STANDARD TRAVEL STYLE: 3 DAYS IN DONOSTIA-SAN SEBASTIAN(SPAIN )

As you depart from San Sebastian, may the memories of this opulent escape linger, and may the allure of Basque culture and cuisine stay with you until your next visit to this enchanting city. Don´t forget to Save your QR CODE and Bring with you in your trip!

Day 1: Arrival and Gastronomic Delights

Morning Arrival and Check-in

10:00 AM – Arrival at San Sebastian

  • Overview: Upon your arrival at San Sebastian, make your way to the seafront Hotel Niza, for a seamless check-in experience. Hotel Niza is a 4-star hotel situated on La Concha Beach, offering a blend of classic and contemporary design. It provides a comfortable stay with beautiful sea views.
  • Website: Hotel Niza
  • Address: Zubieta, 56, 20007 San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain
  • Highlights: Beachfront location, sea-view rooms, terrace with panoramic views.

11:00 AM – La Concha Beach Exploration

  • Strolling around La Concha Beach in San Sebastian is a delightful experience, offering scenic views of the bay and the surrounding city.

Here’s a suggested path to enjoy a leisurely walk along La Concha Beach:

  • Start at the Western End:
    • Begin your stroll at the western end of La Concha Beach, near the area where the Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium is located. Enjoy the open views of the bay.
  • Walk Along the Promenade:
    • Follow the wide promenade that runs parallel to the beach. This well-maintained path is perfect for a leisurely walk.
  • Miramar Palace Gardens:
    • As you walk, you’ll pass by the Miramar Palace Gardens on your left. Take a detour into the gardens for a peaceful break and enjoy the greenery.
  • Continue Along the Beach:
    • Resume your walk along the beach, taking in the views of the sandy shore and the Bay of La Concha.
  • Alderdi Eder Gardens:
    • Reach Alderdi Eder Gardens, a charming park located on the eastern side of the beach. Explore the gardens and the beautiful City Hall building.
  • Comb of the Wind (Peine del Viento):
    • If you’re up for a slightly longer walk, continue past Alderdi Eder Gardens and head towards the iconic “Comb of the Wind” sculptures by Eduardo Chillida. It’s a unique art installation set against the rugged coastline.
  • Return Along the Beach Promenade:
    • Head back towards the beach and stroll along the promenade, enjoying the views of the sea and the distant mountains.
  • Cafés and Beachfront Restaurants:
    • As you walk, you’ll pass by various cafés and beachfront restaurants. Consider stopping for a coffee or a meal while enjoying the seaside ambiance.
  • Complete the Loop:
    • Complete your stroll by returning to the starting point at the western end of La Concha Beach.

Afternoon Relaxation: Old Town Exploration

1:00 PM – Lunch at Borda Berri:

  • Overview: Borda Berri is a popular pintxos bar with a modern twist, offering a dynamic and ever-changing menu. It’s a casual spot where you can enjoy a mix of traditional and innovative pintxos.
  • Address: Fermin Calbeton, 12, 20003 San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain
  • Suggested Offers:
    • Risotto de Hongos (Mushroom Risotto)
    • Secreto Ibérico con Miel y Mostaza (Iberian Secret with Honey and Mustard)
    • Pulpo a la Parrilla (Grilled Octopus)
  • Website: Borda Berri

3:00 PM – Explore the Old Town (Parte Vieja)

  • Wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, known for its charming atmosphere and vibrant pintxos bars. Discover the historical architecture, visit the San Telmo Museoa, and explore the lively Plaza de la Constitución.

Highlights:

  • Constitution Square (Plaza de la Constitución):
    • This iconic square features colorful buildings with balconies overlooking the square. It was historically used for bullfights and executions.
  • San Vicente Church (Iglesia de San Vicente):
    • A Gothic-style church with a Baroque facade, San Vicente Church is one of the oldest churches in the city, dating back to the 16th century.
  • Mayor Street (Calle Mayor):
    • Mayor Street is a bustling thoroughfare with shops, cafes, and pintxos bars. It’s a central street in the Old Town, perfect for strolling and exploring.
  • Mercado de la Bretxa:
    • This lively market offers a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local products. It’s a great place to experience the local food scene.
  • Port and Harbor Views:
    • The Old Town is situated near the port and harbor, providing picturesque views of fishing boats and the sea.
  • Plaza de la Trinidad:
    • A vibrant square surrounded by bars and restaurants, Plaza de la Trinidad is a popular spot for socializing and enjoying the local atmosphere.
  • Pintxos Bars:
    • The Old Town is renowned for its pintxos bars, where you can sample a variety of these small, delicious Basque tapas. Try specialties like Gilda, Txangurro, and more.
  • Narrow Streets and Squares:
    • Wander through the maze of narrow streets and discover hidden squares, each with its own unique charm and character.
  • Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus (Basilica de Santa María del Coro):
    • This Baroque basilica stands out with its intricate facade and beautiful interior. It’s a significant religious and architectural landmark.
  • Old Port (Puerto Viejo):
    • Explore the Old Port area, which offers a mix of maritime history, seafood restaurants, and a scenic waterfront.
  • La Bretxa Bridge (Puente de la Bretxa):
    • The bridge connects the Old Town with other parts of the city and offers lovely views of the surrounding area.

Evening Culinary Experience

8:00 PM – Dinner at a Basque tavern

  • Overview: Gandarias Jatetxea is a popular Basque tavern known for its traditional pintxos and hearty dishes. With a warm and lively atmosphere, it captures the essence of Basque gastronomy.
  • Address: Calle 31 de Agosto, 23, 20003 San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain
  • Suggested Offers:
    • Chuleta de Buey (Ribeye Steak)
    • Txangurro (Spider Crab)
    • Pintxos: Try a variety of their delicious pintxos.
  • Website: Gandarias Jatetxea

Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Scenic Views

Morning Artistic Exploration: San Telmo Museoa and Chillida-Leku Museum

10:00 AM – Visit San Telmo Museoa

  • Begin your day with a visit to San Telmo Museoa, a cultural institution that showcases Basque history and contemporary art. Explore the diverse exhibits that provide insights into the region’s rich heritage.
  • Address: Plaza Zuloaga, 1, 20003 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain

12:30 PM – Lunch at a traditional Basque restaurant

  • Overview: Casa Urola is a traditional Basque restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The menu reflects the essence of Basque cuisine, and the elegant setting provides a welcoming dining experience.
  • Address: Fermín Calbetón Kalea, 20, 20003 San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain
  • Suggested Offers:
    • Merluza a la Koskera (Hake with Asparagus and Peas)
    • Carrilleras de Ternera (Veal Cheeks)
    • Idiazabal Cheese Cake
  • Website: Casa Urola

Afternoon Scenic Excursion: Mount Igueldo and Miramar Palace

3:00 PM – Ascend Mount Igueldo

  • Take a scenic drive or funicular ride to the top of Mount Igueldo for panoramic views of San Sebastian and its coastline. Explore the iconic Mount Igueldo Amusement Park for a touch of nostalgia.
  • To take the funicular to the top of Mount Igueldo in San Sebastian, you can find the lower station near the Ondarreta Beach.
  • Funicular Station Location Address: Paseo del Dr. Marañón, 13, 20008 San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain.

5:00 PM – Visit Miramar Palace Gardens

  • Head to the Miramar Palace Gardens and enjoy a leisurely walk through the beautifully landscaped grounds. Admire the palace’s architecture and take in breathtaking vistas of the Bay of La Concha.

Evening Sunset Cruise: Paseo Nuevo

7:00 PM – Sunset Cruise at Paseo Nuevo

  • Embark on a private sunset cruise along Paseo Nuevo. Sail along the coastline as the sun sets, casting a warm glow on San Sebastian’s picturesque landscapes.

Delighful Dinner

9:00 PM – Dinner at Bar Nestor

  • Overview: Bar Nestor is a small and iconic tavern known for its simplicity and high-quality ingredients. Famous for its perfectly cooked steak and tomato salad, it offers a no-frills, authentic experience.
  • Address: Calle Pescadería, 11, 20003 San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain
  • Suggested Offers:
    • Txuleta (Grilled Ribeye Steak)
    • Tortilla de Patatas (Spanish Omelette)
    • Tomate y Pimiento (Tomato and Pepper Salad)
  • Note: Bar Nestor is known for its limited menu, and offerings may change daily.
  • Website: No official website; it’s a local gem.

Day 3: Wellness, Aquarium & City Farewell

Morning Wellness

10:00 AM – Relax at Zurriola Beach

  • Conclude your luxurious retreat with a leisurely stroll along Zurriola Beach. Absorb the coastal ambiance and bid farewell to the beautiful surroundings of San Sebastian.

Cultural Farewell: Aquarium

2:00 PM – Visit the San Sebastian Aquarium

  • Explore the San Sebastian Aquarium, home to a diverse range of marine life. Discover the underwater wonders and learn about the local aquatic ecosystems.
  • Address: Plaza de Carlos Blasco Imaz, 1, 20003 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain