A Week of Fun in San Sebastián: Family-Friendly on a Budget

San Sebastián: Where family memories and seaside wonders intertwine!

14 October 2023

San Sebastián, located on the breathtaking Basque coast of Spain, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. Known for its stunning beaches, picturesque landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, this charming city offers a variety of activities that cater to all ages. Whether it's building sandcastles on La Concha beach, exploring the historic old town, or indulging in pintxos (Basque tapas) with the little ones, San Sebastián promises a memorable and enjoyable vacation for the whole family.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Beach Bum Bliss

Check into Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra, a charming beachfront hotel with stunning views.
Hit Playa de la Concha, a pristine stretch of sand perfect for sunbathing and building epic sandcastles.
Try your luck at paddleboarding, a fun and family-friendly water activity.
Devour a scrumptious meal of fresh seafood at Bar La Espiga, where the catch of the day is always a hit.
Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque promenade of Paseo Nuevo, enjoying the crashing waves and beautiful scenery.

Day 2

Cultural Delights

Explore the historic Parte Vieja district, with its narrow streets and charming architecture.
Visit the iconic Basilica de Santa Maria del Coro and marvel at the intricate craftsmanship.
Indulge in a pintxos crawl, hopping from one bar to another to sample the delectable bite-sized culinary creations.
Immerse yourself in Basque culture at the San Telmo Museum, showcasing the region's art and heritage.
Attend a traditional Basque folk dance performance at the Gazteszena Cultural Center, a lively spectacle for all ages.

Day 3

Gastronomic Extravaganza

Begin the day with a heavenly breakfast showcasing San Sebastián's delicious pastries at Café de la Concha.
Set off on a food tour, led by a knowledgeable local guide, to discover the city's culinary secrets.
Savor the mouthwatering flavors of Txuleta, a traditional Basque steakhouse where succulent meat takes center stage.
Treat your taste buds to the creamy and flavorful delights of La Vina's famous cheesecake.
End the day with a relaxing stroll through the beautiful Buen Pastor Park, perfect for unwinding after a day of feasting.

Day 4

Nature's Retreat

Take a day trip to the nearby town of Hondarribia, known for its charming medieval streets and picturesque harbor.
Visit the stunning San Sebastian Castle, offering panoramic views of the coast and France in the distance.
Embark on a hike along the coastal paths of Monte Urgull, discovering hidden coves and breathtaking vistas.
Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning landscape of the Miramar Palace Gardens.
Unwind at Ondarreta Beach, a peaceful oasis away from the crowds, and soak in the tranquil surroundings.

Day 5

Adventurous Escapades

Start the day with an adrenaline-pumping surfing lesson at Zurriola Beach, perfect for all skill levels.
Explore the futuristic and interactive exhibits at the Eureka! Zientzia Museoa, making science fun for everyone.
Unleash your competitive side with a game of traditional Basque pelota at the Jai Alai Fronton.
Treat the kids to a day of thrills and excitement at the Monte Igueldo amusement park, offering stunning views from its iconic vintage Ferris wheel.
Indulge in a farewell dinner at Arzak, a world-renowned Michelin-starred restaurant, for an unforgettable and magical culinary experience.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.