2 Days of Bliss in San Sebastián, Spain
Discover the culinary paradise of San Sebastián, where vibrant culture meets pristine beaches.
14 October 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
San Sebastián, located in the Basque Country of Spain, is a coastal city known for its breathtaking beaches, culinary delights, and rich history. As a tourist, you can indulge in world-renowned pintxos (Basque tapas), explore the charming Old Town with its narrow streets and picturesque buildings, and relax on the beautiful La Concha beach. With a vibrant cultural scene and Michelin-starred restaurants, this vibrant city is a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation, gastronomy, and cultural exploration.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information

- Check into the enchanting Hotel Maria Cristina 4.7
10 photos
Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian
4.7
(2559)
República Argentina K., 4, 20004 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
Lodging,Point of interest
Venerable belle epoque hotel offering river views & refined quarters, plus posh dining & a bar.
marriott.com
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, a regal paradise that once welcomed celebrities like Coco Chanel and Ernest Hemingway.
- Start your day with a coastal stroll along La Concha beach 4.7
10 photos
Beach of La Concha
4.7
(21178)
Beach of La Concha, 20007, Gipuzkoa, Spain
Natural feature,Establishment
Bustling, sandy, shell-shaped beach on the Bay of La Concha featuring restaurants & more.
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, the queen of all beaches, providing stunning vistas of the city and its surrounding mountains.
- Indulge in pintxos, the mouthwatering Basque version of tapas, at Bar Zeruko 4.4
10 photos
Bar Zeruko
4.4
(940)
•
$$
Arrandegi Kalea, 10, 20003 Donostia, Bizkaia, Spain
Bar,Restaurant
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, where their artistic creations will leave you craving for more.
- Take a funicular up to Monte Igueldo
10 photos
Igeldo
Igeldo, Donostia-San Sebastian, Gipuzkoa, Spain
Neighborhood,Political
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for breathtaking panoramic views and a nostalgic carousel ride that will transport you back to childhood.
- Wander through the historic Parte Vieja (Old Town) and immerse yourself in its narrow streets filled with vibrant shops, inviting bars, and delicious aromas.
- End your day with a sunset cruise along the picturesque Bay of La Concha 4.8
10 photos
bay of La Concha
4.8
(115)
bay of La Concha, Spain
Natural feature,Establishment
This shell-shaped bay features 2 beaches, an island & waterfront promenade with shops & artwork.
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, serenaded by the rhythmic sounds of the waves.
- Start your morning with a scrumptious breakfast at Café de la Concha 3.8
, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods will awaken all your senses.
- Visit the world-renowned San Sebastián Gastronomika Market 4.2
10 photos
San Martin Merkatua
4.2
(5400)
Urbieta Kalea, 9, 20006 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
Shopping mall,Supermarket
Dating back to 1884, this large indoor market offers produce, food items, cafes & retail stores.
sanmartinmerkatua.com
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and let your taste buds embark on a culinary odyssey filled with delectable flavors and quirky local ingredients.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the Urumea River 4.8
and admire the stunning Belle Époque architecture that lines its banks, including the iconic Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium 4.4
10 photos
Kursaal
4.4
(5819)
Zurriola Hiribidea, 1, 20002 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
Point of interest,Establishment
Translucent glass cubes housing a vast congress centre with auditoriums, event space & terraces.
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.
- Immerse yourself in Basque culture and history at the San Telmo Museum 4.5
10 photos
San Telmo Museum
4.5
(2950)
Plaza Zuloaga, 1, 20003 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
Museum,Tourist attraction
Museum of Basque ethnography, history, art & photography, plus local & global archeological finds.
santelmomuseoa.eus
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, where interactive exhibits will bring the region's past to life.
- Treat yourself to a Michelin-star dining experience at Arzak 4.7
10 photos
Arzak
4.7
(1478)
•
$$$$
Alcalde J. Elosegi Hiribidea, 273, 20015 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
Restaurant,Food
Elegant, family-run restaurant from 1897, with tasting menus specializing in modern Basque fare.
arzak.es
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, the epitome of haute cuisine mixed with avant-garde techniques and unexpected flavor combinations.
- End your evening with a nightcap at the notorious Bataplán nightclub 3.5
, where you'll dance the night away in a lively atmosphere filled with locals and visitors alike.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to San Sebastián by plane is to fly into San Sebastián Airport (EAS) which is located approximately 20 kilometers away from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or hotel shuttle to reach your destination in San Sebastián.
Car
Driving to San Sebastián is a convenient option if you prefer to have your own transportation. You can reach San Sebastián by car via the AP-8 motorway, also known as Autopista del Cantábrico. The city is well connected to the highway and has a good road network.
Train
Unfortunately, San Sebastián does not have a train station. If you prefer to travel by train, you can take a train to Hendaye, France and then transfer to a bus or taxi to reach San Sebastián. The train station in Hendaye is called Gare de Hendaye.
Boat
San Sebastián does not have a commercial port for passenger boats. However, if you prefer to travel by boat, you can take a ferry to Bilbao Port or Santander Port and then continue your journey to San Sebastián by bus, train, or car.
Bus
To get to San Sebastián by bus, you can take a long-distance bus to San Sebastián Bus Station, also known as Estación de Autobuses Donostia. Many bus companies offer routes to San Sebastián from various cities in Spain and Europe.