The Ultimate 2-Day Donostia Beach Getaway

Experience the best of Basque Country in Donostia!

03 May 2023

Donostia, also known as San Sebastian, is a beautiful coastal city in Spain's Basque Country. Visitors can enjoy the stunning beaches, indulge in delicious pintxos (tapas), and explore the city's rich cultural heritage. Must-see attractions include the historic Old Town, the iconic La Concha beach, and the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao located just a short drive away.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Beaches and Pintxos Galore

  • Stay at the Hotel Londres, with its stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay.
  • Start the day with a stroll along La Concha Beach, one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe.
  • Grab a coffee and a pastry at the famed La Boule on Boulevard Zumardia.
  • Experience the culinary culture of the Basque region with pintxos (small bites) at Bar Sport and Bar Txepetxa.
  • Visit Monte Urgull for breathtaking views of the city, and a chance to explore the castle and lighthouse.
Day 2

Art, Architecture, and Cider

  • Head to the Museum of San Telmo to learn about Basque culture, art, and history.
  • Walk along the river to see the sleek and modern Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium.
  • Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria del Coro, a stunning example of Gothic and Baroque architecture.
  • Experience Basque cider and traditional cuisine at Sagardoetxea, with its beautiful apple orchards and cider house.
  • End the night with a walk through the lively Old Town, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and street performers.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Donostia by plane is to fly into San Sebastian Airport, which is located approximately 22 kilometers from the city center.

Car

Driving to Donostia is a good option if you're traveling from within Spain or France. The A-8 motorway connects San Sebastian with Bilbao, Santander, and Bordeaux. However, be aware that parking in the city center can be difficult and expensive.

Train

There is a train station in Donostia, called Estación de San Sebastián. The best way to get there is to take a train from any major Spanish city, such as Madrid or Barcelona.

Boat

There isn't a direct way to get to Donostia by boat, but you can take a ferry from the UK to Bilbao or Santander and then take a bus or train to Donostia.

Bus

A convenient way to get to Donostia is by bus. The best option is to take a bus from Bilbao, as there are several daily services that run between the two cities. The bus station in Donostia is called Estación de Autobuses de Donostia.

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