3 Days in San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a special place. So special that it makes this hater of backtracking not even blink at a return. Also, after a long trek from Namibia 3 days in San Sebastian was just what I needed. It was spent relaxing and catching up with my original European travel partner who was in town with his wife. We drank wine and ate tapas and then repeated. It was awesome.

Eat. Drink. Repeat.

If you know anything about me or this site, spending 3 days in San Sebastian eating and drinking shouldn’t be a surprise. Add in a couple of drinking partners and we have ourselves a Basque posse. John was in town with his wife sharing all the awesome one can handle with 3 days in San Sebastian. With seemingly endless pintxo bars to be had this meant eating, drinking, then eating and drinking some more.

Hot Tip: To get the most out of the San Sebastian food scene, consider taking a guided food tour!

San Sebastian Sights

In between our frequent meals and power naps we did squeeze in some of San Sebastian’s spectacular scenery. We strolled the old town and spent lazy mornings on sidewalk Cafés. We took in the architecture of the San Sebastián Cathedral, Constitution Square, and the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus. We enjoyed sunsets on the beach and in the harbour and we even mustered up enough strength to say hi to Jesus high above the city. All of this made me realize there is much to see with 3 days in San Sebastian beyond the pintxo bars.

Stay San Sebastian

While spending 3 days in San Sebastian I recovered from food hangovers and napped at the conveniently cozy Hotel Parma. Located near the María Cristina Bridge, this San Sebastian gem is minutes away from all the sites we saw and the great bars and restaurants we sampled in the old town. On top of this Hotel Parma is only a short 10 minute walk to the train station.

Everything was within reach from our 3 days in San Sebastian home. The beaches. The bars. The seawall.

Did I mention the bars?

Beyond San Sebastián: A Coastal Road Trip to Bilbao

San Sebastián may be the jewel of the Basque Country, but the adventure doesn’t have to end there. A scenic drive down the coast reveals even more stunning landscapes and cultural gems. One must-visit stop is San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the breathtaking cliffside church made famous by Game of Thrones. Climb its 241 winding steps for panoramic views of the rugged coastline—it’s a challenge, but the reward is unforgettable!

From there, continue your journey to Bilbao for an exciting 24 hours in the city. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Casco Viejo, savor delicious pintxos, and admire the iconic Guggenheim Museum at sunset. For the perfect stay, Hesperia Hotel Bilbo offers a convenient location near the Guggenheim, comfortable rooms, and easy access to the city’s top attractions. Whether you’re an art lover, foodie, or road trip enthusiast, Bilbao is the perfect way to round out your Basque adventure!

What say you?
Thoughts on my 3 Days in San Sebastian?
Let’s hear it!

For more reviews from Europe and beyond see HERE.

— The Hotel Parma on Facebook —

Although I was provided a complimentary stay at the Hotel Parma for my 3 days in San Sebastian stay, the experience, opinions, and over indulgence was my own.