Top things to do in San Sebastian: the ultimate travel guide

San Sebastian reveals itself as a destination where natural beauty, living history, and vibrant culture come together to offer an unforgettable experience. Its coastline bathed by the Cantabrian Sea, its soulful and traditional neighborhoods, and its world-renowned gastronomy create a landscape that invites a slow, sensory exploration.

1. Walk along La Concha beach from end to end

La Concha Beach has rightfully earned the title of the most beautiful urban beach in Europe. It is undoubtedly the purest and most emblematic maritime soul of Donostia, stretching 1,300 meters up to its boundary with the Miramar Palace and Ondarreta Beach. The promenade, which can be started, for example, at the City Hall or the port, dazzles with the elegance of its white railings designed by Juan Rafael Alday and the more than 100 different street lamps lining the path. These elements are expressions of modernism and elegance that, in the early 20th century, began to shape the city's international fame.

Walking along the promenade, whether on the stone pavement or the sandy beach (when the tide allows), is a fabulous way to discover the shapes and ways of a city that reflects itself daily in this true mirror of the Cantabrian Sea.

2. Sit and gaze at the horizon from a bench in Miramar Palace Park

At the exact border between La Concha and Ondarreta rises a green mound where the Miramar Palace is located, a beautiful building in classic English architecture that served as the summer residence for Queen Maria Cristina and other royal family members for nearly a century. Today, it serves as the headquarters for the University of the Basque Country's Summer Courses and the Higher Music Center. Designed as a true British cottage, it is one of the most distinctive buildings in the city, surrounded by a tree-filled park where people go for walks, relaxation, or exercise.

From the park benches, one can contemplate La Concha, Ondarreta, and the lush Santa Clara Island, gifting the eyes with an incomparable natural spectacle.

3. Watch the sea being combed at Ondarreta by Chillida’s masterpiece

Where Ondarreta Beach meets the last land frontier of La Concha Bay stands one of the masterpieces of Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida: The Comb of the Wind (Peine del Viento). This set of three large steel pieces embedded in the rocks has been cleaning the horizons of the Cantabrian Sea for over three decades. Chillida humorously once said that "the sea has to enter San Sebastian already combed," after watching the waves undulate their crests and foam sparkle over the breakers.

The Comb of the Wind is a gathering point for locals who walk to the end of the promenade to witness how the raging ocean turns into pure beauty from the steps built for enjoying grand spectacles. This place is the sea wrapped in gift paper—a place where eyes never close to listen to Basque songs blending with the rocks.

4. Take the funicular up to Monte Igueldo and enjoy the views

Since 1912, a historic funicular has taken visitors to the top of Monte Igueldo, offering exceptional panoramic views of La Concha Bay and the city. With a very affordable cost (€3.75 round trip, €2.50 for children up to 7 years old), departures every fifteen minutes, and daily operation except Wednesdays in winter, this plan is accessible and recommended throughout the year.

At the summit, a family amusement park and a medieval tower that once functioned as a lighthouse complement the visit, making Monte Igueldo a must-see destination.

5. What to see in San Sebastian? Fall in love with the Old Town

San Sebastian’s Old Town (Parte Vieja) is a mosaic of history and flavor, where the Plaza de la Constitución stands out with its numbered balconies reminding of its days as a bullring. The streets resonate every year with the legendary Tamborrada during festivities and remain a preferred meeting spot for locals before heading out to enjoy wine and the delicious pintxos along 31 de Agosto Street.

For art lovers, it’s worth noting the religious axis (Loyola-Hernani-Calle Mayor) which faces two essential religious complexes: the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, in neo-Gothic style with towers visible from anywhere in the city, and the Basilica of Santa María del Coro, with its extraordinary Baroque-Rococo façade illuminating Calle Mayor since the 18th century.

6. Indulge in pintxos in the Old Town

Tourism is wonderful but can be tiring. To recharge and live the essence of Donosti, observe what locals do when it's time for lunch or, rather, for the aperitif: go out for pintxos. The Old Town boasts such a density of bars per square meter that it’s hard to decide where to start. The best way is to look for bustling spots and let yourself be seduced by a well-arranged bar filled with culinary masterpieces accompanied by a txikito (small glass of wine) or a zurito (small beer), as tradition dictates.

There are taverns offering pintxos ranging from traditional to avant-garde, from economical to pricey, depending on taste and budget. Fortunately, many excellent alternatives exist to make a pintxo crawl one of the best experiences during a San Sebastian getaway.

Starting on 31 de Agosto Street is a great idea since it hosts some historic spots. Personal favorites include Bar Gandarias (31 de Agosto, No. 23) for its quality and friendly service, Atari Gastroteka (Calle Mayor 18, opposite Basilica of Santa María) with its attractive design, and Bar Txepexa (Pescadería 5) crafting wonders with Cantabrian anchovies.

With such variety, it may take countless visits to claim to have tasted the best pintxos in the city. Websites like todopintxos.com provide fresh and comprehensive guides, ideal for planning a pintxo route without missing gems. Thanks to local friend Anne Vadillo for leading the way—a local’s insight always enriches the experience.

7. Discover the romantic San Sebastian of the Belle Époque

The shadow of the Belle Époque in Donostia is long. One quickly realizes the city’s resemblance to 19th-century Paris by observing a few facades or strolling its boulevards. Clear examples include the City Hall, located in what was once an old casino where the rich played high stakes. Operating from 1897 until gambling was banned in 1924, it transformed from “Montecarlo” to the city’s administrative hub.

But the Belle Époque influence extends beyond the old casino. Jump from the Victoria Eugenia Theatre to the shores of the Urumea River and marvel at the facades of this “Petit Paris” of the South. The Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa, Hotel María Cristina designed by Charles Mewes (also responsible for Madrid’s Ritz), which annually hosts stars invited to the San Sebastian Film Festival, and the beautiful María Cristina Bridge are some of the finest examples of San Sebastian’s romantic area.

8. Relax at La Perla, the iconic spa

Founded in 1912, the La Perla del Océano spa offers thalassotherapy and relaxation treatments overlooking La Concha. With jacuzzi circuits, a gym, and massage rooms, it is a perfect refuge to revitalize body and mind in an incomparable setting.

9. Sail to Santa Clara Island

La Concha, Ondarreta, Zurriola… and what about Santa Clara? This island, which beautifies the bay even more, is accessible in summer. Visitors can stroll its rugged paths or swim in what would be the city’s fourth beach. Motorboats depart daily from the port during summer (June to September) and Easter every half hour at very affordable round-trip prices. Reservations can be made in advance.

10. Continue exploring the province

The possibilities of a getaway in Gipuzkoa extend far beyond San Sebastian. While Donosti has plenty to see and do within the city, just minutes away await fabulous places and landscapes. The fishing village of Pasaia, magnificent hiking in Oiartzun, and historic Hondarribia near the French border are just a few of the countless attractions in the province. The Basque coast is a treasure trove to discover via scenic road trips. And if one wishes to hear Basque with a French accent, across the border await Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Biarritz, Bayonne, as well as a series of beautiful inland towns.

Where to stay to enjoy San Sebastian and its charms

For those seeking accommodation combining comfort, modernity, and a strategic location, Arima Hotel stands out as the ideal choice in San Sebastian. Located just minutes from the main beaches, the Old Town, and the city’s most emblematic sites, it allows guests to enjoy the city with ease and tranquility. The spaces designed for comfort and relaxation make Arima the perfect refuge after a day of exploration and discovery.

San Sebastian invites discovery with all the senses. From its beaches and panoramic walks to its rich history and vibrant gastronomic culture, every corner of the city offers an experience that stays in memory. Allow your visit to become a journey of sensations and unforgettable moments, enjoying the perfect balance between nature, art, and tradition.