San Sebastian holidays

How to reach San Sebastián

Travelling to San Sebastián from Ireland is relatively straightforward, even without direct flights. The nearest airports are Bilbao and Biarritz, both served by flights from Dublin and other major Irish airports. Flights to Bilbao take about 2 hours.

• Transfer from Bilbao Airport: An hourly direct coach connects Bilbao Airport to San Sebastián in approximately 75 minutes.

• Transfer from Biarritz: This journey takes about 90 minutes and includes a short bus to Hendaye, followed by a scenic train ride into the city.

• Price: The bus from Bilbao typically costs €15–€20, while the combination journey from Biarritz comes in at around €10–€15.

Best time to visit San Sebastián

San Sebastián offers something special every season, whether you're going for the beaches, food or culture.

• March to May: A great time for sightseeing with mild temperatures (10°C to 17°C) and fewer crowds. Just bring a light rain jacket in case of spring showers.

• June to August: Expect sunny skies and lively beaches, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C. It’s the peak season, with plenty of festivals – but also higher prices and busier streets.

• September to November: The weather cools slightly (14°C to 20°C) and the city becomes a haven for food lovers, with fewer queues at pintxos bars and excellent seasonal menus.

• December to February: Quieter and cooler (6°C to 14°C), it’s ideal for cosying up in a café or exploring the Old Town without the summer crowds.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish and Basque are the main languages. English is commonly spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.

• Local customs: San Sebastián moves at a relaxed pace. Siesta time is generally from 2 pm to 5 pm, and evening meals are often enjoyed after 9 pm.

• Currency: The Euro is used. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s handy to have some cash for markets and tips.

• Getting around: The city is walkable, especially around the Old Town and beach areas. There’s also a reliable bus network; a single ticket costs €1.85.

• Electricity and plugs: Spain uses a 230V supply and two-pin European plugs. Irish travellers will need a plug adaptor.

• Time zone: San Sebastián is one hour ahead of Irish time and follows Central European Time (CET).

Best things to do in San Sebastián

As well as being renowned for its beautiful natural setting and culinary excellence, San Sebastián offers historical districts, family attractions and fun outdoor activities ranging from peaceful walks to adrenaline-pumping experiences.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Mount Igueldo: Board the funicular to the summit of Mount Igueldo to take in the expansive views of La Concha Bay.

• Mount Urgull: Take a hike to the top of Mount Urgull, noting the historic fortifications along the way, to be spellbound by views of the Old Town and the ocean below.

The best districts

• Parte Vieja (Old Town): The Old Town has a vibrant atmosphere and features several ancient buildings to admire and the authentic pintxos bars.

• Gros: Known for its surf culture, Gros is a great place to encounter San Sebastián's contemporary side and upmarket dining options.

Parks and gardens

• Cristina Enea Park: A peaceful green space, the park is a delightful spot for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll surrounded by peacocks and swans.

• Miramar Palace Gardens: Located opposite Miramar Palace, the gardens provide not only a tranquil retreat but also great views of the bay.

• Alderdi Eder Park: Considered by many to be the prettiest park in San Sebastián, you can spend a relaxing day here enjoying the large green space and riding on the delightful carousel and Ferris wheel.

Historical monuments

• Cathedral of the Good Shepherd: Dominating the skyline, this magnificent example of 19th-century neo-gothic architecture serves as a peaceful retreat from the busy city.

Day trips in the area

• Hondarribia: A smaller and quieter alternative to San Sebastián, this charming fishing village features colourful houses and a medieval fortress. It's also home to some of the best restaurants in the area.

• Getaria: Famous for its Txakoli wine and fresh seafood, a trip to this attractive coastal town should encompass a visit to the museum dedicated to the fashion designer Cristóbal Balenciaga.

• Bilbao: A visit to Bilbao offers a mix of modern architecture and rich Basque culture. Don't miss the iconic Guggenheim Museum and the vibrant old town, Casco Viejo. Explore our offers for Bilbao holidays.

• Biarritz: Just across the French border, Biarritz is famous for its stunning coastline, world-class surfing spots, and charming French atmosphere. Enjoy a delightful day trip with our deals on Biarritz holidays.

• Pamplona: Known for the Running of the Bulls, Pamplona is steeped in history and tradition. Explore its medieval streets, historic buildings, and lively tapas bars. Check out our offers for Pamplona holidays.

Activities for families in San Sebastián

Holidays to San Sebastián offer up lots for families to do, including a variety of educational attractions, outdoor activities and taking it easy on the beach.

• Aquariums: One of the oldest in Europe, the San Sebastián Aquarium is a hit with kids of all ages. It allows visitors to get close to marine life and gives educational tours.

• Interactive museums: The Eureka Museum of Science provides an engaging and educational experience using interactive exhibits on science and technology.

• Beaches: The Ondarreta and La Concha beaches, with calm waters and playgrounds, are perfect for a family beach day.

• Boat trips: A family boat ride around La Concha Bay offers the chance to learn about the local marine life. Sunset cruises are particularly popular, offering a unique view of the city as the sun dips below the horizon.

Free things to do in San Sebastián

San Sebastián holidays offer plenty of activities that won't impact your credit card, from days on the beach to immersing yourself in local culture and the scenic surroundings.

• Free events: Numerous free events take place in San Sebastián, such as the lively Tamborrada Drum Festival in January, where the city comes alive with the sound of drums. Summer brings open-air concerts and cinema screenings at various locations, including Zurriola Beach.

• Free guided tours: Learn about the city's history and culture by taking a free tour of the Old Town, which are operated by companies like Go Local San Sebastián.

• Free museums: Housed in a 16th-century convent, the San Telmo Museum offers a fascinating insight into Basque culture and history – free of charge on Tuesdays.

Nature and outdoor activities in San Sebastián

• Hiking: Many trails crisscross the surrounding hills and coastal areas of San Sebastián. Popular routes include the Paseo Nuevo, a coastal path offering stunning views of the sea and cliffs, which continues up to the top of Mount Urgull for further panoramic views. For a more challenging trek, climb the Jaizkibel mountain range.

• Water sports: Zurriola Beach is renowned for surfing, while kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in La Concha Bay provide more tranquil ways to enjoy the water.

• Cycling: The city is very bike-friendly. Renting a bike will enable you to explore the city's network of cycle paths, or venture further afield into the surrounding countryside.

• Paragliding: Paragliding from the surrounding hills over the stunning natural backdrop is breathtaking. Various companies offer tandem flights for those new to the sport.

• Nature reserves: Located around 30km away, natural parks such as Aiako Harria and Pagoeta offer a diverse range of flora and fauna and well-marked trails.

Local dishes in San Sebastián

San Sebastián boasts a plethora of Michelin-starred restaurants, so you really shouldn't miss out on this culinary experience. Be sure to sample pintxos dishes, similar to tapas, but with a Basque twist.

Pintxos dishes

• Gilda: A spicy, salty pintxo made of olives, anchovies and pickled peppers, reflecting the simplicity and depth of Basque flavours.

• Pulpo a la Feria: Though originating from Galicia, this tender octopus dish has become a staple in San Sebastián's bars.

• Morcilla: This Spanish blood sausage is a common feature in the Basque culinary scene, often served as a pintxo.

Meat dishes

• Txuleton: This succulent, thick-cut steak, often shared among diners, showcases the region's premium beef.

• Cordero Asado: Roasted lamb is a regional delicacy, typically slow-cooked to perfection and seasoned with local herbs.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Bacalao a la Vizcaína: A traditional Basque speciality known for its bold flavours where salt cod is prepared in a red sauce.

• Marmitako: A hearty Basque tuna stew, marmitako is perfect for replenishing energy after a day exploring the city.

• Kokotxas: A prized Basque delicacy, this fish dish is made from the gelatinous lower jaw of hake or cod, traditionally cooked in a parsley and garlic sauce.

Sweets and desserts

San Sebastián takes pride in its pastries and sweets. Two options that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth are Basque cheesecake, known for its creamy interior and caramelised exterior, and goxua, a layered dessert of cream, sponge cake and caramel.

Local drinks

• Txakoli: A slightly sparkling, dry white wine, Txakoli is a perfect companion to seafood pintxos.

• Basque cider: A traditional beverage in the region, Basque cider is usually enjoyed in a sagardotegi (cider house).

• Patxaran: This sloe-flavoured liqueur, typically consumed as a digestif, is normally drunk to round off the dining experience in San Sebastián.