9 Things to Do that Will Submerse You in San Sebastian

Easily walkable, undeniably cultured and deliciously packed with pintxos restaurants, San Sebastian is one of the best European cities for foodies, history buffs and architecture lovers alike.Well known for one of Europe’s most pristine urban beaches and an almost embarrassing number of Michelin-starred restaurants (more on both of which below), San Sebastian—or Denostia, as it’s known in the Basque language—boasts enough incredible experiences to warrant a few days’ stay.Below, we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite ways to submerse yourself in one of Spain’s most incredible (and most delicious) cities.<h2>9 Awesome Things To Do in San Sebastian</h2><h3>Pig Out on Pintxos</h3><img class="image_resized" style="aspect-ratio:380/253;height:auto;width:0px;" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-pintxos.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="253">San Sebastian famously boasts more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city on earth, but its real claim to foodie fame extends well beyond Michelin’s posh confines.You’ll find two things in nearly every bar in San Sebastian: <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2013/09/11/pintxos-the-tapas-of-the-basque-country/">pintxos</a>, the Basque country’s delicious version of tapas, and <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2018/03/16/travel/basque-cider-astigarraga-txotx.html">Sagardoa</a>, the region’s signature cider, which bartenders exclusively pour from a height of two feet or more above the glass—so beware of a&nbsp;Sagardoa splash!Great pintxos spots are too numerous to name, and not hard to find. Simply stroll through the Old Town (on which more below) and you won’t be able to go a block without finding one.A few that pop up on various lists of the city’s best include Bar Borda Berri, Bar Nestor, La Cuchara de San Telmo (where the pintxos isn’t on display but you can order from a menu) and&nbsp;La Viña, where you can also sample the famous cheesecake they make fresh everyday.

<h3>Playa de la Concha</h3>After an evening spent indulging in pintxos and sagardoa, you may find yourself unable to do much more than lie on the beach. Fortunately, you won’t need to go far.If the phrase “city beach” conjures images of seagulls pecking away at rock-riddled refuse, you’ll be delighted by San Sebastian’s pristine Playa de la Concha.One of the best urban beaches in Europe (and maybe the whole world), Playa de la Concha and&nbsp;the city’s western beach, Playa de Ondarreta, offer a chance to soak up the turquoise waters of the Bay of La Concha without needing to take a car out of town.

Bring a beach towel or rent a chair from any of the on-beach vendors, enjoy a dip in the crystalline waters, then head up to the boardwalk when you’re ready for lunch and some people watching.<h3>Santa Clara Island</h3><img class="image_resized" style="aspect-ratio:355/272;height:auto;width:0px;" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-island.jpg" alt="" width="355" height="272">Perched between Mounts&nbsp;Urgull and Igueldo, Santa Clara is a tiny island that offers stunning views of San Sebastian’s shore.Most famous for the (long unmanned) lighthouse perched at its peak, the island has a small beach that only appears during low tide. As in the rest of San Sebastian, food and drink are never far from reach. Enjoy a snack and a glass of wine at Chiringuito de la isla Santa Clara, and drink in the views of Donostia in all her glory.<h3>Stroll la parte vieja (the Old Town)</h3>Lying at the foot of Mount Urgull and bordered by two bodies of water, the sea and the River Urumea, the Old Town is the beating heart of San Sebastian.As mentioned, the streets are packed with pintxo bars and bustling with energy, and dotted with landmarks like the Basilicata of St. Mary of the Chorus, St. Vincent’s Church and the Plaza de la Constitucion.While there’s plenty to see during the day, at night is when the Old Town really comes alive. Head out around 8 pm and begin bar hopping from one pintxos bar to the next for a quintessential San Sebastian experience.<h3>See the Casino-cum-City Hall</h3>Built between 1882 and 1887, the building that now serves as San Sebastian’s city hall might just occupy the best piece of real estate in the entire city. Originally the home of the Gran Casino until gambling was outlawed in 1924, politicians, writers, artists and many others gambled the nights away during the Belle Epoque era.In 1937, the building quite literally found itself in the middle of the Spanish Civil War, and bullet holes from the conflict can still be seen to this day.The city council moved in a decade later, in 1947, and the building has served as the city’s civic headquarters ever since.<h3>San Telmo Museoa</h3>Partially housed in a&nbsp;16thC Dominican convent in the heart of Old Town, San Telmo Museoa, or STM is dedicated to all things Basque.

Boasting more than 26,000 historic Basque artifacts, this is the best place in the world to learn about the rich heritage of Basque culture. In addition to its many treasures, the building itself is worth exploring for its mixture of architectural styles; Gothic, renaissance and contemporary designs are all incorporated into the building, making it a must-see.<h3>Soak up the (Beachside) Spa</h3><img class="image_resized" style="aspect-ratio:380/242;height:auto;width:0px;" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Things-to-Do-in-San-Sebastian-spa.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="242">There are admittedly more luxurious spas in San Sebastian, but none quite as interesting as La Perla, located on La Concha beach (and when I say on the beach, I mean that literally).La Perla offers thalassotherapy, which uses seawater as a form of therapy. Various salt water pools filled with water pumped in directly from the bay offer various forms of water therapy, primarily through the use of high-powered jets that target specific muscle groups.While the water therapy can be incredibly soothing, the real benefit of La Perla is the beachside views offered by the panoramic jacuzzi. Relax in the water or on a nearby heated lounger and bliss out as you take in views of the beach and the bay.If a rainy day keeps you from exploring as much as you’d like, La Perla offers the perfect in-door alternative.<h3>Admire the Views from Monte Igueldo</h3>Described as the limit between the city and the sea, Monte Igueldo sits at the western edge of La Concha Bay and offers some of the very best views of the city.A 1912 funicular railway brings you to the top of the mountain, where you can take in views of the entire city, as well as the Gipuzkoan coastline and the sprawling Cantabrian Sea.&nbsp; The mountain’s summit also boasts an amusement park and the 16thC&nbsp;El Torreón tower, on top of which you can get the best views of the city.<h3>Bask in Basilica de Santa Maria del Coro</h3>Perched on the corner of Mayor and Trinidad streets, construction on the “modern” part of Basilica de Santa Maria del Coro, designed by&nbsp;Pedro Ignacio de Lizardi, began in 1743.I say “modern” because the church actually predates Lizardi’s&nbsp;275-years-old building. Originally built by the Kings of Navarra in the 12th and 13th centuries, the previous structure was enlarged in the mid-16th century in the Gothic and Rennaisance styles by the Asturians. In 1668 a cache of gun powder being stored in the building accidentally exploded, severely damaging the previous church and necessitating Lizardi’s redesign.The church’s rich history,&nbsp;combined with Lizardi’s remarkable design and classical style, makes it one of the oldest and most storied in San Sebastian.

Discover the best things to do in San Sebastian, Spain, from world-famous pintxos and Michelin-starred dining to Playa de la Concha, historic Old Town landmarks, museums, spas, and sweeping coastal views. A must-read guide to immersing yourself in Basque culture.

Spain

Andalucia, Catalonia, Rioja (to name a few)… the beauty of Spain never ceases to amaze us. We’ve spent decades whittling our journeys here to perfection. Feeling bleh? Pedal through a fiery Spanish-Arab cultural mash-up. Feeling thirsty? Aim for the Old World vineyards. Feeling reflective? Have we got a pilgrimage for you…

A fiesta of flamenco, sunsets, and savoury tapas

Riding in Rioja is a sensory experience. Your eyes won't believe the vineyard-covered hills of neighbouring&nbsp;Ribera del Duero. Your body won't believe the comfort of the 5-star Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine Hotel. Your taste buds will never tire of the tapas, pintxos, and barbecued meats—not to mention the world-famous wine. And your mind? Totally and utterly blown.

Exceptional Wines

Incredible Rides

One-of-a-kind Hotels

There’s a fresh energy pulsing through Northern Spain’s wine country. Cycle through rolling vineyards and wheat fields where bold architecture meets deep tradition. Meet visionary winemakers, artists and chefs redefining the region’s identity. From smoky txorizo to Michelin-starred magic—paired with vintages full of surprise—this is Spain as you’ve never tasted it before.

Taste and ride Northern Spain

Immerse yourself in the sensory symphony

Riding in Rioja is a sensory experience. Your eyes won't believe the vineyard-covered hills of neighbouring&nbsp;Ribera del Duero. Your body won't believe the comfort of the 5-star Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine Hotel. Your taste buds will never tire of the tapas, pintxos, and barbecued meats—not to mention the world-famous wine. And your mind? Totally and utterly blown. *Some departures run on a slightly different itinerary.

This region in northern Spain offers more than just award-winning reds. Rioja exudes creativity and boasts whimsical architecture and design, all while remaining deeply rooted in its heritage. Go Self-Guided and cycle our routes through ever-changing landscapes, immerse yourself in medieval history and follow the paths of pilgrims who've left their footprints here for millennia. It's an experience that can only be described as divine.&nbsp;

Historic Sites

Rioja: where the reds are award-winning, the architecture’s delightfully quirky, and the roads were practically made for cycling. Ride through rolling vineyards, medieval towns, and pilgrim paths carved over millennia. With divine scenery, rich history, and vino at every turn, this self-guided spin serves up Spain with just the right splash of magic.

From Mountains to Medieval Towns

A sensory experience in the heart of Spanish wine country

The itinerary below is a sample and is subject to slight changes in routes, accommodations and activities. Please download the itinerary for your selected departure for precise details.

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Experience Designer

$4,995 based on four travellers. $5,495 based on two travellers.

B&amp;R’s Women’s Only trips are designed by women, for women to experience new regions, cultures and communities from female perspectives. ﻿For centuries, women have walked along the ancient paths of the Camino de Santiago, a storied network of pilgrimage routes that weave through Europe. On this journey, you’ll follow the footsteps of countless pilgrims before you, beginning at the sacred Cruz de Ferro. Wind along cobblestone streets lined with charming houses until you reach the Palacio de Canedo—your first hotel and a place where local women once found a rare opportunity to forge their independence. Discover enchanting mountain villages and stroll through the cascading vineyards of the Sil River valley, dotted with historic chapels. Explore the medieval Cathedral de Santiago, then journey deeper into Galicia, where rugged mountain coastlines lead to the lighthouse at the end of the world. Throughout your pilgrimage, you’ll be inspired by the extraordinary women you’ll meet, each sharing stories of independence and honouring the women who helped pave the way.

Local Connections

Vibrant Culture

One-of-a-kind-Hotels

Intrepid women have been hiking the Camino de Santiago for centuries—and we're proud to follow in their footsteps. Wander cobblestone lanes, toast independence at Palacio de Canedo, and saunter through vineyard-speckled valleys. Pilgrim past historic chapels, meet trailblazing local women, and finish at Galicia, where rugged mountain coastlines lead to the lighthouse at the end of the world.

Tracing her footsteps along the Camino

Camino de Santiago Women's Walking | Butterfield & Robinson

Embark on an enchanting journey through the land of the Basques, where whispers of Europe’s ancient language echo through the valleys. Your adventure begins in the heart of the French Basque Country, winding along quaint country roads and trails that reveal breathtaking mountain views. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of rural life as you explore the charming villages surrounding Bidarray, while the distant sound of Mancech sheep bells fill the air. Cross into the Spanish Basque Country and wander through the small village of Aia to reach the serene Pagoeta Natural Park. Follow the awe-inspiring trail to Flysch Geopark, where ancient geological wonders meet the crashing waves of the sea.&nbsp;Your Basque journey ends in the vibrant San Sebastián, where you’ll meet our friend for&nbsp;an authentic pintxos tour, followed by an invitation to an exclusive evening at the Gastronomic Society.

Great Walks

Insider Access

Authentic Food

Walk from France to Spain (passport optional, appetite mandatory) through Basque Country, where sheep bells ring, and jagged cliffs hover wave-batter shores. Wander postcard-perfect villages, stroll lush Pagoeta Park, and see geology throw a tantrum at Flysch Geopark. End in San Sebastián, swapping your trail boots for pintxos, vino and an evening of culinary mischief at a secret Gastronomic Society.

Wander from the verdant countryside to coastal San Sebastián

Basque Country: France to Spain Walking & Hiking | Butterfield & Robinson

Journey to the eastern coast of Spain and uncover the enchanting islands of Menorca and Mallorca. Your adventure begins in the sun-drenched Mallorca, where you’ll cycle through picturesque villages and dramatic mountain ranges on two wheels. A short flight then whisks you to Menorca, an island steeped in history and natural beauty. Explore the Cami de Cavallas by foot or bike and glimpse into the island’s prehistoric past at the Talayotic ruins. Experience pure bliss as you cruise the sparkling waters on board your private boat and indulge in the authentic flavours of the Mediterranean at seaside restaurants. In just five days, you’ll feel a deep connection to these magical islands nestled in the Balearic Sea.&nbsp;

Mallorca and Menorca: the Balearics' dreamy duo, where the history runs deep, the beaches sparkle, and the tapas never ends. Pedal Mallorca’s sun-kissed villages, then hop over to chilled-out Menorca for ancient ruins and blissful seaside hikes. Sail turquoise waters by private boat, feast shamelessly at waterfront eateries, and embrace island life so fully, you may never return to the mainland.

Explore the shimmering coast

Mallorca to Menorca Multi-Active | Butterfield & Robinson

The alluring riches of the Mediterranean are sure to seduce. Limestone cliffs, azure blue shores, swathes of almond groves and artichoke fields. Experience it all on this journey through Mallorca, a biker's paradise, with options for every riding ability, from the level interior to the leg-working coast. (On your trusty e-bike you get to decide when to sweat and when to cruise.) The permeating scent of citrus, the freshest catch of the day, secluded coves and remarkable hotels in unforgettable settings—this place offers luxury in many forms. *Prefer to sweat it out? Regular road bikes are available by request, ask your Travel Advisor for details.*Please note the hotel lineup for 2024:The Lodge, La Residencia: May, June, September, OctoberFinca Serena, Son Brull: September, OctoberFor information about the hotels assigned to your departure, kindly contact your Travel Advisor. You can also download the detailed itinerary to view the complete hotel lineup.

Breathtaking Landscapes

Mallorca is Mediterranean perfection with a pulse—an island where rugged mountain climbs meet breezy coastal spins, and vineyard picnics give way to cliffside gin tastings. Ride quiet country roads, conquer legendary passes, and roll into whitewashed villages that feel frozen in time. With sun-drenched stays, bold flavours, and one spectacular surprise after another, this trip is the ultimate island escape on two wheels.

The beating heart of the Balearic Islands

The alluring riches of the Mediterranean are sure to seduce: limestone cliffs, azure blue shores, swathes of almond groves and artichoke fields, to name a few. Experience it all on this journey through Mallorca; a biker’s paradise, with options for every riding ability, from the level interior to the leg-working coast. (On your trusty e-bike you get to decide when to sweat and when to cruise.) The permeating scent of citrus, delectable tapas, secluded coves and remarkable hotels in unforgettable settings—this place offers up luxury in many forms.

Mallorca Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

With its European charm and uncrowded appeal, Portugal's coast offers a bounty of experience for history buffs, adventurers and foodies alike. Explore from Northern Portugal to Santiago de Compostela in Spain; end your journey by cycling the final stretch of the Camino on lesser-known routes. Pedal the sparkling blue coastline, savour a Vinho Verde tasting and indulge in the region's spectacular seafood.&nbsp;

CAMINO COASTAL CHARMS

Michelin-Star Dining

Cultural Immersion

Straddling France and Spain, Basque Country plays by its own rules—and (quite literally) speaks its own language. From San Sebastián’s foodie fever to Bilbao’s modern flair, this place pulses with pride, passion and just the right amount of rebellion. Explore its green hills, drink in the crashing surf and experience pintxos worth planning a trip around.

A coastal and countryside feast for the senses

Bespoke travel lets you to take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Basque Country Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Northern Spain is having a moment—and it’s delicious. Ride through Basque, Rioja and Duero, where bold architecture rises from ancient vines, jaw-dropping shorelines beg to be explored, chefs rewrite the rules, and winemakers blend tradition with a twist. Snack on txorizo, sip unexpected vintages, and meet the makers redefining this storied land. Yes, it's Spain. But no, you've never seen it quite like this.

Spain Basque & Rioja Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

Join us to explore B&amp;R's favourite stretch through Northwest Spain, zig-zagging our way through pretty Roman villages, rows of eucalyptus trees and jaw-dropping panoramas. Our final route gives us a sample of Galicia's understated, yet majestic rugged coastline. Step-by-step we’ll tackle rewarding climbs, revel in gripping vistas and marvel at prominent pilgrimage sites.&nbsp;Please note our new hotel lineup for 2025 departures: Palacio de Canedo, Aurea Palacio de Sober, Casa Beatnik Hotel, Parador de Santiago de Compostela, Parador Costa da Morte Muxia

Diverse Landscapes

Walk the Camino’s best bits, zig-zagging past sleepy Roman villages, whispering eucalyptus forests and views worth every uphill step. Discover Galicia’s wildly underrated coast—ruggedly beautiful and delightfully drama-free. Reward your daily feats with epic panoramas, iconic pilgrim stops and enough vino tinto to fuel the soul-searching. Heaven can wait; for now, Santiago beckons.

Walk the ancient route

Featured stays

Join us as we slow down on the Camino de Santiago: an ancient pilgrimage route that passes by pretty Roman villages, rows of Eucalyptus&nbsp;trees and rugged coastline. Step-by-step, we’ll tackle the rewarding climbs and revel in the open plains. While the full version of the trail spans across Europe, we take on only a stretch of it. But that’s not to say we miss the good stuff.&nbsp;Along the way, we’ll witness some of the pilgrimage’s best-known sites, including the Puerta del Perdón, the Iron Cross and the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.

Camino de Santiago Walking | Butterfield & Robinson

Andalucia is the spirited soul of Spain. Spot white-washed, hilltop villages shine like beacons in the countryside. Feel the pulse of flamenco music and the swish from the dancers’ colourful dress. Dine on tapas washed down with the local sherry to your heart’s content. Did we mention the over 300 days of sunshine per year? Pack your bags, this seven-day experience is one for the books.

Sacred Trails

Path of the Pilgrims

The Camino isn’t just a walk—it’s a rite of passage (with better wine). Follow ancient paths through misty forests and stone-clad villages, swap stories with fellow pilgrims and chase the glow of Compostela. Whether you’re seeking clarity, camaraderie or just a really good tortilla española, the Camino delivers—step by step, soul first.

Find enlightenment on the Camino de Santiago

Camino de Santiago Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

One-of-a-kind Hotels 

Andalucia unfolds in layers: whitewashed villages perched on cliffs, golden hills lined with olive groves, and the rhythm of Flamenco carrying through sunlit plazas. Ride winding roads from countryside to coast, pause for picnics at family-run fincas, and taste the region’s soul in Sherry cellars and seaside feasts. This is Andalucia beyond the postcards—vivid, soulful, and made to be savoured.

Andalucia Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

Home to volcanic craters, coastal cliffs, Pyrenean peaks and enough tapas to fuel the whole adventure, Catalonia is a feast. Hike Garrotxa’s lava trails, bike through sun-soaked vineyards and float over it all by hot air balloon. From Costa Brava beaches to medieval towns, Catalonia serves up scenery, culture and cuisine with serious flair.

Catalonia Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Soak up the warmth of the Med in a region we adore. Ride rolling volcanic hills dwarfed by the Pyrenees and explore villages stamped by time. Cruise the Costa Brava, feast on farm-to-fork cuisine in Figueres, and let Spain’s best Dali guide lead you on an intimate tour through Dali’s marvel of a theatre-museum. Melt like a clock for this sensuous region.

Unique Gastronomy

Art and History

Spin your way through volcanic hills, Pyrenean peaks and Dalí’s surreal dreams. Cruise the Costa Brava, pedal through postcard-perfect villages, and savour flavours fresh from Figueres farms. Top it off with Spain’s ultimate Dalí whisperer at his whimsical theatre-museum. By trip’s end, you'll melt like one of Salvador’s clocks—blissfully, beautifully.

Getting Surreal in Spain

Soak up the warmth of the Med in a region we adore. Ride rolling volcanic hills dwarfed by the Pyrenees and explore villages stamped by time. Take sips and dips on B&amp;R’s sailboat while cruising the Costa Brava, feast on farm-to-fork cuisine in Figueres, and let Spain’s best Dali guide pour drinks before an intimate art tour. Melt like a clock for this sensuous region.﻿

Catalonia Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

Island Paradise

Exclusive Access

Active Adventure

Mallorca is Mediterranean magic, with a twist of lime. Ride the legendary Tramuntana, hike into secret gorges and sail to coves where the only thing on the agenda is lunch—and maybe a swim. From vineyard tastings to citrus-scented strolls and luxe stays like Son Bunyola, this island does indulgence and adventure in equal, sun-drenched measure.

The Mediterranean magic of Mallorca

Mallorca Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Traditionally, the Camino de Santiago is about soul searching, but we’re more interested in soul-stirring. It starts with riding while others walk, to feel serenity in the saddle. It continues in the farm-fresh meals we enjoy en route, and the passion of the people who prepare them. And it culminates at the resplendent&nbsp;Reis Católicos, a stone’s throw from the cathedral.

Great Biking

Rioja is more than world-class wine (though yes, there’s plenty of that). Ride through rolling vineyards, medieval towns and into the artistic buzz of Bilbao and San Sebastián. With bold architecture, deep roots and food that rivals the vino, this is northern Spain at its most deliciously dynamic.

Spoil your senses in Spain’s wine country

Rioja Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Land of Striking Contrasts

Andalucia is Spain turned all the way up—sun-soaked, spice-laced and alive with rhythm. Wander Moorish palaces, sip sweet Jerez, carve jamón like a local and lose track of time under orange trees. With flamenco in your ears and tapas on your plate, this is southern Spain in full, glorious technicolour—yours to savour, your way.