{"id":40787,"date":"2025-12-08T13:04:22","date_gmt":"2025-12-08T12:04:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/comeamaviaja.com\/que-ver-en-san-sebastian\/"},"modified":"2025-12-09T17:22:00","modified_gmt":"2025-12-09T16:22:00","slug":"things-to-do-in-san-sebastian","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/comeamaviaja.com\/en\/things-to-do-in-san-sebastian\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 25 things to do in San Sebastian, Spain"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

1. Eat pintxos in San Sebastian<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Bar Gorriti<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Pintxos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Visiting San Sebastian (Donostia) and not eating pintxos could practically be considered a sin. I\u2019m not kidding! If you come to the city, stopping by some of the best pintxo bars is a must. You have to try the incredible local food San Sebastian is famous for!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the most popular places to eat pintxos in San Sebastian<\/a> include La Cuchara de San Telmo, Bar Sport, Borda Berri, La Vi\u00f1a, Atari, Goiz Argi, Txepetxa, Dakara Bi, Txuleta, Gandarias\u2026 and many more!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udecf\ufe0f RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN SAN SEBASTIAN<\/span> The times I\u2019ve stayed in the city, I\u2019ve chosen different types of accommodations, and depending on your budget or preferences, I recommend one or the other. The first hotel is this one located in the Old Town<\/a>, next to the port. It\u2019s beautiful. The other hotel is this accommodation in Antiguo<\/a>, on the outskirts of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Bas\u00edlica de Santa Mar\u00eda del Coro<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Basilica of Santa Mar\u00eda del Coro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

As you walk along Calle Mayor in San Sebastian\u2019s Old Town, you\u2019ll see the Basilica of Santa Mar\u00eda del Coro at the far end, right next to Mount Urgull. It was built in the mid-18th century and is mainly Baroque, though it also includes Gothic, Neoclassical, and Churrigueresque elements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The building was constructed on top of an old Romanesque church, which is why the Basilica of Santa Mar\u00eda del Coro is considered the oldest temple in the city. Its beautiful portico is especially striking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. San Sebastian Port and the Paseo Nuevo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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San Sebastian Port<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the most charming corners of the city is the picturesque Port of Donostia, right next to the Old Town. It has a really special atmosphere and is perfect for a stroll while you enjoy the beautiful views of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From the port, you can follow the Paseo del Muelle, which then becomes the Paseo Nuevo as it curves around Mount Urgull. It\u2019s a completely flat and very pleasant walk, with the sea right beside you. Don\u2019t miss Construcci\u00f3n Vac\u00eda by Jorge Oteiza, an eye-catching sculpture along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Mount Urgull<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Mount Urgull<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

San Sebastian has three hills: Mount Igueldo, Mount Urgull, and Mount Ulia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mount Urgull sits right behind the Old Town. I recommend walking up and exploring the different points of interest along the way. There are several access points, but the entrance next to the San Telmo Museum is the best place to start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your first stop will be the Baluarte del Mirador, which offers lovely views over the Gros district and Zurriola Beach. This was the main gateway to the military grounds on Mount Urgull and its most important defensive point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Continue walking and you\u2019ll reach the English Cemetery. Most of the remains here belong to officers of the British Auxiliary Legion who died near Donostia during the First Carlist War.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your next stop will be the Castillo de la Mota, the main highlight of Mount Urgull. Its origins date back to the 12th century, when the Kingdom of Navarre built a square-shaped tower here. At the very top stands the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, added in 1950.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At the foot of the castle, you\u2019ll find Napoleon\u2019s Battery, built by the French during the imperial occupation (1808\u20131813). It\u2019s the most recent battery on Mount Urgull.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"what
Bar Polbori\u00f1a<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

To finish your visit to the hill, I recommend heading to the terrace at Polbori\u00f1a Bar, located at the top of Mount Urgull, where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. San Telmo Museum<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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San Telmo Museum<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you enjoy museums, a great plan in San Sebastian is visiting the San Telmo Museum. It\u2019s located in a former 16th-century Dominican convent in the Old Town, right next to Mount Urgull.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Opened in 1902, it is the oldest museum in the Basque Country. The main focus of the San Telmo Museum is Basque society and its historical and cultural heritage. It features several areas, including ethnography, fine arts, history, archaeology, and photography.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. from April to October). It also opens on public holidays and long weekends. It is closed on January 1st and 20th, and December 25th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

General admission is \u20ac10. If you are a student, over 65, or part of a large family, tickets cost \u20ac4. Entry is free for anyone under 25. On Tuesdays, admission is free for all visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Church of San Vicente<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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San Vicente Church<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Another must-see in San Sebasti\u00e1n is the Church of San Vicente, located in the Old Town.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This late Gothic church with a rectangular floor plan began construction in 1507 and is considered the oldest monument in Donostia. It was designed by Miguel de Santa Celay and Juan de Urrutia. Highlights include the main altarpiece of San Vicente and the Altarpiece of the Souls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Plaza de la Constituci\u00f3n<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Plaza de la Constituci\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the most beautiful places in San Sebastian, and one of my favorites, is the Plaza de la Constituci\u00f3n, located in the Old Town. Besides its stunning beauty, it\u2019s also the venue for many of the city\u2019s celebrations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One detail that really catches the eye is the numbers above each window. They correspond to the boxes of the bullring that once stood here. You\u2019ll also find plenty of terraces where you can sit and enjoy a drink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83c\udf9f\ufe0f A great way to explore the Old Town is by joining this free city tour<\/a>. It lasts between 2 and 2 and a half hours, and you\u2019ll visit some of the main spots in the city. Check out the best free tours in San Sebastian<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Plaza Gipuzkoa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Gipuzkoa Square<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Another square you can\u2019t miss in Donostia is Plaza Gipuzkoa, the city\u2019s first public park. This green space is right in the heart of San Sebastian, just opposite the Gipuzkoa Provincial Council, and was designed by the French gardener Pierre Ducasse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The square stands out for its abundance of flowers, plants, and trees, as well as a pond with swans and ducks, a flower clock, a meteorological gazebo, a marble time table, and the monument to the local musician Jos\u00e9 Mar\u00eda Usandizaga.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Cathedral of the Good Shepherd<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Catedral del Buen Pastor<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, in Neo-Gothic style, is located in the center of San Sebastian. Opened in 1897, it is the largest religious building in the city and was designed by the Basque architect Manuel Echave. Its tower reaches 75 meters high and can be seen from much of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An interesting fact: it is exactly one kilometer from the Basilica of Santa Mar\u00eda del Coro, with no buildings in between. While in the city center, don\u2019t miss strolling along Calle Urbieta, Calle Hondarribia, and Calle Getaria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. Playa de la Concha<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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La Concha Beach<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

La Concha Beach is one of the city\u2019s iconic spots and an absolute must when visiting San Sebastian. If the weather is good, make sure to grab a spot along its 1,350 meters of sand and enjoy a refreshing swim. It\u2019s considered one of the best urban beaches in the world!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the weather isn\u2019t good enough for swimming, I recommend taking a pleasant walk from the port all the way to Pico del Loro. Along the beach, you\u2019ll also find La Perla, a wellness center with a spa, gym, and restaurant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. Donostia City Hall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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San Sebastian City Hall<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

One of the buildings you can\u2019t miss in San Sebastian is the one housing the City Hall. It was built in 1887 and originally served as a casino.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 1924, gambling was banned and the building closed. A few years later, it was used by the Centro de Atracci\u00f3n y Turismo, and finally, in 1945, the Donostia City Hall moved in. Before that, it had been located in the Plaza de la Constituci\u00f3n.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In front of the building is Parque Alderdi Eder, a charming park with beautiful gardens perfect for strolling and relaxing. Highlights include the sculpture of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza, a carousel, and the sculpture known as \u201cGrupo de Leones\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Next to the City Hall is the Alameda del Boulevard, which connects the Old Town with the newer part of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. Zurriola Beach, one of the best beaches in San Sebastian<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Gros<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Zurriola Beach is located in Gros, the most modern neighborhood in San Sebastian. It\u2019s the most popular beach for surfers, so if you want to catch some waves or take your first surf lesson, this is the place to be. It\u2019s also a great beach for swimming and sunbathing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I recommend taking a walk all the way to the “Paloma de la Paz” statue at the eastern end of the beach. From here, you can watch the surfers up close and enjoy a beautiful sunset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. Miramar Palacer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Miramar Palace<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Another place to visit in San Sebastian is the Miramar Palace, built in English style. It\u2019s located between La Concha Beach and Ondarreta Beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Spanish Royal Family first arrived in San Sebastian in August 1887, breaking with the Bourbon tradition of spending summers in La Granja or Aranjuez.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Queen Mar\u00eda Cristina loved her time in the city, and in 1893 she decided to buy the land of El Antiguo to build her country house, Miramar, where she spent her summers for 40 years. After her death, the property passed to Alfonso XIII. During the Second Republic, it was expropriated, and later returned to the Bourbons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 1972, the City Council purchased the palace and its gardens. Today, you can visit the landscaped areas, which are definitely worth seeing. They are beautiful and offer stunning views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. Mount Ulia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Views from Mount Ulia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

As I mentioned, San Sebasti\u00e1n has three hills: Mount Igueldo, Mount Urgull, and Mount Ulia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The last one, Mount Ulia, is located in the easternmost part of the city, next to the Gros neighborhood. You can climb it and stay close to the city just to enjoy the views, or take a walking route all the way to Pasajes. I chose the second option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The hill has several trails, some inland and others closer to the coast. To start the climb, head to the Larramedi service station and go to the back, where you\u2019ll find the beginning of a trail. The hike to Pasajes takes around 2 hours, depending on the route you take and whether you make any stops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you reach Pasajes, I recommend taking the San Pedro to San Juan boat and grabbing a drink there. I returned from Pasajes to San Sebastian by bus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. Mount Igueldo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Views to the city<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Mount Igueldo<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

One of the most beautiful views of San Sebastian can be enjoyed from the Mount Igueldo lookout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can get there on foot (about a 30-minute walk), by car, or by funicular. A round-trip ticket on the funicular costs \u20ac4.75, or \u20ac3.30 for a one-way ticket. If you go on foot or by car, the fee is \u20ac2.50 per person. The funicular usually opens at 11:00 a.m., though on some days it opens at 10:30 a.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I went up and down by funicular, but I recommend walking down, as the views are stunning. This way, you can pass by the Mount Igueldo Lighthouse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Next to the lookout, you\u2019ll find an old amusement park, a caf\u00e9, a turret, a hotel, and several food stalls. You can find more information about this spot on the official Mount Igueldo website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

16. Peine del Viento, Eduardo Chillida’s sculpture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Peine del Viento<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you continue along the coast past Ondarreta Beach, you\u2019ll reach the westernmost point of the promenade, where the Peine del Viento is located, one of the most iconic sculptures by Eduardo Chillida, the Donostia-born artist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I found it to be a place with a very special atmosphere, perfect for sitting for a few minutes and taking in the power and energy of the sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17. Kursaal Center<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Kursaal<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium is located in the Gros neighborhood, next to Zurriola Beach. The building consists of two large glass cubes, one bigger than the other. It houses a main auditorium, exhibition halls, a large chamber hall, and several multipurpose rooms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It hosts a wide variety of events, the most notable being the San Sebastian International Film Festival. You can find more information about events and tickets on the official Kursaal website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

18. Santa Clara Island<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Island of Santa Clara<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Santa Clara Island is located in La Concha Bay. You can take a small boat from the San Sebastian port to visit this tiny island. When the tide is low, there\u2019s a small beach where you can take a swim. The island also has a beach bar, a lighthouse, and several picnic areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can book your boat trip<\/a> to Santa Clara Island in advance. A round-trip ticket costs \u20ac8. You choose your departure time and can return whenever you like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

19. Ondarreta Beach<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Ondarreta Beach<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If one of the reasons you\u2019re visiting San Sebastian is to enjoy its beaches, another spot worth checking out is Ondarreta Beach, located at the western end of the city. It stretches for 600 meters and is a great option if you want to try water sports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Behind the beach, there\u2019s a lovely park perfect for a stroll, featuring a statue of Queen Mar\u00eda Cristina. Just beyond the park is the residential neighborhood of Antiguo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

20. La Tabakalera<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A different thing to do in San Sebastian, especially if you love culture, is to visit Tabakalera, an international center for contemporary culture. Its name comes from the fact that the building housed a tobacco factory for 90 years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2015, it reopened with the goal of \u201ccontributing to the development of the creative and critical capacity of Basque society, promoting creative and participatory leisure\u201d. It focuses mainly on cinema and audiovisual arts, contemporary art, and cultural and creative industries<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re interested in visiting, you can check the official Tabakalera website<\/a> for the program and events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

21. Zurriola Bridge and Mar\u00eda Cristina Bridge<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Zurriola Bridge<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

There are several bridges that cross the Urumea River in San Sebastian, but the Mar\u00eda Cristina Bridge and the Zurriola Bridge are the most notable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Zurriola Bridge is the one closest to the coast, connecting the city center with the Gros neighborhood. It was built in 1915 and is especially notable for its white and green street lamps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Maria Cristina Bridge<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Mar\u00eda Cristina Bridge is also one of the most beautiful and elegant bridges in the city. It was built in 1904 and designed by Jos\u00e9 Eugenio Ribera and Julio Mar\u00eda Zapata. The two obelisks at each end of the bridge are particularly striking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

22. Victoria Eugenia Theatre and Mar\u00eda Cristina Hotel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Victoria Eugenia Theatre<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Another must-see building in Donostia for its architecture and cultural significance is the Victoria Eugenia Theatre. It was inaugurated in 1912 and has hosted events such as the San Sebastian International Film Festival and the Quincena Musical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Next to this elegant theatre is the Mar\u00eda Cristina Hotel, one of the city\u2019s most iconic hotels. It was designed by the French architect Charles Mewes, who also designed the Ritz hotels in Madrid and Paris. Its interior takes you back to the elegance of the Belle \u00c9poque.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

23. La Bretxa Market<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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La Bretxa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Next, we have the La Bretxa Market, located in the Old Town. The building is neoclassical in style and was constructed in 1870.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Years later, the building that houses the fish market was built behind it, leaving a plaza between the two where local vendors set up their stalls. At this market, you can find a wide variety of local products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

24. Cristina Enea Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you feel like surrounding yourself with greenery and taking a relaxing stroll, one of the best things to do in San Sebastian is to visit Cristina Enea Park, located in the Egia neighborhood, next to Gros.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Its history dates back to the second half of the 19th century, when the Duke of Mandas purchased the land with the intention of building a mansion with gardens. The park is named in honor of his wife, Cristina Brunetti. When the dukes passed away, the property was donated to the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2008, the Cristina Enea Foundation was established, aiming to promote a more environmentally responsible approach to urban development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

25. Ayete Palace<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Next, we head to the Ayete Palace, commissioned by the Dukes of Bail\u00e9n in 1878 and designed by the French architect Adolfo Ombrecht. It features 74,000 m\u00b2 of gardens designed by Pierre Ducasse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before the Miramar Palace was built, this was the residence of the Spanish monarchs Isabel II, Alfonso XII, Mar\u00eda Cristina, and Alfonso XIII when they visited the city. Today, it houses the House of Peace and Human Rights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What to see around San Sebastian<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Hondarribia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A great idea if you\u2019re spending several days in the city is to take a trip to explore the surroundings of San Sebastian.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To the west, you\u2019ll find towns like Zarautz, Getaria, and Zumaia, while to the east, there\u2019s Pasajes and the beautiful town of Hondarribia. If you cross the border, you can visit Hendaye<\/a>, Saint-Jean-de-Luz<\/a>, or Biarritz, all part of the French Basque Country<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Biarritz<\/a> is a coastal town with a strong surf vibe and charming corners to explore. It also has plenty of great places to eat. By car, it\u2019s about a 50-minute drive, or you can get there by bus. If you prefer, you can check out this organized tour to Biarritz and the French coast<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another fantastic option is Hondarribia, a colorful and charming village. Some of its most beautiful spots are Calle Mayor, Plaza de Armas, and Plaza de Gipuzkoa. It\u2019s about a 30-minute drive from Donostia. If you prefer, you can book this organized tour to Hondarribia<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re more into nature, don\u2019t miss the incredible Zumaia Flysch, a truly spectacular site! It\u2019s about 40 minutes by car from San Sebastian. On the way, be sure to stop by Getaria and Zarautz.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019d rather stay closer to the city and enjoy a cultural visit, you can go to the Eureka! Science Museum, a space dedicated to scientific education for both adults and children, or the Chillida Leku Museum, a landscaped park filled with sculptures by Eduardo Chillida Juantegui.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more information on all the trips you can take from the capital of Gipuzkoa, check out my article on the best day trips from San Sebastian<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to stay in San Sebastian<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Antiguo<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Search for hotels in the city<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Generally, the best areas to base yourself in the city are the Old Town, the City Center, and Gros. However, there are many other neighborhoods that can also be great options. In this guide on where to stay in San Sebastian<\/a>, I cover all the areas of the city I recommend for accommodation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, let me tell you about the hotels I\u2019ve personally stayed in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first time I stayed in the city, I chose Hotel Sansebay<\/a>, and I loved it. It\u2019s located in the Old Town, right next to the port. The location is perfect, as you can walk to almost anywhere in the city. My room was spacious, bright, very clean, and had beautiful views of La Concha Bay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I found the breakfast at the hotel caf\u00e9 really good. They had a wide variety of products, and everything I tried was delicious. The hotel staff were lovely. Another thing I really appreciated was that the bathroom offered high-quality gel, shampoo, and conditioner; something that makes a big difference!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For my second visit, I was looking for accommodation that offered good value for money and easy parking, since we planned to visit some places in the surroundings of San Sebastian. We ended up at Olarain<\/a>, a hotel that also serves as a student residence, located in the Antiguo neighborhood. We had a comfortable stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Map of best things to do in San Sebastian<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

On this map, you can see all the places to visit in San Sebastian that I\u2019ve mentioned, along with some of the best pintxo bars and the hotels I\u2019ve stayed in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n