Discover the Charm of Donostia-San Sebastián's Old Town
Explore the vibrant Old Town of Donostia-San Sebastián, where rich history meets exceptional Basque cuisine and lively local culture.
Step into the heart of Donostia-San Sebastián and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Town, where history, culture, and culinary delights await. This area is a must-visit for any traveler seeking to experience the authentic Basque lifestyle.
A brief summary to Old Town
- Donostia-San Sebastian, Gipuzkoa, ES
Local tips
- Visit during the evening to experience the lively atmosphere and enjoy pintxos hopping in the bars.
- Try the local specialties, such as 'gilda' (a pintxo with olives, anchovies, and peppers) for an authentic taste.
- Don't miss the chance to explore the artisan shops and local markets for unique souvenirs.
- Check the schedule for local festivals; they often take place in the Old Town and offer a true taste of Basque culture.
- Be ready for crowds, especially in peak tourist seasons; visiting early in the day can help avoid the rush.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the central area of San Sebastián, head towards the famous La Concha beach. From there, walk towards the western end of the beach where you will find the entrance to the Old Town (Parte Vieja). Follow the promenade along the beach until you reach the Urumea River. Cross the bridge (Puente de Santa Catalina) and you will see the Old Town directly ahead. The main streets you will explore are Calle 31 de Agosto and Calle Mayor, both filled with tapas bars and shops.
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Bus
If you are further away from the Old Town, you can take a local bus to get there. Look for bus lines that have stops at 'Plaza Gipuzkoa' or 'Calle 31 de Agosto'. Board the bus and enjoy the ride as it takes you through the city. Once you get off, walk towards the Old Town by heading down Calle 31 de Agosto, where you can start exploring the lively streets filled with shops and eateries.
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Taxi
If you prefer a quicker option, you can hail a taxi from anywhere in San Sebastián. Simply tell the driver 'Old Town' or 'Parte Vieja', and they will take you directly to the heart of the Old Town. The taxi will drop you off at one of the main squares, such as Plaza de la Constitución, which is a great starting point for exploring the area.
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Bicycle
For a more active approach, rent a bicycle from one of the many rental spots around the city. Start your ride at the waterfront and cycle along the promenade until you reach the Old Town. You can park your bike at designated areas near the entrance of the Old Town. Cycling is a great way to enjoy the scenic views as you make your way to this vibrant area.
Discover more about Old Town
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Paseo de los curas. Mirador
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Experience the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Paseo de los Curas Mirador in San Sebastián, a must-visit scenic spot for every traveler.
BRAI-Kantauri
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Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Basque coast with unforgettable boat tours and rentals at BRAI-Kantauri in Donostia-San Sebastián.
Bereraikia
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Discover Bereraikia, a stunning sculpture in Donostia that embodies the artistic spirit of the Basque Country and invites exploration and reflection.
Earra Tours Basque Country
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Explore the captivating Basque Country with Earra Tours, offering immersive sightseeing experiences that unveil the region's rich culture and stunning landscapes.
San Sebastian Walking Tours
0.4 km
Explore the beauty and culture of San Sebastian with guided walking tours through its historic streets and culinary delights.
Old City House
0.5 km
Discover the charm of San Sebastián at Old City House, where comfort meets the vibrant culture of the Basque country in a perfect getaway.
Free Walking Tour San Sebastian
0.6 km
Uncover the charm and history of San Sebastián with a captivating free walking tour led by passionate local guides, perfect for every traveler.
サン・セバスティアン
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Discover the serene beauty of Gipuzkoa Plaza in San Sebastián, a tranquil religious destination rich in culture and history.
Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian
0.9 km
Experience unparalleled luxury at Hotel Maria Cristina, a historic gem in San Sebastián, renowned for its elegance and prime location near cultural treasures.
Dona Katalina Zubia
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Explore the Dona Katalina Zubia, a stunning bridge in Donostia-San Sebastian that offers breathtaking views and showcases the city's rich cultural heritage.
Gros, Donostia-San Sebastián
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Explore Gros in Donostia-San Sebastián: A vibrant district filled with stunning beaches, culinary delights, and rich cultural experiences waiting for you.
Good Shepherd of San Sebastián Cathedral
1.2 km
Explore the stunning architecture and serene ambiance of the Good Shepherd Cathedral, an iconic symbol of San Sebastián's rich cultural heritage.
San Inazio Parrokia
1.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of San Inazio Parrokia, a must-visit Catholic church in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastián.
BaskMe Tours
1.2 km
Explore the best of Donostia-San Sebastian with BaskMe Tours, where expert guides lead you through captivating sights and local flavors.
Kontxa Pasealekua
1.2 km
Discover the scenic beauty and rich heritage of Kontxa Pasealekua, a historic promenade in Donostia-San Sebastián, perfect for leisurely strolls and stunning views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Urgull
0.0 km
Explore Urgull, a stunning mountain peak in San Sebastian offering breathtaking views, rich history, and captivating trails for every traveler.
Monte Urgull
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Experience the stunning views and rich history at Monte Urgull, a must-visit observation deck in San Sebastián.
Jesusen Bihotza estatua
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Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at the Jesusen Bihotza estatua, a San Sebastián landmark high atop Monte Urgull.
Motako Gaztelua
0.1 km
Explore the legendary Motako Gaztelua in Donostia-San Sebastián, where history, stunning views, and nature converge for an unforgettable experience.
Monumento al Sagrado Corazón de Jesús
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Monumento al Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, a stunning historical landmark with panoramic views in Donostia-San Sebastián.
Mirador del Monte Urgull
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Discover stunning panoramic views and rich history at the Mirador del Monte Urgull, a must-see observation deck in Donostia-San Sebastián.
Pasealeku berria balcón
0.2 km
Experience breathtaking views of Donostia-San Sebastián from Pasealeku Berria Balcón, a premier observation deck overlooking the stunning coastline.
Urguleko Atea - Portuko Begiratokia
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Experience the rich maritime heritage and breathtaking views at Urguleko Atea - Portuko Begiratokia, a historical landmark in Donostia-San Sebastián.
Santiago bateria
0.2 km
Discover the historical marvel of Santiago Bateria in Donostia-San Sebastian, where history meets breathtaking views and rich culture.
Donostiako Portua/Puerto de San Sebastián
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant culture and stunning views at Puerto de San Sebastián, a must-visit marina in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastián.
Donostiako Elizbarruti Museoa
0.3 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of the Basque Country at Donostiako Elizbarruti Museoa - a must-visit museum in Donostia-San Sebastián.
Koruko Andre Mariaren basilika
0.3 km
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual heritage of Koruko Andre Mariaren Basilika in San Sebastián, a must-visit cultural gem in the Basque Country.
Trinitate plaza
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Discover the charm of Trinitate Plaza, a historic landmark in Donostia-San Sebastián, where culture, community, and stunning architecture converge.
Atari Gastroleku
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Baluarte del Mirador
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Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Baluarte del Mirador, the iconic fortress on Monte Urgull in Donostia-San Sebastián.
Essential places to dine
Kokotxa Jatetxea
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Casa Vergara
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Discover Casa Vergara in Donostia-San Sebastian - where delicious grilled specialties meet warm hospitality in a charming setting.
Restaurante SSua Arde Donostia
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Experience authentic Basque cuisine at Restaurante SSua Arde Donostia - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
La Rampa Jatetxea
0.3 km
Experience authentic Basque cuisine at La Rampa Jatetxea - a top destination for grilled delicacies and fresh seafood in Donostia.
Restaurante Aita Mari
0.3 km
Experience authentic Basque cuisine at Restaurante Aita Mari in Donostia-San Sebastian - where tradition meets taste.
Gandarias
0.3 km
Discover authentic Basque flavors at Gandarias, a must-visit restaurant in Donostia-San Sebastián offering exquisite dishes and a warm atmosphere.
Juanito Kojua
0.3 km
Savor the authentic flavors of Basque cuisine at Juanito Kojua, where fresh seafood meets traditional cooking in Donostia-San Sebastián.
Karrika Taberna
0.4 km
Experience authentic Basque cuisine at Karrika Taberna – where every dish tells a story in the heart of San Sebastián.
Zazpi
0.4 km
Experience exquisite Basque cuisine at Zazpi in Donostia-San Sebastian, where tradition meets modern fine dining.
Ganbara
0.4 km
Experience authentic Basque cuisine at Ganbara in Donostia-San Sebastián, where traditional grilling meets modern flair.
Sirimiri Gastroleku
0.4 km
Experience innovative Basque cuisine at Sirimiri Gastroleku in Donostia-San Sebastian—where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Casa Urola
0.5 km
Discover authentic Basque cuisine at Casa Urola in Donostia-San Sebastián, where tradition meets flavor in every exquisite dish.
Txepetxa Taberna
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Discover authentic Basque flavors at Txepetxa Taberna, a vibrant tapas bar offering delicious pintxos in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastián.
Kaskazuri Jatetxea
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Experience authentic Basque flavors at Kaskazuri Jatetxea, a delightful Mediterranean restaurant in Donostia-San Sebastián's vibrant culinary scene.
Restaurante Pollitena
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Experience authentic Basque flavors at Restaurante Pollitena in Donostia-San Sebastian, where tradition meets Mediterranean delight.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
San Sebastian Duck Store
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PYC
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Explore PYC Gift Shop for unique handcrafted treasures in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastian, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Bazar Aquarium
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Explore Bazar Aquarium in Donostia-San Sebastian for unique gifts and souvenirs that embody the spirit of the Basque Country.
ALE-HOP
0.4 km
Explore ALE-HOP in Donostia-San Sebastian for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of Spanish culture and creativity.
Michael`s Regalos
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant charm of Michael's Regalos in Donostia-San Sebastián, where unique souvenirs and fashion accessories await every visitor.
Koloreka
0.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local art at Koloreka, a delightful gift shop and gallery in Donostia-San Sebastian.
COCO DONOSTI- Ropa y Complementos - SAN SEBASTIÁN
0.4 km
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Côte Basque Vintage
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Alboka Crafts
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Alboka Crafts: A treasure trove of local handicrafts in Donostia-San Sebastian, perfect for unique souvenirs and cultural experiences.
The Bohemian Shop
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Explore The Bohemian Shop in Donostia-San Sebastian for a unique selection of vintage clothing that captures the essence of retro style.
Wicca Store
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Explore the enchanting Wicca Store in Donostia-San Sebastián for unique clothing and accessories that celebrate the mystical and extraordinary.
Yarina artesania souvenir
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Discover authentic Basque craftsmanship at Yarina Artesania Souvenir, your go-to shop for unique handmade gifts in Donostia-San Sebastian.
SAOMI
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Casa Ponsol SL
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Bretxako Azoka
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Arkaitzpe Disco Pub
0.3 km
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Arraun
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of Donostia-San Sebastián at Arraun, a cozy bar renowned for its creative drinks and welcoming atmosphere.
Bare bare taberna-jatetxea
0.4 km
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Baztán Bar Restaurante
0.4 km
Experience the authentic taste of the Basque Country at Baztán Bar Restaurante, a top tapas bar in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastian.
Bar Martinez
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Discover the vibrant flavors of Basque cuisine at Bar Martinez, a top-rated tapas bar in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastián.
White Tara
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Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at White Tara in Donostia-San Sebastian, where creativity meets nightlife in a stunning setting.
Belea Taberna
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Belea Taberna, a lively bar in Donostia-San Sebastian, offering delicious tapas and great drinks.
Txurrut Terraza Puba
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Discover the lively atmosphere and local flavors at Txurrut Terraza Puba, a charming pub in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastian.
Sybaris Coctelería Donostia
0.5 km
Experience unique cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere at Sybaris Coctelería, the cocktail bar that redefines nightlife in Donostia-San Sebastián.
Bar Bixigarri
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Basque cuisine at Bar Bixigarri, a lively tapas bar in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastian.
Pub Burunda
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Discover the lively charm of Pub Burunda in Donostia-San Sebastian, where traditional pub culture meets vibrant nightlife and unforgettable experiences.
Bar Iguana
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious tapas at Bar Iguana in Donostia-San Sebastian, a perfect spot for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Minuto Y Medio
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Minuto Y Medio, a lively pub in Donostia-San Sebastian, where great drinks and local culture meet.
Bar Nestor
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Basque cuisine at Bar Nestor, a bustling bar in the heart of San Sebastián, perfect for food lovers and travelers.
The Hole Pub
0.5 km
Experience the lively darts scene at The Hole Pub, a popular dart bar in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastián, perfect for fun nights and cultural immersion.