Luxury Itinerary: 4 Days in San Sebastián

San Sebastián offers one of Europe’s most indulgent luxury travel experiences, where Belle Époque architecture, world-renowned cuisine, and dramatic coastal landscapes converge. Along its golden crescent bay, refined hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and private excursions reveal a city designed for elevated living. Every detail from sipping txakoli in the hills to exclusive food and wine experiences feels intentionally crafted.

This 4-day San Sebastián itinerary is designed for travelers planning a high-end trip to Spain’s Basque Country. It combines privately guided cultural access, immersive culinary experiences, and curated stays at the city’s best luxury hotels. 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 or 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:

  • San Sebastián Travel Guide
    A complete overview of the city’s coastal elegance, cultural depth, and boutique accommodations.

  • Things to Do in San Sebastián
    From seafront strolls to historic architecture—handpicked experiences for a refined visit.

  • San Sebastián Food & Cuisine Guide
    Discover the heart of Basque culinary excellence, from local pintxos to Michelin-starred dining.

  • San Sebastián Sample Itinerary (You are here)
    A curated multi-day trip plan balancing gastronomy, culture, and ocean views.

  • Best Time to Visit San Sebastián (coming soon)
    Month-by-month travel insights to help you plan the ideal luxury getaway.

Start Planning Your San Sebastián Journey

This 4-day San Sebastián itinerary is just the beginning. Every trip we create is fully customized—whether you're drawn to design-forward hotels, private culinary tours, exclusive wine experiences, or curated access to Basque culture and coastline.

Fill in the form below, and we’ll be in touch within 24 hours to begin planning your personalized San Sebastián travel experience with Avelia.