Discover Donostia: A 4-Day Dream Trip

Discover the beauty of Donostia without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Donostia, also known as San Sebastian, is a beautiful coastal city in Spain that can be explored on a limited budget. Enjoy delicious pintxos, small tasty snacks, for a budget-friendly meal. Take in the city's stunning architecture by walking or biking around instead of taking taxis or public transportation. Plan ahead to find affordable accommodations, such as hostels or inexpensive hotels outside the city center.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Donostia!

  • Check in at Hotel Avenida, conveniently located in the heart of the city
  • Stroll along the Concha beach and take in the stunning views
  • Visit the Museum of San Telmo, where history and art come together
  • Try some pintxos (local tapas) at Bar Zeruko, a local favorite
  • Catch the sunset from Monte Urgull, a hilltop fortress with panoramic views
Day 2

Flavorful Discoveries

  • Enjoy a traditional breakfast at Bar Sport, famous for their churros and hot chocolate
  • Visit the Mercado de la Bretxa, a food market with local products and delights
  • Take a cooking class at the Basque Culinary Center and learn to make pintxos
  • Savor pintxos and local cider at Sagardi, known for its high-quality ingredients and presentation
  • End the night with a drink at Bar Txurrut, a cozy and authentic Basque bar
Day 3

Culture and Art

  • Explore the old town and its charming medieval streets and architecture
  • Visit the San Vicente Church, an important religious site with a beautiful baroque facade
  • Admire contemporary art at the famous Chillida-Leku museum, showcasing the works of Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida
  • Take a walk through the gardens of the Palacio Miramar, a majestic palace overlooking the sea
  • Dine at Restaurante La Cepa, serving traditional Basque cuisine with a modern twist
Day 4

Mountains and Sea

  • Go for a hike in the nearby Pagoeta Natural Park, where nature meets history and culture
  • Visit the Balenciaga Museum, dedicated to fashion designer Cristobal Balenciaga
  • Take a swim at the Zurriola beach, a popular spot for surfing and water sports
  • Have a drink at La Perla Spa, a historic spa with a terrace offering magnificent ocean views
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Bar Nestor, famous for its mouth-watering steak and rustic atmosphere
  • Donostia may be small, but it is packed with charm, beauty and flavor. It's a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking a unique and authentic experience.

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.

More travel plans

Surf, Pintxos, Art, and Wine in Donostia

Donostia, also known as San Sebastian, offers plenty of budget-friendly options for travelers. By staying in a hostel or small guesthouse outside of the city center, visitors can save money on accommodations. Additionally, exploring the city by foot or using public transportation, such as the bus or metro, is an affordable way to see the sights and enjoy the delicious pintxos, or tapas, that Donostia is famous for.

Donostia Delights: The Ultimate 5 Day Family Adventure

Donostia, Spain, also known as San Sebastian, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From exploring the charming Old Town, to indulging in mouthwatering pintxos, to spending quality time on the beautiful La Concha beach, Donostia offers a memorable experience for families.

Basque Adventures: A Family-Friendly Day in Donostia!

Donostia, also known as San Sebastián, is a beautiful coastal city in northern Spain that offers a perfect setting for a family-friendly trip. With its stunning beaches, delicious food, and a range of kid-friendly activities, Donostia has something for everyone. Spend your days building sandcastles on La Concha Beach, enjoying the panoramic views from Monte Igueldo, or exploring the interactive exhibits at the San Telmo Museum.

3 Days in Donostia: Beaches, Bites & Bliss

Donostia, located in the Basque region of Spain, is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning beaches, remarkable architecture, and unmatched gastronomy. While traveling on a limited budget, visitors can enjoy the city's vibrant culture by exploring its picturesque streets and indulging in its renowned pintxos (small bites of food). With affordable accommodation options and free activities such as hiking Mount Urgull or exploring the city's parks, Donostia is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers.