Spain
Donostia-San Sebastian
Spain
Donostia-San Sebastian
Updated Sun, Jun 29, 2025
Overview
Donostia-San Sebastián captivates with its Belle Époque architecture and golden beaches. Known as a culinary mecca, it boasts more Michelin stars per capita than any other city. Stroll the winding streets of the Old Town, indulge in pintxos (Basque tapas) at local bars, and surf the waves of La Concha Bay. Don't miss the panoramic views from Monte Igueldo or the cutting-edge art at San Telmo Museum. For an authentic experience, join locals in a traditional cider house or explore the charming fishing village of Pasaia nearby.
Best time to visit. Visit from May to July for warm weather and fewer crowds. September offers pleasant temperatures and the renowned San Sebastián International Film Festival. Avoid August, as it's peak tourist season with higher prices. Winter can be chilly and rainy but offers a more local experience and lower rates.
City stats
Population
186,665
Land area
24 sq. mi.
Currency
Euro
Year founded
1180 CE
Official langauge
Spanish and Basque
English speaking
Somewhat spoken, esp. in hospitality
State/Province
Gipuzkoa, Basque Country
Timezone
Central European (UTC+1)
Driving side
right
Website
Google Maps link
Quick links
How to get there
Neighborhoods
Getting around
Where to stay
Day trips
Cities within 8 hours
Active pursuits
Leisure activities
Bars, pubs and nightlife
Breakfast and brunch
Lunch and snacks
Dinner restaurants
Laptop friendly places
Where to stay for work trips
Work trip activities
Average weather
Country holidays
Major annual events
Cultural tips
City details
Hotels
Nearby
Nearby
Things to do
Food & restaurants
Work friendly
| Month | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 55°F - 43°F | 53°F - 39°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:37 am | 6:02 pm | 13 days 5.6 in | 1 days 0.2 in | 9 mph |
| February | 57°F - 44°F | 55°F - 40°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:08 am | 6:40 pm | 11 days 4.7 in | 1 days 0.1 in | 9 mph |
| March | 60°F - 46°F | 59°F - 43°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:23 am | 7:17 pm | 11 days 4.7 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| April | 62°F - 49°F | 62°F - 47°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:27 am | 8:53 pm | 13 days 5.1 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| May | 67°F - 54°F | 67°F - 53°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:45 am | 9:25 pm | 12 days 4.7 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| June | 71°F - 59°F | 72°F - 59°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:27 am | 9:51 pm | 10 days 3.7 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| July | 75°F - 62°F | 76°F - 62°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:46 am | 9:45 pm | 10 days 3.4 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| August | 76°F - 63°F | 77°F - 63°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:21 am | 9:07 pm | 10 days 4.5 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| September | 73°F - 60°F | 74°F - 59°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:56 am | 8:15 pm | 11 days 4.7 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| October | 68°F - 55°F | 68°F - 53°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:31 am | 7:22 pm | 13 days 5.7 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| November | 61°F - 49°F | 60°F - 46°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:10 am | 5:41 pm | 14 days 6.9 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| December | 56°F - 45°F | 54°F - 41°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:37 am | 5:30 pm | 13 days 6.0 in | 0 days 0.1 in | 9 mph |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | January 1 | Nationwide celebration marking the start of the new year with fireworks and parties. | Avoid travel, most places closed. | ||
| Epiphany | January 6 | Christian holiday celebrating the visit of the Magi to baby Jesus. Parades and gift-giving. | Festive atmosphere, some closures. | ||
| Holy Thursday | Thursday before Easter | Christian observance of the Last Supper. Processions and church services held. | Religious events, partial closures. | ||
| Good Friday | Friday before Easter | Christian commemoration of Jesus' crucifixion. Solemn processions and church services. | Solemn atmosphere, many closures. | ||
| Easter Sunday | Variable (March-April) | Christian celebration of Jesus' resurrection. Family gatherings and special meals. | Family-oriented, some closures. | ||
| Labor Day | May 1 | Workers' rights celebration. Demonstrations and rallies held in major cities. | Expect closures and demonstrations. | ||
| Assumption of Mary | August 15 | Catholic observance of Mary's ascension. Processions and religious ceremonies held. | Religious events, some closures. | ||
| Hispanic Day | October 12 | National Day celebrating Spanish heritage and Christopher Columbus's arrival in Americas. | Patriotic events, some closures. | ||
| All Saints' Day | November 1 | Catholic holiday honoring saints. Families visit cemeteries to remember loved ones. | Solemn atmosphere, some closures. | ||
| Constitution Day | December 6 | Commemorates the Spanish Constitution of 1978. Official ceremonies and celebrations. | Minimal impact, some official events. | ||
| Immaculate Conception | December 8 | Catholic feast day celebrating Mary's conception. Religious services and processions. | Religious events, some closures. | ||
| Christmas Eve | December 24 | Evening before Christmas. Families gather for traditional dinner and midnight mass. | Festive but busy, early closures. | ||
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Christian celebration of Jesus' birth. Family gatherings and gift exchanges. | Avoid travel, most places closed. |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tamborrada | January 20 | 24-hour drum festival celebrating the city's patron saint. Participants dress as cooks and soldiers. | Exciting but crowded. Book early. | ||
| San Sebastian International Film Festival | September 15 - 23 | Prestigious film festival attracting international stars and premieres. One of Europe's major film events. | Great for film buffs. Expect higher prices. | ||
| Semana Grande (Aste Nagusia) | Mid-August | Week-long festival with fireworks competitions, concerts, and cultural events. City's biggest summer celebration. | Lively atmosphere but very crowded. | ||
| Heineken Jazzaldia | Late July | One of Europe's oldest jazz festivals. Features international artists performing at various venues across the city. | Great time for jazz lovers to visit. | ||
| Santo Tomas Fair | December 21 | Traditional Basque fair celebrating rural life. Features local products, livestock, and txistorra sausage. | Authentic local experience. Good for foodies. | ||
| Donostia Festibala | Early September | Music and arts festival showcasing local and international indie and alternative artists. | Fun for music fans. Normal city operations. | ||
| Cross of May (Maiatza Gurutzea) | May 3 | Traditional Basque celebration marking the arrival of spring with floral crosses and music. | Charming local tradition. Minimal impact. | ||
| Regata de La Concha | First two Sundays in September | Historic rowing competition in La Concha Bay. One of the most important sporting events in the Basque Country. | Exciting atmosphere. Book accommodations early. |
1 | Eat late like the locals. Lunch is typically around 2-3 PM, and dinner starts after 9 PM. Adjust your schedule to avoid empty restaurants and enjoy the vibrant Spanish dining culture. |
2 | Learn basic Spanish phrases. While English is common in tourist areas, locals appreciate efforts to speak their language. A simple 'gracias' or 'por favor' goes a long way in fostering goodwill. |
3 | Respect siesta time, usually from 2-5 PM. Many shops and businesses close during this period, especially in smaller towns. Plan your day accordingly and use this time to relax or explore open attractions. |
4 | Tipping isn't mandatory but is appreciated. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is sufficient. |
5 | Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees out of respect. Some strict cathedrals may deny entry if you're not dressed appropriately. |
6 | Be prepared for physical closeness. Spaniards often stand closer when talking and use touch in conversation. This is normal and friendly, not invasive. Try to adapt to this cultural norm. |
7 | Embrace the laid-back culture. Things may move slower than you're used to, especially service in restaurants. Relax, enjoy the moment, and don't rush - it's part of the Spanish lifestyle. |
8 | Join in local festivities. Spain has numerous festivals and fiestas throughout the year. Participating shows respect for local culture and offers a unique, immersive experience. |
KumquatTime is precious. Get the most out of every moment traveling.
Not another booking platform.
categories
© 2024-2025 Eten en Drinken Software Ltd Co
Redirecting to ...