A Long Weekend in San Sebastián

I arrived in San Sebastián just in time for the evening breeze and pintxos galore. The scent of the sea was intoxicating.

Words & photographs by Katie WilliamsOctober 20237 min read

Stepping off the bus at the Estación del Norte, I was instantly greeted by the salty air wafting from La Concha beach. As I threaded my way towards the Old Town, the scent of grilled seafood mixed with the faint aroma of fresh pastries drew me in. By the time I reached the bustling Parte Vieja, I was captivated.

The vibrant energy of the street performers drew a crowd as locals chatted over pintxos outside bars. I stopped at a corner café to grab a coffee for €2, only to be surprised by the richness of the flavor, expertly brewed. This was just the beginning of my culinary adventure.

The itinerary

The route, day by day

Three unhurried days, roughly in the order I walked them.

02Coastal Adventures

Views from Mt. Igueldo

On the second day, I hiked up to Mt. Igueldo for panoramic views over the city and the bay. The entry fee was a mere €3, and I was greeted by a breathtaking vista that left me speechless. As I snapped photos, a light breeze made the moment even more surreal.

After the hike, I enjoyed lunch at the restaurant at the top, where I tried their grilled octopus. It cost around €15, and surprisingly, it was tender and flavorful—a recommended spot!

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Every pintxo was a revelation, each one telling the story of San Sebastián's culinary heritage.

From the road

Snapshots of San Sebastián

Frames from the trip

Local market filled with fresh produce

Know before you go

Public transport is efficient—grab a day pass.
Use cash for pintxos—some places don’t accept cards.
Spanish is widely spoken, but learning a few Basque phrases can earn you smiles.
Book restaurant tables in advance for popular spots.
Mind your volume—locals appreciate a more subdued atmosphere while dining.

About the writer

Katie Williams

Katie Williams is a travel writer based in Barcelona, specializing in food and culture. She has lived in Spain for over five years and knows the local scene.