San Sebastián

San Sebastián, Donostia in Basque, is a seaside city in the Basque Country, around the shell-shaped bay of La Concha, about 20 kilometres from the French border. Its Old Town, the Parte Vieja, sits between the bay and the mouth of the Urumea river. Gros lies across the river, behind Zurriola beach.

The city is known for its pintxo bars, where the bites are lined up on the counter. Four operators compared in this guide run guided pintxo tours: San Sebastián Adventures from 91 euros per adult, Secret Food Tours for 94.99 euros, Eating Europe from 95 euros and MIMO Food Tours for 155 euros, in 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Some start at lunchtime, others in the evening.

Practical notes

• Biarritz and Bilbao airports are the main gateways. San Sebastián’s own airport, at Hondarribia, is small.
• The Old Town and Gros are a short walk apart, over the Urumea bridges.
• Rioja’s wine country, around Haro, can be reached by road.