San Sebastian’s Greatest Hits
Overview & History
San Sebastián, also known as Donostia in Basque, is a charming coastal city located in Spain's Basque Country. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant culinary scene, it offers visitors a blend of relaxation, exploration and indulgence.
The history of San Sebastian is largely a story of dual (and perhaps dueling) identities–though technically Spanish citizens, San Sebastian natives consider themselves first and foremost Basque, members of a unique Southwestern European tribe that occupying the coasts of Spain and France. While speaking Spanish at school, the Basque maintain their own language, Euskara, which has no ties to any other language spoken today and many continue to advocate for an independent and separate Basque nation.
The city’s modern history began in 1180 when Basque King Sancho VI of Navarre granted it a charter, officially founding San Sebastián. Its strategic location on the coast made it an important port and trading center. Throughout the medieval period, San Sebastián developed its harbor and fortified walls to protect against frequent raids and conflicts, particularly from the English and French. In 1813, during the Peninsular War, San Sebastián was heavily damaged by a siege conducted by Allied forces against French troops, leading to extensive reconstruction.
The Belle Epoque saw San Sebastián’s transformation into a fashionable resort town. Queen Isabel II’s summer visits helped popularize the city, leading to the construction of elegant Art Nouveau buildings and the development of the city's infrastructure.
San Sebastián, like much of Spain, was affected by the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) and the subsequent Franco dictatorship. The city endured political repression but also saw periods of economic hardship and recovery.
After the death of Franco in 1975, Spain transitioned to democracy, and San Sebastián experienced a cultural renaissance. The city has since grown in international prominence, particularly known for its culinary scene, annual film festival and vibrant cultural life.
Getting to, from & around San Sebastian
There are three airports nearby San Sebastian for those who prefer to spend the majority of their travel time flying–flights to these locations are typically out of Madrid, Barcelona or Paris.
San Sebastián Airport (EAS): A small regional airport located about 20 km from the city center. It handles limited domestic flights.
Bilbao Airport (BIO): Located about 100 km from San Sebastián. It is a major airport with more flight options and frequent connections. From Bilbao, you can take a direct bus, train, or rental car to San Sebastián.
Biarritz Airport (BIQ): Located about 50 km from San Sebastián, this French airport also has bus and train connections to the city.
Otherwise, we recommend flying into one of the below major Spanish and French cities and either taking a train or renting a car and driving.
From Madrid:
By Train: Renfe, Spain’s national railway company, offers high-speed AVE trains from Madrid’s Atocha station to San Sebastián’s Estación del Norte. The journey takes about 5-6 hours.
By Car: The drive from Madrid to San Sebastian is about 5 hours.
From Barcelona:
By Train: Renfe’s high-speed AVE trains connect Barcelona Sants station with San Sebastián, with a journey time of around 5-6 hours.
By Car: The drive from Barcelona to San Sebastian is about 6 hours.
From Paris:
By Train: High-speed TGV trains from Paris Gare du Nord to San Sebastián take around 4-5 hours, with a transfer required at Hendaye.
Getting Around Town: San Sebastián is a walkable city, with most attractions easily accessible on foot. The public transportation system includes buses and a tram. Bicycles are also popular and the city has many beautiful biking paths.
Climate: San Sebastián enjoys warm summers and cool winters. The summer months (June to September) are ideal for beach activities, while the spring and autumn have mild weather and fewer crowds.
What to See & Do in San Sebastian
The Natural Beauty of Donostia
La Concha Beach: Often ranked among the most beautiful city beaches in the world, La Concha is a crescent-shaped bay with golden sands and clear blue waters, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach also has a coastal promenade which features the artistic works by Eduardo Chillida.
Mount Urgull and Mount Igueldo: These hills offer panoramic views of the city and the bay. Mount Urgull, with its historic fortifications and the statue of Christ, provides a scenic hike, while Mount Igueldo features an old-fashioned funicular and an amusement park.
Parte Vieja (Old Town): This historic district is a maze of narrow streets filled with traditional pintxos bars, shops, and vibrant local life. It’s a great place to explore on foot and soak in the city’s lively atmosphere.
Santa Clara Islands: Just off La Concha are the little Santa Clara Islands which are accessible only by boat. Be sure to check the tides for the day as the islands can only be accessed during low tide—they are completely submerged during high tide. Several local boat companies can take you to the islands for a visit—see their schedules here.
Surfing: Zurriola Beach is the place to surf in San Sebastián—you will notice a number of surf schools here each morning.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
San Telmo Museum: Housed in a former convent, this museum showcases Basque history, culture, and art. It offers exhibitions that range from prehistoric times to contemporary art.
Practical information: Hours: 10 AM - 8 PM Tuesday - Sunday. Tickets may be purchased in advance here.
Miramar Palace: Originally a summer residence for Spanish royalty, this grand building is a must-stop particularly for the beautiful gardens.
Victoria Eugenia Theater: This absolutely gorgeous Belle Epoque theater is open only for performances and other events. Check out the performance schedule here to book a ticket for one of the amazing shows and be transported back in time.
Aquarium: Located on the harbor, this modern facility features marine exhibits and a large underwater tunnel that allows visitors to observe sea life up close. Of particular interest is an exhibit that recreates the aquatic habitat of the Bay of Biscay so you can observe what lies off the beaches in the area.
Practical information: Hours 10 AM - 7 PM daily (open late to 8 PM on weekends). Tickets and more information available here.
Tabakalera: Housed in a former tobacco factory, Tabakalera hosts avant gard and contemporary displays designed by Iñaki Abalos and Juan Herreros in 2015.
Practical information: Hours: 10 AM - 9 PM Tuesday - Sunday (open until 10 PM on weekends). More information available here.
Culinary Delights - See below
Festivals and Events
San Sebastián Day: Celebrated on January 20, this local festival features parades, traditional Basque music and dance, and a lively street party.
Jazzaldia: Every July, San Sebastián hosts Jazzaldia, a celebration of jazz featuring both genre legends and emerging artists.
Aste Nagusia (Semana Grande / Great Week): This weeklong festival is held in Spain each August and celebrates Basque culture and food.
La Concha Regatta: La Concha Regatta is a sailing competition hosted every September in San Sebastián.
San Sebastián International Film Festival: Held every September, this prestigious event attracts international film stars and showcases a range of films from around the world.
Where to Eat & Drink in San Sebastian
San Sebastián is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, boasting a range of dining options from traditional Basque pintxos bars to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here’s a guide to some of the best restaurants around the city:
Michelin-Starred & Award Winning Restaurants Restaurants
Each of these restaurants requires reservations typically several months in advance. Many have partnerships with premium credit card providers who may be able to assist with these tough to get tables.
Arzak
Chef: Juan Mari Arzak and his daughter, Elena Arzak
Cuisine: Modern Basque
Description: A pioneer of modern Basque cuisine, Arzak combines traditional flavors with innovative techniques. Known for its creative tasting menus and high-quality ingredients.
Address: Avenida Alcalde José Elosegi 273, 20015 San Sebastián
Reservations: Available here by filling out a form to request in advance. We recommend you do so at least 3-4 months in advance and preferably sooner to secure your preferred date and time.
Akelarre
Chef: Pedro Subijana
Cuisine: Modern Basque with a focus on seafood
Description: Perched on a hill overlooking the Bay of Biscay, Akelarre offers stunning views and a sophisticated menu. The tasting menus showcase local ingredients and contemporary techniques.
Address: Padre Orcolaga 56, 20008 San Sebastián
Reservations: Available here 4 months in advance.
Mugaritz
Chef: Andoni Luis Aduriz
Cuisine: Experimental and avant-garde
Description: Known for pushing the boundaries of culinary art, Mugaritz offers a unique dining experience with innovative and sensory-driven dishes.
Address: Barrio Otzaurte, 20208 Errenteria
Reservations: Available here for 2024 and 2025 by filling out a form.
Martín Berasategui
Chef: Martín Berasategui
Cuisine: Contemporary Basque
Description: With multiple Michelin stars to his name, Martín Berasategui’s restaurant delivers exquisite dishes that blend traditional Basque flavors with modern techniques.
Address: Los tres Reyes 2, 20014 San Sebastián
Reservations: Available here.
Asador Etxebarri
Chef: Bittor Arginzoniz
Cuisine: Grilled
Description: Gourmands make the trek to Bittor Arginzoniz’s hometown of Axpe-Atxondo where he features grilled local ingredients (down to the type of wood).
Address: Plaza San Juan 1, Axpe, 48291, Spain
Reservations: Available here by emailing the team.
Top Pintxos Bars
San Sebastián is renowned for its pintxos (the Basque word for tapas), small snacks served in bars and best paired with sparkling white wine called Txakoli. Here are some of our favorite spots and the dishes we recommend at each:
Bar Nestor
Specialty: Ribeye steak, tomato salad, and pimientos de padrón
Description: Famous for its simple yet exceptional pintxos, especially the ribeye steak. A no-frills spot where quality ingredients shine.
Address: C/ de la Pescadería, 11, 20003 San Sebastián
La Cuchara de San Telmo
Specialty: Creative pintxos with a focus on local ingredients
Description: Renowned for its inventive pintxos and vibrant atmosphere. Try the foie gras and the slow-cooked beef cheek.
Address: C/ de la Cuchara, 15, 20002 San Sebastián
Gandarias Jatetxea
Specialty: Traditional pintxos and Basque dishes
Description: A popular spot for classic pintxos and hearty Basque cuisine. Known for its lively atmosphere and excellent service.
Address: C/ de Fermín Calbetón, 11, 20006 San Sebastián
Borda Berri
Specialty: Innovative pintxos and stews
Description: Offers a modern take on traditional pintxos with creative presentations and rich flavors. The pork cheeks and risotto are particularly recommended.
Address: C/ de las Olas, 12, 20003 San Sebastián
Other Notable Restaurants
Txuleta
Specialty: Traditional Basque steakhouse
Description: Known for its high-quality meats, particularly the txuleta (Basque-style steak). A great place for carnivores.
Address: C/ del General Etxague, 7, 20004 San Sebastián
Kokotxa
Specialty: Modern Basque cuisine with a focus on seafood
Description: Offers both a tasting menu and à la carte options, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and refined presentations.
Address: C/ de la San Marcial, 35, 20005 San Sebastián
Zuberoa
Specialty: Classic Basque dishes with a modern touch
Description: A historic restaurant with a reputation for excellence. Offers a range of traditional dishes with contemporary flair.
Address: Barrio Sasiola, 2, 20207 Oiartzun (a short drive from San Sebastián)
Rekondo
Bodegon Alejandro
Basque Country Day Trips from San Sebastian
If you’re staying in San Sebastián for more than 2-3 days, we recommend venturing to one of the nearby Basque towns for a day trip. Two of our favorites are Biarritz and Bilbao.
Biarritz
Biarritz, located on the southwestern coast of France in the Basque Country, is a stylish seaside town known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and elegant architecture.
Getting there from San Sebastián:
By Train: Take a regional train (TER) from San Sebastián to Biarritz. The journey takes about 1.5 hours.
By Bus: Several bus companies operate between San Sebastián and Biarritz. The trip takes around 1.5 hours.
By Car: Driving from San Sebastián to Biarritz takes about 50 minutes, covering approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles).
What to See
La Grande Plage: The main beach of Biarritz, known for its wide sandy stretch and iconic beachfront promenade. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
Rocher de la Vierge: This is a dramatic rock formation with a statue of the Virgin Mary. Accessible via a footbridge, it offers stunning views of the Bay of Biscay and the coastline.
Biarritz Aquarium: Located in a beautiful building on the edge of the sea, the aquarium features a variety of marine life and offers educational exhibits about ocean ecosystems.
Cité de l’Océan: An interactive museum dedicated to the ocean and marine sciences. It features exhibits on oceanography, climate change, and marine life.
Musée Asiatica: An art museum with a diverse collection of Asian art, including pieces from China, Japan, and India.
Biarritz Lighthouse: The lighthouse offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding coast. It’s a great spot for photography and enjoying the sea breeze.
Where to Eat
Le Bar du Palais: A historic café with a classic Parisian ambiance, offering a range of French dishes and pastries.
Les Rosiers: Known for its creative dishes and elegant atmosphere, Les Rosiers combines traditional Basque ingredients with modern culinary techniques.
La Table Basque: Offers a range of Basque specialties in a cozy, rustic setting. Perfect for trying local dishes like txuleta (steak) and seafood.
Where to Shop
Les Halles de Biarritz: The central market of Biarritz, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, seafood, and artisan goods. It’s a great place to experience the local culinary scene and pick up regional specialties.
Rue des Halles: Popular shopping street lined with boutiques, shops, and cafés. Ideal for picking up souvenirs, fashion, and local products.
Activities
Surfing: Biarritz is famous for its surf spots, particularly at Grande Plage and Côte des Basques. Surf schools and rental shops are available for beginners and experienced surfers.
Spa and Wellness: Several luxury hotels and spas in Biarritz offer wellness treatments and relaxation options. The Hôtel du Palais has a renowned spa and is a historic landmark.
Golf: Biarritz boasts several excellent golf courses with stunning coastal views. The Golf de Biarritz Le Phare is a popular choice.
Bilbao
Bilbao is a city where modernity meets tradition, offering a rich tapestry of experiences from its cutting-edge architecture to its vibrant culinary scene. Whether you’re exploring its historic districts, indulging in Basque cuisine, or admiring contemporary art, Bilbao provides a dynamic and memorable travel experience.
Getting There From San Sebastian
Trains: Regional trains take approximately 2 hours to reach Bilbao.
Bus: Buses from San Sebastián to Bilbao take around 1.5 hours.
Car: The drive is about 100 km (62 miles) and takes roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes.
What to Do
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: Designed by architect Frank Gehry, this iconic museum is known for its avant-garde design and contemporary art collections. It’s a must-see landmark and a symbol of Bilbao’s revitalization.
Practical Information:
Casco Viejo (Old Town): The historic heart of Bilbao, characterized by narrow streets, traditional shops, and lively squares. Key spots include Plaza Nueva and the Mercado de la Ribera.
Bilbao Cathedral: Known as the Cathedral of Santiago, this Gothic-style cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the city, offering insights into Bilbao’s medieval past.
Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao: This fine arts museum houses an impressive collection of Spanish and Basque art, including works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art.
Zubizuri Bridge: Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this modern bridge, also known as the "White Bridge," is notable for its unique design and striking appearance.
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: Featuring a vast collection that spans from medieval to contemporary art, this museum offers a comprehensive view of Spanish and Basque artistic heritage.
Where to Eat
Casa Rufo: Known for its traditional Basque dishes and welcoming atmosphere. The menu includes a variety of pintxos and hearty regional specialties.
Address: C/ del General Concha, 2, 48004 Bilbao
La Vina del Ensanche: A historic tavern offering an array of delicious pintxos and a fine selection of wines in a classic Basque setting.
Where to Shop
Mercado de la Ribera: One of the largest covered markets in Europe, offering a wide range of fresh produce, meats, fish, and local products. It’s also a great place to sample local delicacies.
Gran Vía: Bilbao’s main shopping street, featuring a mix of high-street stores, boutiques, and local shops. It’s ideal for fashion, gifts, and souvenirs.