12 Unskippable Things to Do San Sebastián, Spain For First-Time Visitors

Looking for the best things to do in San Sebastián, Spain? You’re in the right place! San Sebastián is a host for many things, from incredible food to beautiful beaches, ornate architecture, and so much more.

San Sebastián had been on my travel wish list for years, and I finally got the chance to visit while exploring nearby Bilbao in January of all months!

At first, I didn’t think it would be as crowded or that it’d even be a bit lonely, but still, since I was already exploring Northern Spain, I decided to go and finally explore this must-visit city.

Let’s just say I’m so glad I did!

In this guide, I’m sharing the very best things to do in San Sebastián, Spain, for first-time visitors.

From pintxo bar hopping in the Old Town to boat rides across La Concha Bay, panoramic views from Monte Urgull, and Basque sweet treats you absolutely must try, San Sebastián is that city with the chill, seaside vibes, amazing food scene, and enough nature and history activities to entertain you!

Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or staying for a few days, this list will help you experience the city and all it has to offer, while making the most of your time as a first-time visitor.

I’ve done (and loved!) many of these activities during my visit in January. I’ve also included guided tours, hidden gems, and practical travel tips to help you plan a seamless trip, rain or shine.

So without further ado, let’s jump into the can’t-miss spots and unforgettable experiences waiting for you in San Sebastián!

1. Walk or Bike Along the Paseo Nuevo Coastal Path

One of the most relaxing (and free!) things to do in San Sebastián is walking or biking along the Paseo Nuevo.

It was the first thing we did when I got to the main city center to see La Concha Bay, the beautiful architecture, and where everyone seemed to hang out.

This scenic path wraps around Monte Urgull and offers panoramic views of the sea, the coastline, and even Santa Clara island on a clear day! Even though it was cloudy the day we went, the sun did come out briefly to see this at one point!

If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike and cruise the full length from the Old Town to the Aquarium and back.

You’ll pass incredible viewpoints, and you might even spot locals fishing or surfing.

This is one of the best ways to enjoy sightseeing in San Sebastián without a fixed schedule, and it doesn’t skimp on breathtaking beauty!

2. Go Pintxo Bar Hopping and Explore Old Town (Parte Vieja)

One of the top things to do in San Sebastián is to eat.

Did you know that San Sebastián is known as one of Spain’s culinary capitals? It has nicknames like “foodie paradise” and has dozens of Michelin-starred restaurants within its historic city limits.

So, eating is a must-thing to do in San Sebastián, starting in the Old Town, known locally as Parte Vieja. The next thing should be exploring after you’ve gotten your Pinxtos fix!

Pinxtos, the Basque version of tapas in Andalucia and the rest of Spain, are small, bite-size servings of food, typically on a pierced with a stick to easily grab and eat, and served on a pieces of bread.

If you book a food tour in San Sebastián, you’ll start in Constitution Square, then move around the historic streets packed with bars offering everything from grilled prawns, jamón ibérico (Spanish ham), and anchovies-style pintxos.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get time to do a food tour, but I’ve done them in other cities, from Málaga to Porto, and I can’t recommend them enough!

A food tour in San Sebastián offers a fun food experience in Spain’s culinary capital, while showing you where the best restaurants actually are, and which are worth it.

This is one of the best things to do in San Sebastián at night, but if you’re short on time, a lunchtime crawl is just as great!

✅ BOOK your spot on a Pintxtos tour through San Sebastián

3. Indulge in Basque Sweets and Ice Cream

Beyond the world-famous Pintxos, San Sebastián is also home to amazing sweets and desserts, many of them rooted in Basque culinary recipes and traditions.

Some items to try include:

• Pantxineta (a cream puff pastry dessert)
• Tarta de queso (the famous, rich Basque cheesecake)

Some of the best places to grab a traditional Basque dessert are:

• Pastelería Otagui
• La Viña

💡 Pro Tip: Did you know the Basque region is also known for its delicious ice cream? You’ll see when you bump into long lines rounding the corners sometimes to get into specific ice cream shops. What makes Basque ice cream worth waiting in line for is its unique, natural flavors, which are made using traditional methods. Check out Casa Arnoldo – the oldest ice cream shop in San Sebastián!

4. Explore San Sebastián’s Iconic Beaches

San Sebastián’s beaches are amazing. Each offers something unique, whether you want to surf, swim, or just soak up the Basque sun with a good book.

After getting my dessert (Basque Cheesecake), we headed to La Concha beach and hung out there while enjoying coffee and our dessert with views of the water and the surfers. I was surprised that this many people were out, even in the middle of January!

That being said, here are some of the best beaches to check out while in San Sebastián:

• Concha Beach: This crescent-shaped beach is the most famous and perfect for a swim or beach picnic. It’s also right in the city center, so accessible no matter what else you’re doing!
• Ondarreta Beach: A bit more low-key and ideal for families or a calmer vibe.
• Zurriola Beach: Surfers, this one’s for you! The waves are stronger, and the vibes are perfect for such activity.

Visiting the beaches is hands-down one of the top things to do in San Sebastián, Spain.

Even in the off-season, walking along the Concha promenade is common for visitors and locals. People watch, bring a snack, and just enjoy the sight of locals living and existing in such a beautiful city in Spain.

5. Discover San Sebastián’s Elegant Belle Époque Architecture

While the beaches get all the attention, the city’s Belle Époque architecture gives San Sebastián its classic charm.

Think grand hotels, art nouveau buildings, and ornate balconies overlooking the Concha promenade.

Walking along the Concha Promenade, the architecture was one of the first things I noticed, and I didn’t even know it was a thing in San Sebastián until I Googled it.

Some architectural highlights to look for are the Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra, the Victoria Eugenia Theatre, and the Maria Cristina Hotel, which is famous for hosting celebrities during the annual San Sebastián Film Festival.

If you’re into architecture or just love pretty cities, this is an underrated way to enjoy sightseeing in San Sebastián!

6. Visit the San Telmo Museoa and Learn Basque History

If you’re wondering what to see in San Sebastián that gives you real insight into the Basque Country’s identity, don’t miss the San Telmo Museoa.

Housed in a historic 16th-century convent, this museum blends Basque culture, art, and history all under the same roof.

You’ll find everything from religious art to displays of Basque nationalism and modern-day identity, which is super fascinating!

Plus, it’s one of the best rainy day activities in San Sebastián.

It’s located right at the edge of the Old Town, so it’s easy to include in your morning or afternoon strolls through the city, especially if you’re looking for things to do in San Sebastián when it’s raining!

7. Take a Boat Tour Around La Concha Bay

Something to do when it’s not raining? A boat tour on La Concha Bay!

When you book a La Concha Bay boat tour, you’ll pass the busy Concha Beach, admire the San Sebastián Belle Époque architecture from the water, and get up close to Santa Clara island, which sits peacefully in the middle of the bay.

There are several types of boat tours to choose from, which offer panoramic rides and include snorkeling or sunset cruises with wine and snacks. It’s up to you and how much time you’ll spend in San Sebastián!

✅ BOOK your spot on a Boat Tour around Concha Bay

8. Join a Basque Cooking Class or Wine Tasting Experience

Want to dive deeper into Basque food culture? A Basque cooking class or wine tasting experience is a fantastic way to do just that.

These experiences go beyond the typical tourist trail and give you a real taste, literally, of local life in San Sebastián.

You’ll learn to prepare dishes like marmitako (a Basque fish stew) or txangurro (stuffed crab), and you’ll definitely be sipping Txakoli wine, a crisp, slightly sparkling white wine that pairs perfectly with pintxos.

This is also a great activity for couples or solo travelers looking for a unique and social way to spend an afternoon!

✅ BOOK your spot on the next cooking class in San Sebastián

9. Book a Private Photoshoot in San Sebastian

Let’s be real.

San Sebastián is one of the most photogenic cities in Spain.

Between the Belle Époque buildings, panoramic views, and dreamy sunsets over La Concha Bay, it’s practically begging to be photographed.

Booking a private photoshoot with a local photographer may sound a bit extra. Still, in my opinion, photos, along with memories, are the best type of souvenirs worth accumulating when you travel, don’t you agree?

Plus, when you work with a local photographer, you’ll be taken to the best hidden corners, avoiding crowds!

Skip the awkward selfies or asking strangers to take photos that mostly don’t come out as you want them to, anyway, and book a photography session in San Sebastián!

✅ BOOK your photo session with a local in San Sebastián

10. Take in the Views from Monte Igueldo and Monte Urgull

If you’re wondering what to do in San Sebastián for jaw-dropping views, this is it.

Monte Igueldo and Monte Urgull offer some of the best panoramic views in the Basque Country, overlooking the entire bay, the city, and even parts of Santa Clara Island.

• Monte Igueldo: Take the funicular to the top to get sweeping views of Concha Beach, and visit the amusement park on the mountain.
• Monte Urgull: It requires a bit more of a hike, but it’s totally worth it if you’re looking for a quiet hike packed with scenery and history.

Consider booking a historical walking tour that includes Monte Urgull and the Old Town! A guide can bring the city’s fascinating history, traditions, and modern festivals to life, while showing you the best viewpoints in the city. It’s worth it!

✅ BOOK a walking tour in San Sebastián

11. Attend a Festival or Local Event (If You Can!)

One of the best ways to experience San Sebastián’s culture is through it’s unique and traditional festivals.

If you’re visiting during Semana Grande in August or the San Sebastián International Film Festival in September, you’re in for a unique experience in the city!

Parades, fireworks, concerts, and crowds fill the streets!

Some local guides offer festival-specific tours, which can help you avoid the chaos and find the best spots to enjoy the celebration! Definitely worth checking out if you’re visiting during a major event.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re looking up what’s on in San Sebastián, check the city’s tourism site ahead of your trip for festival dates and details.

12. Take a Day Trip from San Sebastián

Already explored the city and looking for things to do around San Sebastián? A day trip is the perfect way to extend your adventure.

One of the most popular and delicious options is visiting Getaria, a seaside village known for Txakoli wine and grilled seafood.

Want to explore more of the Basque culinary scene? I thought so! Consider booking a spot on a tour to Getaria, which includes wine tastings and a relaxed lunch by the sea. No driving or planning required! Just taking in the breathtaking Basque coast views.

Other great day trips to consider include:

• Hondarribia, San Juan and San Pedro
• Bilbao and Gaztelugatxe
• Rioja (Spain’s Wine Capital)
• Biarritz and the French Coast
• Zarautz

Ready to hit the ground running in San Sebastián?

Whether you’re spending just 1 day in San Sebastián or a whole week exploring Donostia, this city is a perfect mix of beauty, culture, food, and fun.

From San Telmo Museum to La Concha Beach, pintxos to panoramic viewpoints, there’s truly something for every kind of traveler!

Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes for this European adventure and your camera (or external charger for your phone!).

Have you been to San Sebastián or are you planning your first visit soon? What are you most excited to experience?

To more travel moments like this,