We just finished our fourth summer in San Sebastian, Spain.  I have written about it here, here, here , here… and probably a few other spots.  We love it here!   We normally spend one full month, but this year we did three weeks because we went to Ireland first.  

We never envisioned ourselves coming back to the same spot year after year, but every year by the second day we’re texting our landlord to make sure July is booked out for us.  

Home life is busy with two tween boys, lots of activities, so we truly treasure this time with our boys when it’s just the four of us.  And there’s so much about San Sebastian that just feels like home to us.  Not to mention, it’s just set up so well for families.  

Where to Stay in San Sebastian 

We used Airbnb that first year, and stayed near the city center.  But that year we met my in laws landlord, and ever since we’ve been staying in the same spot.  I think an airbnb is definitely the way to go if you’re spending more than a few days.  

But if you do want to just come for a few nights, a hotel is great.  Here are a few I’d recommend:

Villa Favorita:  Adults only.  Right on La Concha beach.  

Hotel Arbaso:  great spot, central location.  one of my favorite restaurants is in the bottom.

Maria Cristina:  Historic and upscale spot.  

Hotel Londres:  right on La Concha.  

WHERE TO EAT IN SAN SEBASTIAN

You will find no shortage of amazing meals, and my list barely scratches the surface. You will find plenty of Michelin starred restaurants, and  many with mentions.  

Another hot tip – when going for pinxtos, always order the hot pinxtos on the menu.  I rarely ever get anything behind the bar.  

•  La Cuchara – but get there a few minutes before it opens for lunch, and at least 30 minutes before dinner.  This is an experience, and just so so good.  
• Beti Jai – family friendly Michelin star spot.  This is our go to spot.  Good service too.  
• Rekondo – one of my favorite places!  This is a cab ride away, and so so worth it.  The views, food, and service.  10/10!
• Haizea – They have my favorite hot pinxtos.  Loved the scallops here.  
• Topa Sukalderia – another spot we love as a family it’s a fusion of mexican and basque
•  La Mamma – my favorite spot for italian food.  It’s underground and the vibes are so up my alley.  Family friendly.
• Narru – is my favorite breakfast spot.  and the lunch/dinner is excellent too.  The best service I’ve had in SS.  
• Gandarias – always get the duck
•  Akelarre – is a 10 minute taxi from the city but worth it for the views.  They have a Michelin restaurant but you can also get apps and a drink out on their gorgeous terraces.  
• Arzak – we went there in 2022.  Such a great experience!  
• My favorite experience has been being invited into gastronic clubs as guests.  This is such a fascinating part of their culture where the men get and cook for the guests at their own private club.  We have been fortunate to do this three times, and each time it is so special!  
• Bar Sport – always a bit of a hustle to get a spot, but worth it.  
• You have to take a bus ride and then a little adorable boat to pasaia but it is an absolute must!  Eat at Casa Camara where they have lobsters dipped in the ocean, and you get to choose yours.  One of my top 5 dining experiences of my life!  You have to make reservations.   
• Kafe Botanika – probably the spot I frequent the most!  great for a healthy breakfast or an easy going dinner.  
• Bodega Alejandro – good spot to hire a sitter and have a date night
• Old Town Coffee – Love this for avocado toast and they have great coffee.  
• Simone- this is my favorite spot for breakfast.  Their turkish eggs is something I dream about. 
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What to do in San Sebastian:  

• We are here initially because of El Aula Azul.  They have a kids spanish immersion camp, and also you can take different classes as adults.  This year they introduced family activities through the school which included pinxtos tour date night while they babysit your kids,  visiting a cheese farm, horseback riding, weekly soccer meet ups with spanish kids, and guided tours of different spots.  We have loved our time at El Aula Azul!  
• La Concha Beach – it’s so beautiful.  If you walk further down you can rent chairs for very reasonable.  
• Hike!  My favorite easy hike is Mount Urgull.  The best view of any cafe is at the top.  
• Aquarium – kids and adults alike love this one
•  Take a boat cruise around, or head to Santa Clara for the day. 
• Visit the old town and go on a Pinxto tour 
• Surf. Zurriola has plenty of options of surf camps and schools.  We use Pukas.
• Shop!  To me, their speciality shops are some of the best out there.  
• Mount Igueldo – take the funicular or hike up to this old school amusement park.  Kids love this and it does have incredible views of the city.  
• There seems to always be a festival going on.    Jazz fest is always late July and draws big names. 
• Eat!  Whether it’s a Michelin starred restaurant, a pinxto, or a cafe next to a park – you’re going to find the best food.  
• Take a cooking class 
• horseback riding in the basque country
• We always book Julen a few times during our stays – for cooking classes, hikes, jumping into waterfalls.  All of the basque things!