditional Basque cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and you can really taste the care in each dish. I ordered the suckling pig, which was incredibly tender with perfectly crisp skin—rich, comforting, and exactly what you hope for when ordering a classic. For dessert, I had the mille-feuille pastry with custard, and it was outstanding. Light, creamy, and not overly sweet—the perfect way to end the meal.

Ubarretxena feels like a place locals would return to again and again, and that’s always a good sign. If you’re looking for an authentic Basque dining experience in a relaxed setting, this spot is absolutely worth adding to your San Sebastián itinerary.

Alderdi-Zahar

Alderdi-Zahar is exactly the kind of pintxos bar you hope to find in San Sebastián—lively, local, and full of energy. Located right in the heart of the Old Town, it’s the type of place where the buzz pulls you in before you even realize you’re hungry. The counter is lined with a wide variety of traditional Basque pintxos alongside more creative options, and everything looks tempting. I ended up ordering the seafood rice with octopus carpaccio, which was incredible—rich, flavorful, and beautifully balanced. For dessert, I had the arroz con leche, and it was the perfect finish: creamy, comforting, and just sweet enough.

What I loved most about Alderdi-Zahar was the atmosphere. It feels authentically local, with people standing shoulder to shoulder, chatting, sipping drinks, and enjoying small plates together. It’s casual, fun, and exactly how pintxos are meant to be experienced.

If you’re exploring Parte Vieja and want a spot that captures the true spirit of Basque food culture, Alderdi-Zahar is a must-stop.

Bar Antonio

Bar Antonio is another must-stop if you’re doing pintxos the right way in San Sebastián. It’s lively, a little crowded, and full of that unmistakable Old Town energy—especially during peak hours when everyone seems to have the same great idea at once.

The pintxos here are not only delicious but beautifully presented, making it hard to choose just one. The seafood options are especially standout, fresh and flavorful, while the meat pintxos are rich, satisfying, and perfectly cooked. This is one of those places where you point at what looks good (which is basically everything) and trust that you can’t go wrong. Bar Antonio feels social and fast-paced in the best way—people chatting, glasses clinking, plates constantly being refreshed at the counter. It’s the kind of spot that reminds you why pintxos culture is so fun: small bites, great flavors, and shared moments.

If you’re exploring Parte Vieja and want another excellent pintxos bar that locals love, Bar Antonio definitely deserves a spot on your list.

Casa Alcalde

If you’re craving truly authentic Basque cuisine, Casa Alcalde is one of those places that quietly impresses from start to finish. The focus here is on fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients, prepared in a way that honors tradition while still feeling thoughtful and refined. Everything tastes rooted in place—simple, honest flavors done exceptionally well. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you why Basque cooking is so deeply respected.

La Viña

La Viña is legendary for one thing—and yes, it absolutely lives up to the hype. Their famous burnt cheesecake (tarta de queso) is a must-try in San Sebastián. Creamy and almost custard-like in the center with a beautifully caramelized top, it’s rich without being heavy and somehow better with every bite. Locals and visitors alike flock here for dessert, and after trying it, you’ll understand why. This is one of those non-negotiable food stops.

Casa Urola

Located right in the heart of Parte Vieja, Casa Urola strikes a beautiful balance between traditional Basque flavors and modern creativity. The menu feels elevated but approachable, with dishes that are precise, inventive, and full of personality. It’s lively without feeling chaotic, making it a great spot for a memorable meal while exploring the Old Town. Casa Urola is perfect if you’re looking to experience Basque cuisine that respects its roots while embracing a contemporary edge—thoughtful cooking in a vibrant setting.

Cafes + Bakeries in San Sebastian, Spain

Cristina Oria

Cristina Oria is one of those cafés that instantly draws you in—elegant, inviting, and filled with irresistible displays of pastries and cakes. It’s a popular stop in San Sebastián, and once you step inside, it’s easy to see why. The menu offers a beautiful mix of traditional Spanish sweets and more modern, creative pastries, all made with high-quality, thoughtfully sourced ingredients. From delicate cakes to perfectly baked artisanal bread, everything looks (and tastes) carefully crafted. It’s an ideal place to pause for a coffee break, enjoy something sweet, or pick up a treat to-go while exploring the city.

Amelie Coffee

Amelie Coffee is one of those cafés that instantly feels comforting. It’s cozy, relaxed, and clearly focused on doing coffee well. If you appreciate specialty coffee, this spot is a great one to add to your San Sebastián list. They source beans from around the world and offer different brewing methods, which makes it a fun place to slow down and really enjoy your cup—whether you’re in the mood for something bold, smooth, or more nuanced. It feels thoughtful without being intimidating, which I always appreciate.

Alongside the coffee, they offer a small selection of pastries and light snacks—perfect for a mid-morning break or a quiet afternoon pause. Amelie Coffee is the kind of place you stumble into once and then wish you had time to return to again. It’s warm, welcoming, and ideal for lingering just a little longer than planned.

Lurra Chocolate

If you love chocolate, Lurra Chocolate is a stop you absolutely shouldn’t skip. This small, specialty chocolate shop focuses on artisanal chocolates made with high-quality cocoa beans, and you can taste the care that goes into every piece. From rich, beautifully crafted truffles to thoughtfully flavored chocolate bars, everything here feels elevated without being overly fussy. It’s the kind of place where you pop in “just to look” and end up leaving with a bag of treats you fully intend to savor slowly (or not).

Lurra Chocolate is perfect for a sweet break between sightseeing—or for picking up a delicious souvenir to take home. It’s indulgent, refined, and a lovely reminder that San Sebastián’s food scene shines just as much in its small shops as it does in its restaurants.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a lovely little bakery and café that feels calm, intentional, and quietly impressive. It’s the kind of place you stop into for something simple—and end up lingering longer than expected. Their focus is on artisanal bread and pastries, all made using traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients. They’re especially known for their sourdough bread and croissants, which are perfectly baked with that balance of crisp exterior and soft, flavorful interior. Everything feels thoughtfully made, not rushed, and you can really taste the care behind it.

Koh Tao is an ideal spot for a relaxed breakfast or a midday snack, especially if you’re looking for something comforting and unfussy. It’s understated in the best way—and a great place to slow down and enjoy a quieter moment in San Sebastián.

Where to Stay in San Sebastián, Spain

For my stay in San Sebastián, I decided to book an Airbnb right in the heart of the city, in Parte Vieja, and it was hands down one of the best decisions I made. Being in the Old Town meant I could step outside and immediately be surrounded by pintxos bars, historic streets, and that unmistakable energy San Sebastián is known for. Everything was walkable—from the beach to late-night dinners—and it made the city feel incredibly intimate and alive.

Hotel Maria Cristina

Hotel Maria Cristina is the grande dame of San Sebastián. From the moment you walk inside, everything feels refined and timeless—high ceilings, elegant décor, and a sense of history that’s impossible to miss. Perfectly situated near the Urumea River and just steps from La Concha, the location alone is hard to beat. Service here is impeccable, rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed, and the entire experience feels polished and luxurious without ever being stuffy. If you’re celebrating something special or simply want to experience San Sebastián at its most glamorous, this hotel delivers.

Akelarre Hotel

Akelarre Hotel is luxury in its most serene form. Perched high above the city, it offers sweeping panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay that feel almost unreal—especially at sunset. This is the place to stay if you want privacy, peace, and an elevated experience away from the crowds. The design is modern and minimalist, the spa is exceptional, and being home to a Michelin-starred restaurant only adds to the allure. Akelarre feels less like a hotel and more like a retreat—perfect for slowing down and fully immersing yourself in the beauty of the Basque coast.

Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra

If waking up to the sound of the sea is your idea of luxury, Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra is a dream. Sitting directly along La Concha Beach, this historic hotel blends old-world charm with unbeatable ocean views. Many rooms look straight out over the bay, making mornings and sunsets especially memorable. The interiors feel classic and romantic, and the location is ideal—close enough to Parte Vieja for dining and nightlife, but peaceful enough to feel relaxed. It’s a beautiful choice for travelers who want elegance, history, and the beach right at their doorstep.

Best Time to Visit San Sebastian, Spain

Summer is peak season in San Sebastián, and for good reason. The city feels alive—beaches are buzzing, terraces are full, and the warm sun sets the tone for long, leisurely days by the water. It’s vibrant, energetic, and undeniably beautiful. That said, summer can also bring higher temperatures and bigger crowds. If you prefer milder weather, March is a wonderful alternative. The temperatures are comfortable, the city feels calmer, and it’s a great time to explore without the intensity of summer heat.

Fall and winter tend to be rainier, so packing accordingly is key—but don’t let that deter you. I visited in December, and despite the occasional rain, San Sebastián completely charmed me. The moody skies, glistening streets, and quieter pace gave the city a cozy, romantic feel. Rainy days were perfect for lingering over meals, visiting museums, and wandering through markets without rushing. And when the rain finally cleared, the city felt even more magical—washed clean, reflective, and glowing.

Visiting San Sebastián in December allowed me to experience a softer, more intimate side of the city—one that felt authentic, atmospheric, and deeply memorable. No matter the season, San Sebastián has a way of pulling you in—it just wears a slightly different mood each time.

San Sebastián is the kind of city that stays with you long after you’ve left. Between the breathtaking beaches, unforgettable food, rich history, and effortlessly vibrant atmosphere, it offers something special for every type of traveler. Whether you’re spending your days wandering through Parte Vieja, savoring pintxos and local wine, strolling along La Concha, or ducking into cafés on a rainy afternoon, the city has a way of pulling you in and making you feel at home.

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