A 2-DAY GETAWAY TO SAN SEBASTIÁN - DONOSTI

LOCAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2 DAYS IN SAN SEBASTIÁN: BEAUTY AND GASTRONOMY OF DONOSTI

San Sebastián, or Donosti as the locals call it, is a jewel of the Basque Country. In just two days, you can immerse yourself in the city's life, explore its most charming neighbourhoods and taste its famous gastronomy, as well as discover its more alternative side. A relaxed tour, focusing on the essential neighbourhoods with gastronomic recommendations, adjusted for two days, will allow you to make a cultural immersion in a simple way, discovering the most modern side of San Sebastián, enjoying its culture and natural beauty on the shores of the Cantabrian Sea.


Barrio Gros , located in the eastern part of the city, is a vibrant area full of life, restaurants and cafes. Stroll along Zabaleta Street, known for its many gastronomic venues, or along Paseo de Colón, which will offer you stunning views of the neighborhood and Monte Ulia all the way to Zurriola Beach.

Simona Specialty Coffee Club
Specialty coffee shop with a wide selection of sweets, toasts and healthy bowls to make a good brunch.
📍 Ramón María Lili Pasealekua 2, Donostia-San Sebastian


Geralds Bar
It is a must-visit place to taste seasonal flavours and fresh fish in a mix of Spanish and Italian cuisine, with flavours of the sea and land. In addition, the place is very pleasant, peculiar and cosy, with a decoration that evokes a boat.
📍 Iparragirre K. 13, Donostia-San Sebastian


Part Zaharra , the oldest neighbourhood, was initially surrounded by the wall. A recommended walk is the Paseo Nuevo , bordering the old wall and with a view of the Concha Bay and the island of Santa Clara, as well as seeing the spectacular Cantabrian Sea crashing against the rocks. The interior of the neighbourhood is a labyrinth of alleys full of pintxo bars where you can have a fun gastronomic tasting with cider.

The city centre (Erdialdea), bordered by the Old Town, the Urumea River and the Concha Bay, is a neighbourhood with harmonious architecture, monuments and historic buildings such as the Post Office and the Buen Pastor Cathedral of San Sebastián, located in the beautiful and spacious Plaza del Buen Pastor.

Xauen Café
In the same square you will find this small but striking café, with a great deal of taste and care for its decoration. The menu is exquisite, and the service is very special and delicate. Perfect for a hearty brunch.
📍 Good Shepherd Pl. 4 , Donostia-San Sebastian


Sandbanks
Another must-visit for tasting natural wines, ranging from reds, whites, rosés, oranges and sparkling wines. It has a small seasonal menu, but the dishes are very creatively combined. The place is small, so reservations are recommended.
📍 Zumardia Boulevard 11 , Donostia-San Sebastian


Barrio Antiguo , located west of La Concha Bay, stands out for its architecture and its spectacular view of one of the most iconic beaches in Spain. and for being the starting point for the climb to Monte Igeldo. Taking some time to walk along the promenade, enjoy the scenery and relax on the sand is a perfect plan at this time of year.

Egia , another of the oldest neighbourhoods in Donosti, has seen the construction of new buildings and renovations in recent years, as is the case of Tabakalera, an old tobacco factory that is now a beautiful cultural centre that gives voice to artists through events and exhibitions.

Taking advantage of your getaway to San Sebastian, you can visit the charming town of Saint Jean de Luz in the French Basque Country, which is just 30 minutes away.

Travel to Saint Jean de Luz


Photos©LePeriplo /

Special thanks to Ana Illescas