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, a regal paradise that once welcomed celebrities like Coco Chanel and Ernest Hemingway.
- Start your day with a coastal stroll along La Concha beach, 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, where their artistic creations will leave you craving for more.
- Take a funicular up to Monte Igueldo 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, serenaded by the rhythmic sounds of the waves.
- Start your morning with a scrumptious breakfast at Café de la Concha, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods will awaken all your senses.
- Visit the world-renowned San Sebastián Gastronomika Market 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 and admire the stunning Belle Époque architecture that lines its banks, including the iconic Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium.
- Immerse yourself in Basque culture and history at the San Telmo Museum, where interactive exhibits will bring the region's past to life.
- Treat yourself to a Michelin-star dining experience at Arzak, 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, 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.
