Let’s Get Real – Is San Sebastián Worth Visiting?

I went to San Sebastián with one clear goal: eat every pintxo in sight. Every. Single. One. What followed was a glorious parade of skewered delicacies, tiny toasts topped with juicy prawns, melt-in-your-mouth beef cheek, and anchovies so good they made me question everything I thought I knew about fish.

My eyes, unfortunately, were far bigger than my belly. And my belt.

By the time I rolled back to the car, I wasn’t walking—I was waddling. I spent the entire journey home clutching my stomach in food-induced regret, promising never to eat again (a lie, obviously). I think I may have fasted for two days after that. Maybe one. Definitely skipped dinner.

But despite the waistband trauma, would I do it again? Absolutely.

Because San Sebastián is one of those places that seduces you slowly—through your stomach, sure—but also with its quiet charm, proud locals, and a way of life that makes you want to toss your schedule and just be for a while.

My travel style has always been about more than ticking off landmarks. I love finding the stories behind the streets, chatting with locals, and following the scent of grilled sardines down alleyways that rarely make it to TripAdvisor. Hidden gems? Yes, please. Tourist traps? Only if there’s a mouthwatering pintxo.

Disclaimer! All of my blogs may contain affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and make a purchase I may receive a small amount of commission for the referral at no extra cost to you. This commission is what allows me to continue creating guides to help travellers plan their next trip!

So… is San Sebastián worth visiting? That’s the question I get every time I mention the Basque Country.

And honestly? I don’t blame people for asking. Spain is overflowing with iconic cities—Barcelona, Seville, Madrid—but San Sebastián? It flies under the radar for many.

Let’s unpack why it’s more than just the food.

First Things First: Where Even Is San Sebastián?

Before we dive into what makes this place so irresistible, let’s do a quick geography check. San Sebastián—also known as Donostia in Basque—is tucked into the northeastern corner of Spain, just 20km from the French border, in the heart of the Basque Country. It’s perched right on the Bay of Biscay, with waves made for surfers, mountains that roll into the sea, and sunsets so pretty they should probably come with a warning.

To answer is San Sebastián worth visiting, you first need to understand what makes it so different from the Spain you might expect.

This isn’t flamenco and sangria territory. You won’t find dry plains or dusty bullrings. Instead, you’ll be met with lush green hills, moody skies that make everything look like it belongs in an art film, and a sea that doesn’t just sparkle—it crashes, roars, and then hands you the best seafood of your life.

Compared to Spain’s more famous cities—think the grandeur of Madrid, the buzz of Barcelona, or the fiery energy of Seville—San Sebastián is quieter, cooler (literally and metaphorically), and proudly independent. The Basque Country has its own language, its own traditions, and a strong “we’re not like the rest of Spain” energy that you can feel in everything from the signage to the food to the side-eye you might get for ordering sangria.

And did I mention the berets? Yes, people really wear them here. Stylishly. Unironically.

Honestly, if you threw a surfboard, a Michelin star, and a few pintxos into a beret and shook it up, you’d have San Sebastián in a nutshell.

What Makes San Sebastián So Special?

You know how some places have one standout feature—great beaches or amazing food or rich culture? San Sebastián heard that and said, “Why not all three? Oh, and throw in some architecture and surf for good measure.”

Let’s break it down.

The Pintxos Culture

I’m not being dramatic when I say the food scene in San Sebastián rivals anywhere in the world. Yes, the world. Pintxos—those glorious, bite-sized snacks served atop crusty bread or skewered like edible art—are not just bar snacks here; they’re a way of life. And unlike tapas, you’re encouraged to hop from bar to bar, trying one or two at each stop, like some sort of delicious adult scavenger hunt.

Add in a glass of crisp Txakoli (the slightly fizzy Basque white wine), and you’ll start to understand why locals take this so seriously. I once spent four hours “lunching” and still didn’t make it to half the places I wanted to. It’s not gluttony—it’s cultural immersion.

The Beaches

San Sebastián isn’t just about stuffing your face—though that’s a perfectly respectable goal. The city curves around three beaches: La Concha, with its Instagram-ready crescent shape and elegant promenade; Zurriola, the surfer’s paradise where you can sit for hours pretending you know what a good wave looks like; and Ondarreta, the more relaxed, family-friendly stretch of sand.

You can literally eat a pintxo, walk two minutes, and be barefoot on the beach. That’s the dream.

The Architecture & Belle Époque Charm

Stroll through the city and you’ll start to feel like you’ve time-travelled to a more glamorous era. Think of ornate facades, grand casinos, and romantic bridges that make you want to twirl dramatically, even if you’re just trying to find the next pintxo bar. The Belle Époque architecture adds a kind of effortless elegance, the kind that says, “I woke up like this”, but in sandstone and wrought iron.

The Basque Culture

If you’re wondering is San Sebastián worth visiting for the culture alone – the answer is an emphatic sí. Or bai in Basque!

The Basque identity runs deep here. From the language (Euskera) to the traditional sports (wood chopping contests and stone lifting, anyone?) to the unapologetic sense of independence. You’ll see the Basque flag flying proudly, hear locals greeting each other in Euskara, and maybe even stumble upon a local festival that feels more like a community gathering than a tourist attraction. It’s a place where culture isn’t performed—it’s lived.

The People

I won’t lie: the Basques can be a little reserved at first. This isn’t Andalusia, where strangers strike up conversations in the street, and everyone’s abuela wants to feed you. But once you make a connection, it’s real. People here are proud—of their food, their land, their language—and rightly so. They’re also warm, fiercely loyal, and incredibly generous once you break through the first layer.

Where to Eat (Beyond the Guidebook Darlings)

Everyone talks about San Sebastián’s food scene like it’s some sort of sacred pilgrimage—and honestly, they’re not wrong. But while the big-name pintxos bars are great (and yes, I did elbow my way into Borda Berri for that infamous veal cheek), it’s the lesser-known spots that really stole my stomach.

My Favourite Hidden Gems

Let’s start with Bar Zabaleta in the Gros neighbourhood—zero pretension, locals packed elbow-to-elbow, and grilled anchovies that may have made me weep a little. Especially considering I have never liked anchovies.

Then there’s La Espiga, which has been around forever and serves up creamy croquetas and a tortilla that somehow tastes like it was made by your Basque grandmother (who also happens to have five Michelin stars).

Oh, and Txepetxa. If you like anchovies, go. If you don’t like anchovies, go and be converted. They do wild things with toppings—think blueberry or sea urchin—and it just works.

Where the Locals Actually Eat

Venture away from the Old Town, and you’ll find places where the vibe is less “tripod-wielding foodie influencer” and more “pintxo in one hand, newspaper in the other.”

The bars in Gros or up in Egia have a more laid-back, everyday feel. Locals stroll in, say nothing, eat standing up, throw their napkin on the floor (yes, it’s normal), and stroll out like culinary ninjas.

Although the Old Town does get a lot more tourists, there are a few spots still worth going in my opinion:

La Mejillorosa. Best patatas bravas in Old Town!

Sirimiri Gastroleku. Here I recommend the black squid croquettes! Their mushroom and truffle rice is also famous but it’s far too strong for me.

Borda Berdi. A very traditional bar (no English spoken here!). I recommend you order an Idiazabal Cheese Risotto (yummy) and a pork ear pintxo. You will learn that in the Basque Country they don’t let anything edible go to waste! Not even ears! Funny texture but great flavour!

La Viña. This restaurant is famous for its Basque cheesecake. Insanely tasty!

Casa Grandarias: It is famous for its “solomillo”, a small piece of fillet steak served on a piece of bread with a green pepper and some salt. We had steak skewers here and they were so good that I had to refrain from getting more!

Bar La Cepa: An old school traditional Basque Bar serving some of the best Jamon Iberico in the city! But also lovely, was the tortilla de patata (Spanish omelette).

La Cuchara de San Telmo: We tried the roast suckling pig, which was incredibly tender and so flavoursome.

When to Go and How to Do It Right

Weekdays are gold. You’ll actually be able to squeeze up to the bar and make eye contact with someone who might take your order. Weekends, especially summer weekends, are more survival of the fittest.

Never sit down unless you want to be charged more. That’s the golden rule. Stand at the bar, point confidently, smile at the bartender like you’ve been coming for years, and always say thank you in Basque—Eskerrik asko.

Tips for Foodies (and the Food-Indifferent)

If you’re a foodie, prepare to enter full-blown obsession mode. Do a slow crawl: one or two pintxos max and a small drink per bar, then on to the next. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure for your taste buds.

And even if your idea of a gourmet meal is cereal for dinner, you’ll still appreciate the social buzz, the sheer artistry of these tiny dishes, and the way the whole city seems to revolve around good food, eaten well.

Off the Beaten Track in San Sebastián

If you never leave the Old Town, you’ll have a great time—but you’ll also miss the bits of San Sebastián that made me truly fall in love with the place. Part of answering whether San Sebastián is worth visiting lies in stepping beyond the main streets, where the tourists thin out and the city starts to feel like someone’s home rather than a postcard.

Hidden Walking Trails

Forget Google Maps. Some of my favourite moments came from getting lost on purpose. Start with Paseo Nuevo, a coastal path that loops dramatically around Monte Urgull. Beware if walking on a stormy day, the waves crash over the sea wall and splash unsuspecting walkers. It’s basically a free adrenaline rush.

Then, there are the lesser-known hill paths that snake up behind Monte Ulía, starting from the edge of Gros. You’ll pass locals walking their dogs, wild greenery, and lookout points that you’ll have all to yourself. Just you, the sea breeze, and maybe a smug seagull or two.

Quiet Cafés for When You Need a Pintxo Break

Once the excitement of bar-hopping wears off (yes, it can happen), retreat to places like Sakona Coffee Roasters for your third flat white and a proper slice of peace. Or head to Kafe Botanika, a leafy riverside spot that’s equal parts café and garden oasis—perfect for journaling, reading, or just pretending you live there.

Neighbourhoods That Don’t Try So Hard

Gros is effortlessly cool—think surfboards, street art, and pintxos with a twist. It’s where the locals eat, live, and hang out after work.

Egia is even quieter and more residential, but it’s got soul. You’ll find indie art spaces, hidden bars, and the kind of live music nights that feel like a happy accident.

Then there’s Antiguo, near Ondarreta Beach—more laid-back, less polished, and full of students and long-time locals doing their thing without worrying about Instagram.

Markets, Art, and Bookish Nooks

Beyond the central markets, you’ll find small artisan stalls popping up on random corners—just follow the smell of fresh bread or cheese.

Tabakalera, a former tobacco factory turned contemporary culture centre, is an absolute gem. Exhibits, film screenings, workshops… and a rooftop terrace with one of the best views in town.

And if you’re a book lover, stop into Librería Donosti or Kaxilda—the kind of indie bookstores where you’ll find everything from Basque poetry to feminist manifestos, plus a café that seems to whisper “just one more chapter.”

The Best Things to Do in San Sebastián (Other Than Eat, of Course)

Yes, yes—the food is life-changing, but don’t let all those pintxos distract you from the fact that San Sebastián has a rich cultural and historical side too. It’s easy to breeze through the city thinking it’s just beautiful buildings, a dreamy beach, and Michelin-starred everything—but there’s so much more bubbling under the surface. And honestly? You’re probably going to miss it unless you dig a little deeper.

Walking Tour = Best Investment You’ll Make for €15

I highly recommend the San Sebastián Walking Tour listed on Viator. For just €15 (yes, really), you get a guided walk through the city’s layered history—think royal retreats, old city walls, political movements, and stories that never make it into guidebooks. And because this is still San Sebastián, it naturally includes a pintxo and a drink. History has never tasted so good.

Prefer Wheels to Walking? Hop on an E-Bike

If you’d rather roll than stroll, the E-bike tour is a brilliant way to cover more ground—especially if you want to venture out to the farther-flung viewpoints or beachside neighbourhoods without breaking a sweat (or your knees). It’s smooth, scenic, and still includes plenty of stops to soak it all in. I would highly recommend the tour that San Sebastian Adventures runs.

Still Thinking About Food? Good. Lean In.

If eating is your top priority (no judgement here), consider joining one of the many pintxo tours run by local guides who know exactly where to take you—and what to order once you get there.

Or, if you’d rather create than consume (or both, let’s be real), book a cooking class. Learning how to make traditional Basque dishes from someone’s abuela or a passionate local chef is not just fun—it’s something you’ll actually take home with you. Along with your slightly tighter jeans.

Viator has a great selection of tours and cooking classes listed. I’ve always done my own, so I can’t recommend any (yet!).

I’ve written an entire article full of all the best things to do in San Sebastian. Go ahead and check it out!

How Many Days Do You Need in San Sebastián?

Let me put it this way: if you’re popping in for a single night, just to say you’ve been, don’t bother. You might leave with a full belly but no idea of what this city is really about. To truly answer is San Sebastián worth visiting, give it at least three days – anything less is a culinary tease.

That said, how long you stay really depends on your travel style. If you’re the “see everything, do everything” type, a long weekend works. If you prefer slow mornings, long lunches, and the odd nap between beach walks, five days (or forever) might be more your speed.

A Perfect 3-Day San Sebastián Itinerary

Day 1:

• Start the day with a climb up Monte Urgull so you can work up an appetite.
• Then head to the Old Town with a proper pintxos crawl.
• Watch the sunset from Paseo Nuevo.

Day 2:

• Head to La Concha for a lazy beach morning or a paddle.
• Lunch in Gros, followed by a café break at Sakona.
• Visit Tabakalera for something arty and unexpected.
• Evening pintxos in Egia, where locals outnumber tourists.

Day 3:

• Ride or hike up Monte Igueldo for the iconic view.
• Stroll Antiguo and linger at Ondarreta beach.
• Finish with one last food blowout—indulge in one of San Sebastian’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Akelarre, on the sloped of Monte Igeldo, boasts 3 stars (and the price tag to match), while Alameda has held 1 Michelin star for over 20 years! Your wallet, your choice!

Stretching It to 5 Days (And Why You Should)

With more time, you can take San Sebastián slow—sleep in, chat with market vendors, and find your “usual” bar. You’ll also have time to explore the surrounding area.

Top Day Trips from San Sebastián

• Hondarribia – A colourful fishing village with charm, seafood, and medieval streets that seem designed for aimless wandering.
• Getaria – Tiny, pretty, and home to grilled fish that will ruin all other grilled fish for you.
• Biarritz, France – Because why not hop over the border for a taste of French Basque glam?

Trust me—San Sebastián is not a city to be rushed. It’s a place that invites you to linger, to savour, to loosen your belt and say, “I’ll just stay one more day…”

Where to Stay (And Why it Matters)

San Sebastián might be compact, but where you stay seriously shapes your experience. Want to wake up to the sound of waves? Prefer to roll out of bed and straight into a pintxos bar? Or maybe you just want somewhere quiet where you won’t be kept awake by the guy outside arguing with a lamppost at 2am (it happens). Whatever your vibe, there’s a neighbourhood—and a bed—for you.

Whether you’re staying in Gros or by La Concha, the answer to “Is San Sebastián worth visiting” gets more delicious by the minute.

Best Neighbourhoods to Stay In

Gros – Young, cool, a little rough around the edges in the best way. It’s where the surfers go, the locals live, and the food scene is effortlessly great without the crowds. Perfect if you want to blend in and eat extremely well without trying too hard.

Parte Vieja (Old Town) – Right in the action. Amazing for nightlife, food, and stumbling home after your third round of pintxos. Just bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper, and maybe don’t expect peace before 1am.

Centro / La Concha – Elegant, beachy, and wonderfully walkable. If you want views, Belle Époque buildings, and easy access to both the sea and the shops, this is your sweet spot.

Antiguo – A quieter, residential feel. Great for families, longer stays, or just pretending you actually live in San Sebastián and this is your normal life now (a very tempting illusion).

Places I’ve Stayed (And Would Stay Again in a Heartbeat)

• Hotel Niza – Right on La Concha with a beach view that might actually make you gasp. Mid-range, charming, and worth every cent for that morning coffee with a sea breeze.
• A Room in the City – A social, stylish hostel with a lovely courtyard and a location that’s hard to beat. Ideal for solo travellers or anyone who appreciates a friendly vibe and a clean bed without blowing the budget.
• Hotel SANSEbay – Tucked into the Old Town with gorgeous views and very comfy beds—luxury without the attitude. Bonus: close enough to stumble back after dinner, but quiet enough to actually sleep.

Unique or Budget-Friendly Picks

If you’re after something quirky, try a pensión—these local guesthouses range from super basic to surprisingly bougie, and many are run by friendly Basque hosts who’ll happily point you toward their favourite bars.

For budget-conscious travellers, the Koba Hostel in Gros is modern and clean and has bikes you can borrow for exploring (or pretending to be sporty).

When to Visit San Sebastián

Timing is everything—especially in a place where the weather, crowds, and festivals can completely change the vibe of your stay. San Sebastián doesn’t have a bad season, exactly… but some are definitely better than others, depending on what you’re after (and how long you’re willing to wait in line for a pintxo).

The Best Seasons to Visit

Summer (June–August) brings long beach days, packed festivals, and the kind of buzz that makes the city feel electric. But you’ll also find inflated hotel prices and fully booked restaurants.

The crown jewel of the summer calendar is Semana Grande (Aste Nagusia) in August—a week-long explosion of fireworks, concerts, traditional sports, and general merrymaking. It’s amazing, yes, but it’s also intense. If you like your cities quiet and your streets uncluttered, this might not be your time.

Which brings us to…

The Real MVP: Shoulder Season

May and September are absolute perfection. The weather is still warm, the sea is swimmable, the crowds have thinned, and the locals are slightly less over it all. You’ll actually be able to get a seat at the good pintxos bars without engaging in passive-aggressive hovering. It’s the sweet spot for food, festivals, and a little breathing room.

Autumn & Spring Vibes

April can be rainy but beautiful, with green hills and the start of terrace season. October has fewer tourists and a more mellow, everyday rhythm—great for people-watching and pretending you’re writing a novel.

And hey—is San Sebastián worth visiting in winter? If you like moody skies and smaller queues, absolutely. The city has a quietly romantic feel from November to February. It’s cool, sometimes drizzly, but never truly freezing. Don’t expect it to be quiet though. I recently took friends in March and we were still squeezed elbow to elbow in some of the bars! And don’t forget to pack layers and a good rain coat, the hills are green for a reason!

Tourist Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don’t assume everything stays open all day—many pintxos bars close between lunch and dinner.
• Book accommodation in advance if visiting in peak season, especially during Semana Grande.
• And for the love of cheese, don’t ask for sangria. Order a Kalimotxo if you must, but let the sangria live in southern Spain where it belongs.

Is San Sebastián Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

I get asked this a lot—especially from women who are considering their first solo trip or just want to make sure they’re not walking into trouble with their guidebook and best intentions. So let me say this loud and clear: San Sebastián is one of the safest-feeling cities I’ve travelled to solo.

I’ve walked alone at night through Gros, Antiguo, the Old Town, and along the beach promenade without a second thought. Locals are usually too busy enjoying their own evening to notice what you’re doing, which, honestly, is quite refreshing. There’s no relentless catcalling, no lingering stares, no unsolicited “hola guapa” from passing cars. Just people minding their business—and letting you mind yours.

As a solo female traveller, is San Sebastián worth visiting? Completely – and here’s why.

The vibe here is low-key, confident, and unbothered. People are used to visitors, but this isn’t a party city crawling with drunken backpackers or stag dos. Even in the busy Old Town, the energy feels more local than rowdy.

A few tips I’ve learned along the way

• In bars, stand at the counter like everyone else. It’s casual, social, and you’re more likely to get chatting to someone if you want to (but it’s equally fine to just enjoy your pintxo and peace).
• If someone strikes up a conversation, it’s usually just friendly curiosity—not weirdness. And a polite “Eskerrik asko, but I’m fine” is more than enough if you’re not feeling it.
• The city is very walkable, well-lit, and there are plenty of other people around even late into the night, especially in summer.

Compared to other European cities? San Sebastián feels calm, confident, and quietly secure.

You don’t need to constantly watch your bag or map out your route in fear. Obviously, keep your wits about you—as you would anywhere—but if you’re worried about safety as a solo woman, this city makes it really easy to relax into the rhythm of things.

FAQ: What You Probably Googled Before Finding This Post

Because we all have questions—and I’ve probably asked them all myself before waddling through San Sebastián with a backpack full of cheese.

Is San Sebastián expensive?

Short answer: it can be—but it doesn’t have to be.

Yes, it’s home to more Michelin stars than some countries, and a beachfront hotel in July might cost more than your flight. But you can still eat exceptionally well on a budget, especially if you lean into the pintxos crawl lifestyle. Many bars offer small bites for €2–3 each, and a glass of Txakoli won’t break the bank. Stay in a pensión or budget-friendly guesthouse, walk everywhere, and you’ll do just fine.

Treat it like a choose-your-own-adventure: you can go full luxury tasting menu or live like a local with €20 a day and a nose for the good stuff.

Having said that, it is one of the most expensive cities in Spain, and a pintxo tour in Bilbao will set you back a lot less. If you are now wondering whether Bilbao is worth visiting, the answer is yes! And you can find out why here!

Can you visit without speaking Spanish or Basque?

Although admittedly I am fluent in Spanish and once upon a time was fluent in Basque too! However, San Sebastian is used to tourists and I found while with my friends that all bartenders and shopkeepers understood English.

Still, a little effort goes a long way, especially in less touristy areas. Learn a few key phrases, download Google Translate for the menus that look like cryptic crossword puzzles, and you’ll be grand.

Aupa – The local way to say hi

Eskerrik asko – thank you in Basque

Is it family-friendly?

Very much so. San Sebastián is one of those cities that genuinely works for all types of travellers—solo explorers, romantic getaways, and yes, families too. The beaches are clean and safe, the promenade is stroller-friendly, and locals are welcoming to kids without being overbearing about it.

You’ll find playgrounds, child-friendly museums, and even pintxos bars where the staff will sneak your toddler a slice of tortilla while you enjoy a moment of adult conversation (bless them). Plus, there’s always ice cream around the corner. That’s basically family travel magic, right?

Packing Tips for San Sebastián

If you are likely to spend more time debating which shoes to bring than planning your actual itinerary. So let me save you the stress (and the suitcase explosion). Here’s what you really need for San Sebastián:

1. Layers, Layers, Layers

The weather here is famously moody. One minute, you’re basking in the sun; the next, you’re caught in a sea mist that feels like you’ve wandered onto a Brontë novel set. Bring light layers you can throw on or peel off as needed. Think: t-shirts, jumpers, a light jacket.

2. A Good Pair of Shoes (or Two)

You’ll walk a lot, and the cobblestones aren’t kind to flip-flops or that one pair of boots you “sort of” broke in. Go for comfy trainers or cushioned sandals. Bonus points if they also work with your night-out outfit—San Sebastián may be chilled, but the locals know how to dress.

3. An Umbrella or Packable Rain Jacket

Even in summer, surprise showers are a thing. And while dancing in the rain sounds romantic, soggy pintxos? Not so much. A small travel umbrella or waterproof jacket = hero move.

4. Beach Gear (But Keep It Chill)

You don’t need to pack like you’re off to the Caribbean. A lightweight towel or sarong, swimsuit, and flip-flops will do the job. Most people walk to the beach fully dressed and just change when they get there—no dramatic beach bags necessary.

5. Something a Bit Nicer for Dinner

Even if you’re just hitting pintxos bars, you’ll notice locals tend to look effortlessly stylish. Nothing fancy, just that “I threw this on and still look great” energy. A dress or smart shirt can help you blend in—without going full tuxedo.

6. A Small Daypack or Crossbody Bag

Ideal for stashing snacks, a water bottle, and that wedge of Idiazabal cheese you “accidentally” bought. Make sure it zips—you won’t likely have safety issues, but it’s always good practice when travelling.

7. Reusable Water Bottle

You can drink the tap water here (yay for sustainability), and having your own bottle is handy for long walks, hikes, or just staying hydrated between wine tastings.

8. Travel Adapters (If You’re Not From Europe)

Standard European plug (Type C, 230V). Don’t be the one charging your phone in a café while side-eyeing the socket like it personally offended you.

Final Thoughts: So, Is San Sebastián Worth Visiting?

By now, you’ve probably gathered that I didn’t just like San Sebastián—I fell for it. Hard. The food, the views, the quiet charm of a place that doesn’t need to shout to be extraordinary. From pintxos crawls that turned into full-blown social adventures, to mornings spent wandering quiet markets and afternoons lost in sea air and Belle Époque beauty—it all left a mark.

It’s not just a “nice city break.” It’s a slow-burn kind of place. One that settles under your skin and makes your regular life feel just a little too… regular afterwards.

So, is San Sebastián worth visiting? Let me put it this way – I’d go back tomorrow if I could.

Whether you’re a foodie on a mission, a culture-lover craving authenticity, a solo traveller looking for somewhere that feels safe and welcoming, or just someone who appreciates a city that knows how to live well—San Sebastián delivers. And then some.

I hope this guide helped you see the soul of the city—not just the highlights, but the heart. And if you’re planning a trip to northern Spain and want to go deeper, not just wider—connecting with locals, finding hidden corners, and experiencing it all with a small group of curious, kind travellers—come join one of my group trips. You bring the sense of adventure; I’ll bring the pintxos plan.