San Sebastian: Hidden Coves & Unforgettable Flavours
Surf the waves of Zurriola Beach, and indulge in world-famous pintxos by night. With local culture, breathtaking views, and some of the best food in Europe, this is more than a holiday. It’s a Basque experience you’ll never forget.
Dusk on the beach in San Sebastian
Day 1 - Arrive in Gros District, San Sebastián
Flight: Arrive in San Sebastián via Biarritz or Bilbao Airports.
Transfer: A short taxi (if arriving late) or public transport will get you there between 40 minutes and 1 hr 20 minutes depending on the arrival airport. Gros is very walkable once you’re there, a rental car not strictly necessary for this itinerary unless you plan to travel further afield.
Accommodation: Check-in at hotel in Gros.
Afternoon: Stroll Zurriola Beach or try beginner surf session if you’re not travel weary!
Evening: Pintxos crawl in Parte Vieja (Old Town), is an excellent way to toast your arrival and explore the culinary delights on offer.
Strolling the streets of the Old Town, San Sebastian
Day 2: Surf & Monte Urgull Hike
Morning: Surf or yoga session on Zurriola Beach.
Afternoon: Hike Monte Urgull for castle ruins and ocean views. Optional: Book a local guide for a cultural tour. There are some options here, whether you’d like to walk or perhaps try an e:bike!
Evening: Sunset drinks at Sagues.
Day 3: Museum & Culinary Culture
Morning: San Telmo Museum (history, art, Basque culture). Walk along Paseo Nuevo coastal path.
Afternoon: Relax at La Concha Beach or visit Mercado de la Bretxa for foodie souvenirs.
Evening: Cooking class or dinner at Gandarias or Borda Berri.
Day 4: Island Picnic & Move to Igueldo
Morning: Boat to Santa Clara Island (May–Oct), swim and picnic.
Afternoon: Ride the Igueldo Funicular to top of Monte Igueldo.
Early Evening: Transfer to second accommodation (short taxi or bus), and check into your new Igueldo home.
Zip Tip: Leave bags at your Gros hotel after checkout and pick up after the island trip before heading to Igueldo.
Day 5: Basque Countryside & Cider Houses
Morning: Late breakfast, then short taxi ride to Astigarraga.
Afternoon: Visit a traditional sagardotegi (cider house) – cider tastings + Basque lunch (book ahead).
Evening: Return for a swim at the hotel pool or relax with a drink for some downtime. Head out for dinner.
An aerial view of La Concha Bay
Day 6: Cliffside Walk & Gastronomic Treats
Morning: Hike or stroll coastal trails of Igueldo. Visit Peine del Viento sculpture by Eduardo Chillida, or experience the great views of La Concha beach from the Mount Igueldo viewpoint.
Afternoon: Rest or chill out around the hotel.
Evening: Sit under the stars and city lights on La Concha. If you still have an appetite, take another stroll in the Old Town.
Day 7: Morning Leisure & Departure
Morning: Enjoy breakfast with a view, a quick swim and perhaps a spa in one of the many facilities around San Sebastián.
Transfer to Biarritz/Bilbao depending on return flight to the UK.
How much does it cost?
You can always cut costs or splash out depending on where you want to focus your budget and when you travel. But to give you a rough idea, here are an overview of the costs.
Budget TierCost Range (Per Person)
Tight Budget: £510 – £740
Mid-Range: £890 – £1,230
Luxury: £1,800 – £2,650
Itinerary Breakdown
This San Sebastián itinerary offers a well-balanced experience:
Culture: Immersive food tours, pintxos bars, historic Old Town strolls, and optional visits to museums or cider houses.
Relaxation: Time on the beach, coastal walks, and slow evenings in charming rural or seaside accommodations.
Adventure: Hiking along the coast, e-bike rides, and optional surfing or day trips to wild Basque landscapes.
It’s ideal for people who want to soak in Basque life at an easy pace, with enough activity to keep it dynamic for the restless amongst you.
When to travel?
Climate summary of The Basque Country
We recommend late May to mid-June or early September for this itinerary. You’ll get warm days, great food, walkable towns, and a relaxed but lively feel.
Happy travels!
