San Sebastian, known for its stunning beaches, world-class cuisine, and vibrant culture, is a must-visit destination in Spain’s Basque Country.
However, like any popular tourist spot, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that could dampen your experience.
Avoiding common pitfalls can help you make the most of your time.
In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the most frequent mistakes travellers make when visiting San Sebastian and share some tips to ensure you have an unforgettable trip.
Mistakes to avoid when visiting San Sebastian
Below are some of the top mistakes we see when visitors make plans to visit the city.
1. Visiting Only in High Season
One of the most common mistakes travellers make is determining when to visit San Sebastian.
Naturally most travellers plan for their trip during the peak tourist season in August.
While the weather is (usually) great, the city can be overcrowded.
Prices for accommodation skyrocket and restaurants get busy which can also detract from the experience.
If you want to avoid the hustle and still enjoy great weather, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons. May, June and September are my recommendations.
The city is less crowded, and you’ll have more space to enjoy the beaches, pintxos bars, and scenic spots.
You’ll also find better deals on hotels and tours, giving you a more relaxed, authentic experience of the city.
2. Skipping a Reservation at Popular Restaurants
Donosti is world-renowned for its food. Many visitors make the mistake of assuming they can just walk into some of the top spots without a reservation.
Unfortunately, this can lead to disappointment when they find their favourite restaurants fully booked.
To avoid missing out on the city’s amazing gastronomy, it’s essential to book ahead.
Michelin Star restaurants require reservations well in advance. Sometimes even months before your trip!
Even for pintxos bars, it’s a good idea to plan your visit during less crowded times if you’re looking to try a particular place.
3. Missing out on the Basque Culture
Whilst San Sebastian is a food lover’s paradise and a beautiful city for strolling around, it also has a unique history and culture.
Focusing only on food and views can cause travellers to miss out on the fascinating culture and history that make this city so special.
Be sure to balance your foodie explorations with other activities.
It’s worth booking a FREE walking tour to understand more about the history of the city.
Or consider taking part in a unique Basque experience where you can learn to appreciate more about the city’s past.
4. Ignoring the Weather
Another mistake travellers often make is underestimating the unpredictable weather here.
This isn’t the Costa del Sol! While the Basque coast enjoys warm, pleasant days in the summer, rain can surprise you at any moment, even during peak season.
Many visitors arrive expecting endless sunshine, only to find themselves unprepared for sudden showers or cooler evenings.
Our tip (whatever time of year) is to always pack for varied weather.
Bring layers, including a light jacket and rain gear, even if the forecast looks promising.
If you’re planning outdoor activities, such as a day at the beach or a hike, check the forecast regularly and be flexible with your schedule.
5. Not Learning Basic Spanish or Basque
While most of the workers in the hospitality sector speak some English, relying entirely on it can lead to miscommunication – especially outside the main tourist areas.
Knowing a few key phrases in Spanish or Basque (Euskara) can be useful.
A “hola” / ”kaixo” (hello) or, “gracias” / “eskerrik asko” (thank you) , can go a long way and enhance your experience with locals.
Don’t worry about perfecting the language — the effort is what counts!
6. Skipping Public Transport or Bike Rentals
San Sebastian is a compact city. Some visitors make the mistake of either relying solely on taxis or overestimating how much they can explore on foot.
Though walking is enjoyable in the city’s central areas, there’s so much more to see if you expand your transportation options.
Ignoring public transport or bike rentals can mean missing out on some of the city’s best neighbourhoods.
Take advantage of the city’s efficient bus system, which can quickly take you to different parts of the city, such as Gros, Antiguo, or further out to Monte Igueldo.
For a more scenic way to get around, consider renting a bike. The city is very bike-friendly, with plenty of “bidegorri” (bike lanes).
Biking is an excellent way to see the city at your own pace while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
7. Not exploring the nearby areas
Whilst there are plenty of things to do in San Sebastian, the Basque Country and local area has so much natural beauty, that a trip to one of the nearby towns or cities is well worth it.
The city’s unique position (close to the French border on the coast) means there’s lots of variety in the places nearby.
If you’re staying a little longer in the city, check out one of our recommended day trips from San Sebastian.
Best of all, you don’t even need a car for all of these. Some are within easy reach on public transport.
