Overview
- Top sights: What to do in and around San Sebastian
- What to do in San Sebastian at night
- Visit the most beautiful urban beach in Europe
Top sights: What to do in and around San Sebastian
San Sebastian offers a picturesque blend of natural beauty, rich history and modern attractions. Known for its beaches, Michelin-starred restaurants and vibrant festivals, the city caters to all types of travellers, especially those who love a view. This destination is a feast for the eyes with vistas from all angles to satisfy you. With a population of approximately 186,665, San Sebastian offers a great atmosphere and friendly locals... time to pack your suitcase.
La Concha Beach is often cited as one of the most beautiful city beaches in Europe. Its crescent shape and golden sand make it a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming and taking leisurely strolls along the promenade. Due to its sheltered location, you can almost guarantee good conditions making it a popular destination for ocean kayaking.
The Old Town, or Parte Vieja, is the historic heart of San Sebastian. Wander through its narrow streets, visit the San Vicente Church and enjoy the bustling atmosphere. Don’t forget to indulge in pintxos, the local version of tapas, in one of the many bars.
Architecture lovers will be enamored by the citie's 16th-century Gothic style church, an 18th-century Baroque Basilica, Belle Époque buildings, palaces, Rationalist buildings and contemporary buildings. For a small area, San Sebastian offers an abundance of architecture to uncover.
Although classified as a hill at just 123 meters at its peak, Monte Urgull offers a breathtaking viewpoint of the bay at height. Hike up to the summit for panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Biscay. Along the way, explore historic sites such as the Castillo de la Mota and the iconic Sagrado Corazón statue.
For a deeper understanding of Basque culture and history, visit the San Telmo Museum. Located in a former Dominican convent, the museum showcases a diverse collection of exhibits, including contemporary art and historical artifacts.
5. Day Trip from San Sebastian
For the foodies, consider taking a day trip out of town. The stunning Basque countryside is well worth exploring if you have the time. The coastal town of Getaria is famous for its seafood and pairs well with txakoli wine (of which the area is known). Deemed as one of the most beautiful villages in the Basque Country on the Spanish side, it occupies a small peninsula and gives the impression of being on an island in the middle of the ocean.
Txakoli or chacolí wine is a slightly sparkling, very dry white wine with high acidity and low alcohol content produced in the Spanish Basque Country.
What to do in San Sebastian at night
San Sebastian’s nightlife is as vibrant as its daytime attractions. With breakfast included on your tour, venture out and dine in the evening wherever you choose - Due to its size, San Sebastian is easy to explore on foot.
Dine at one of San Sebastian’s many Michelin-starred restaurants or opt for some low-key pintxos, which are small snacks similar to tapas, typically enjoyed in bars.
There are four main nightlife areas in San Sebastian:
1. The Old Town, a lively and diverse selection of bars and pubs
2. Reyes Católicos, the chic area of town, which features trendy bars and music
3. Egia for a micro-theatre and live music
4. The Gros district features a mix of traditional and modern dining and bars
Visit one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe
San Sebastian is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, a beach lover or a history buff, you’ll find plenty to do in this charming city. Discover the itineraries for our Northern Spain & Portugal and Spain in Depth tours to experience all that San Sebastian offers on a small group tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What food is San Sebastian known for?
San Sebastian is renowned for its pintxos, which are small snacks typically enjoyed in bars. The city also has a high concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants.
When is the best time to visit San Sebastian?
The best time to visit San Sebastian is from June to September when the weather is warm and there are many festivals and outdoor activities.
Why is San Sebastian so famous?
San Sebastián is a resort town on the Bay of Biscay in Spain’s mountainous Basque Country. It’s known for Playa de la Concha and Playa de Ondarreta, beaches framed by a picturesque bayfront promenade. Often considered one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe, it's sheltered from the Atlantic Ocean by Mount Urgull and Mount Igueldo making it perfect for swimming, kayaking and sunbathing.
