San Sebastián – Donostia in Basque – is one of the most beautiful cities on the Atlantic. With around 190,000 inhabitants, it curves around the bay of La Concha, framed by green hills and a little island. Elegant 19th-century avenues, a lively old town and world-famous gastronomy make it a favourite with food lovers.
Why visit San Sebastián
For its beaches in the heart of the city and its food: tiny pintxos in crowded bars and an exceptional number of Michelin-starred restaurants for a city of its size. It is also compact, walkable and close to France.
Top things to do in San Sebastián
La Concha and Ondarreta beaches
La Concha is one of Europe’s most famous city beaches, with its white railing promenade. Ondarreta continues it towards Monte Igueldo.
The Parte Vieja
The old town is packed with pintxo bars, the baroque basilica of Santa María del Coro and the arcaded Plaza de la Constitución, whose balconies are numbered from its days as a bullring.
Monte Igueldo
An old funicular climbs to the top, with a vintage amusement park and the classic view over the bay.
Monte Urgull
A hill above the old town with castle ruins, paths and a statue of Christ overlooking the sea.
The Peine del Viento
Steel sculptures by Eduardo Chillida anchored in the rocks at the end of Ondarreta, where the waves crash.
Zurriola and the Kursaal
Across the river, Zurriola is the surfers’ beach, next to the glass cubes of the Kursaal congress centre.
Festivals in San Sebastián
The Tamborrada on 20 January fills the city with drums for 24 hours, the Jazzaldia jazz festival takes place in July and the San Sebastián International Film Festival in September.
Best time to visit San Sebastián
Summer is the warmest and busiest season. June and September are ideal. It rains frequently all year, and the sea is fresh even in August.
Getting to and around San Sebastián
San Sebastián airport at Hondarribia has domestic flights; Bilbao (about an hour by bus) and Biarritz (about 45 minutes) have more connections. Trains link the city with Madrid and, via Hendaye, with France. The centre is best on foot or by bike.
What to eat in San Sebastián
Pintxos such as the gilda (olive, anchovy and pickled chilli), txangurro (spider crab), grilled fish, txuleta, Basque cheesecake and txakoli wine. In winter and spring, try a cider house in the nearby hills.
San Sebastián FAQ
How do pintxo bars work?
Order at the bar, often one pintxo and a small drink, then move on. Hot pintxos are usually ordered from a menu on the wall.
Is San Sebastián a good day trip from Bilbao?
Yes, it is about an hour by bus, but it deserves at least one night.
