The Real Basque Way: San Sebastian, Beyond the Stars

San Sebastian , Spain

The Real Basque Way: San Sebastian, Beyond the Stars

Active

(33 reviews)

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this full-day exploration of San Sebastian, we’ll get an edible crash course on the very roots of this seaside city's cuisine, delighting in peak seasonal ingredients, learning about local culinary traditions and visiting iconic haunts, old and new. Stop by stop, from classic pintxos to new school ciders, funky gastrobars to sleek dining rooms, the throughline will reveal itself, and that is the irresistible Basque way of enjoying food.

Available options

The Real Basque Way: San Sebastian, Beyond the Stars

What's included

Alcoholic Beverages

Snacks

Lunch

Breakfast

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We’ll start our day with the most perfect tortilla imaginable – both crunchy and oozy at the same time – at a busy locals’ cafe. We’ll then visit a neighborhood market where chefs and grannies line up to buy fresh kokotxa – fish necks, a Basque favorite – by the kilo on the way to meet a cheesemaker thinking way beyond the region’s borders. Down the street we will stop by the workshop of a Mexican of Basque origin who is reviving a chocolate tradition that once connected this port to his home country.

Heading out of the historic center, across a bridge where the Urumea river meets the Cantabrian Sea, we will be welcomed into a number of restaurants and food shops run by a tight-knit circle of culinary professionals who are filling in the gaps between San Sebastian’s Michelin-starred restaurants and its simpler neighborhood spots. Here, depending on the season, our day may include a homey fish stew and a sip or artisanal cider, or perhaps exceedingly fresh and delicate Cantabrian anchovies accompanied by a new school txakoli, the classic Basque white wine, minerally and smacking of the sea. Committed to quality, but restless for change, it is in these places where we will taste what is of the moment, meet the young leaders of the city’s pioneering kitchens and truly experience the Basque Way.

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

32 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point is in front of Hotel de Londres, waterside, under the shade structure.

About San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a picturesque coastal city in the Basque Country known for its stunning beaches, world-renowned gastronomy, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between the Pyrenees and the Cantabrian Sea, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and modern sophistication.

Top Attractions

La Concha Beach

La Concha Beach is one of the most famous beaches in San Sebastian, known for its beautiful shell-shaped bay and calm waters. It's a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach 2-3 hours Free

Parte Vieja (Old Town)

The Parte Vieja is the historic heart of San Sebastian, filled with narrow streets, charming plazas, and traditional pintxo bars. It's a great place to soak up the city's atmosphere and enjoy local cuisine.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore

Monte Igueldo

Monte Igueldo offers panoramic views of San Sebastian and the surrounding coastline. The hill is accessible by a historic funicular and is a great spot for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Nature 2-3 hours €3.50 for the funicular ride

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pintxos

Small, savory bites typically served on bread, featuring a variety of ingredients like seafood, meats, and cheeses.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Bacalao al Pil Pil

Codfish cooked in olive oil with garlic and parsley, a classic Basque dish.

Main Course Contains fish

Popular Activities

Surfing Hiking in the surrounding hills Sunbathing on the beaches Strolling along the promenade Visiting museums and galleries Exploring the historic old town Swimming Kayaking

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the best time to visit San Sebastian for its warm weather and vibrant atmosphere. The beaches are at their most inviting, and the city hosts numerous festivals and events.

18°C to 25°C 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Basque, Spanish
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

San Sebastian is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

San Sebastian Airport • 20 km from city center
Bilbao Airport • 100 km from city center

By train

San Sebastian Station

By bus

San Sebastian Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in San Sebastian is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for tourists.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Cabify, MyTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gros Antiguo

Day trips

Hondarribia

25 km • Half day

A charming coastal town with a historic old quarter, beautiful views, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to explore Basque culture and history.

Biarritz

50 km • Full day

A glamorous coastal town in France known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and upscale atmosphere. It's a great destination for a day trip from San Sebastian.