1. La Concha beach
One of Europe’s most famous city beaches, a shell-shaped bay with a promenade and an island in the middle.
2. Pintxos in the Parte Vieja
Bar-hop in the old town for pintxos: small bites on the counter plus hot dishes cooked to order. Have one or two in each bar and move on.
3. Monte Igueldo
Ride the old funicular up for the classic view of the bay and a small vintage amusement park.
4. Monte Urgull
The hill at the end of the old town with walking paths, a castle and a large Christ statue.
5. Peine del Viento
Eduardo Chillida’s iron sculptures set into the rocks at the end of Ondarreta beach, where waves crash.
6. Zurriola beach
The surfers’ beach in the Gros neighbourhood, with its own pintxos bars.
7. San Telmo Museum
A museum of Basque society and history in a former convent.
Day trips from San Sebastián (Donostia)
- Hondarribia: about 30 minutes by car or bus.
- Getaria: about 30 minutes by car.
- Bilbao: about 1h15 by bus.
- Biarritz, France: about 45 minutes by car.
What to eat
- Gilda (the original pintxo)
- Grilled turbot in Getaria
- Basque cheesecake
- Txakoli wine
Tip: Book well ahead for the city’s famous high-end restaurants.
Planning to stay longer? Read our full San Sebastián (Donostia) guide and where to stay in San Sebastián (Donostia).
