The Ultimate Guide to San Sebastian: Top Things to Do

San Sebastian, a gem nestled in the Basque Country of Spain, is rapidly becoming a must-visit destination for travelers. This guide unveils the best things to do in San Sebastian, Spain, ensuring you craft an unforgettable itinerary.

Located in the northeastern part of Spain, in the heart of the Basque region, lies the captivating seaside city of San Sebastian. Renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class culinary scene, impressive architecture, and rich cultural heritage, San Sebastian offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests.

After spending an immersive 10 days exploring the Basque Country during the TBEX travel bloggers conference, we were utterly enchanted by San Sebastian. The city’s charm, combined with its vibrant atmosphere, left an indelible mark on our hearts.

San Sebastian is compact enough to allow you to experience many of its key attractions in just a few days. However, we recommend extending your stay to delve deeper into the unique aspects that make this city truly special. Immerse yourself in the local culture, savor the exquisite cuisine, and discover hidden gems that lie beyond the well-trodden tourist paths.

But be warned: like us, you might find it difficult to leave this enchanting city behind!

Explore the Historic Charm of Old Town (Parte Vieja)

One of the most vibrant and captivating areas to explore in San Sebastian is its historic Old Town, known locally as Parte Vieja. This district is a treasure trove of centuries-old architecture and a delightful array of quaint restaurants lining almost every street. The bustling quarter is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the city’s culture and savor its culinary offerings.

No visit to Old Town is complete without indulging in pintxos – the region’s signature small, delicious snacks, often served on a slice of bread. Pair these delectable bites with a refreshing glass of Txakoli, a local, slightly effervescent white wine, for the quintessential San Sebastian experience.

Old Town is also ideal for leisurely strolls, allowing you to soak in the city’s unique ambiance and get a feel for its rich history. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets, admire the beautifully preserved buildings, and discover hidden squares that exude a timeless charm.

Immediately upon arriving in San Sebastian, we headed straight to Old Town for a quick bite to eat. We ended up spending hours wandering around, popping into various restaurants and shops, and simply soaking in the city’s captivating charm. The atmosphere was so inviting that we found ourselves returning to Old Town almost every day during our stay.

Visit the Majestic Basilica of Santa María del Coro

Located at the edge of Old Town, the Basilica of Santa María del Coro stands as one of San Sebastian’s most majestic landmarks. This stunning church, dating back to the 18th century, showcases a beautiful baroque style and features a prominent sculpture of Saint Sebastian the Martyr, the city’s patron saint.

The square in front of the basilica is a popular gathering spot, especially in the evenings. Here, you’ll find locals and visitors alike relaxing and socializing while enjoying pintxos and drinks from nearby restaurants. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Relax and Unwind on La Concha Beach

One of San Sebastian’s most iconic and well-known attractions is La Concha Beach. This expansive stretch of sand extends for one and a half kilometers (approximately one mile), making it one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe. La Concha is renowned for its soft sand, excellent sunbathing and swimming opportunities, and the beautiful promenade that runs alongside it, perfect for leisurely strolls or invigorating runs.

The beach begins near the edge of San Sebastian’s Old Town and curves eastward until it meets Ondarreta Beach, a smaller but equally charming stretch of sand. Ondarreta Beach leads to the Monte Igueldo funicular, offering another exciting adventure (more on this below).

Walking from one end of La Concha Beach to the other takes approximately 45 minutes, but it’s an experience well worth the time. Along the way, you’ll pass majestic hotels overlooking the sea, a variety of restaurants where you can stop for a refreshing drink or a delicious meal, and breathtaking scenery that will leave you in awe.

Surf’s Up at Zurriola Beach

If you’re craving even more beach time, you’re in luck! Just to the west of La Concha lies Zurriola Beach, a slightly smaller but equally appealing stretch of sand. This man-made beach underwent a significant transformation about 15 years ago and has since become a popular haven for surfers. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a complete beginner, you can find your place on the waves here.

If you’re new to the sport, consider taking surfing classes offered at the beach. Experienced instructors will guide you through the basics, ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable introduction to surfing. Even if you don’t want to surf, Zurriola Beach is a great spot for lounging, people-watching, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Adjacent to Zurriola Beach is the city’s “Kursaal,” a marvel of modern architecture that serves as a convention center and auditorium. This impressive building is worth a visit, even if you’re not attending an event there. From the Kursaal, it’s a short walk to Old Town or to the picturesque Urumea River, which features intricately designed bridges that crisscross the city.

Ascend to Monte Igueldo for Panoramic Views

For the best panoramic views of San Sebastian, a visit to Monte Igueldo is a must. This towering peak overlooks the city from the west and can be reached by a charming funicular railway, which costs approximately €5 for an adult roundtrip ticket.

Once you reach the summit, prepare to be amazed by the expansive vistas of the city, the sparkling ocean, and the surrounding verdant hillsides. The views are simply breathtaking, making it the perfect spot for capturing memorable photos and selfies.

In addition to the stunning views, Monte Igueldo also features a full-fledged amusement park! From bumper cars and a thrilling water ride to a spooky haunted house, the attractions offer fun for both kids and adults alike.

When you’re ready for a break, stop by the on-site cafe and try to secure a table outside. From there, you can relax and while away the afternoon, admiring the stunning views and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

Admire the Grandeur of the Good Shepherd Cathedral

Located approximately one kilometer away from the Basilica of Santa María del Coro, in a direct line, stands the towering Good Shepherd Cathedral, also known as Buen Pastor Cathedral. This impressive neogothic church opened its doors in 1897 and has the capacity to accommodate up to 4,000 people, making it one of the largest churches in the Basque Country.

Step inside to discover ornate altars, stunning stain-glass windows, and breathtaking architecture. The cathedral’s interior is a testament to the skill and artistry of its creators, offering a serene and awe-inspiring space for reflection and contemplation.

Discover the History of City Hall

A short walk towards Old Town, overlooking the picturesque La Concha Beach, lies San Sebastian’s ornate City Hall. This stunning building has a rich and fascinating history, having served various purposes throughout the years.

Once the largest casino in Spain, it entertained troops from neighboring France during World War One, as Spain remained neutral during the conflict. The building continued to be a central hub of social life during the “roaring 1920s,” hosting lavish parties and attracting visitors from around the world.

However, its time as a casino came to an end when gambling was outlawed in 1924. A couple of decades later, the building was transformed into the headquarters for the city council, a role it continues to fulfill to this day. Admire its architecture from the outside or, if possible, take a tour to learn more about its captivating past.

Getting to San Sebastian: Transportation Options

While San Sebastian does have its own airport, it is relatively small, and flights to the city can be more expensive. Therefore, the most popular and often more affordable option is to fly into nearby Bilbao, Spain. Bilbao’s airport is larger and offers a wider range of flight options.

Bilbao is located approximately an hour away from San Sebastian and offers convenient bus service directly from the airport to the main bus station in the center of San Sebastian. Buses depart every hour, and tickets cost around €12 (approximately $13 USD).

Upon arrival at the Bilbao airport, you’ll find that the bus service is user-friendly and easy to navigate. An attendant is often available to assist with the ticket machine. However, the machines are also easy to use independently, featuring on-screen instructions in several languages, including English.

Where to Stay in San Sebastian: Accommodation Recommendations

Although San Sebastian is a highly walkable city, choosing accommodation closer to its most popular attractions can significantly enhance your visit’s convenience. Staying in a central location will allow you to easily explore the city’s highlights without relying on public transportation or taxis.

During our stay, we enjoyed the comfort and convenience of the four-star Abba Hotel. This beautiful hotel overlooks the scenic Urumea River and is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the heart of Old Town. The Abba Hotel offers a range of amenities to ensure a pleasant stay, including air conditioning in all rooms, a fantastic rooftop bar with stunning city views, and a friendly and helpful staff.

In fact, upon our arrival, the concierge provided us with a helpful handout detailing the best pintxos spots in the city, as well as valuable tips on where to eat to avoid the crowds. This personalized service truly enhanced our culinary experiences in San Sebastian.

Abba Hotel San Sebastian
Frantzia Pasealekua, 4, 20012 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain

We hope this guide helps you plan your perfect trip to San Sebastian!