Free San Sebastián Travel Guide & Mobile App

Plan your San Sebastián trip with Evendo. Get free guides to top attractions, restaurants, hotels, and bars. Web access or download the mobile app.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play Download the Free PDF guide
San Sebastián
San Sebastián photo 2
San Sebastián photo 3
All photos

Discover San Sebastián: A Coastal Gem in Spain's Basque Country Known for Its Stunning Beaches, World-Class Cuisine, and Rich Cultural Heritage.

San Sebastián, or Donostia in Basque, is a captivating coastal city in Spain's Basque Country. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and world-renowned cuisine, this city offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication.
Read more about San Sebastián
La Concha Beach, often cited as one of the best urban beaches in Europe, is a must-visit. Its golden sands and crystal-clear waters provide a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the promenade. For a more secluded experience, head to the adjacent Ondarreta Beach or the surfer's paradise, Zurriola Beach.
San Sebastián is also a food lover's haven. The city boasts more Michelin stars per capita than anywhere else in the world. Wander through the Old Town (Parte Vieja) and you'll find countless pintxo bars, where you can sample an array of these delicious Basque tapas. Be sure to visit the local markets, such as La Bretxa, to experience the freshest local produce.
Cultural enthusiasts will not be disappointed. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the famous San Sebastián International Film Festival and the Jazzaldia Jazz Festival. The Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium, an architectural marvel, is a hub for these events and offers stunning views of the sea.
For those seeking adventure, a hike up Monte Urgull or Monte Igueldo provides panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Don't miss the historic Castillo de la Mota on Monte Urgull or the funicular ride up Monte Igueldo to experience a charming amusement park with breathtaking vistas.
In San Sebastián, every corner holds a story, every meal is a feast, and every view is a postcard. It's a city that invites you to slow down, savor each moment, and immerse yourself in its rich cultural tapestry.

When is the best time to visit San Sebastián?

Best: June–July, September · 24–28°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January1380
February1370
March1470
April1760
May2060
June (best)2430
July (best)2830
August2940
September (best)2760
October2180
November1690
December1490

Getting to and around San Sebastián

How to get there

San Sebastián is located in the Basque Country of northern Spain. The nearest international airport is San Sebastián Airport (EAS), approximately 20 kilometers away in Hondarribia. Alternatively, Bilbao Airport (BIO) is around 100 kilometers away and offers more international connections. From Bilbao, you can take a bus or a train to San Sebastián, with the journey taking about 1.5-2 hours. There is also a high-speed train (AVE) connection from major Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona to San Sebastián.

Transportation

San Sebastián has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and the Euskotren light rail, which connects the city with nearby towns. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks and online. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone/apps. For a more local experience, consider renting a bike; the city is bike-friendly with numerous dedicated lanes. Walking is another great option as many attractions are within close proximity to each other.

Best attractions in San Sebastián

San Sebastian offers visitors a perfect blend of stunning beaches, rich history, and world-class cuisine. From the picturesque La Concha beach to the historic Old Town with its charming cobblestone streets and lively pintxos bars, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss the breathtaking views from Mount Urgull, the iconic Monte Igueldo amusement park, or the impressive San Telmo Museum. Whether you are a beach lover, a foodie, or a history buff, San Sebastian has it all waiting for you to explore.

Show more attractions

Best landmarks in San Sebastián

San Sebastian offers visitors a rich tapestry of history and culture, with its stunning landmarks showcasing a blend of architectural styles from Gothic to Belle Époque. The iconic La Concha Beach provides a picturesque backdrop for the city, while the historic Old Town (Parte Vieja) invites exploration with its narrow streets lined with pintxos bars and local shops. Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of the San Telmo Museum, delve into Basque history at the San Telmo Church, and take in panoramic views from Mount Urgull. The city's crown jewel, the breathtaking Miramar Palace, overlooks the Bay of Biscay, offering a glimpse into the opulent past of San Sebastian. Whether strolling along the elegant promenades or immersing in the vibrant cultural scene, San Sebastian's landmarks promise an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking beauty, history, and charm.

Show more landmarks

Explore San Sebastián on the map

Plan your San Sebastián trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, bars and hotels are, find what's near where you're staying, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Neighbourhoods in San Sebastián

Best restaurants in San Sebastián

San Sebastian's dining scene is a culinary paradise for food enthusiasts, with its world-renowned pintxos bars offering a unique and vibrant dining experience. From traditional Basque cuisine to innovative Michelin-starred restaurants, visitors can indulge in a gastronomic journey like no other. The city is home to a plethora of food markets, seafood eateries, and cozy cafes, all showcasing the rich flavors and fresh ingredients of the region. Whether you're savoring a simple plate of freshly grilled fish by the sea or sampling an elaborate tasting menu at a top-rated restaurant, San Sebastian's dining scene promises to delight and satisfy every palate.

Show more restaurants

Best bars in San Sebastián

San Sebastian's nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone. From trendy cocktail bars with stunning views of La Concha beach to traditional pintxo bars where locals gather to enjoy delicious bites and drinks, the city has a wide range of options to suit every taste. As the sun sets, the streets come alive with music and laughter, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a laid-back evening sipping wine on a terrace or dancing the night away in a lively nightclub, San Sebastian has it all. With its mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, the city's nightlife scene is sure to leave visitors enchanted and eager to explore more.

Show more bars

Best nightclubs in San Sebastián

San Sebastian's nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone. From trendy cocktail bars with stunning views of La Concha beach to traditional pintxo bars where locals gather to enjoy delicious bites and drinks, the city has a wide range of options to suit every taste. As the sun sets, the streets come alive with music and laughter, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a laid-back evening sipping wine on a terrace or dancing the night away in a lively nightclub, San Sebastian has it all. With its mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, the city's nightlife scene is sure to leave visitors enchanted and eager to explore more.

Show more nightclubs

Best shops in San Sebastián

San Sebastian offers a unique shopping experience for visitors, with a mix of high-end boutiques, local artisan shops, and bustling markets. From elegant fashion stores along the Boulevard to traditional Basque products in the Old Town, there is something for every shopper. Don't miss out on the food markets to taste local delicacies and pick up gourmet products to take home. The city's shopping scene perfectly blends modern trends with traditional charm, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to find special souvenirs and gifts.

Show more shops

Get your free copy of our complete guide to San Sebastián, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from attractions and restaurants to essentials and local phrases, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

San Sebastián essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in San Sebastián, as in the rest of Spain, is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful and generally offer fair exchange rates.
Safety
San Sebastián is generally a safe city for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places like La Concha beach and the Old Town (Parte Vieja). Pickpocketing can occur, particularly in tourist hotspots.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. The main hospital in San Sebastián is Hospital Universitario Donostia. Pharmacies are easily found throughout the city and can provide over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress neatly and stylishly; San Sebastián is known for its chic fashion scene. Avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches. Dress modestly and avoid loud behavior. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket upon boarding buses and trains. Don't put your feet on seats or eat and drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Kaixo' (Basque greeting). A handshake is customary for formal introductions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local pintxos (tapas) and always accept food offerings graciously. Don't skip queueing etiquette at pintxos bars; wait your turn to be served.
Local Tips
To experience San Sebastián like a local, visit the markets such as Mercado de la Bretxa, where you can buy fresh produce and regional specialties. Engage with locals who are usually friendly and willing to share insights about their culture. Don't miss the chance to walk along La Concha promenade or hike up Monte Urgull for panoramic views. For a unique experience, attend a Basque festival or a pelota (traditional Basque sport) match.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloKaixo[ka-ee-sho]
GoodbyeAgur[ah-goor]
YesBai[bye]
NoEz[ez]
Please/You're welcomeMesedez[meh-seh-dez]
Thank youEskerrik asko[es-ke-reek ah-sko]
Excuse me/SorryBarkatu[bar-ka-too]
How are you?Zelan zaude?[zeh-lan zau-deh]
Fine. And you?Ondo. Eta zu?[on-do. eh-ta zoo?]
Do you speak English?Ingelesa hitz egiten duzu?[in-ge-le-sa hits e-gee-ten doo-zoo?]
I don't understandEz dut ulertzen[ez doot u-lehr-tzen]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenua ikusi nahi nuke, mesedez[men-oo-a ee-koo-see na-hee noo-ke, meh-seh-dez]
I don't eat meatEz jaten dut haragia[ez ja-ten doot ha-ra-gee-a]
Cheers!Topa![toh-pa]
I would like to pay, pleaseOrdaindu nahi nuke, mesedez[or-dai-ndu na-hee noo-ke, meh-seh-dez]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Laguntza![la-goon-tza]
Go away!Joan zaitez![jo-an zai-tes]
Call the Police!Deitu poliziari![de-ee-tu po-lee-see-a-ri]
Call a doctor!Deitu medikuari![de-ee-tu me-dee-koo-a-ri]
I'm lostNire bidea galdu dut[ni-re bi-de-a ga-lu doot]
I'm illGaixo nago[gai-sho na-go]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Erosi nahi nuke...[eh-ro-see na-hee noo-ke...]
I'm just lookingBakarrik begiratzen[ba-ka-reek be-gee-ra-tzen]
How much is it?Zenbat balio du?[zen-bat ba-lee-o doo?]
That's too expensiveHorrek oso garestia da[ho-rrek o-so ga-res-tee-a da]
Can you lower the price?Prezioa jaitsi dezakezu?[pre-see-o-a hai-tsi de-za-ke-zu?]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Zenbat da ordua?[zen-bat da or-doo-a]
It's one o'clockBatetan da[ba-te-tan da]
Half past (10)Hamarte da (10)[ha-mar-te da (10)]
MorningGoiza[go-ee-za]
AfternoonArratsaldea[a-rat-sal-de-a]
EveningGaua[ga-oo-a]
YesterdayAtzo[at-so]
TodayGaur[gaur]
TomorrowBihar[bi-har]
1Bat[bat]
2Bi[bee]
3Hiru[hi-ru]
4Lau[lau]
5Bost[bost]
6Sei[sei]
7Zazpi[zaz-pi]
8Zortzi[zor-tzi]
9Bederatzi[be-de-ra-tzi]
10Hamar[ha-mar]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Non dago...[non da-go...]
What's the address?Zer da helbidea?[zer da hel-bi-de-a?]
Can you show me (on the map)?Erakutsi al zerbait (mapan)?[eh-ra-koot-see al zer-by-t (ma-pan)?]
When's the next (bus)?Noiz dator hurrengoa (autobusa)?[no-iz da-tor ur-ren-go-a (au-to-bu-sa)?]
A ticket (to ....)Tiketa bat (....ra)[ti-ke-ta bat (....ra)]

History of San Sebastián

Founding and Early History

San Sebastián, known as Donostia in Basque, was founded in 1180 by King Sancho VI of Navarre. Its strategic location on the Bay of Biscay made it an important military stronghold and trading port from the early days. The city's rich history is rooted in its role as a crossroads for different cultures and civilizations, from the Romans to the Moors.

The Siege of 1813

One of the most significant events in San Sebastián's history is the Siege of 1813 during the Peninsular War. British and Portuguese forces, fighting against Napoleonic troops, laid siege to the city. After intense fighting, the city was set ablaze and nearly destroyed. The majority of its buildings were burned down, and it took years to rebuild the city from the ashes.

Belle Époque Era

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked the Belle Époque era for San Sebastián. The city became a popular summer retreat for Spanish and European aristocracy, including Queen María Cristina of Spain. This period saw the construction of many of the city's iconic buildings, such as the Miramar Palace and the luxurious Hotel María Cristina, which still stand as symbols of the city's opulent past.

Spanish Civil War

San Sebastián played a significant role during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). Initially held by Republican forces, the city fell to Francoist troops in September 1936. The war had a profound impact on the city's social and political fabric, leading to a period of repression and hardship for its inhabitants.

Cultural Renaissance and the Basque Movement

In the latter half of the 20th century, San Sebastián became a focal point for Basque cultural revival and political activism. The city experienced a cultural renaissance, with the establishment of institutions like the Basque Culinary Center and the San Sebastián International Film Festival. This period also saw the rise of the Basque separatist movement, which had a significant impact on the region's political landscape.

Modern Day San Sebastián

Today, San Sebastián is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city known for its culinary excellence, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage. The city has earned a reputation as one of the world's great gastronomic capitals, boasting numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and a thriving pintxos (tapas) culture. Its historic old town, picturesque La Concha beach, and the annual film festival make it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe.

San Sebastián in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

0 / 0

Cities near San Sebastián

The closest cities to San Sebastián, if you have time for more than one stop.

Explore more

Spain
More of the region

Explore more of Spain

Discover Spain: A vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes, where every city offers a unique adventure and unforgettable experiences.

Explore Spain
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo - Your Ultimate Travel Guide to San Sebastián

Discover San Sebastián with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, restaurants, and more.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich content including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking of hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Navigate the beauty of San Sebastián effortlessly with Evendo. From landmarks to hidden gems, plan, book, and explore with ease using our comprehensive travel guide.

  • Comprehensive history of San Sebastián
  • Essential travel information for visiting San Sebastián
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • User-friendly navigation through the app and the city
  • 'Near Me' feature to discover nearby points of interest
  • Free to use with no in-app purchases

Explore the enchanting city of San Sebastián like never before with Evendo, your ultimate app-based travel guide. From the iconic La Concha Beach to the historic Old Town (Parte Vieja), Evendo offers detailed information on all the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities. Whether you're admiring the stunning views from Monte Urgull or indulging in the culinary delights at the famous pintxos bars, Evendo ensures you don't miss a thing.

Our app provides rich content, including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details, making it easy to plan and organize your trip. Discover hidden gems like the Basilica of Santa Maria del Coro or enjoy a perfect evening at Michelin-starred restaurants such as Arzak and Akelarre. And with the ability to book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app, your travel planning becomes seamless.

Evendo's features like the 'Near Me' option, curated local tips, and essential travel information ensure you experience San Sebastián like a local. The app's easy navigation helps you explore the city without any hassle. Plus, it's 100% free with no in-app purchases, giving you unlimited access to over 7,000 other global destinations as well. Download Evendo today and unlock the secrets of San Sebastián and beyond.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.