Donostia Delights: A Perfect 4-Day Escape to Spain

Experience the seaside charm and gastronomic delights of Donostia on your next adventure.

22 April 2023

Donostia, also known as San Sebastian, is a picturesque coastal city located in the Basque Country of Spain. As a tourist, you can enjoy the stunning beaches, explore the charming old town, and indulge in the delicious Basque cuisine, particularly pintxos (tapas). You can also take a stroll along the La Conche Beach or hike to the top of Monte Urgull for breathtaking views of the city.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information

Day 1

Beaches and Pintxos

Check in at Hotel Maria Cristina, an elegant landmark hotel in the heart of San Sebastian
Take a stroll down La Concha beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe
Indulge in some pintxos, the Basque country's version of tapas, at Bar Zeruko, known for its creative flavors and stylish presentation
Explore the old town, or Parte Vieja, with its charming narrow streets and historic buildings
End the day with a cocktail at La Gintoneria Donostiarra, a trendy bar with a wide selection of gin and tonics

Day 2

Mountains and Cider

Take a bus to the picturesque village of Astigarraga, known for its cider houses and stunning landscapes
Hike in the nearby Mount Ulia, a natural park with panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay
Have a traditional Basque lunch at Sagardotegi Petritegi, where you can taste homemade cider straight from the barrel
Visit the Chillida Leku Museum, showcasing the works of Eduardo Chillida, one of the region's most famous sculptors
Enjoy the sunset at Miramar Palace, a former royal residence with lush gardens and stunning views of the sea

Day 3

Culture and Cuisine

Visit San Telmo Museum, housed in a 16th-century convent and exhibiting Basque art, history and culture
Learn how to cook Basque dishes at a cooking class with Mimo San Sebastian, a renowned culinary school
Have a gourmet lunch at Arzak, a three Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and stunning presentation
Explore the modernist architecture of the city, including the Kursaal Congress Center and the Cristina Enea Park
Sample some of the best pintxos in town at Gandarias, a popular bar with a vast selection of local and international flavors

Day 4

Wine and Surf

Take a day trip to Getaria, a charming fishing village famous for its fresh seafood and txakoli wine
Visit the Balenciaga Museum, dedicated to the life and work of the influential fashion designer Cristobal Balenciaga
Go for a surf lesson at Zarautz, a popular surfing spot with long stretches of sandy beach
Have a romantic dinner at Akelarre, a three Michelin-starred restaurant with breathtaking views of the coast
End the night with a cocktail at Bataplan Disco, a legendary nightclub with a vibrant atmosphere and DJ sets until dawn

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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