Your Bespoke Journey Through San Sebastián's Culinary Heart

A Curated 4-Day Itinerary for the Discerning Traveler

At Avelia Travel, we believe a truly luxurious trip is a personal work of art. Based on our on-the-ground expertise, this is more than just a San Sebastián itinerary—it's a narrative designed to immerse you in the city's unique charm, from its Michelin-starred restaurants to its vibrant pintxos bars. We have personally cultivated relationships with the city’s top local experts to ensure every moment of your journey is exclusive, authentic, and unforgettable.

For additional inspiration, explore Avelia’s full San Sebastián Travel Guide, including our Things to Do in San Sebastián and Best Luxury Hotels in San Sebastián pages.

Lobby of Hotel Maria Cristina, a luxury hotel in San Sebastián Spain

Day 1: Arrival and Seaside Indulgence

Morning
Arrive in San Sebastián via private transfer from Bilbao Airport (BIO) or San Sebastián Airport (EAS). We’ll ensure your check-in is seamless at one of the city’s premier hotels consider the refined charm of Hotel Maria Cristina.

Read our San Sebastián hotel reviews page for more options.

Afternoon
Ease into the rhythm of the city with a scenic walk along La Concha Bay. Your guide will reveal the architectural stories behind the stately promenades and beach mansions. Pause for a light lunch on the terrace of La Perla, overlooking the sea.

Evening
Begin your culinary journey with an exclusive tasting menu at Akelarre or Arzak, both holding three Michelin stars. Enjoy private car service to and from the restaurant for a worry-free evening.

For more on the region’s food scene, explore our San Sebastián Food & Cuisine Guide.

Aerial view of Parte Vieja (Old Town) in San Sebastián with La Concha Beach in the background

Day 2: Private Market Tour and Old Town Flavor

Morning
Start with a privately guided tour of La Bretxa Market, a favorite among local chefs. Your guide will introduce you to the region’s prized ingredients—wild mushrooms, Cantabrian anchovies, and artisan cheeses. End the visit with a personalized cooking experience in a private kitchen, led by a local chef.

Afternoon
Wander the Parte Vieja (Old Town) with your guide, exploring its architecture, plazas, and pintxos bars. Stop for lunch at Gandarias for a refined take on local favorites, paired with txakoli or a crisp Albariño.

Evening
Enjoy sunset from Monte Igueldo, reached via a vintage funicular. We’ll arrange a private champagne toast with panoramic views over the bay. Dinner tonight is more relaxed but still exceptional—Narru offers modern Basque cuisine in an elegant setting steps from your hotel.

Traditional pintxos on display at a local bar in San Sebastián’s food scene

Day 3: Basque Coastline & Wine

Morning
Your private driver-guide will take you on a curated day trip along the Basque coast. Visit the picturesque fishing village of Getaria, home to Balenciaga and txakoli vineyards. A private tasting at a family-owned estate offers insight into the region’s white wine tradition.

Afternoon
Lunch is a highlight—Elkano, with its whole grilled turbot, is a culinary pilgrimage for seafood lovers. Afterward, walk through Zarautz or return to San Sebastián for an afternoon spa treatment at your hotel.

Evening
End the day with a curated pintxos and wine tour, led by a local sommelier. Discover hidden bars, seasonal specialties, and rare vintages few travelers find on their own. For those seeking a more formal experience, Kokotxa offers a Michelin-starred tasting menu in the heart of the Old Town.

Colorful autumn vineyards in La Rioja wine region near San Sebastián

Day 4: Art, Architecture & Departure

Morning
Enjoy a slow morning with a gourmet breakfast on your hotel terrace. Then, explore the San Telmo Museum, housed in a 16th-century convent. A private guide will connect the dots between Basque history, contemporary art, and the city’s forward-thinking design ethos.

Afternoon
Depending on your flight schedule, stop for a farewell lunch at Rekondo, known for its legendary wine cellar and elevated traditional dishes. We’ll arrange seamless transfer back to the airport or your next destination.

If you’re continuing your journey in Spain, consider pairing San Sebastián with the La Rioja Wine Region — renowned for its world-class vineyards and luxury wine tasting experiences. Discover tailored Rioja wine tours designed by Avelia Travel, or add a cultural extension to Bilbao. See our Extend Your Trip section below for curated add-ons.

Extend Your Trip

If you're planning a longer luxury trip or want to pair San Sebastián with another exclusive destination, there are several seamless extensions that enhance your time in Spain. Whether you're drawn to fine wine, iconic architecture, or cultural heritage, these curated regions offer exceptional contrasts and connections.

La Rioja – Private Wine Estates, Medieval Villages, and Gastronomic Depth
Just a short drive from San Sebastián, La Rioja invites you into the heart of Spanish wine country. Enjoy private tastings at architecturally striking bodegas, dine in Michelin-starred restaurants, and stay in serene vineyard hotels.

Barcelona – Architecture, Art, and Culinary Innovation
Combine coastal beauty with cosmopolitan energy. From Gaudí’s architectural landmarks to cutting-edge restaurants and luxury shopping, Barcelona offers a dynamic extension with direct connections to San Sebastián.

Seville – Flamenco, Moorish Palaces, and Refined Heritage
In southern Spain, Seville offers a complete change of atmosphere. Think private flamenco experiences, rooftop tapas at sunset, and stays in grand boutique hotels set in former palaces. A sophisticated cultural pairing to your Basque escape.

Madrid – Museums, Michelin Stars, and Historic Grandeur
Spain’s capital delivers royal architecture, curated art collections, and a flourishing dining scene. Add Madrid for a vibrant yet refined finale to your trip, with world-class hotels and effortless high-speed rail connections.

Plan the Rest of Your Trip to San Sebastián

Use our full collection of San Sebastián travel guides to round out your luxury itinerary with food, culture, and the best time to go:

Extend Your Luxury Itinerary Across Spain

After San Sebastián, elevate your luxury travel Spain experience with nationwide recommendations. Discover Spain, find inspiration, and plan your Spain trip with these guides. Explore more guides and continue planning your Spain adventure.

Your Adventure Awaits.

This itinerary is a glimpse into what's possible. Our team of specialists is ready to craft a custom-tailored journey, ensuring every detail is seamless and perfectly aligned with your desires. Take the first step toward an experience designed exclusively for you.