What to do and see in San Sebastián

Here I will show you how to spend a weekend in San Sebastian, in Spain’s Basque Country region. Donostia, as it is called in Basque language, is capital of the province of Guipuzcoa and tops a number of lists: it’s one of Iberian Peninsula’s most beautiful cities, with one of the most beautiful beaches, one of Spain’s most stylish places and one of the world’s most important gastronomic destinations. With so many superlatives, there was no way I was not going to have a taste of it!

Map of Spain: Where is San Sebastian located?

With less than 200,000 inhabitants, it is the only city in the world, along with Paris, with three restaurants rated 3 Michelin stars (the highest level). So you already know that you can spend your weekend in San Sebastian tasting some great food. Good food is part of any Basque’s everyday life and apart from the Michelin restaurants, there are options to suit all budgets. Better than any sit-down meal are the famous pintxos, the local answer to tapas, served in many bars in the Parte Vieja (Old Quarter).

Pintxos, the small delicacies you find in San Sebastian
A “pintxos crawl” should be on every visitor’s list

Unlike most of Spain, the region is rainy most of the year. I was lucky to have perfect weather so I could go for a stroll on the sidewalk by La Concha beach one day and go for a swim the other. Located on the bay with the same name this beach is famous for its fine sand and picture-perfect setting.

What to do and see in San Sebastián
Santa Clara Island seen from La Concha
What to do and see in San Sebastián
Not beach time… yet!
La Concha Beach, perfect for a weekend in San The streets of Old Town San Sebastián
A weekend in San Sebastian won’t be complete without a visit to La Concha beach

After taking lots of pictures of La Concha, I went for a walk in the Parte Vieja and bumped into a huge crowd of supporters of the local Real Sociedad and Atlético de Bilbao, the football teams playing in town that day. To my surprise, the atmosphere was of joy. Both sides were drinking and chanting for their respective teams and sometimes against their rivals. I was even offered a drink by a small group of Real Sociedad supporters and we met later for more drinks and party – something for another post!

The streets of Old Town San Sebastian
The streets of Old Town San Sebastian

After the first drink I was introduced to the local night life… and do the Basques know how to have a good time!

What to do and see in San Sebastián

Football fans I met on my weekend in San Sebastian

So be it for the beautiful setting, food to die for, great nightlife or the friendly Donostiarras, I’ve already decided to go back sooner than later!