Donostia Delights: The Ultimate 5 Day Family Adventure
Experience the vibrant charms of Donostia, Spain – a family adventure awaits.
19 July 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the charming Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra, overlooking the stunning La Concha Bay.
- Hit the beach! Grab a colorful towel, slather on some sunscreen, and dive into the sparkling, turquoise waters for a refreshing swim.
- Learn to ride the waves like a pro with surfing lessons from Pukas Surf Eskola.
- Stroll along the vibrant promenade, taking in the lively atmosphere and street performers.
- Indulge in a glass (or two) of tangy Basque Txakoli wine and savor some mouthwatering pintxos at the traditional Bar Nestor.
- Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the bustling Mercado de la Bretxa, where you can find fresh local produce and specialty products.
- Dive into the world of Basque cuisine with a cooking class at San Sebastian Food.
- Embark on a pintxos adventure in the charming Parte Vieja, hopping from one bar to another, savoring these bite-sized culinary creations.
- Treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at the world-renowned Arzak, where culinary magic happens with every bite.
- End the day with a sweet treat at La Viña, famous for its indulgent, burnt Basque cheesecake.
- Visit the futuristic-looking Kursaal, a cultural center hosting a variety of artistic and musical performances.
- Immerse yourself in the rich history of San Sebastián by exploring the San Telmo Museum, housed in a former Dominican convent.
- Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Old Town, admiring its well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Delve into the world of contemporary art at the Chillida-Leku Museum, set amidst beautiful Basque countryside.
- Catch a movie at the historic and charming Teatro Principal, where classics and independent films are screened.
- Head to Monte Urgull, a hill overlooking the city, for breathtaking panoramic views and a dose of history.
- Explore the enchanting Peine del Viento (Comb of the Wind), a sculptural masterpiece by Eduardo Chillida.
- Escape to the tranquil beauty of Mount Igeldo, where you can ride a funicular up to the top for more sweeping vistas.
- Enjoy a delightful picnic in one of San Sebastián's many parks, such as the lush Miramar Gardens.
- Embark on a family-friendly hike in the nearby Pagoeta Nature Reserve, home to picturesque forests, stunning waterfalls, and wildlife.
- Treat yourself to a well-deserved pampering session at one of San Sebastián's renowned spas, such as La Perla Talaso-Sport.
- Escape the city and spend the day lounging on the golden sands of Zurriola Beach, loved by locals and surfers alike.
- Explore the impressive Basque Aquarium, where you can marvel at an array of marine creatures and learn about the region's diverse ecosystems.
- Indulge in some retail therapy in the elegant boutiques of the city center, such as Avenida de la Libertad.
- Bid farewell to San Sebastián by savoring a final sunset cocktail at the glamorous Belle Époque-style Café La Perla.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.