I realized recently that I never did a post about San Sebastian last summer. We were there for a full month but it was a busy one! My mom, both sisters, and nephew all visited in that time frame. JB and my in laws came, and went when my family came so I wouldn’t be solo with the boys for the remainder of our trip. It’s so nice to have a spot like San Sebastian for our summer. I know the days of us taking this kind of time off in the summer are slowing down as sports ramp up in the coming years, so I am soaking it up. Doing it in July, we are still able to do All Stars for baseball in June. So it all works out … for now!
Why san sebastian
So why San Sebastian? Well, I’ve touched on this before but it’s all due to me asking on IG the question of “where is a good spanish immersion school?”, and someone responding with San Sebastian. She was detailed in her email, and it very quickly went to the top of our list. So we started the process in 2019 of preparing for it! And we’ve been back in 2022, 2023, and this coming summer we will return for our fourth summer there.
1. It’s SO family friendly. There are tons of playgrounds, with nearby cafes, ice cream around every corner and lots of pedestrian streets, Family life is clearly important to the Basque people, but I would say in particular, those in San Sebastian.
2. It’s got it all, in my opinion! You have the beach nearby, a surfing beach, culture, the most amazing food, hikes, and you’re close to the mountains if you’d like a little break from the city.
3. You’re close to so many great spots. Rioja, Pamplona, Guernica, Biarritz. – just the tip of the iceberg because there are a ton of spots along the way all with their own unique culture and beauty.
4. Probably the biggest reason is it’s great exposure for our kids. Of Spanish but also their culture.
5. Quite a few options for camps and immersion school. We choose El Aula Azul, and Pukas Surf Camps, but there are quite a few options.
If you’re looking for tips specific to traveling with kids, here are some posts worth checking out – traveling with toddlers, busy bag for traveling with kids, a family weekend in Paris, and what to pack when traveling with toddlers.
WHERE WE STAY
We used airbnb the first year, but then became friendly with my in laws landlord, and she had another property she showed us. It was in a much better location, and a better set up for a family of four, so we booked it for the following summer. Well that was 2020 – so we didn’t end up using it until 2022. But the landlord is great. But I’m sorry – she doesn’t have any other apartments! If you’re staying long term, I’d opt for an apartment. But if you are under a week I recommend:
1. Maria Christina – historic and luxurious but $$$
2. Villa Favorita – love this location right along the boardwalk
3. Hotel Arbaso – more of a city location but still a great spot. Pretty reasonably priced as well.
MY FAVORITE THINGS TO DO
- 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 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.
- 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.
- Depending on the time of year depends on which festivals. But there’s always something going culturally going on! We are always there during Jazz Fest
- 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
MY FAVORITE RESTAURANTS
- 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.
- 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 is excellent too!
- 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.
Tried & True Travel Tips
Whether you have an upcoming vacation planned or you’re hoping to book one in the future, I hope these tips are helpful in making it go as smoothly as possible. I’m always making note of things that work and don’t work when traveling, so be sure to keep checking back for additional ideas. And here are a few other posts that are great resources as well:
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