The Basque city of San Sebastian is a real treat for budget travellers. Situated on the Spanish side of the border between France and Spain, this coastal town combines the best of both cultures, all while firmly defending its Basque heritage. It is an easy day trip from Biarritz (France) or Bilbao (Spain).
To get a sense of the city, walk the graceful curving boardwalk which stretches along the Bay of Biscayne. On the far end, be sure to check out the outdoor sculptures by Eduardo Chillida, a native artist whose collection of works are housed in their own museum just outside of San Sebastian at the Museo Chillida Leku.
Tempted to picnic on the beach? Pick up food at the Mercado de la Brexta, a large underground supermarket, and head to the beautiful Playa de la Concha beach—considered one of the best in Spain – to enjoy the water and mountain views while you eat.
Not to be missed is the Old Town, or Parte Vieja. Here, you’ll find a concentration of restaurants and pintxos (tapas) bars, as well as the stunning Plaza de la Constitucion. After wandering the narrow cobblestone streets of this area, continue on to the Plaza de Gipuzkoa. Located in the city center, this public space is quite pretty and peaceful. Take in the Belle-Epoque architecture, a reminder of what a grand summer resort town San Sebastian was in the late 19th century.
Visit the elegant palace, Palacio de Miramar, which was the royal residence of Queen Isabel II at the time when San Sebastian took off as a beach resort for the well-heeled looking to escape from the summer heat. Entrance is free.
For dining, you’ll want to stick with pintxos. San Sebastien has a high number of Michelin-starred restaurants and has become in recent years, ground-zero for star chefs who love to highlight Basque cuisine. However, if you “eat like a local” and pick from the pintxos plates, you’ll be able to eat for under 7€.