Things to Do in San Sebastian
San Sebastian might be the most beautiful city in Spain, and it certainly has the food to match. A perfect crescent of golden sand curves around a calm bay, while the old town hides some of the best pintxos bars in the country. Add in green hills, a surf beach, and world-class museums, and you’ve got a city that’s hard to leave. This guide covers the best things to do in San Sebastian, whatever kind of traveller you are. For a ready-made schedule, check our 3-day itinerary for San Sebastian.
La Concha Beach
Few city beaches in the world compare to this one. La Concha Beach curves gently around the bay, backed by grand belle époque buildings and a wide promenade. Locals swim here year-round, while visitors sunbathe on the soft golden sand. Because the bay is so sheltered, the water stays calm even on windier days. Rent a pedal boat and paddle out towards Santa Clara Island for a different view of the city. At sunset, the promenade fills with walkers and cyclists enjoying the cooler air. It’s free to visit and easily the heart of San Sebastian’s charm.
Monte Igueldo
Ride a wooden funicular that’s been climbing this hill since 1912, and you’ll reach the best view in the city. Monte Igueldo rises above the western end of La Concha Bay, with sweeping views over the coastline. At the top, an old-fashioned amusement park still operates, complete with vintage rides and a stone observation tower. Because the park has hardly changed in decades, it has a nostalgic, storybook feel. Even without riding anything, the panorama alone is worth the trip. On clear days, you can see all the way toward the French border. Buy your funicular tickets at the base station, since they aren’t sold at the top.
Parte Vieja and Pintxos
Forget sit-down dinners, since here you eat standing up, bar by bar. Parte Vieja, San Sebastian’s old town, is packed with narrow streets and even narrower pintxos bars. Each counter displays a colourful spread of small bites, from anchovies to gildas to tortilla. Order a drink, grab a pintxo, then move on to the next bar just a few steps away. Locals call this bar-hopping style “txikiteo,” and it’s the best way to sample the city’s food scene. Because portions are small, you can try far more dishes than at a normal restaurant. Come hungry, and don’t be afraid to point at whatever looks good.
Peine del Viento
At the far end of Ondarreta Beach, iron sculptures grip the rocks as waves crash beneath them. The Peine del Viento, or Wind Comb, was created by Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida in 1977. Wind and sea spray rush through blowholes carved into the rock, creating an eerie whistling sound. It’s a striking, thought-provoking spot, and one of the most photographed in the city. Because the setting is so dramatic, sunset visits are especially popular. Take your time here, since the site rewards a slow, quiet look rather than a quick photo stop. It’s free to visit and only a short walk from the beach.
Monte Urgull
Climb through pine woods to a hilltop fortress, and you’ll find one of the city’s best lookout points. Monte Urgull sits between the old town and the harbour, topped by the Castillo de la Mota and a large statue of Christ. Winding paths lead up through greenery, past old cannons and crumbling ramparts. From the summit, you’ll get views over the bay, the old town rooftops, and Monte Igueldo across the water. Because the walk is free and open all day, it’s an easy addition to any itinerary. Wear comfortable shoes, since parts of the path are steep and uneven. Give yourself an hour or two to explore properly.
San Telmo Museoa
Housed in a 16th-century convent, this museum tells the story of Basque culture from past to present. San Telmo Museoa is the oldest museum in the Basque Country, with exhibits covering art, history, and ethnography. A striking modern extension wraps around the original stone building, blending old and new architecture. Inside, you’ll find everything from ancient artefacts to contemporary Basque paintings. Because it sits right at the foot of Monte Urgull, it’s easy to combine both in one visit. Entry is free every Tuesday, so plan around that if you’re watching your budget. Otherwise, tickets are available at the museum or online in advance.
Zurriola Beach
While La Concha stays calm, this beach on the other side of the river draws a completely different crowd. Zurriola Beach faces the open Atlantic, and its bigger waves make it the city’s main surf spot. Surfers paddle out at all hours, and several schools along the promenade offer lessons for beginners. The beach also has a livelier, younger energy, with beach bars and volleyball nets dotted along the sand. Nearby, the curved silver walls of the Kursaal Palace glint in the sunlight. Because the surf can get strong, always check conditions before swimming. It’s a great contrast to the postcard calm of La Concha.
Aquarium of San Sebastian
Walk through an underwater tunnel with sharks gliding overhead, right at the edge of the old harbour. The Aquarium of San Sebastian combines a working aquarium with a museum on the region’s seafaring history. Displays cover local marine life, historic fishing vessels, and the story of Basque whaling traditions. The highlight is a large ocean tank, home to rays, sharks, and countless colourful fish. Because it sits right by the harbour, it’s an easy stop after wandering the old town. Families in particular tend to enjoy the mix of sea life and interactive exhibits. Buying tickets online can help you skip queues in peak season.
La Bretxa Market
Beneath a plaza in the old town, this market has fed San Sebastian for generations. La Bretxa Market sells fresh fish, meat, cheese, and produce, much of it sourced from the surrounding Basque countryside. Locals shop here daily, so mornings bring the freshest catch and the biggest crowds. Vendors are usually happy to explain what’s in season, even if your Spanish is limited. It’s a good spot to pick up picnic supplies before heading to the beach. Because it’s underground and less touristy than the main pintxos streets, it offers a more authentic slice of city life. Give it half an hour, more if you like to browse.
Basque Cider House Route
Just outside the city, cider houses called “sagardotegis” serve one of the region’s oldest traditions. At a Basque cider house, you’ll eat a set menu of cod omelette, steak, and cheese with quince, all washed down with cider poured straight from giant barrels. Diners shout “txotx” and rush to the barrels to catch the cider as it flows. It’s noisy, sociable, and completely unlike a normal restaurant meal. Most cider houses operate seasonally, mainly from January to April, so check ahead before planning a visit. Many are a short taxi or bus ride from the city centre. It’s one of the most memorable food experiences in the Basque Country.
Closing Thoughts
San Sebastian works its charm slowly, through good food, sea views, and unhurried afternoons. Spend your mornings on La Concha, your evenings hopping between pintxos bars, and you’ll start to understand why locals rarely want to leave. Add a hike up Monte Urgull or a surf lesson at Zurriola for balance. However you spend your time, this coastal city rarely disappoints. For more planning help, see our guides on where to stay in San Sebastian, where to eat in San Sebastian, and the best day trips from San Sebastian.