Gipuzkoa is a region that offers a surprisingly diverse range of tours and experiences. Whether you’re into football, culture, outdoor adventure, or food, there’s something here to pique your interest. We especially like the interactive San Sebastian stadium tour, which combines technology with a family-friendly vibe, and the kayaking down the Bidasoa River, perfect for active travelers. These experiences reveal a different side of Gipuzkoa beyond its beautiful coast and pintxo bars, giving you authentic moments you’ll remember long after your trip ends.
If you’re trying to decide what to do, this guide will help. We’ve rounded up the top four tours in Gipuzkoa, giving you a clear picture of what each offers, who it’s best for, and how to get the most value out of your time there. Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor lover, or a sports fan, you’ll find an activity that matches your interests and pace.
Quick Overview:
Our list features a mix of stadium tours, guided city walks, canoe and paddleboard adventures, and food tastings. Each experience is carefully selected for its uniqueness, reviews, and what it brings to your trip. For more details on each, see the links provided, including San Sebastian: Real Sociedad Stadium Guided Interactive, Hondarribia: City Highlights Guided Walking Tour, Riding Down the Bidasoa River, and San Sebastian Food Tour with Pintxos & Drinks.
1. San Sebastian: Real Sociedad Stadium Guided Interactive
At number 1, this stadium tour offers a modern, tech-savvy look at the home of one of Spain’s most beloved football clubs. For only $21 per person, you get a one-hour interactive experience that’s perfect for families and sports fans. What makes this tour stand out is the use of augmented and virtual reality, which bring the history and behind-the-scenes secrets of the Reale Arena to life. You’ll explore areas usually off-limits to the public, like the players’ tunnel and the VIP suites.
The guide is knowledgeable and enthusiastic, sharing stories of the club’s triumphs and challenges. The experience is designed to be engaging, making it easy for kids and adults alike to connect with the sport. The review rating of 3.9/5 from nearly 100 reviews reflects its popularity, though some visitors noted the tour’s short duration.
This experience is especially suited for football fans, families, or anyone interested in the local sports culture. It offers excellent value for its price, with an entertaining mix of technology and insider access. Keep in mind, the tour is only an hour, so it’s a quick but memorable highlight.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice if you love football or want a fun, interactive way to learn about Gipuzkoa’s sporting scene.
$21 per person
2. Hondarribia: City Highlights Guided Walking Tour
Second on our list is a guided walking tour of Hondarribia, a charming seaside town with a fascinating blend of Spanish and French influences. For $34 per person, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring cobbled streets, historic fortifications, and vibrant squares. The tour is led by an expert guide who shares stories about Hondarribia’s fortified past and its role as a strategic port.
What makes this tour special is its focus on local culture and architecture. You’ll admire traditional Basque houses, stroll through narrow alleys, and soak up the lively atmosphere at the port. The itinerary includes key sights like Santa María Atea, the historic Old Town, and the beautiful Bahía Txingudi. The reviews are flawless at 5/5, reflecting how well it’s received by travelers.
This tour suits those interested in history, architecture, and local culture. It’s ideal for people who prefer walking and want an authentic experience without the rush of larger tour groups. Since it covers the town’s highlights, it’s a good way to orient yourself for later exploring on your own.
Bottom Line: A well-rated, immersive way to experience a quintessential Basque seaside town.
$34 per person
3. Riding Down the Bidasoa River in Kayak or SUP in Gipuzkoa
For those craving outdoor adventure, this 3-hour river trip stands out as the most exciting activity on our list. You can choose between kayaking or paddleboarding (SUP), making it accessible for all skill levels. The route stretches from Endarlatza to Behobia (Irun), offering a beautiful natural environment filled with lush greenery and a touch of history.
What makes this experience unique is its blend of adrenaline and scenery. The river’s rapids challenge your skills, while the surroundings provide a peaceful backdrop. It’s highly rated at 5/5, with many reviewers praising the fun, family-friendly atmosphere and affordability at just $43 per person. The guides are experienced, ensuring safety while keeping it lively.
This activity is perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a memorable outdoor activity. It’s a good choice if you want a mix of adventure and nature. The only potential downside is that it requires some physical effort, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on the water.
Bottom Line: An exhilarating way to see Gipuzkoa’s natural beauty from the river, ideal for active travelers.
$43 per person
4. San Sebastian Food Tour with Pintxos & Drinks with a Local
Finally, food lovers will find their haven in this San Sebastian Pintxos tour, rated 4.8/5. For $108, you’ll spend about 3 hours sampling a variety of gourmet pintxos at different local venues. Your guide is a local expert, sharing stories about Basque food culture, wine, and liquors as you walk from spot to spot.
The tour includes gildas, ham tasting, and a selection of pintxos paired with traditional wines and liquors. It’s a delicious way to understand what makes San Sebastian renowned for its culinary scene. The itinerary includes stops at Ijentea Kalea, Plaza de la Constitución, and other iconic locations, combining sightseeing with tasting.
Rated highly, this experience offers excellent value for those who want to enjoy the local gastronomic culture. It’s perfect for Foodies, couples, or anyone wanting a relaxed but flavorful introduction to Basque cuisine. Keep in mind, it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Bottom Line: An authentic taste of San Sebastian’s culinary excellence, ideal for those eager to explore local flavors and traditions.
$108 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Gipuzkoa
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. For example, if you’re a sports fan or traveling with kids, the San Sebastian stadium tour offers fun and insight without requiring much time or effort. If cultural discovery appeals to you, the Hondarribia city walk provides a relaxed way to explore historic streets and architecture.
Active travelers or outdoor enthusiasts may gravitate toward the Bidasoa River kayaking experience, which combines scenery and adrenaline. And for food lovers, the San Sebastian Pintxos tour is an immersive way to enjoy the city’s culinary fame.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the popular food tour and outdoor activities during peak season. Think about your travel style—whether that’s family-friendly, cultural, or adventurous—and choose the experience that best fits your trip plans.
Final Thoughts
Gipuzkoa offers a range of tours and experiences that cater to different interests and energy levels. From the high-tech stadium visit to exploring seaside towns, paddling rivers, or tasting pintxos, you’ll find something memorable. For a family or sports enthusiast, the Real Sociedad stadium tour is a must. If you’re after cultural insights, Hondarribia’s historic streets will charm you. Active travelers will enjoy kayaking along the river, while foodies will savor every bite on the pintxos tour.
No matter which you choose, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out. These experiences are a great way to deepen your understanding of Gipuzkoa’s unique character and enjoy your trip to the fullest.