San Sebastian stands out as one of Spain’s most gastronomic cities, with a lively Old Town, world-renowned pintxos, and stunning coastal scenery. It’s also a city that loves to share its delights through well-curated tours. Whether you’re a foodie eager to sample the best pintxos or an active traveler wanting to explore by bike or boat, San Sebastian has something to offer. We especially enjoy the San Sebastian Old Town Pintxos & Wine Tour for its intimate setting and local insights—perfect for those wanting a real taste of Basque culture. The variety of options ensures there’s a perfect tour for every travel style, budget, and curiosity.
In this list, you’ll find food-centric walking tours, bike adventures, private pintxo experiences, and even day trips to nearby villages and Bilbao. Our goal is to help you navigate these choices with confidence, highlighting what makes each tour special and who it’s best suited for. Ready to explore? Let’s get started.
1. San Sebastian Old Town Pintxos & Wine Tour Small Group Tour
This highly-rated pintxos & wine tour is a favorite for its authentic experience. In just three hours, your local guide takes you into six different venues, including pintxo bars, a gourmet store, and restaurants. Limited to a small group of eight, it promises an intimate, personalized experience. You’ll sample Iberian ham, marinated anchovies, mussels, and more, while enjoying five drinks—perfect for a relaxed yet flavorful introduction to Basque cuisine. The guide shares insights into pintxos culture, and the cider pouring demonstration at La Mejillonera is a delightful highlight. Guests praise the guides for their knowledge and charisma, making the experience lively and informative. For food lovers who want a genuine taste of San Sebastian, this tour offers incredible value for its depth and intimacy.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking an authentic, personal introduction to Basque pintxos and wine in a small group setting.
2. Discover San Sebastián’s Best Pintxos on a Unique Culinary Tour
Aimed at foodies eager to explore off-the-beaten-path bars, this culinary tour takes you through some of the best pintxo spots in Old Town with a bilingual guide. Over three hours, you’ll taste five pintxos paired with local drinks, including cider and Txakoli wine, while discovering the stories behind each dish. The small group atmosphere fosters lively conversations and personal attention. Guests love the guide’s deep knowledge and the chance to visit hidden venues not listed in standalone guidebooks. It’s perfect if you’re passionate about gastronomy and want to learn the cultural context behind each bite. At around $202, the tour offers a premium experience that’s well worth the price for serious food lovers.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a guided, off-the-radar culinary experience and insights into Basque food traditions.
3. Small-Group Electric Bike Tour in San Sebastián
If you prefer to see more of the city in less time, this electric bike tour is a great choice. For about $68, you get to cruise along bike lanes and explore landmarks like La Concha Beach, Monte Igueldo, and the university district—all with minimal effort thanks to the electric assist. The tour includes stops for photos and insights into local culture, making it a perfect overview for first-timers or those pressed for time. The small group size guarantees a relaxed experience, and reviews emphasize how easy and fun the bikes are to ride. The highlight is the panoramic views from Monte Igueldo, which make for fantastic photo opportunities.
Bottom line: Suitable for active travelers who want a quick, comprehensive look at San Sebastian’s highlights without breaking a sweat.
4. San Sebastian Pintxo Food, Wine & Market Foodie Tour
This market and pintxo tour is lauded as one of the best wine experiences globally in 2024. Over three hours, you’ll explore Bretxa Market, sampling Iberian ham, olives, and top-notch chorizo, then visit four pintxo bars on Fermin Calbeton Kalea. Your guide curates a mix of traditional and modern bites, paired with local wines and cider, offering a taste of San Sebastian’s culinary evolution. Guests appreciate the depth of local knowledge, and the market visits give a real flavor of daily Basque life. The tour is especially good for those who want a mix of tasting, shopping, and cultural insights in one compact experience. At $161, it’s a rich, flavorful investment that deepens your appreciation of Basque gastronomy.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies who want to combine market visits, pintxo tasting, and wine pairing in one tour.
5. San Sebastian Evening Pintxo Tour with Wine
This evening pintxo and wine tour offers a lively way to experience San Sebastian’s vibrant nightlife. Over three hours, you’ll visit six carefully selected bars in Parte Vieja, sampling the best pintxos paired with cider, white, or red wine. It’s limited to 10 people, creating an intimate dining atmosphere. Guests rave about the host’s enthusiasm and the quality of food, especially the scallops. The tour’s focus on pairing and local stories makes it a great choice for those who want to combine good eats with a fun social experience. At $202, it’s a bit more expensive, but the quality of venues and personalized attention make it worthwhile.
Bottom line: Best for night owls and those looking for a fun, social way to enjoy San Sebastian’s food scene.
6. San Sebastian E-bike Tour: Basque History and Cultural
For around $57, this cultural e-bike tour takes you through San Sebastian’s key districts and scenic spots. It combines sightseeing with storytelling, covering La Concha, Miramar Palace, Monte Igueldo, and even the university neighborhood. The small group of six ensures personalized attention, and riders love the easy pace and the stops for photos and local insights. The guide shares anecdotes about Basque history, making it a good choice for history buffs and those wanting to learn about the city’s cultural layers. Plus, the tour ends near pintxo bars and cider spots if you want to continue exploring on your own.
Bottom line: Ideal for history-interested travelers who prefer a leisurely, informative bike experience.
7. San Sebastian Pintxos Tour for Gourmets in the Old Town
Aimed at serious foodies, this gourmet pintxo tour takes you to five top pintxo bars, sampling seven different bites plus a dessert. Over three hours, a knowledgeable guide introduces you to some of the best culinary spots in the Old Town, sharing tips on how to enjoy pintxos like a local. The small group ensures a relaxed, personal experience. Guests rave about the quality and variety of the food, making this perfect for those who want a refined, insider look at Basque gastronomy. The price ($166) reflects the high-caliber venues visited and the depth of tasting.
Bottom line: Best suited for food connoisseurs eager to explore San Sebastian’s finest pintxo bars with expert guidance.
8. San Sebastian: Pintxos and Wine Tour
This comprehensive pintxo and wine tour offers a curated experience of some of San Sebastian’s oldest and most authentic pintxo bars. Over three hours, you’ll taste a variety of local dishes paired with wines, learning about the traditions behind each bite. The tour covers several historic bars, some over 100 years old, providing a fascinating backdrop to your tasting journey. It’s suited for those wanting to deepen their understanding of Basque culinary culture and enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. Guest reviews highlight the engaging host and the high-quality food and drinks.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want an authentic, historical perspective on San Sebastian’s pintxo scene.
9. San Sebastian: Boat Tour with Stop at Santa Clara
For a different perspective of the city, this boat tour offers 30 minutes on the bay with views of the coastline and Santa Clara Island. It’s a budget-friendly option at just $9, making it great for families or those wanting a quick scenic escape. The boat ride includes insightful commentary and a chance to step off at Santa Clara for a walk or a drink. Guests recommend catching the sunset for a memorable experience. It’s short, sweet, and a relaxing complement to your land-based explorations.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a quick, scenic boat trip with family-friendly appeal.
10. San Sebastian: Guided E-Bike Tour
Similar to the previous electric bike option, this guided tour focuses on local secrets and neighborhoods. It’s a well-paced three-hour journey that covers main sights and hidden corners, with a knowledgeable local guide. The reviews praise the ease of the bikes and the opportunity to see the city from a local’s perspective. It’s a flexible choice for travelers who want to customize their experience and learn about the city’s culture and cuisine along the way.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers wanting a guided, flexible bike tour that balances sightseeing with cultural insights.
11. San Sebastian: Guided Food Tour with Pintxo Tasting & Wines
This guided food tour is a well-rounded introduction to the Old Town’s culinary scene. Over three hours, you’ll visit five spots, sampling five pintxos paired with regional wines. The guide shares stories behind each dish, making the experience both fun and educational. Guests appreciate the balance of tasting and cultural commentary, especially if they prefer a structured, small-group experience. It’s a versatile option for first-time visitors who want to enjoy local flavors without fuss.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking an informative, well-paced food adventure in San Sebastian.
12. Hondarribia, San Juan & San Pedro from San Sebastian
Looking for a day trip? This coastal tour takes you to charming seaside villages like Hondarribia and Pasajes. For around $64, you visit historic streets, cross the bay by boat, and enjoy scenic views. The tour includes guided explanations of local history and culture, making it perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic outing outside the city. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and picturesque stops. It’s suited for travelers who want to combine cultural exploration with coastal scenery without the hassle of planning.
Bottom line: A great choice for a half-day escape to picturesque Basque coastal towns.
13. Bilbao, Guggenheim and Gaztelugatxe from San Sebastian
For a full-day adventure, this trip combines hikes, art, and architecture. It includes a scenic walk to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, visiting the iconic Dragonstone location, plus a guided tour of Bilbao, with a visit to the Guggenheim Museum. The itinerary offers a good mix of outdoor and cultural activities, with lunch included. Guests love the flexibility and the expert guides, making it a top choice for those wanting a comprehensive Basque Country day trip. The price reflects the full-day experience and small-group intimacy.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing beyond San Sebastian.
14. San Sebastian Food Tour: Pintxo Tasting Paired with Spanish Wines
This food and wine pairing takes you through five stops in the Old Town, sampling pintxos and regional wines. The focus on pairing adds a layer of sophistication, and the guide offers detailed explanations of each wine and dish. It’s ideal for those who appreciate wine as much as food and want a relaxed, educational experience. Guests report the selections are varied and delicious, with knowledgeable guides making everything accessible. At $128, it’s a refined way to spend an evening in San Sebastian’s culinary heart.
Bottom line: Suitable for wine lovers and those wanting to refine their palate alongside delicious bites.
15. San Sebastian Top Pintxos Private Tour
For a personalized experience, this private pintxo tour offers bespoke visits to some of the best bars in San Sebastian. Over three hours, your private guide tailors the route to your preferences, ensuring you try the most famous and hidden pintxos and learn how to enjoy them like a local. The tour includes a walking component through the old town’s landmarks, making it both a culinary and cultural journey. Guests praise the guide’s professionalism and the quality of the food. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking exclusivity and expert attention.
Bottom line: Best for those who want a tailor-made, private tasting with insider knowledge.
How to Choose the Right Tour in San Sebastian
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. Food lovers craving a deep dive into pintxos might prefer the gourmet pintxo tour, while active travelers may opt for the bike adventures. If you’re short on time but want a scenic introduction, the boat trip or day trip to nearby villages are excellent options.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, as tours tend to fill quickly. Take note of each tour’s focus—whether cultural, culinary, or scenic—to match your travel style. For a comprehensive experience, the full-day Bilbao and Gaztelugatxe trip is unbeatable, but for a laid-back foodie night, the evening pintxo tour is hard to beat.
In sum, San Sebastian offers a variety of tours tailored to different interests—from gastronomic explorations and cycling adventures to luxury private experiences. For first-timers eager to taste the city’s culinary delights, the small-group pintxo and wine tours provide excellent value. If you’re after a deeper cultural understanding, consider the cultural bike tour.
No matter what you choose, these tours will give you a richer, more authentic experience of San Sebastian. Booking early is wise, so you can secure your preferred time and avoid missing out on these memorable ways to explore Basque Country’s jewel.
