With 7 days in San Sebastián, you'll have time to experience the city's highlights. Beyond the beaches and bars, San Sebastián pulses with a unique cultural identity. The Basque language (Euskera) echoes through the streets, the San Telmo Museum delves into regional history within a stunning former convent, and the annual International Film Festival transforms the city into a cinematic capital.
Why Visit San Sebastián
Europe's Most Beautiful Urban Beach: Spend days on the golden sands of La Concha Beach, framed by its iconic bay and elegant promenade, or catch waves with the locals at the more rugged Zurriola Beach in the Gros district.
Breathtaking Panoramas: Ride the century-old funicular up Monte Igueldo for a postcard-perfect view of the bay, or hike through history up Monte Urgull to the Castillo de la Mota and its giant Sacred Heart statue.
Deep Basque Culture: Immerse yourself in unique traditions at the San Telmo Museum, hear the ancient Euskera language in the streets, and witness the power of the 'txalaparta' (traditional percussion) or Basque pelota.
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Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Start your San Sebastián adventure by getting your bearings and exploring the city's most iconic landmarks. Take time to soak in the atmosphere and discover why this destination captures the hearts of millions.
Pintxos Crawl in Parte Vieja
Experience Pintxos Crawl in Parte Vieja, one of San Sebastián's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Spain's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 2: Local Life & Neighborhoods
Experience San Sebastián like a local today. Wander through authentic neighborhoods, discover hidden cafes, and get a taste of everyday life in Spain.
La Concha Beach
Experience La Concha Beach, one of San Sebastián's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Spain's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 3: Art, History & Discovery
Uncover layers of history that shaped San Sebastián. From ancient remains to modern marvels, today reveals the stories behind the city's evolution.
Monte Urgull
Experience Monte Urgull, one of San Sebastián's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Spain's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 4: Off the Beaten Path
Venture beyond the tourist trail to discover San Sebastián's lesser-known treasures. These local favorites offer authentic experiences away from the crowds.
Monte Igueldo
Experience Monte Igueldo, one of San Sebastián's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Spain's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 5: Markets, Food & Exploration
Indulge your senses with San Sebastián's culinary scene. From bustling markets to beloved local spots, today is a feast for both eyes and taste buds.
Michelin Restaurants
Experience Michelin Restaurants, one of San Sebastián's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Spain's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 6: Culture & Hidden Gems
Dive deeper into San Sebastián's rich cultural heritage. Today is about understanding what makes this city tick, from its artistic legacy to its local traditions.
San Telmo Museum
Experience San Telmo Museum, one of San Sebastián's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Spain's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 7: Final Treasures
Make every moment count on your final full day. There's still so much to discover in San Sebastián, and today brings fresh adventures.
Ready to explore San Sebastián?
Travel Tips
- 1Book accommodation in the city center for easy access to attractions. San Sebastián is best explored by combining walking with public transport.
- 2The best time to visit San Sebastián is May to September. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- 3The local currency is Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted.
- 4A few words in Spanish go a long way with locals. Even "please" and "thank you" will earn smiles.
- 5Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip. WiFi can be spotty in historic areas.
- 6With 7 days, consider a day trip outside San Sebastián to experience more of Spain.
Must-Try Food in San Sebastián
💡 For the best pintxos experience, go where it's crowded with locals, order a 'zurito' (small beer), and don't eat the pintxos on the bar top first—ask for the hot specials ('calientes') from the kitchen.
Book Activities in San Sebastián
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Neighborhoods to Explore in San Sebastián
Parte Vieja (Old Town)
The historic and culinary heart of the city, a dense grid of narrow, lively streets packed with over 100 pintxos bars, traditional shops, and historic churches.
Centro - Amara
The modern commercial and administrative center, offering a contrast to the Old Town with wider avenues, high-end shopping, and elegant architecture.
Gros
The trendy, youthful neighborhood across the River Urumea, known for its surf culture, vibrant pintxos scene, and more alternative vibe.
Day Trip Ideas
With 7 days in San Sebastián, you have time for a memorable day trip. Here are some great options nearby:
Hondarribia & French Basque Coast
Cross the border into France to experience the charming fishing village of Hondarribia's colorful casco antiguo, then continue to the glamorous resort of Biarritz and the stunning cliffs of Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
Bilbao
Visit the dynamic industrial capital of the Basque Country, transformed by the iconic Guggenheim Museum.
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