There’s no sweeter escape on the Basque Coast than to the beloved city of San Sebastián. And when it comes to the best things to do in San Sebastián, know that this gem with Belle Époque palaces, endless pintxos and Michelin restaurants, and sandy beaches has a bit of everything for everyone. It’s a city that grew on me during my second visit, and I’m sharing a curated guide to help plan your visit.
My only memory from the first trip to San Sebastián was as a kid riding the famed Montaña Suiza, a historic wooden rollercoaster that hugs the cliff edge of Monte Igueldo. Twenty-five years later, I’ve come back to soak up San Sebastián for eight days to discover the city as it is now. But this time I’m an adult, I have an appetite for good food, and I have my own near-5-year-old daughter in tow.
San Sebastián is busy, and a bit of planning helps, especially if you’re coming in the summer months. I see why people love the city, as its food culture is exciting and the compactness of the city makes it approachable for a weekend. But what I really loved about San Sebastián is the opportunity to get outside easily, and then combine it with the internationally recognized city’s love of good food.
When I think about some of our sweetest days in San Sebastián, there were early mornings in the local neighborhoods like Gros and Centro, with slow stops at cafes and a city stroll. There were a handful of pintxos along the way, but then the afternoon was always outside in or near nature. Outside at the beaches swimming, taking the gondola up Monte Igueldo, day trips to nearby Flysch Cliffs, and then returning after working up an appetite to get another dose of food.
It’s this combination that set San Sebastián apart for me in terms of experience. So I’ve put together a very thoughtfully crafted travel guide. In my opinion, it’s the very best things to do in San Sebastián that balance food, time outside, and the city itself. Like why you can’t miss San Telmo Museum even though so many people skip it, or maybe why you could consider it as a base for the greater region. I think you’ll love the city. Read on for my guide to San Sebastián.
Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in San Sebastián:
For a first visit, I recommend Centro for the best overall location, Parte Vieja for a quick pintxos-focused trip, and Antiguo for longer stays and families.
- Centro (City Center), best overall location for first-timers
Nobu Hotel ($$$), Villa Favorita ($$$), Hotel Arbaso ($$), Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra ($$), Hotel Catalonia Donosti ($$), Hotel Palacio Bellas Artes ($), or a 1 Bedroom Modern Apartment - Parte Vieja (Old Town), best for historic feel and pintxos
Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel ($$$$), Hotel Lasala Plaza ($$), SANSEbay Boutique Hotel ($$), Hotel Atari ($$), Room Mate Collection Gorka ($$), or a 1 Bedroom Port Views Apartment - Antiguo, best for families and beach vacations
La Galeria ($$), Hotel NH Collection Aranzazu ($$), Letoh Letoh ($), Colectia Hotel Onderreta ($), or a 2 Bedroom Apartment with AC and Parking
Things to Do
- San Sebastian Old Town Pintxos & Wine Tour Small Group Tour (3 hours)
- San Sebastian Surf Lesson & Pintxos Food Tour (4 hours)
- Quick Santa Clara Island Boat Tour (45-90 minutes)
- Small Group Gipuzkoa Coast (Zarautz, Getaria and Zumaia) Day Trip (4 hours)
- Boat Tour to Hondarribia, San Juan & San Pedro (4 hours)
- Basque Farm House and Cider Tour (6 hours)
Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip
If you’re planning a trip to San Sebastián, don’t miss my guides to where to stay in San Sebastián, where to eat in San Sebastiàn, and the best day trips from San Sebastián.
If you’re visiting more of Spain, start with my 10-day Spain itinerary and guide to the most beautiful cities in Spain. I also have everything you need for Barcelona (city guide, itinerary, where to stay, things to do, coffee, and restaurants), Madrid (where to stay), Seville (city guide, where to stay), as well as guides to Costa Brava, Granada, Andaluciá, and Córdoba.
Travel Tip: The best way to explore Basque Country is by driving yourself. We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car and driving in Spain is quite easy. Book your car with Discover Cars here.
The Ultimate Guide to San Sebastián, Spain
A Quick Look at San Sebastián’s History
When looking at San Sebastián’s history, you can’t overlook its roots as a strategic fishing port that was founded in the 12th century. It’s why today it remains a culinary focal point in the world because of its access to the Cantabrian Sea, as part of the Bay of Biscay. And while most of the city was destroyed in the Napoleonic Wars in 1813, the city was rebuilt by the Spanish royalty in the 19th century. This is where the Belle Époque architecture came into place, shaping it into the elegant seaside city it is now.
With its proud Basque heritage, San Sebastián is one of the top-visited cities in the Basque region today. The Basques are one of the oldest ethnic groups in Europe, with their own language and customs, and a few days in San Sebastián will give you a sense of their own unique culture. You’ll find posters around the city that say “You’re not in Spain, You’re not in France, You’re in Basque Country.” So while you eat pintxos, enjoy Txakoli poured high into glasses (called escanciar), and see the Basque Flags waving on the streets, remember you’re experiencing everything unique to the Basque culture.
San Sebastián Planning Tips Before You Arrive
When is the Best Time to Visit San Sebastián?
The best time to visit San Sebastián is late May through to June before the peak summer crowds and heat come. Second to that, I’d look at September to October for fall weather and fewer crowds. If you want beach weather and the warmest sea temps, the best months are July to August. Off-season is November to March.
How Many Days Should I Spend in San Sebastián?
To see and experience San Sebastián itself, you only need two full days. The city itself is quite small and compact, making it easy to see. I would recommend, however, spending at least a week in the region of San Sebastián, using it as a base for exploring more of the Basque coastal area.
How Do I Get to San Sebastián?
- By Plane — The closest airport is San Sebastián Airport (EAS), located about 14 miles (30-minute drive) from the city center in Hondarribia, and offers flights into more of Spain and some seasonal international flights. The best internationally connected airport is Bilbao Airport (BIO) at 62 miles away (1 hour 15-minute drive) and is the most popular choice for those coming from the U.S.
- By Train — Arriving by train to San Sebastián is quite easy, as the city’s main railway station, Donostia–San Sebastián Railway Station (also known as Estación del Norte), is conveniently located just a short walk from the Parte Vieja (Old Town). It has direct routes between Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao and more. You can also get to France via the Euskotren, which goes to Hendaye, and from there you switch to the SNCF Rail that will connect you to greater France.
- By Car — If you’re road tripping in the Basque region, it’s 1 hour from Bilbao and about 30 minutes from the French border. It’s a wonderful addition to a Basque itinerary. The main route is the AP-8 toll motorway, which goes from north to south between Bilbao, San Sebastián, and up to the French Border. In San Sebastián, just know that parking can often be limited, so pick out your parking garage in advance that you will park in or prearrange parking with your accommodation.
Travel Tip: For easy, reliable private transfers, we always book with Welcome Pickups. It’s a seamless way to arrange a private driver in advance for airport rides, day trips, or hotel-to-hotel transfers across Europe.
How Do I Get Around San Sebastián?
The easiest way to get around San Sebastián is by walking because it is compact, and the Old Town and Concha Beach are close together. After that, the public bus network is very convenient for getting across the city to different neighborhoods outside of the Old Town. Taxi stands are also around the city, and Uber is becoming more popular.
Travel Tip: Though there are a few designated Taxi stands (this is the main one in Old Town and this is the main one in Antiguo), we had trouble getting a taxi a couple of times and ended up using the bus and Uber. The buses were great, and our daughter loved riding around on them!
Cash and Credit Cards in San Sebastián
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted throughout the city. Cash is not frequently needed, but it’s always a good idea to carry at least 20-30 Euros on you on the odd chance a store only takes cash.
What Reservations Do I Need to Make in Advance?
As one of the most in-demand destinations in Europe right now, the highest priority is accommodations, as they’re more limited due to how small the city is. Second to that, the Michelin-star restaurants often book out months in advance, so I would snag those as quickly as possible once you know your dates.
Bilbao or San Sebastián: Which City is Nicer?
Objectively speaking, San Sebastián is a nicer city because of its seaside location and being more picturesque. Bilbao offers more art and has an edgier, proper city feel to it. The two cities are quite different in experience and cater to different trip purposes.
Where to Stay in San Sebastián
Editor’s Note: After spending a week in San Sebastián, I recommend the Centro (City Center) for the best overall location, Parte Vieja (Old Town) for a quick visit focused on pintxos, and Antiguo for longer stays and families. All three of these offer great access for the city and its culture.
Travel Tip: Read my guide on where to stay in San Sebastián for an in-depth breakdown of the different areas of San Sebastián and my recommendations for where to base yourself!
Best Hotels Near Centro
- Hotel Arbaso ($$ / My Top Choice), for amazing design and beautiful interiors
- Villa Favorita ($$$), for the best adults-only luxury hotel
- Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra ($$), for the best historic luxury hotel
Best Apartment Rentals Near Centro
- Studio Bright, Cheery Apartment with Self Check-In, for the best designed stay
- 1 Bedroom Modern Apartment with Elevator Access, for a newly renovated stay
- 1 Bedroom Cozy Apartment, for an architectural stay
- 2 Bedroom Chic Apartment Near La Concha Beach, for an elegant, family-friendly stay
Best Hotels Near Parte Vieja
- Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel ($$$$ / My Top Choice), for the best overall historic luxury hotel
- Hotel Lasala Plaza ($$$), for the best adults-only boutique hotel
- SANSEbay Boutique Hotel ($$), for the best design for dollar hotel
Best Apartment Rentals Near Parte Vieja
- 1 Bedroom Port Views Apartment, for a simple, modern stay
- 1 Bedroom Apartment in the Heart of the Old Town, for the best located stay
- 1 Bedroom Penthouse Apartment with Terrace, for the best Old Town views
- 2 Bedroom Affordable Stay, for a modern family-friendly stay
Best Hotels Near Antiguo
- La Galeria ($$), for the best beachfront hotel
- Hotel NH Collection Aranzazu ($$), for the best newer contemporary hotel
- Letoh Letoh ($) for a small, stylish hotel close to the beach
Best Apartment Rentals Near Antiguo
- 2 Bedroom Apartment with AC and Parking (Where We Stayed), for a spacious stay close to the beach
- 1 Bedroom Sea View Apartment, for incredible views of the bay
- 1 Bedroom Apartment Near the Beach, for a charming serviced apartment
- 2 Bedroom Stunning Penthouse with Terrace and Parking, for Old World vibes and views of town
- 3 Bedroom Penthouse with Stunning Views, for the best family-friendly and large group stay
The Best Things to Do in San Sebastián, Spain
Go on a Classic Pintxos Crawl: Self-Guided or By Tour
It’s safe to assume pintxos will be a big part of your time in San Sebastián, as they should be. The city is packed with pintxo bars left and right from the Old Town and into the nearby neighborhoods. My recommendation is to spend a few hours with friends or even solo, picking a half-dozen pintxo bars and getting a bite or two with a drink at each spot. I also have an entire guide to pintxos in San Sebastián to follow as well.
If you haven’t been out to the pintxo bars yet, it can be overwhelming as it’s pretty busy, so one suggestion is to consider joining a food tour for an introduction. I did a pintxo bar tour in Bilbao before getting to San Sebastián, which gave me a great starting point. The same company offers this highly rated pintxo bar tour in San Sebastián, which I definitely recommend doing if you haven’t done one yet. You’ll get to try things on the menu you may not otherwise and get a local’s understanding of Basque pintxo culture.
For a self-guided pintxo tour, the list of places I’d recommend going to in a single night and in order are:
- Casa Valles, order gildas
- La Espiga, order La Delicia pintxo and croquetas
- Bar Txepetxa, order “La Jardinera”
- BAR SPORT, order foie gras, baked crab, and sea urchin soup
- La Viña, order tarta de queso
Plan Your Visit
- Time Needed: 3+ hours
- Hours: Most pintxo bars open continuously from 11 am to 11 pm, with some running more traditional hours of lunch and dinner with a siesta between. Best to check with each directly.
Visit the San Telmo Museum
One of the more unassuming things to do in San Sebastián was a visit to the San Telmo Museum. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but once in, I was completely taken aback by how beautiful the historic convent was. As a former Dominican convent from the 16th-century, the space has been restored with this blend of historic architecture and modern extensions into the hillside of Monte Urgull. And beyond the architecture, the art it houses is fantastic. There was a collection of Miró, José María Sert Murals, and other famous Spanish artists.
Plan Your Visit
- Time Needed: 2 hours
- Hours: 10 am – 8 pm, Closed Mondays
- Cost: $11.51 Adults
Spend Time in Parte Vieja and its Siete Calles
While you’ll end up in Parte Vieja for a good portion of any pintxo bar crawl, the Old Town also has significant sights to experience while there. The famous Siete Calles, or “Seven Streets,” comprise the main part of the Old Town and are famous for being the original medieval streets of the core of the walled city. Only Calle 31 de Agosto survived the destruction during the Napoleonic Wars, so be sure to make it down this one when there.
The Parte Vieja is quite compact, with most of it surrounding the Plaza de la Constitución, the main square and once a bullfighting arena. I loved our early morning before the crowds, with a coffee in hand from Carai. There are some beautiful sights. Here’s where I’d visit:
- San Vicente Church, the oldest church in San Sebastián, dating back to the 16th century
- Mercado de la Bretxa, a historic market for regional ingredients, but know that you need to go down the escalator to get to the actual produce market
- Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus, the famous basilica that sits under Monte Urgull, built in the 18th century with a stunning Baroque facade
Plan Your Visit
- Time Needed: 2–3 Hours
- Hours: I recommend the late morning as most stores and locations won’t open until after 10 am
Take the Funicular to Monte Igueldo for Incredible Views and Rides
One of my favorite childhood memories is riding the Monte Igueldo Funicular to visit the Monte Igueldo Amusement Park, home to one of the oldest wooden roller coasters built in 1928 called “Montaña Suiza.” I still remember riding the roller coaster, which wraps around the mountainside for an incredible view back down to San Sebastián.
My recommendation is to ride the historic wooden Monte Igueldo Funicular, and start with soaking in the views over La Concha Bay. You could climb the Torreón de Monte Igueldo, but I don’t think it’s necessary as it’s virtually the same view. After, head into the Amusement Park and ride the wooden roller coaster at least once and the Rio Misterioso for a log water ride that goes around the mountain with beautiful views. If you have kids, you can easily spend a few hours here — just make sure to time the hours right because the park closes for siesta.
Plan Your Visit
- Time Needed: 3 hours, the lines can be long at the funicular
- Hours: The funicular is open 10:30 am to 9 pm every day, the amusement rides are open 11 am to 2 pm and 3:30 to 8 pm Monday through Friday, and 11 am to 8 pm on the weekend
- Cost: For the funicular, Adults Roundtrip are €5.50 and Children are €2.50 round trip and include access to the viewpoint and park area. Rides range from €2.50 to €3.00 per person, all ages.
Stroll the Promenade (Paseo de La Concha) Along La Concha Beach
Spend a late afternoon, sunset, or even early morning going for a stroll along the Paseo de La Concha promenade along La Concha Beach. It’s just over a mile from end to end and offers some of the best views of the city. I’d begin at Alderdi Eder Parkea, which sits right on the waterfront in front of City Hall (has a great carousel!) and make your way towards Ondarreta Beach. You’ll pass through Antzinako, a tunnel that has a small viewing park above it (look to the side for the entrance). It’s home to the steel statue of Rafael Balerdiren Ilarria by Eduardo Chillida, and leads to the gardens of the Miramar Palace.
Plan Your Visit
- Time Needed: 1–2 hours
- Hours: 24/7, sunset is fantastic
See the Comb of the Wind (Peine del Viento)
If you walk the promenade, you can continue out towards the final point under Monte Igueldo for one of the most famous modern sculptures in Spain. Created by Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida, he designed three steel sculptures that sit out on the sea’s edge in the 1970s. They’re made of Corten steel and weather with a rust-like look to them. The title “Peine del Viento” translates to Wind Comb, and the suggestion is that these pieces are combing the wind that enters the bay.
Plan Your Visit
- Time Needed: 15 minutes to see the sculptures themselves
- Hours: 24/7
Have a Beach Day
The beaches in San Sebastián in summer are the place to be — some days it felt like there wasn’t a grain of sand left come mid-afternoon in July, but we always found a spot. Our local beach was Ondarreta, which is tucked up against the mountain and looks into the bay. There were a few refreshment stands and in high summer, you can rent an umbrella here too. The main beach itself near the Centro is La Concha and it’s massively wide (you can always find a spot here), and only a 10-minute walk to the center. If you’re there for a few days, I recommend buying a cheap parasol at one of the convenience stores and using it while you’re there (or check if your accommodation has one you can use).
Plan Your Visit
- Time Needed: A couple of hours
- Hours: Late morning to late afternoon
- Other tips: I recommend bringing your food and towels, pick up a cheap umbrella in town
Shop Local Designers
Within the city of San Sebastián, I spent a few afternoons hunting down some local stores and designers. The shops in the city are fantastic, and a few stood out to me, particularly the designer C’est Nous. Over in the Gros neighborhood, this leather design shop specializes in handmade, buttery leather handbags and accessories, at what I thought was a good price given the quality and design. A few other stores that caught my eye while shopping for fashion were Mihise, minimil, Dr.Bloom, and THE TINY BIG SISTER.
Plan Your Visit
- Hours: Most stores open 11 am to 8 pm, with some siesta breaks. Check directly.
See the Surfers at Zurriola Beach
The Basque Coast is famous for its surf, and for all things surf, head straight to Zurriola Beach over near Gros. It’s the spot for watching surfers and taking lessons. Near Zurriola Beach is where you’ll find all of the famous surf stores as well. It’s worth popping into Pukas Surf Shop, which also runs Pukas Surf School next door if you want to book lessons. Down the street is the hip Makal Surf Shop and nearby Hawaii Donostia. If you’re looking for a lesson, I love that this tour offers morning surf lessons on Zurriola and combines it with pintxos afterwards.
Plan Your Visit
- Time Needed: A few hours
- Hours: All hours
Visit Gros Neighborhood Over the Kursaal Bridge
Whether you made it over the Kursaal Bridge to the Gros neighborhood to see the surfers at Zurriola Beach or popped over to get a bite at Gerald’s Bar, Gros has a few things to enjoy while visiting. No doubt my top boutique visited was C’est Nous, the leather design shop I mentioned earlier, and worth stopping into. The neighborhood is also home to two awesome coffee shops, Simona Specialty Coffee Club and Driper, both places we loved when visiting.
A few blocks down, there is Bidassoa Basque Brewery that serves Basque beer on tap, and the best part is it’s right in front of a kids’ playground, so it’s super family-friendly. We went one evening, and all of the locals were there drinking a few beers while kids played. While in the neighborhood, pass by Plaza Cataluña, the main square, which has the towering San Inazio Parrokia on it. And you can’t miss the burgers at Bar Desy, one of the best burgers I’ve had, made with txuleta meat and a special cream sauce.
Plan Your Visit
- Time Needed: An afternoon plus a meal
Stop by the Aquarium Donostia San Sebastián
On our last morning in the city, we decided to take our daughter to the Aquarium Donostia San Sebastián and had zero expectations other than wanting to escape the heat. The aquarium was fantastic, and we really enjoyed our time there exploring the maritime exhibits and then the aquarium portion. It was better than expected. The tunnel that goes through the shark exhibit is incredible, and the interactive spaces were great for all ages as well.
Plan Your Visit
- Time Needed: 1–2 hours
- Hours: 10 am to 8 pm every day
Take a Boat Tour to Santa Clara Island
In the middle of the bay, you’ll see a small island called Santa Clara Island. While some people will rent kayaks to get out there, you can actually take this quick Santa Clara Island Boat Tour that takes you out to the island. You can stay on the boat or get off to explore the island. There are paths around the island (it is small), the work “Hondalea ” by the sculptor Cristina Iglesias at the House of the Lighthouse to see, and a popular bar on the port side.
Plan Your Visit
- Time Needed: 1–2 hours
- Hours: tours run frequently from 11 am on
The Best Restaurants in San Sebastián, Spain
For this section, I’m breaking it down into three sections: pintxo-focused bar vs sit-down restaurants, and then a section of Michelin Star and highly-rated destination restaurants. While some are exclusively stand-up pintxo bars, some of the bars also include sit-down service, which I’ve noted in each listing. I have an entire dining guide on the best pintxos and restaurants in San Sebastián for more detailed tips!
Where to Go for Pintxos
- Bar SPORT — My absolute favorite overall pintxo bar of the trip, stop into the very popular Bar Sport for their sea urchin soup, baked crab, and foie gras. It can be busy, but wait patiently, and you will eventually get to order. There are a few tables, but best to take it outside to enjoy.
- Bar Borda Berri — Good spot to get the classic pig ears and ribs, and the spot to try risotto de idiazabal. Note: The menu changes nightly, so check ahead if you’re after something specific.
- Antonio Bar — Lovely bar with often a queue, but worth it to get a few bites here. I’d try the ventresca with tomato pintxo.
- Casa Valles — The original maker of the “gilda,” I’d come here just to try the gildas (skewer of pepper, anchovy, and olives).
- La Espiga — My single favorite bite of the trip has to be the “La Delicia” pintxo here, a combination of salt-cured anchovy with creamy mayonnaise, onion, parsley and vinegratte. They do have a lot of tables here, so you can sit and order from the bar and even “raciones,” which are plate orders.
- Ganbara — It was closed while I was there, but multiple friends recommended it for their famous wild mushroom dish with egg and the fresh razor clams.
- Bar Txepetxa — This place does only anchovies. I liked most of the dishes I tried, but the “La Jardinera” was the best one.
- Gandarias Taberna — Another classic popular spot. It’s massive, so an easy spot to get served at, and there are tables. Come for the foie gras and sea urchin soup.
- Bar Desy — One of the best burgers I’ve ever had; come for the small burgers made from juicy Basque ribeye beef (txuleta).
- La Viña — A classic for Tarta de queso. There are a few tables, but we often took it to go.
Where to Go for Sit-Down Restaurants in San Sebastián
- La Cuchara de San Telmo — While a lot of people come in for pintxos, I’d make a lunch reservation to sit in the dining room to order their famous txuleta (ribeye).
- La Cepa de Bernardo — Another spot that is popular for their bar, but they have an entire dining room which has table service. This spot is known for all things Iberian ham, and you can reserve a table here.
- Casa Urola — A landmark restaurant in San Sebastián. If you can snag a reservation here, do. It’s very creative food, but features classic ingredients from the region.
- Geralds Bar — One of the most popular modern-style restaurants (couldn’t get a res), good seasonal dishes and very small space, so do book in advance. Their steak tartare and local charcuterie are well known.
Where to Book in Advance: Best Michelin-Star and Destination Meals
- Elkano — I tried for months to get a reservation at Elkano in the nearby town of Getaria, the beloved restaurant of Anthony Bourdain. This is a 1-Michelin-star restaurant I’d seek a reservation for if you can get it. It’s primarily seafood-focused, famous for the grilled turbot and Cantabrian seafood.
- Casa Camara — One of the best meals I had in the region for Basque seafood cuisine, and only about 15 minutes from San Sebastián. You can arrive by boat into Pasaia and eat lunch inside the 17th-century house. It’s known for fresh seafood and Txangurro (baked spider crab), they even keep the lobsters live in the middle of the restaurant.
- Bodegón Asador Joxe Mari — Another nearby restaurant we adored and required months in advance reservation is Bodegón Asador Joxe Mari. Famous for how the chef grills and prepares the fish in a special olive oil and vinegar garlic sauce, it was a highlight for us.
- Asador Etxebarri — For cuisine cooked by fire, this was the other spot I wished we could have gone to. It’s 1 Michelin Star, and about an hour away from the city. Its multi-course meal is an entire experience, so be prepared to spend a few hours here.
- Arzak — The single 3 Michelin star restaurant I had saved was Arzak. The presentation and avant-garde style cuisine looked fantastic and came frequently recommended from close friends.
Where to Take a Day Trip From San Sebastián, Spain
San Sebastián’s location on the Basque Coast puts it in a prime location for taking day trips. It’s part of why we spent a full week basing ourselves in the city, as there is so much to do nearby. I have a full guide on the best day trips to take from San Sebastián and have put my favorites below:
Zumaia and Flysch Cliffs (40 Minutes by Train, 30 Minutes by Car)
Zumaia was our favorite day trip for its incredible beach and Flysch Cliffs. The town itself is quite small, but just beyond it, within walking distance from the parking streets, are its cliffs. The anchient, layered rock formations have the most incredible look. Right below is Itzurun Beach, one of our favorite beaches from the trip. While there, don’t miss a visit to San Telmo Chapel. If you want to keep it easy or don’t have a car, consider booking this small group Gipuzkoa Coast day trip, which includes a stop to see the Flysch Cliffs.
Travel Tip: Parking is a little confusing when you arrive in Zumaia. You must park on the outer edge and walk in. If you can, I’d try to find paid street parking here. Otherwise, the main parking lot is free but requires a quick ferry ride across.
Hondarribia (20 Minutes by Car, 45 Minutes by Bus)
Right near the French Border, I enjoyed visiting Hondarribia more than I expected. I chose to focus on the Old Town on the hilltop (instead of the portside), which had these beautiful cobblestone streets and preserved historic buildings. The main Plaza de Armas has a historic castle to visit, and in the distance you can see the Pyrenees. It’s really a beautiful city to visit, and if you have a car, you can pair it with a visit to towns just over the border in France, like Hendaye or Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
Don’t Have a Car? I’d look at this combination tour by boat that takes you to Hondarribia and other towns
Getaria (25 Minutes by Car, 45 Minutes by Bus)
We ended up spending the better part of an afternoon visiting the small town of Getaria (park in this paid lot or this smaller lot). While I originally wanted to get reservations at Elkano, we still went to go visit the modern Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum, which was fantastic. The Old Town and Harbor were beautiful, and its coastal location is really stunning, so it makes for a nice drive. It’s a famous town to get grilled turbot, and the restaurants in the Old Town were packed full with people eating freshly grilled seafood.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz (35 Minutes by Car)
One of my favorite French Basque towns to visit, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, would be my first choice if you’re going over the French border. It’s incredibly charming with an Old Town full of shops and restaurants. You also have the beach right there, so you can spend a morning in town, eat at a local restaurant, and then spend the rest of the day at the beach.
A Day Trip I Wished I Did: A Basque Cider House Tour
One day trip I had on my list, or rather experience since it’s just 15 minutes out of town by bus, was a visit to a local Basque cider house. It’s a super popular thing to do, but we just ran out of time. The most popular are in the town of Astigarraga, and you can even take a 15-minute taxi there. The cider house experience is all about traditional cider-house menus like grilled meats paired with barrel-poured cider. I was eyeing this Basque Farm House and Cider Tour for an all-inclusive experience.
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I use Viator, Airbnb, and Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check all three as their inventory varies depending on the destination.
4. Book Your Private Transfers
For easy, reliable private transfers, I use Welcome Pickups. It’s my go-to for arranging a driver in advance — whether it’s an airport pickup, a hotel-to-hotel transfer, or a day trip. The experience is seamless, with English-speaking drivers and upfront pricing, so you can travel stress-free at every stage of your trip.
5. Get Cell Data for Your Trip
I use Holafly for international cell data. Their unlimited data eSIMs are easy to install, activate instantly on arrival, and let you skip local SIM cards and expensive roaming fees.
6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, or cancellations).
My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:
- World Nomads (best for all-around)
- Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)
Xx,
Jessica
