San Sebastian City Guide

Known for pintxos and Basque dishes, with growing international and vegan-friendly options. Bars serve late, especially on weekends.

Active nightlife centers on Old Town and Gros with bar hopping and late drinks, busiest on weekends.

Strong coffee culture with traditional and specialty cafes serving quality coffee.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. Rounding up or 5-10% in restaurants is common; small tips for taxis and services.

SIM cards are available at Vodafone, Orange, Movistar, and Yoigo stores in the city center. ID or passport is required for registration.

Known for clean streets and well-maintained public areas.

Duty pharmacies rotate 24/7 shifts, some minimarts open late or 24h, and hospital emergency is always available.

Supermarkets like Mercadona, Eroski, Carrefour Express, and local markets offer good local and international products. Shops usually open 9-10 AM to 9-10 PM weekdays and Saturdays, closed Sundays mostly.

Card payments are accepted widely in shops, restaurants, and hotels, though cash is useful for small purchases or some pintxo bars.

ATMs from major banks like Kutxabank, BBVA, and Santander are common, mostly fee-free if using your bank; check ahead for fees.

Local schools teach mainly in Spanish and Basque. International option nearby is American School of Bilbao.

A small but growing nomad scene with good cafes and occasional meetups.

Several large parks and riverside paths provide shade and space for walking and running.

Scenic running routes along La Concha bay, Monte Ulia, and Urumea River. Safe and well-lit.

Several gyms offer a variety of classes and equipment.

Public and private tennis and padel courts available, some offer equipment rental.

Padel courts are available along with tennis courts.

Several studios offer various styles and drop-in classes, with some English-speaking instructors.

Gyms offer Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, BJJ, and Muay Thai, often with trial classes.

Nearest ski resorts are several hours away in the Pyrenees.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing in La Concha Bay; windsurfing at Zurriola Beach.

Zurriola Beach offers surf spots for all levels with schools and rentals nearby; wetsuits recommended year-round.

Limited diving close to the city; options exist along the Basque coast mainly in summer.

Public healthcare is high quality; private clinics generally have more English speakers and quicker service. Main hospital is Hospital Universitario Donostia.

Tap water is safe to drink and tastes good.

The city has many playgrounds, family-friendly cafés, and attractions like the aquarium and Monte Igueldo amusement park.

Open and welcoming city with good safety, smaller pride events, and solid legal protections.

Pet-friendly city with dog parks, pet-friendly eateries, and vet clinics.