Cookie settings
We use our own and third-party cookies in order to offer our services, display videos, obtain statistics and offer personalized advertising.
For more information, please read our cookies policy.
Situated in the Bay of Biscay, San Sebastián or Donostia is a must-visit city. On the shores of the Cantabrian Sea, the city is a unique combination of heritage, beaches, natural spaces, and quality gastronomy.
The exact origins of Donostia are unknown. The most telling information comes from the current Old Town of the city, where Roman remains dating from between 50 and 200 AD have been found. There is a document from the year 1014 related to Sancho the Great of Navarre, which could point to a foundation from that era. The veracity of this is, however, unclear. On the other hand, Donostia's foundation is also linked to Sancho the Wise, in the 12th century. Apparently, the Navarrese monarch sought to create an important maritime port for Navarre.
Donostia appeared to experience significant growth during the Middle Ages, when it was part of Castile. The city was mostly reduced to rubble due to a fire in 1489. From this point onwards, stone constructions began to predominate. The reality is that from this moment, Donostia grew economically and demographically. All of this despite being a border point with France that suffered sieges, looting, and various attacks over centuries. In fact, in the 19th century, the city was once again almost destroyed during the Peninsular War. At the end of that century, what has been termed the “Donostia Belle Époque” began, a period of artistic and economic splendour for the city.
As a result of its tumultuous history, most of Donostia's heritage dates from the 19th century. For example, the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, in neo-Gothic style, stands out. It is also worth mentioning the Miramar Royal Palace, with its avant-garde style.
Certainly, one cannot forget the Donostia beaches. The La Concha beach promenade is probably one of the most beautiful and visited places. The beach, of excellent quality, is a reference for national and international tourism each year.
Book your hotel
This guided tour is a perfect way to get to know the city of San Sebastián during your stay, even if you are only going to stay for one day. It includes the Old Town with its two main churches and the Ensanche (new town) with emblematic buildings such as the Hotel María Cristina.
This is a complete two-hour route in a small group through the capital of San Sebastian, with the company of a local guide. In addition, you will end up having a drink accompanied by an delicious "pintxo".
A perfect tour to get to know San Sebastian from end to end is with this bike route. You will visit the three beaches (Ondarreta, La Concha and Zurriola). You will pass through the Ensanche and its beautiful 19th century buildings. Also you'll pass through the Peine del Viento and on Zurriola beach you will arrive at the iconic sculpture of the Paloma de la Paz.
You will enjoy a pleasant pedaling tour following the local guide. Do not worry about the bicycle, since the company will provides it to you.
Savor the best of San Sebastián with this pintxos tour. You will go to places in the Old Town, where all the essence of the city is present. Accompanied by a local tour guide, you will taste five of these tasty Basque snacks paired with Spanish wines. In addition, you will enjoy the exclusivity of going in a very small group of no more than 10 people.
A perfect opportunity to discover San Sebastian with all five senses.
If you are going on vacation or a short gateaway to San Sebastián, here is an ideal plan to do with your family or friends. You will get to know charming coastal towns which are very close to the city, such as Hondarribia, San Juan and San Pedro. These are fishing villages that still preserve their Basque essence in their streets and houses. You will discover them with a local tour guide. The round trip transportation is included from your hotel.
This tour that designed for you to enjoy for half a day. Do not miss it!
