San Sebastian Travel Guide

Seaside Sophistication in the Heart of Basque Country

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San Sebastian is one of those rare cities that captures your heart from the very first glance. Tucked between green hills and the sparkling Bay of Biscay, it offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, Basque culture, and culinary brilliance. This San Sebastian travel guide covers everything you need to plan your trip—whether you're searching for the best things to do in San Sebastian, craving a tour of the city's legendary pintxos bars, or deciding where to stay in San Sebastian for easy access to the beaches and old town charm. Days here drift from morning strolls along San Sebastian beaches to afternoons exploring local markets and evenings filled with vibrant flavors and friendly conversation. However you choose to experience it, San Sebastian invites you to slow down, savor, and fall in love—one bite, one view, and one moment at a time.

Discovering flavors, experiences, & stays

What to do

San Sebastian is a city that invites exploration, whether you’re strolling its golden beaches, wandering through the atmospheric old town, or diving into its dynamic cultural life. While it’s rightly famous for food, the city also shines with architectural beauty, world-class museums, seasonal festivals, and stunning natural surroundings. From leisurely seaside promenades to art galleries and historic landmarks, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in San Sebastian. This guide highlights experiences that blend authenticity, creativity, and local insight—designed to help you connect with the city beyond the postcard views.

History & Culture

San Sebastian’s story unfolds in layers—from its royal past to its modern Basque pride. Walk through the Parte Vieja to discover historic sites in San Sebastian, including centuries-old churches, plazas, and remnants of fortified walls. Belle Époque architecture still graces the waterfront, a nod to the city’s time as a royal retreat. Local life blends history with identity, where festivals and food reflect the enduring strength of Basque culture.

Music & Dance

Live music in San Sebastian ranges from impromptu street shows to grand classical performances. The city hosts renowned events like the Musical Fortnight Festival and the San Sebastian Jazz Festival, set in stunning seaside venues. During Basque celebrations, traditional instruments and dances bring vibrant local energy to plazas and parades across the city.

Festivals

Annual festivals in San Sebastian celebrate Basque culture, cinema, and community spirit. January’s Tamborrada drums in the year with 24 hours of parades. September brings the acclaimed San Sebastian International Film Festival, drawing stars and cinephiles alike. From saint’s days to summer surf contests, the city’s cultural calendar is always full.

Art & Museums

Museums in San Sebastian balance tradition and creativity. The San Telmo Museum, housed in a 16th-century convent, offers a powerful look at Basque identity. For modern works, the Tabakalera cultural center hosts exhibitions and workshops in a former tobacco factory. Outdoor art is also key—sculptures like Chillida’s “Peine del Viento” make San Sebastian’s coastal landscape part of the gallery.

Outdoors & Nature

Outdoor activities in San Sebastian make the most of its sea-and-mountain setting. Walk the promenade around La Concha Bay, hike Monte Urgull for panoramic views, or surf the waves at Zurriola Beach. Green parks, cliffside paths, and nearby countryside offer fresh air escapes within reach—perfect for travelers who love nature and active exploring.

Food & Wine

Among the best food experiences in San Sebastian is a pintxos crawl through the Old Town, where creativity meets tradition in every bite. The city also shines with Michelin-starred tasting menus, grilled seafood, and Basque specialties like txangurro and Idiazabal cheese. Don’t miss txakoli wine—served with flair in nearly every bar.

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What & Where to Eat

San Sebastian is a paradise for food lovers, where even the most casual pintxos bar can serve up a life-changing bite. With more Michelin stars per capita than almost anywhere else in the world, this coastal city has earned its place on every culinary map. Yet it’s the vibrant bar culture and deep local traditions that truly define how San Sebastian eats. From the iconic Gilda to rich seafood stews, txuleta steaks, and Basque burnt cheesecake, the city’s flavors are bold, seasonal, and meant to be shared. Whether you’re popping into a neighborhood taberna or splurging at a Michelin-starred temple of gastronomy, eating in San Sebastian is a joyful, essential part of the experience.

Where to Stay

San Sebastian offers an exceptional range of accommodations that reflect the city’s blend of elegance, coastal charm, and contemporary design. From historic grand hotels overlooking La Concha Bay to sleek, eco-conscious stays surrounded by nature, you’ll find options that pair character with comfort. Whether you’re seeking five-star luxury, boutique intimacy, or something stylishly in between, our handpicked hotels in San Sebastian are chosen for their warm hospitality, sense of place, and easy access to the best things to do in the city.

Things to know

Language

In San Sebastian, you’ll hear both Spanish and Basque (Euskara) spoken throughout the city. Most signs appear in both languages, and locals often switch between the two with ease. While Spanish is widely spoken and understood, you’ll also hear unique Basque phrases—especially in cultural settings, local schools, and traditional events. English is commonly spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist-facing establishments, particularly in the old town and along the beachfront. Learning a few Basque greetings like Kaixo (hello) or Eskerrik asko (thank you) is always appreciated.

Currency

San Sebastian uses the euro (€), as does the rest of Spain. Credit cards are accepted at most restaurants, hotels, and shops, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases, local markets, or rural excursions. ATMs are widely available and easy to use with foreign cards. Currency exchange services are limited, so withdrawing directly from an ATM typically offers the best rates.

Credit Cards & ATMs

Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in San Sebastian, including high-end restaurants, boutique hotels, and most taxis. Contactless payments via mobile devices are also increasingly common. American Express is less widely accepted, especially at smaller pintxos bars and family-run establishments. ATMs (often labeled cajeros automáticos) are reliable and plentiful, though many charge a small withdrawal fee for foreign cards.

Climate

San Sebastian has a mild oceanic climate that brings greenery to the hills and freshness to the air. Expect warm, sunny days in summer, with highs averaging 24°C (75°F), perfect for enjoying San Sebastian’s beaches. Spring and autumn are pleasant and quieter, with moderate temperatures and fewer crowds—ideal for exploring the city’s cultural offerings and culinary scene. Winters are mild but wet, with more rain and occasional cool breezes from the Bay of Biscay. Whatever the season, pack a light jacket and an umbrella—you’ll likely use both.

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Destination tidbits

The Basque people—Euskaldunak—have lived along this stretch of coastline for millennia, long before modern Spain existed. Their language, Euskara, is a linguistic mystery: unrelated to any other in Europe and possibly the oldest still spoken on the continent. San Sebastian, or Donostia in Basque, has long been a cultural stronghold where Euskara survived despite centuries of suppression. Today, you’ll see it proudly displayed on street signs, heard in daily conversation, and celebrated in local schools and festivals. The revival of Euskara is more than a linguistic achievement—it’s a testament to the resilience and identity of a people who never let their voice fade.