San Sebastian Spain
Best Spain Itineraries
San Sebastián Itineraries
Choose the perfect itinerary based on how much time you have
3 Days in San Sebastián
City BreakBest for: First-time visitors wanting the highlights.
- Stroll La Concha Beach and the elegant promenade
- Explore the Old Town (Parte Vieja) and pintxos bars
- Visit Monte Urgull and Monte Igueldo for panoramic views
- Enjoy world-class Basque cuisine and fresh seafood
- Discover the Belle Époque architecture in the Centre
Tip: Stay near La Concha or in the Old Town. Everything is walkable and the city feels intimate.
5–7 Days in San Sebastián & Basque Country
RecommendedBest for: Most visitors who want city + surroundings.
- 3–4 days enjoying San Sebastián fully
- Day trip to Bilbao (Guggenheim Museum)
- Visit Hondarribia and charming coastal towns
- Explore Rioja or Getaria wine regions
- Surfing, hiking in nearby mountains or cider house visits
Tip: San Sebastián is the perfect base for the Basque Country. A car is useful but public transport and trains work well too.
10–14 Days Basque & Northern Spain Explorer
Best of the Basque CountryBest for: Those who want to discover San Sebastián + the wider region.
- 5 days based in San Sebastián
- Bilbao and the Guggenheim
- Coastal towns: Getaria, Zarautz, Hondarribia
- La Rioja wine region and Pamplona
- Bay of Biscay beaches and inland villages
Tip: Renting a car gives you the most flexibility. The Basque Country has excellent roads and scenery.
Transport
How to Get to & Around San Sebastián
Best ways to arrive and travel within San Sebastián and the Basque Country
By Air
Closest major airports:
• San Sebastián Airport (EAS) – 20 minutes by taxi/bus
• Bilbao (BIO) – 1 hour by car/bus
• Biarritz (BIQ, France) – 45 minutes by car
• Madrid & Barcelona with direct flights
Local Transport
Compact and very walkable city.
Excellent local bus network (especially to beaches).
Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced.
Walking along the bay is one of the best experiences.
Trains
San Sebastián has a main RENFE station.
• Madrid: ~5.5 hours (high-speed)
• Barcelona: ~6 hours
• Bilbao: ~2.5 hours
• Frequent local trains along the coast.
Car Rental & Taxi
Taxis are easy to find and affordable.
Car rental: €40–80 / day (recommended for day trips)
Ideal for exploring the Basque Coast, Rioja, or France.
Parking can be limited in the centre.
Top Things to See & Experiences in Spain
Top Attractions in San Sebastián
Must-visit places that define this beautiful Basque coastal city
La Concha Beach
One of the most beautiful urban beaches in the world.
Must-See:
• Golden sand and turquoise waters
• Elegant promenade with Victorian lampposts
• Stunning bay views
Old Town (Parte Vieja)
The vibrant historic heart of San Sebastián.
Must-See:
• Atmospheric narrow streets
• Pintxos bars and traditional taverns
• Basilica of Santa María del Coro
Monte Urgull & Monte Igueldo
Iconic hills offering the best views of the city.
Must-See:
• Panoramic views over La Concha Bay
• Historic fortifications and Jesus statue on Urgull
• Funicular ride to Igueldo
Gros & Zurriola Beach
The lively, surf-friendly beach neighbourhood.
Must-See:
• Surfing and beach sports
• Trendy bars and street art
• Modern vibe contrasting with La Concha
Best Places to Eat in San Sebastián
Where to enjoy the world-renowned Basque gastronomy and pintxos culture
La Cuchara de San Telmo
Legendary pintxos bar in the Old Town.
Must-Try:
• Foie gras with apple
• Slow-cooked veal cheeks
• Crispy pig ears
Bar Zeruko
Innovative and creative pintxos.
Must-Try:
• Smoked eel with foie
• “False” tomato with idiazabal cheese
• Cutting-edge Basque tapas
Arzak (3 Michelin Stars)
One of the world’s best restaurants.
Must-Try:
• Innovative Basque fine dining
• Tasting menu experience
• Creative culinary art by the Arzak family
Gandarias
Classic Old Town favourite since 1945.
Must-Try:
• Traditional pintxos and grilled meats
• Txakoli wine pairing
• Authentic Basque atmosphere
