San Sebastian’s Old Town (Parte Vieja) is the epicenter of Basque gastronomy, where pintxo bar hopping is a must-do cultural and culinary adventure. Pintxos—small, elaborate bites often served on bread—are displayed on bustling counters, drawing locals and visitors alike. Begin your evening around 6 or 7 PM to enjoy freshly prepared delicacies without large crowds. Each bar has its signature offerings: some excel in traditional classics like Gilda (anchovy, olive, and pepper skewer) or bacalao al pil-pil, while others push culinary boundaries with modern creations featuring foie gras, truffles, or local mushrooms.The pintxo crawl is casual yet ritualistic: order a drink such as txakoli (a slightly sparkling white wine), Basque cider, or a small beer, choose one or two pintxos, savour them, and move on to the next spot. It’s common to eat standing at counters while engaging in conversation. You can either point to pintxos displayed or request freshly made hot dishes from a chalkboard menu. Pay as you leave and enjoy the warm, friendly service.For a well-rounded evening, mix iconic bars with lesser-known gems hidden down side alleys, where chefs experiment with seasonal produce like piquillo peppers, fresh anchovies, or Idiazabal cheese. The Old Town itself adds to the experience with its narrow streets, lively plazas, and rustic interiors lined with wine barrels and photos of generations past.To make the most of your crawl, plan a route based on proximity to minimize walking, sample two or three pintxos per bar, and stay hydrated. Arriving early avoids queues at popular venues, while later hours deliver an energetic, buzzing scene. By the end of the night, you’ll have tasted a spectrum of Basque flavours, from timeless bites to cutting-edge creations, while immersing yourself in a dining culture celebrated worldwide.

For a contemporary and youthful vibe, head to Gros, San Sebastian’s trendiest district, known for surf culture and creative nightlife. This neighbourhood across the Urumea River is a hotspot for late-night tapas, craft cocktails, and live music. Start your evening at tapas bars serving dishes with a twist: ceviche-inspired seafood, grilled scallops, or octopus salads paired with local craft beers. Gros’s atmosphere is casual yet vibrant, attracting both locals and international travellers.Next, visit wine bars offering curated Basque and international selections, where sommeliers suggest perfect pairings for small plates. As the night progresses, step into cocktail lounges specialising in Basque botanicals, unique gins, and artisanal spirits. Signature cocktails often feature citrus, wild herbs, or regional liqueurs. Gros is also filled with artistic cafés doubling as music venues, creating a lively yet intimate vibe.Follow recommendations from bartenders to uncover hidden gems like speakeasy-style bars or pop-up food trucks. For a late-night snack, stop by pintxo stalls serving bocadillos, Basque tortilla, or churros before heading back. Gros’s nightlife caters to all tastes, whether you prefer a buzzing bar scene or quieter wine lounges.Tips: check bar opening hours—many open late—and plan your route around Gros’s central squares for easy bar-hopping. While Gros is safe, always watch your belongings in crowded venues. Experiencing Gros at night showcases San Sebastian’s creative, modern identity, complementing the Old Town’s historic charm. It’s the perfect way to enjoy Basque flavours, music, and culture well into the evening.

La Concha Beach, with its iconic crescent-shaped shoreline and soft golden sands, is one of Europe’s most beautiful urban beaches. Start your day early to claim a prime spot and enjoy the calm morning atmosphere, perfect for a refreshing swim in the bay’s sheltered waters. The elegant promenade offers sweeping views of Monte Igueldo and Santa Clara Island and is ideal for morning jogs, cycling, or leisurely strolls.Ondarreta Beach, just west of La Concha, offers a more tranquil vibe, popular with families thanks to its shallow waters and safe swimming areas. Rent beach umbrellas or paddleboards, or simply relax with a good book while kids play. For a scenic adventure, walk along the coastal path from Ondarreta toward Monte Igueldo. This shaded route offers benches and panoramic viewpoints perfect for photos. At the funicular station nearby, take the historic cable car to the summit for spectacular vistas and a charming amusement park.Afternoons at La Concha are lively but never overwhelming, with locals and tourists mingling. Cafés and kiosks nearby serve sandwiches, ice creams, and chilled drinks, or you can bring your own picnic. Lifeguards are present during peak summer months, and safety flags indicate water conditions.Finish your day with a sunset walk along the promenade, as the sky glows in shades of pink and gold over the bay. Combining sunbathing, water activities, and scenic exploration, La Concha and Ondarreta Beaches provide a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, showcasing San Sebastian’s coastal elegance.

San Sebastian’s twin hills, Monte Urgull and Monte Igueldo, provide panoramic views and a glimpse into the city’s history and natural beauty. Start at Monte Urgull, located behind the Old Town. Its winding paths lead past fortress walls, cannons, and plaques recounting San Sebastian’s defensive role over centuries. The climb is shaded and moderate, suitable for most visitors. At the summit, you’ll find Castillo de la Mota’s ruins and a towering Christ statue offering breathtaking views of La Concha Bay, the Old Town, and the city skyline.After descending, enjoy a break at the bustling port, where seafood restaurants serve freshly caught fish. Next, head to Monte Igueldo, which offers a different experience. While hiking is an option, most visitors opt for the century-old funicular railway that ascends through forested slopes. At the summit, the lookout terraces provide sweeping views over San Sebastian and the Cantabrian Sea, while the vintage amusement park adds nostalgic charm for families.Surrounding walking paths on Monte Igueldo reveal quieter viewpoints perfect for photography or birdwatching. Start early to enjoy cooler weather and avoid crowds, or visit in the late afternoon for golden-hour light.Bring water, snacks, and a light jacket, as coastal winds can be unpredictable. Combining Monte Urgull and Monte Igueldo in one day provides a perfect mix of culture, activity, and scenery, allowing travellers to appreciate San Sebastian’s unique geography and historic significance from two unforgettable vantage points.

San Sebastian’s Old Town is a living museum of history and culture, with every street revealing stories from its fishing village origins to its royal resort days. Begin your exploration at Plaza de la Constitución, a large square framed by arcaded buildings. Once a bullring, its numbered balconies remain a unique feature. From here, stroll the cobblestone lanes toward the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus, a striking Baroque church with intricate carvings.Visit San Telmo Museum, housed in a former Dominican convent, to learn about Basque culture, maritime heritage, and art. Exhibits blend history with modern installations, making it engaging for all visitors. The Old Town’s streets are also lined with artisan shops selling ceramics, textiles, and traditional Basque goods.Photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities: colourful facades, fishermen’s boats in the port, and hidden courtyards. Join a guided walking tour for deeper insight into the city’s transformation, from wartime destruction to Belle Époque elegance, and its emergence as a culinary capital.For a break, stop at a traditional café or pintxo bar to enjoy local flavours. Mornings are ideal for quiet exploration, while afternoons bring energy as restaurants and shops fill with locals.End your tour at the bustling port to watch fishermen at work or take in sunset views. San Sebastian’s Old Town offers more than just beauty—it’s a testament to the Basque spirit, where centuries-old traditions coexist with vibrant modern life.

San Sebastian’s cultural calendar is packed with festivals that showcase the city’s energy, creativity, and Basque traditions. In January, the Tamborrada Festival fills the streets with the rhythmic sound of drums as locals in traditional dress celebrate the city’s founding. July’s Jazz Festival brings world-class musicians to open-air stages along the waterfront, creating an unforgettable atmosphere under summer skies.In September, the San Sebastian International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and celebrities from around the globe. Screenings, red carpets, and premieres take place across the city, offering visitors a taste of international cinema. Food lovers should time their visit with local gastronomic events, which feature wine tastings, seafood fairs, and chef-led demonstrations.Beyond major festivals, smaller gatherings like folk dance performances, rural sports competitions, and street concerts bring authenticity and community spirit. During these events, experience Basque culture first-hand by sampling traditional dishes and participating in workshops.Booking accommodation early is essential during festival seasons, as the city gets busy. Dress codes vary: casual attire suits outdoor concerts, while film events may require smarter outfits.Even outside festival months, cultural venues like Kursaal and Victoria Eugenia Theatre host concerts, plays, and exhibitions year-round. These events make San Sebastian a cultural hub regardless of season, offering travellers a unique opportunity to engage deeply with the city’s creative heart..

San Sebastian’s central location makes it a perfect base for day trips showcasing the diversity of the Basque Country. Start with Hondarribia, a fortified town near the French border known for colourful houses, cobbled streets, and a bustling harbour lined with seafood restaurants. Spend a morning exploring its medieval old quarter before enjoying a plate of freshly grilled fish priced affordably in British pounds.Continue to Getaria, a picturesque fishing village famous for its txakoli vineyards and ties to fashion legend Cristóbal Balenciaga. Visit the Balenciaga Museum to admire haute couture collections and then enjoy a scenic coastal walk along the promenade.For culture lovers, a full-day trip to Bilbao is a must. Explore the iconic Guggenheim Museum, stroll the revitalised riverfront, and indulge in pintxos at Mercado de la Ribera. Travel time is under two hours by car or train, making it easy to combine art, food, and sightseeing.Nature enthusiasts should not miss Zumaia’s Flysch Cliffs, a geological wonder where dramatic rock formations tell the story of millions of years of Earth’s history. Guided hikes are recommended for safety and deeper insight. Alternatively, venture inland to Rioja Alavesa wine country for vineyard tours, tastings, and panoramic views of rolling hills.French Basque towns like Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz are also within reach, offering elegant beaches, boutique shopping, and a taste of French culture.Plan your trips carefully: pack light, book winery visits in advance, and check weather forecasts for hiking days. Public transport, car rentals, and guided tours all offer convenient options, depending on your schedule.These day trips highlight the Basque Country’s diversity—historic villages, cutting-edge cities, stunning coastlines, and world-class gastronomy—adding depth and variety to any San Sebastian holiday.

To experience San Sebastian beyond its beaches and restaurants, dive into authentic activities that connect you to Basque culture. Start with a pintxo cooking class, where local chefs teach the art of balancing flavours on a single bite. Sessions often include market visits to Mercado de la Bretxa, where you’ll select fresh seafood, peppers, and local cheeses.For outdoor enthusiasts, join a cycling or kayaking tour along the coastline, uncovering secluded coves and hearing stories of fishing traditions. Alternatively, book a Basque language workshop for a deeper appreciation of Euskara, a unique and ancient language still widely spoken.Craft lovers can try their hand at pottery, basket weaving, or woodcarving workshops hosted in nearby villages. These intimate classes offer a glimpse into centuries-old craftsmanship while supporting local artisans. In summer, join sunrise yoga sessions on La Concha Beach, or participate in a vineyard tour and grape harvest in Rioja Alavesa during autumn.Cultural centres across the city often host folk music and dance performances, offering a front-row seat to vibrant traditions. For a meaningful experience, sign up for community-driven initiatives such as coastal clean-ups or farm-to-table cooking projects that support sustainability.Tips: wear comfortable clothes for hands-on activities, bring a reusable shopping bag for markets, and book workshops early as group sizes are small. By stepping off the tourist trail, you’ll form real connections with locals, gain insight into Basque culture, and leave with unique skills and stories that make your visit truly unforgettable.