Top Experiences in San Sebastián

Feel like a local while pedaling on the bidegorris (the name of the bike lanes in Basque, in reference to their red color, as bide means "lane" and gorri means "red"). You'll hop on an easy-to-ride bike and cruise around the city, visiting the most iconic spots further away from the central district. Because you'll be riding an electric bike, you don't need to use much effort to traverse the city, meaning you can explore some areas that don't appear in guide books but are essential to San Sebastián's day-to-day life.Some highlights can include visits to the La Concha (the city's iconic crescent-shaped beach), the main boulevard that stretches across San Sebastián, and the top Monte Igueldo for truly incredible bird's-eye views of the area. You'll also get to explore some of the overlooked areas of the city, including the University Quarter and the Sports Quarter. This experience is an excellent option for an introduction to the town or a way to get off the beaten path while still stopping at the must-see attractions.

Just outside of San Sebastián is a rural cheese factory that creates one of the most beloved styles of Basque cheese. This sheep farm tucked away in the countryside is where you'll learn how one of the famous local Basque cheeses is made—and, of course, taste different types after listening to the pastor detail the process. You'll also walk among the farm’s facilities with the owner, who's deeply knowledgeable about the production. When it comes time to taste, you'll pair several varieties of cheeses with local wines and cider. You're also welcome to purchase typical Basque products in the farm's quaint shop.

Hike along one of the most scenic stretches of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route with a private walking tour. The St. James Way offers an easy section outside San Sebastián, meaning you can partake in a tradition that attracts travelers worldwide. This stretch features impressive views of the rugged Basque coast and charming fishing villages, where you'll stop for a delicious lunch.The Camino de Santiago (St. James Way) is a world-renowned pilgrimage trail with several routes. The most famous one stretches across Northern Spain's coast and culminates at the shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. During the Middle Ages, this pilgrimage matched in importance with pilgrimages to Rome and Jerusalem. Today, hundreds of thousands of travelers make their way to the shrine each year. Some still complete the journey for religious purposes, but the trails in Spain have become popular with hikers, too. With the help of a private guide, you'll make your way to the coast and walk a section of the trail. This stretch is known for its incredible sea views, so enjoy the amazing Basque Coast! You'll make a few stops to learn about the area's history, culture, and religious importance and take photos of the scenery. At the end of the walk, you'll reach the quaint fishing village of Pasajes San Juan, where Victor Hugo, the French author of Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre Dame, lived and drew inspiration for his writings....

Embark on a culinary adventure through San Sebastián's Old Town, visiting six of the best pintxos bars for a full and delicious dining experience. Learn the unwritten rules of pintxos while trying local seafood, cured Iberian ham, home-marinated anchovies, and innovative dishes, all paired with regional drinks like Basque cider, sparkling wine, and barrel-aged Navarra wine. Cap off the evening with a unique local dessert and sweet wine at a restaurant that's been open since the 1950s.

Discover the rich flavors of Basque cuisine on this culinary journey through one of Spain's most picturesque coastal regions. Start by visiting the vibrant local markets to learn about the fresh ingredients that make up the area's signature dishes. Continue with visiting a traditional canning factory and learning about fishing methods spanning centuries. Wrap up this gastronomic adventure by tasting local seafood dishes paired with exquisite regional wines in a warm and welcoming traditional Basque tavern.

Dive into the culinary heart of the Basque Country on this one-of-a-kind culinary tour led by a professional chef. Everything's included on this four-hour walking tour of San Sebastián's Old Town—the birthplace of pintxos, the Basque version of tapas. Taste your way through the city, stopping at five taverns to sample this famous snack and sip traditional drinks like sidra (cider) and Txakoli wine.

Explore the beauty of San Sebastián's scenic coast and countryside with a hike along the sea cliffs and a cruise around the bay. The city is right on the beach, so you can easily escape the crowds for a bit and enjoy the surrounding nature. Your guide will take you along the Way of Saint James route to discover the beauty of the Bay of Pasaia, ending at a coastal village for a traditional lunch and a boat trip around the area.

Explore more of the Basque Region by crossing the French border via the Bidasoa River. International boundaries don't bind this unique area's history, culture, language, and traditions, and to truly discover it all, visit the charming towns of Biarritz, Bayonne, and St. Jean de Luz. Learn about the differences and similarities that span the Spanish and French sides of the historic and picturesque Basque Region.After getting picked up at your hotel in San Sebastián, you'll enjoy a comfy drive to the French border in an air-conditioned vehicle. Along the way, enjoy countryside views and listen to your guide detail the area's history. The beautiful Bidasoa River is what splits the two countries in the Basque region, but you won't notice much difference yet. On both sides of the border, the locals speak Basque and adhere to centuries of cultural traditions.Of course, there are some differences, and your guide will happily reveal them to you as you explore the cities of Biarritz and Bayonne. Historically, Biarritz was a fishing village, but it eventually became the royal family's residence in the 19th century. Visit sites like the Hotel du Palais and Casino Barrière to get glimpses of this grandiose past. Enjoy the sea views at Rocher de la Vierge and stroll the city beaches and gardens. Stroll the city's charming cobbled streets and stop at a local eatery for a delicious two-course lunch.Next, you'll reach the region's capital city, Bayonne. Start by visiting a few iconic...

Dive into the heart of Basque Country's culinary scene with a behind-the-scenes cooking class in a family-run restaurant in Old Town. Under the guidance of a professional chef, you'll learn to create four signature Basque dishes, gaining an in-depth understanding of the local food culture. Enjoy your handmade meal, paired with regional drinks like Basque cider and chilled wine. Leave with new cooking skills and recipes to recreate these special dishes at home.

You'll tour medieval villages, walk through picturesque vineyards, and taste a variety of famed wines on a day trip from San Sebastián to the historic Rioja wine region. Start by visiting the architecturally unique Marques del Riscal winery, followed by a tour of a 15th-century estate with underground wine caves. Conclude your journey with a delightful three-course lunch and exploration of the charming medieval town of Laguardia before returning to San Sebastián.

New and old, modern and historic, San Sebastián has a bit of everything, and you can explore it all with a scenic, historical, and cultural walk through the city. Your local guide will lead you along quaint streets, stopping to admire the city's beautiful hills, beaches, parks, squares, and architecture. Along the way, learn why this is one of the most captivating cities in Europe, how the sea has impacted its history and culture, and why the locals have such an affinity for contemporary art. Of course, finish your walk by chatting with your guide while enjoying pintxos (Northern Spain's version of tapas) and drinks.

One of the best ways to enjoy San Sebastián and the scenic Basque coastline is with a sailing excursion. You'll get a totally different perspective of the city, its famous bay, beach, and port, all important to the region's history and culture. This cruise includes wildlife sightings, a delicious local lunch, and regional wine, plus a swim in the bay if you wish.

Visit the idyllic Basque countryside on this local food-themed day trip. Your private driver will take you from San Sebastián south to the Goierri Region, where you'll learn about the area's farmland, slow food movement, and traditional dishes. Visit a farmers' market and then enjoy lunch at a family-owned ranch raising indigenous pigs. On your way back, stop in the town of Tolosa to try the wild game and visit the Chocolate Museum.