San Sebastian is a city that seems made for exploring through a variety of tours and experiences. Its compact Old Town, world-famous pintxos scene, stunning beaches, and surrounding Basque countryside make it a natural playground for visitors. Whether you’re craving a culinary journey, a biking adventure, or a cultural dive, San Sebastian offers options that suit every interest and energy level. We especially love the San Sebastian Old Town Pintxos & Wine Tour, which combines authentic Basque food with a local guide in an intimate setting—perfect for first-timers.
If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of the city, a small-group electric bike tour is another favorite. It covers La Concha, Monte Igueldo, and hidden districts, all while you pedal comfortably through San Sebastian’s scenic streets. For a more leisurely experience, the boat tour with Santa Clara offers a relaxing cruise with stunning views of the bay. Whatever your style, these top-rated tours promise a memorable way to experience this lively, delicious city.
1. San Sebastian Old Town Pintxos & Wine Tour Small Group Tour
At number 1 is the San Sebastian Old Town Pintxos & Wine Tour, which stands out for its small-group intimacy and authentic taste of Basque cuisine. Limiting groups to just eight people, this tour offers a personal experience as you visit six different venues, from pintxo bars to gourmet stores. The guide takes you behind the scenes to see the cultural significance of TXOTX cider pouring** and introduces you to Iberian ham, marinated anchovies, and more. You’ll enjoy five drinks, pairing each dish with local wines or cider, in a relaxed, conversational atmosphere. Guests praise the guide’s local knowledge and the high quality of food, calling it “hands down one of the best tours” they’ve done.
What makes this tour special is its focus on tradition and local flavor—not just eating, but understanding the culture behind each bite. It’s perfect for foodies who want an authentic, immersive taste of San Sebastian’s culinary scene. The value is excellent given the many tastings and insights packed into three hours. Be prepared for lively conversation, a few surprises, and a real connection to Basque food culture. Bottom line: this is a must-do for anyone serious about pintxos and local wine.
2. Discover San Sebastián’s Best Pintxos on a Unique Culinary Tour
The Discover San Sebastián’s Best Pintxos ranks high for good reason: it’s a culinary walk through the Old Town led by a knowledgeable guide. Over three hours, you’ll visit some of the most celebrated pintxo bars, many off the tourist radar, sampling five different pintxos paired with local drinks like cider or Txakoli. The small group of eight allows for personalized attention and lively conversations. The guide shares in-depth commentary about San Sebastian’s gastronomic traditions, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a cultural lesson in every bite.
Guests highlight the tour’s selection of authentic and innovative pintxos, as well as the guide’s friendly personalities. The stop at the most renowned pintxo bars reveals the city’s culinary evolution, from classic to contemporary. This tour is ideal if you want to experience the true flavor of San Sebastian without the overwhelm of choosing for yourself. It’s especially suited for adventurous eaters eager to explore hidden culinary gems with a local expert. With rave reviews, it’s a tasty and educational way to spend an evening in San Sebastian.
3. Small-Group Electric Bike Tour in San Sebastián
For around $68, the Small-Group Electric Bike Tour offers a fantastic way to cover a lot of ground without breaking a sweat. This tour takes you on an easy ride around major sights like La Concha, Miramar Palace, Monte Igueldo, and the sports and university districts. With the help of battery-powered bikes, you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace, stopping at scenic viewpoints and learning about the city’s architecture, beaches, and local neighborhoods. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a rundown.
Tour guide Kelly shares local insights, and guests praise the bikes’ ease of use, noting it’s perfect for all fitness levels. Highlights include stunning views from Monte Igueldo and a peek at the university of Ibaeta, while the ride across bridges reveals the city’s charming riverfront. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to see more in less time while staying active. With excellent reviews and a limited group size, this tour balances fun, education, and exercise.
Bottom line: a lively way to discover San Sebastian’s highlights in a single morning or afternoon.
4. San Sebastian Pintxo Food, Wine & Market Foodie Tour
Voted as one of the top wine experiences globally in 2024, the Pintxo Food, Wine & Market Foodie Tour is a flavorful deep dive into San Sebastian’s culinary scene. The tour kicks off at Mercado De La Bretxa, where you’ll taste Iberian ham, local cheese, olives, and oil, all while learning about regional produce. From there, you’ll visit four pintxo bars along Fermin Calbeton Kalea, sampling seven pintxos and pairing each with regional wines or cider. The guide shares insights into how pintxos have evolved over time, making this a culinary history lesson as well.
Guests love the mix of traditional and modern flavors, plus the lively atmosphere of the market. The tour’s focus on local ingredients and authentic establishments offers a genuine taste of Basque cuisine. It’s especially suited for food lovers who want a comprehensive experience in a short time, with the added bonus of visiting one of the city’s most beautiful squares. The inclusion of market tastings and multiple bars makes it excellent value—around $161—for a well-rounded tasting experience.
Bottom line: a perfect tour for those wanting to understand the culinary evolution of San Sebastian while enjoying a variety of local flavors.
5. San Sebastian Evening Pintxo Tour with Wine
The San Sebastian Evening Pintxo Tour with Wine is for those who want to soak up San Sebastian’s lively nightlife. Over three hours, you’ll explore the winding streets of Parte Vieja visiting six pintxo bars, each offering a different style—from classic to modern. Your guide pairs each pintxo with local wines, cider, or vermouth, enhancing the flavors and atmosphere. The small group size ensures an intimate, authentic experience, perfect for an evening out.
Guests frequently comment on the quality of food and drink, especially the scallops and ham, and praise the guide’s engaging storytelling. The tour’s focus on local favorites and hidden gems makes it ideal for foodies who want to avoid tourist traps and experience the city’s gastronomic heartbeat at night. The 3-hour format is manageable and leaves plenty of time for enjoying the social scene afterward.
Bottom line: an excellent choice to enjoy San Sebastian’s pintxo culture with a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.
6. San Sebastian E-bike Tour: Basque History and Cultural
The Basque History and Cultural E-bike Tour combines cycling with cultural storytelling. Over about two hours and twenty minutes, you’ll ride through the city’s key neighborhoods, including the Gros district, Monte Igueldo, and the university area. Your guide shares insights into Basque traditions, architecture, and lifestyle, making it perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. The tour is rated highly for its easy riding—the electric bikes take care of the hills—and for its local knowledge.
Highlights include a stop at Puente de Santa Catalina, where you can admire architecture, and a visit to the beautiful gardens of Miramar Palace. You’ll also pass by Anoeta Stadium and cross the river, seeing San Sebastian from a different angle. Guests note the tour’s informative commentary and the opportunity to take photos of stunning views. It’s well-suited for families or travelers who want a combination of culture and exercise.
Bottom line: an enjoyable, educational way to explore San Sebastian’s cultural landscape without tiring out.
7. San Sebastian Pintxos Tour for Gourmets in the Old Town
If you’re a food connoisseur, the Gourmet Pintxos Tour offers a curated experience visiting the top five pintxo bars in the Old Town. This three-hour tour includes seven pintxos and a sweet dessert, making it perfect for those who appreciate carefully prepared bites. The small group (maximum ten) allows for a more personalized, in-depth discussion about each dish’s ingredients and preparation techniques.
Guests rave about the quality and variety of pintxos, from traditional to innovative, and the guide’s knowledge about local culinary trends. It’s an ideal option for travelers who want to elevate their pintxo experience and learn about Basque gastronomy from a local expert. Dinner-style pacing makes it a relaxed yet engaging way to explore. For about $166, it’s a value-packed option for serious food lovers.
Bottom line: best suited for those wanting a gourmet-focused exploration of San Sebastian’s pintxo culture.
8. San Sebastian: Pintxos and Wine Tour
The Pintxos and Wine Tour is another great option for lovers of authentic Basque bites and local wines. It covers multiple historical pintxo bars some over 100 years old, with tastings of various ciders, reds, whites, and desserts. You’ll visit eight bars in total, guided through San Sebastian’s culinary traditions and hidden corners. The tour is highly rated for its interactive storytelling and the quality of the food and drinks.
Guests mention the tour’s well-organized route and the opportunity to discover less touristy venues. It’s a good fit if you want a comprehensive tasting in a relaxed setting, ideal for those who enjoy pairing food and drink in authentic environments. The tour lasts about three hours, making it manageable for most schedules.
Bottom line: recommended for travelers seeking a broad yet intimate taste of local pintxo and wine culture.
9. San Sebastian: Boat Tour with Stop at Santa Clara
For a different perspective, the San Sebastian Boat Tour offers a 30-minute cruise around the bay with a stop at Santa Clara island. It’s a relaxing way to appreciate San Sebastian’s coastal beauty and spot the city’s skyline from the water. The trip includes an engaging audio guide, making it educational as well as scenic.
Guests love the panoramic views and the chance to step onto Santa Clara, with its lighthouse and picnic spots. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking for a short, scenic break from land-based touring. The boat is prompt, comfortable, and affordable at about $9 per ticket, with the ability to hop off and explore the island.
Bottom line: an enjoyable, easy add-on that combines sightseeing with a bit of relaxation.
10. San Sebastian: Guided E-Bike Tour
In a similar vein, the Guided E-bike Tour is a solid choice for those wanting a guided city exploration with a local. It lasts about three hours and covers major areas like La Concha, Zurriola, and different neighborhoods. The guide shares insights into local life and points out less-touristy spots for a more authentic experience. The electric bikes make hilly areas accessible, so you won’t feel worn out.
Guests comment on the friendly guide and the well-paced route, which includes stops for photos and stories about San Sebastian’s culture. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a guided experience but want to stay active. The tour supports sustainable tourism and provides a great overview for first-time visitors.
Bottom line: a practical, engaging tour that balances sightseeing with local stories.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When deciding which San Sebastian experience suits you best, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For a deep dive into pintxo culture with a personal touch, the small-group pintxo & wine tours or Gourmet Pintxos Tour are excellent options. If you want to explore the city on two wheels, the electric bike tours and guided e-bike experience offer a blend of sightseeing and local insights.
For those who prefer a relaxing voyage, the boat tour provides stunning coastal views and a chance to relax while seeing the bay from a different perspective. Budget-conscious travelers will find the boat trip very affordable and family-friendly.
Booking early is suggested, especially for popular tours like the pintxo tastings, which fill up quickly in high season. Think about your interests—from food and wine to cycling or cruising—and choose the tour that will give you the most authentic experience suited to your style.
San Sebastian offers a wide array of tours and experiences for every travel style. Whether you prefer indulging in pintxos, pedaling along scenic coastlines, or cruising on the bay, you’ll find something that fits your mood and schedule. To make the most of your trip, consider combining a culinary tour with an activity like biking or boating—your taste buds and your sense of adventure will thank you. Don’t wait too long—these tours are popular, and early booking guarantees you a spot on your top choice.