Magazine

Things to do San Sebastian

San Sebastián isn’t just a place to visit — it’s a place to feel. From the sound of the Cantabrian Sea along La Concha Beach to the smell of fresh bread in the Old Town, every corner tells a story that only a true local could share. At Go Local San Sebastián, we believe the best way to get to know a city is to experience it like a friend would: slowly, curiously, and with an open mind.

That’s why we’ve gathered the best plans, routes, and experiences to enjoy Donostia like a true local. This living guide blends history, culture, gastronomy, and sustainability — perfect for tra

velers who seek more than just a typical visit.

The Must-Sees of Donostia You Can’t Miss

Strolling along La Concha Bay, admiring Chillida’s Wind Comb, or wandering through the narrow streets of the Old Town are experiences that capture the city’s essence. San Sebastián is both sea and mountains, Belle Époque charm and modern flair, Basque tradition and culinary innovation.

Here, every plan has its own rhythm — from watching the sunrise on Mount Igueldo to enjoying pintxos with friends along Calle 31 de Agosto.

Plans and Experiences with Go Local San Sebastián

This category brings together articles and ideas created from our experience as local guides. You’ll find authentic plans: from pintxo tours and e-bike rides to cultural walks, day trips to nearby towns, and hidden-gem recommendations.

Our approach is simple: to show you the city from the inside — through its stories, neighborhoods, and people. Because getting to know Donostia isn’t just about seeing its landmarks; it’s about understanding its character and way of life.

Beyond La Concha: Explore the Basque Soul

If you’re eager to see more, the Basque Country awaits just a few kilometers away. The coastal charm of Getaria, the colorful streets of Hondarribia, or the cliffs of Zumaia make for perfect day trips from San Sebastián. Every plan we share is designed to inspire you to keep exploring — always with a sustainable, local, and respectful mindset.

Get Inspired, Pick Your Plan, and Live Donostia with Us

Explore the articles in this category and find your next experience. Whether it’s a pintxo route, a historical free tour, or an evening bike ride by the sea, each plan is designed to help you discover the real San Sebastián — the one lived and loved by its locals.

Things to do San Sebastian

Port of San Sebastian

San Sebastian, as a good coastal city, obviously has a port that has a lot to tell us about, so let’s get to it. The first thing that may surprise tourists about the port of San Sebastian is its size, as it is a tiny port, a triangle wedged between the Old Town and Mount […]

Things to do San Sebastian

Egia neighbourhood

Although many tourists never get to know it, San Sebastian is much more than the Old Town and La Concha, something that we at Go Local insist on a lot. Around the most visited places there are many neighbourhoods where visitors don’t go, but which are essential in the day-to-day life of the people of […]

cider house Things to do San Sebastian

Cider house San Sebastian

Although coming to San Sebastian in winter may not seem like the best idea in the world, as the weather is not the most ideal time to visit anywhere, and many of the pintxo bars are closed for the holidays, the truth is that it is a perfect time for it. It’s less crowded, some […]

Things to do San Sebastian

What to see in San Sebastian at night

They say that you only really get to know a city when you discover what it’s like at night. And San Sebastian by night is a real surprise. Not only because of the way its architecture and landscapes are transformed when the sun goes down, but also because of all the options its nightlife has […]

Things to do San Sebastian

Miramar Palace in San Sebastian

The Miramar Palace in San Sebastian , built in 1893 by order of Queen Maria Christina of Austria, is an architectural gem that is a must-see if you are visiting the city of San Sebastian. Located between the beaches of La Concha and Ondarreta, this English-style palace offers stunning views and magnificent gardens. This palace […]

Things to do San Sebastian

Mount Igueldo in San Sebastian

San Sebastian is surrounded by mountains, a green belt that has protected the city for centuries. Mountains that have shaped the surrounding villages and our neighbourhoods. Mountains that even reach the sea, embracing the bay of La Concha. One of these mountains is Igueldo, perhaps the best known of them all. Mount Igueldo is the […]

Things to do San Sebastian

San Telmo Museum in San Sebastian

There is more to the Old Quarter than wonderful streets to have pintxos, beautiful churches or the heart of San Sebastian’s nightlife… there is also culture, the cities past and traditions. Plenty of it is inside of the Basque Society and Citizenship Museum located in the old San Telmo Monastery. We speak about the San […]

Things to do San Sebastian

Hondalea, Cristina Iglesias Sculpture

Many visitors to San Sebastian are familiar with Eduardo Chillida’s Wind Comb, Jorge Oteiza’s Empty Construction and Néstor Basterretxea’s Dove of Peace, all of them sculptures placed by the sea that make the coast of San Sebastian an idyllic setting. These three works by Basque sculptors have recently been joined by a new installation, Hondalea […]

Things to do San Sebastian

Gros neighbourhood in San Sebastian

The neighbourhood of Gros is one of the most picturesque and authentic neighbourhoods in Donosti. It stands out mainly for being a quiet neighbourhood, very central and with a lot of cultural and gastronomic variety. To help you understand why this neighbourhood is a must on your visit to San Sebastian, I will guide you […]