Donostia-San Sebastian Spain Biscay Basque Country
9
Cruises availables
At departure or passage at this port
Azamara Club Cruises (3 Cruises)
Ponant (2 Cruises)
Silversea Cruises (2 Cruises)
Frequently Asked Questions
Not in San Sebastián itself. Ships berth at Pasaia, a narrow natural harbour about ten kilometres east of the city. The entrance threads between two cliffs, so it is worth being on deck for the arrival.
No, the distance is too great. Shuttles, taxis and local buses connect Pasaia with the city centre in about twenty minutes.
Start with the Parte Vieja and its pintxo bars, then walk La Concha promenade to the Miramar Palace. With extra time, the Monte Igueldo funicular adds the full view of the bay. That is a realistic plan; adding a Michelin-starred lunch is not.
You take one or two bites at each bar with a glass of txakoli, then move on. Marinated anchovies, txangurro crab, prawn skewers, tortilla — the Parte Vieja has a record density of these counters. It is a crawl, not a sit-down meal.
Yes, if your timing allows. Pasai Donibane, across the water from the quay, is a single-street village of coloured houses pressed against the hillside. Victor Hugo stayed here in 1843 and his house is now a small museum.
Yes. The century-old funicular climbs to the summit in minutes and the whole Concha bay opens up below. Back at sea level, at the far end of the promenade, Eduardo Chillida's Comb of the Wind — three steel claws anchored in the rocks — rounds out the outing, especially on a swelly day.
Yes, as long as you keep it outdoors. The Concha promenade is stroller-friendly, the beach is right there and children enjoy the funicular. Pintxo bars, standing-room only and packed by late afternoon, suit them less well.
Yes, the beach is in the middle of the city and shelves gently. Be aware that the Bay of Biscay stays cool even in high summer: this is not the Mediterranean.
The euro. Spanish and Basque (Euskara) are both spoken and signage is often bilingual, which is why the city carries two names. Cards are accepted everywhere, though a little cash makes a pintxo crawl easier.
June to September, for the light and for swimming. The Basque Country is green because it rains, so pack a windbreaker even in summer.
