The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a city that invites you to enjoy the open air at any time of the year. With its La Concha Bay, its green mountains and its unbeatable gastronomy, exploring it on foot, by bike or from the sea is a real pleasure.

From boat trips to excursions to the Basque coast, here are the best outdoor activities to explore San Sebastian and its surroundings.

One of the best ways to get around San Sebastian is by bike. The city has bike lanes that run along the bay of La Concha, the old town and the modern neighbourhood of Gros.

If you prefer to discover the city with the help of a guide, you can take a bike tour and discover the most special corners of Donostia while cycling by the sea.

The Basque coastline is a natural spectacle of cliffs, beaches and charming little villages. In Zumaia, the Flysch creates a landscape from another planet; in Zarautz, surfing is king; and in Getaria, txakoli wines accompany any visit.

It is an ideal excursion for those looking to combine nature, gastronomy and culture in a single day.

San Sebastian looks even more spectacular from the sea. A boat trip around the bay allows you to admire the city from a different perspective, passing by the island of Santa Clara and the surrounding mountains.

It is a perfect plan for those who want to relax and enjoy the scenery, whether on a sunny day or at sunset.

A few kilometres from San Sebastian, Pasajes and Hondarribia offer a unique insight into the seafaring tradition of the Basque Country. In Pasajes, the colourful houses and the harbour atmosphere make any visitor fall in love.

Hondarribia, meanwhile, is a walled town with a beautiful old quarter and a gastronomic offer worth trying.

Biarritz is a perfect blend of elegance and wild nature. Once a destination for royalty, today it is famous for its beaches, architecture and sophisticated atmosphere.

Strolling along the promenade, watching the surfers in action or sipping a crêpe on a terrace are essential on this excursion from San Sebastian.

If you fancy discovering places with character, a trip to Pasajes and Hendaye is a great option. Pasajes preserves its fishing essence and a busy port, while Hendaye, on the French side, offers long beaches and a beautiful old town.

Both places are perfect for disconnecting from the city and soaking up the leisurely pace of the Basque coast.

Less than two hours from San Sebastian, La Rioja is a paradise for wine lovers. Its wineries offer tasting visits, where you can learn about the Rioja wine production process while enjoying the vineyard landscape.

It is the perfect getaway to combine nature, culture and gastronomy in an unforgettable experience.

Pasajes is a small coastal town with a long history. Its port has been key to the maritime activity of the Basque Country for centuries, and today it still preserves its authenticity.

Strolling through its streets, visiting Victor Hugo's house or tasting its excellent fresh fish are plans not to be missed.