HONDARRIBIA SIGHTSEEING and GASTRONOMIC SOCIETY - Gastronomic Adventure

San Sebastian , Spain

HONDARRIBIA SIGHTSEEING and GASTRONOMIC SOCIETY - Gastronomic Adventure

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(10 reviews)

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About this experience

We’ll visit Hondarribia, the town with two faces that looks out over the beaches and cliffs of neighboring France. It is advisable to go with a happy stomach because we will get to know (and enjoy) a gastronomic socieded from the inside. How? Eating, drinking, toasting and celebrating life like the Basque people.

Available options

HONDARRIBIA SIGHTSEEING and GASTRONOMIC SOCIETY - Gastronomic Adventure

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

4-course traditional Basque dinner with drinks

Private tour

Driver/guide

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Detailed itinerary

You will begin your journey in San Sebastian and drive one of the most scenic roads along Basque Coast, where the harsh landscape of Mount Jaizkibel cuts into the ocean. On the way, your guide will give you an introduction on the history of the area, and what to expect throughout the experience.

First, we will stop in the fishing port of Hondarribia and dive into the history of local sailors, pirates and explorers to understand the intimate relation between the Basques and the ocean. You'll also immerse yourself in some of the oldest fishing traditions and find out what are our favorite seafood delicacies.

Stop 3

We will continue towards the fishermen’s village called Marina, where the elderly congregate on benches along packed with bustling pintxo bars San Pedro Street. Colorful buildings located along this promenade used to be old fish markets and fishermen’s huts. There is no better place than Marina to stop for a drink - ‘topa’(cheers)!

From Marina we will take a pleasant walk to the fortified part of Hondarribia that sets the stage for some of Basque Country’s most glorious battles. Its narrow streets, flowers draped from the balconies and medieval charm creates an extraordinary atmosphere and cultural context. We will also take time to discover a hidden collection of tapestries by Rubens in the castle of Emperor Charles V.

Hope you are hungry because it’s high time to head to shrouded in secrecy, Basque gastronomic society! ‘Txokos’ - as we call them in Euskara are not just places to cook and eat but most of all they play an enormously important part in our social life.
We will be welcomed by our friend and an excellent chef - Fernando who, apparently fell into a clay pot with Basque fish stew ‘marmitako’ as a child and since then can’t live without cooking….and eating! Fernando will prepare for us authentic Basque dinner using highest quality products from the local garden and fishing port we have visited earlier today. Your plates will sequentially fill up with mouth-watering anchovies, Basque tomato salad with home-marinated tuna fish, baked monkfish and ‘pantxineta’ - vanilla custard, puff pastry and roast almond dessert!
Gastronomic society is a unique opportunity to actively participate in a local culture - cook, eat, sing and laugh just as you were Basque for a day!

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Wheelchair accessibility is extra paid - contact for details

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

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.