Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting in 2025? Travel Guide + Tips
Planning a trip to Spain and wondering if San Sebastian is worth visiting? You’ve come to the right guide!
As a travel blogger that lives in Barcelona, I’ve personally visited San Sebastian and I’m here to give you all the details on why this coastal gem should be on your Spain itinerary.
In this San Sebastian travel guide, I’ll cover all the reasons why San Sebastian is worth a visit, who it’s best suited for, and what to expect when visiting.
I’ll also go over some important safety information, travel tips, and the basics on where to stay and what to do in San Sebastian.
Ready to explore all that this picturesque Basque city has to offer? Let’s get started!
Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting?
In my opinion, San Sebastian is worth visiting if you love food and nature, and are looking for a more upscale, cultural experience in Spain. While it doesn’t always have the sunny weather and lively energy of some other Spanish cities, its unique charm and scenic beauty definitely make it stand out.
Known for its beautiful beaches, excellent surfing, Michelin-starred restaurants, quaint Old Town (Parte Vieja), and elegant Belle Époque architecture, San Sebastian is perfect for a weekend getaway or a slightly longer stay.
Though it’s one of the most expensive cities in Spain, you don’t necessarily have to splurge to enjoy its incredible food scene—pintxos bars offer delicious local bites with fresh seafood and the traditional Basque cheesecake shouldn’t be missed.
It is important to know that San Sebastian is located in the Basque Country, an area in northern Spain with its own distinct language (Basque, or Euskara) and traditions. While most people also speak Spanish, you’ll notice the region has its own cultural identity.
Overall, I think you’ll find that San Sebastian is a relaxing and charming destination with lots of interesting things to see and do. It’s a much smaller city compared to Barcelona or Madrid, but that’s part of its appeal—it feels intimate and welcoming while offering stunning landscapes and ridiculously good culinary experiences.
Is San Sebastian Safe to Visit?
San Sebastian is generally a very safe city to visit. The crime rate is low, and the city is known for being clean and well-maintained.
According to Numbeo, San Sebastian has a crime index of 29.31 on a 100-point scale, which is considered a low level of crime. For comparison, Barcelona has a crime index of 51.64, and I find Barcelona a safe place to visit.
As with any tourist destination, it’s always a good idea to be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town, where pickpocketing can occasionally occur.
Using a crossbody purse or belt bag and being aware of your surroundings is always a good idea, but overall, I found San Sebastian to be very safe, even walking around late in the evening.
As a solo female traveler, I felt comfortable throughout my visit and didn’t experience any issues when walking around or taking taxis alone. The locals are friendly and the city has a small town vibe–I even had the same taxi driver more than once!
U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory
The U.S. Department of State travel advisory for Spain is currently Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution, primarily due to terrorism and civil unrest.
This is for Spain as a whole and is the same level of caution as other major European destinations like France, Germany, and Italy.
It’s recommended to avoid demonstrations and crowds, and to be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
What is San Sebastian Like?
San Sebastian is known for its elegance, with a mix of beautiful Belle Époque buildings, charming old streets, and stunning natural landscapes.
It’s a place where you can explore charming architecture, relax on beautiful beaches, and indulge in some of the best food in Spain—all within a walkable, compact city.
The heart of San Sebastian is its Old Town (Parte Vieja), where you’ll find narrow streets lined with pintxos bars and local shops. This area buzzes with activity, especially in the evening, when locals and tourists come out for a drink and a bite to eat.
But it’s the natural beauty that really sets San Sebastian apart. The city sits along La Concha Bay, with sweeping views of the turquoise waters and lush green hills in the background.
The nearby Mount Igueldo and Mount Urgull offer panoramic views and are perfect for hiking or taking a scenic funicular ride.
Reasons to Visit San Sebastian
Here are my top reasons why San Sebastian is worth visiting:
- World-Class Food: San Sebastian is a foodie paradise. The city is famous for its Michelin-starred restaurants and vibrant pintxos scene, offering incredible local dishes at every turn. It’s a culinary destination like no other in Spain!
- Stunning Beaches: La Concha Beach is the star of San Sebastian, with golden sand and calm waters. It’s the perfect place to relax, take a swim, or enjoy water sports.
- Excellent Surfing: San Sebastian is one of the best places in Spain for surfing. The Zurriola Beach area is the best spot for surfing, with surf schools and equipment rentals available.
- Picturesque Views: The city is surrounded by rolling green hills and sparkling blue waters. Whether you’re hiking up to Mount Urgull or taking in the sunset from La Concha, the views are unforgettable.
- Basque Culture: San Sebastian has a strong Basque identity, and you’ll see and feel it in everything from the language to the festivals. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Basque culture.
- Walkable City: San Sebastian is small enough to explore on foot, making it an easy city to navigate. You can go from the Old Town to the beach in minutes, and if you stay in the town center, everything feels close and convenient.
- Green Spaces: The city has many parks and green areas to relax in. Miramar Palace Gardens, for instance, offer a peaceful retreat with stunning sea views.
- Cultural Events: San Sebastian hosts several cultural festivals, including the world-renowned San Sebastian International Film Festival in September and Jazzaldia, Europe’s longest-running jazz festival, in July.
Who is San Sebastian Best Suited For?
San Sebastian is a great place for travelers looking for a blend of relaxation, culture, and gastronomy.
Known for its luxurious appeal, the city has hosted royalty and celebrities over the years. But even though it can be an expensive city, there are still ways to save money on your stay.
Whether you’re a couple after a romantic beach getaway, a family in search of a serene seaside retreat, or a solo traveler on a culinary adventure, San Sebastian has something for everyone.
It’s also a great destination for those who love the outdoors, with lots of opportunities for hiking, surfing, and water sports. And if you’re a foodie, you’ll be in absolute heaven—there’s no shortage of incredible places to eat and drink here.
Where is San Sebastian?
San Sebastian is located in the Basque Country in northern Spain, near the French border.
It’s situated along the Bay of Biscay, about a 5-6 hour train ride from Barcelona and Madrid, or a short trip from other Spanish cities like Bilbao.
San Sebastian’s coastal location makes it an ideal destination for beachgoers and those looking to explore the Basque region.
How to Get to San Sebastian
Getting to San Sebastian is pretty easy, whether you travel by train, car, or plane.
The easiest way to get there is to fly directly into San Sebastian Airport (EAS), which is located nearby, and then take a quick bus or taxi ride to the city.
Another option is to fly into Bilbao Airport (BIO) and drive or take a bus to San Sebastian.
If you’re already in Spain, you can also take a train to San Sebastian from nearby destinations. I took a direct Renfe train from Barcelona to San Sebastian, which took around 6 hours with scenic views along the way.
You can also take a Renfe train from Madrid, which takes about the same amount of time on the fastest train.
Best Time to Visit San Sebastian
The best time to travel to San Sebastian Spain is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm, and the beaches are at their best.
However, the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) can also be a great time to visit, with fewer tourists and mild weather.
The film festival usually happens in September with a lot of celebrities in attendance, making it an exciting time to explore the city.
How Much Time to Spend in San Sebastian
San Sebastian is a relatively small city, so I’d recommend spending at least 2-3 days to see the main attractions and experience the local culture.
But if you want to take your time, relax on the beaches, and explore more off-the-beaten-path areas, consider staying longer.
You can also take day trips to nearby towns and attractions, such as the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, which can add more depth to your San Sebastian trip.
Weather in San Sebastian
I can’t write about San Sebastian without mentioning the weather because it can be a lot different from other parts of Spain.
San Sebastian is located on the northern coast of Spain, which means it has a cooler, more temperate climate with mild summers and winters.
In the summer, high temperatures average around 72°F (22°C), while in winter, they can drop to 54°F (12°C).
It rains a lot in San Sebastian all throughout the year, so definitely make sure to pack a travel umbrella and rain jacket. I visited San Sebastian in May and it rained several days of my trip!
Best Things to Do in San Sebastian
San Sebastian offers a range of activities and attractions. Here are some of the best things to do in San Sebastian:
- Stroll La Concha Beach: A day at La Concha Beach is a must. You can relax, swim, or simply walk along the beachfront promenade that wraps around the bay.
- Hike Mount Urgull: For some breathtaking views of the city and the bay, head up to Mount Urgull. It’s an easy hike with many spots to take in the scenery.
- Explore Parte Vieja: The Old Town is the place to be in San Sebastian. Wander the narrow streets, pop into pintxos bars, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
- Visit Monte Igueldo: Take the funicular up to Monte Igueldo for one of the best views of San Sebastian. There’s even a small amusement park at the top known as Parque de Atracciones Monte Igueldo, adding a fun and playful element to the experience.
- Indulge in Pintxos: Sampling pintxos in San Sebastian is a must-do. These small bites are served at nearly every bar, and each place has its own specialties. Don’t be afraid to bar-hop and try as many as possible! I had pintxos and drinks at Casa Vergara and it was really delicious with a nice atmosphere. You can even take a Pintxos and Wine Food Tour to make sure you don’t miss any of the best spots!
- Dine at a Michelin-star restaurant: San Sebastian is known for its incredible food scene, and it has the highest density of Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe. If you can splurge on one fancy meal during your trip, this is the place to do it.
- Visit a Cider House: In the Basque region, cider is a popular drink and tradition. Arrange a visit to one of the local cider houses to learn about the process of making it and sample some delicious varieties.
- Take a Boat Ride: San Sebastian offers boat rides and sailing tours along the coast, giving you a unique perspective of the city and its beautiful surroundings. I went on a catamaran boat ride around the bay when I was there and although the weather was a little rough, it was definitely a memorable experience!
- Visit the San Telmo Museum: This museum is located in a former Dominican monastery and showcases the history, culture, and art of the Basque region. It’s a great way to learn more about the city and its people.
Where to Stay in San Sebastian
Here are my top recommendations for places to stay in San Sebastian:
- Luxury: Stay at Hotel Maria Cristina, an elegant five-star hotel located right in the heart of the city. It’s a perfect spot for a luxurious getaway with beautiful rooms and top-notch service.
- Mid-Range: Abba San Sebastián Hotel is a more affordable option located right by the river with updated rooms in a charming historic building. It’s comfortable and offers great amenities.
- Budget: For budget travelers, Pensión Peñaflorida is a fantastic option in the city center, close to all the main attractions and pintxos bars.
Tip: I personally stayed at Barcelo Costa Vasca. It was a great hotel but it’s located outside of the city center and I had to take taxis to get into town. I’d recommend staying in the town center to be within walking distance of the Old Town and major attractions.
Tips for Visiting San Sebastian
Here are some quick San Sebastian travel tips to make your trip even better:
- Pack an umbrella and rain jacket: As mentioned before, it rains a lot in San Sebastian. Make sure to pack a travel umbrella, rain jacket, waterproof shoes, and lots of layers so you can still enjoy your trip even in the rain.
- Try all the pintxos: Don’t be afraid to try as many pintxos as possible! Each bar has its own specialties, and it’s a fun way to experience the local cuisine.
- Learn a few Basque phrases: The Basque language is unique, and learning a few words can go a long way in connecting with locals. “Kaixo” means hello, “agur” means goodbye, and “eskerrik asko” means thank you.
- Try the local sparkling wine: San Sebastian is known for its traditional sparkling wine, “txakoli”. Make sure to try a glass or two during your visit.
- Book restaurants in advance: Some of San Sebastian’s best local restaurants, especially Michelin-starred spots, require reservations far in advance.
- Don’t miss the Basque cheesecake: Basque cheesecake is a delicious dessert that is an absolute must-try in San Sebastian, and probably the best cheesecake I’ve ever had–I’ve been dreaming about it ever since!
Final Thoughts: Is San Sebastian Spain Worth Visiting?
I hope this guide has helped you understand why San Sebastian should be on your list for your next adventure in Spain.
San Sebastian is a nice coastal retreat with beautiful beaches, incredible food, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and culture.
I didn’t really know what to expect when visiting San Sebastian but I was pleasantly surprised by the absolutely incredible food scene and charming Old Town.
Just be sure to pack an umbrella!
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