San Sebastian: Pintxos and Wine Tour

Sampling San Sebastian’s legendary pintxos and wines isn’t just about filling your stomach—it’s about experiencing a living tradition. This tour, offered by Devour Tours, promises a well-rounded taste of the city’s culinary soul, paired with fascinating stories and insider tips. With a near-perfect 4.8-star rating from over 370 reviews, it’s clear that most travelers leave with full bellies and happy hearts.

What we love most about this experience is its focus on authentic local spots—some over a century old—and its expertly curated selection of premium pintxos and regional wines. The guide’s knowledge is another highlight, making each stop feel both educational and mouthwateringly delicious. Plus, it’s perfect for lovers of food, wine, and history who want a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

The only potential downside? The tour involves standing in bars and walking through the old town, which might be challenging for guests with mobility issues or those not comfortable with busy, lively environments. But for those who enjoy a lively, social pace, it’s a fantastic way to get under the skin of San Sebastian’s beloved culinary scene.

This experience works best for travelers who appreciate delicious food and drink, cultural insights, and a guided, immersive walk. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned foodie, this tour offers a satisfying glimpse into the city’s gastronomic heritage.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visit family-run and historic pintxo bars, some over 100 years old.
• Diverse Tastings: Sample a total of 8 different bites paired with 5 local drinks, including cider and regional wines.
• Insightful Guides: Learn about Basque culture, history, and pintxo etiquette from passionate, knowledgeable guides.
• Cultural Insights: Discover local stories, like the significance of TXOTX! and historical tidbits about the Old Town.
• Walk & Taste: The tour combines walking through the charming streets with stops at lively bars, making it both a sightseeing and tasting adventure.
• Value for Money: With a full itinerary, multiple tastings, and expert guidance, it offers great value for a 3-hour experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point: Ijentea Kalea, 6

The tour kicks off at a lively spot in the Old Town, where your guide—likely someone with extensive local knowledge—will gather your group of up to 8 people. They’ll probably be holding a red bag or sign, so keep an eye out.

Cervecerías La Mejillonera: Mussels & Cider

The first stop sets the tone. Known locally as a beloved hangout since the 70s, this bar is famous for its mussels and traditional dry Basque cider. You’ll get to learn the art of pouring cider from a height—a signature Basque custom called TXOTX!. Many reviews highlight how much fun and educational this part is, with visitors noting that the pouring from high up creates a fun spectacle and a perfect pour.

The mussels are often described as some of the best in town, and the cider’s sharp, refreshing flavor is a clear highlight. Reviewers mention how guides explain not only the drinks but also the cultural significance behind them, making the experience more meaningful. For example, one reviewer loved how their guide, Mila, shared her passion and knowledge, making the tasting lively and informative.

Old Town’s Main Square: A Brief History Walk

After your first tasting, you’ll stroll past the main square, which is rich in history. It once hosted bullfights and still displays the numbers on the houses that once marked the bullring boxes—an intriguing detail that adds a bit of old-world charm to your walk.

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The Anchovy Bar: A Game-Changer

Next up is a bar famous for its marinated anchovies, a dish that often surprises first-timers. Many tour-goers note that even those skeptical about anchovies leave converted after trying these tender, flavor-packed bites. The guide shares the story behind the first pintxo invented and how anchovies have become a Basque staple.

This bar also serves regional sparkling wine, making the pairing a delightful surprise for many. Multiple reviews mention how guides enhance the experience with storytelling, elevating the tasting far beyond just eating.

The Pintxo Bar of the Moment: Innovation & Tradition

Moving on, you’ll visit one of the city’s renowned pintxo bars where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation. Using local ingredients and inventive techniques, the pintxos here are described as “truly unique.” The combination of flavors and presentation often leaves visitors impressed, and many mention that it’s a highlight for its creative approach.

Grilled Steak & Navarra Wine: A Carnivore’s Dream

No trip to San Sebastian is complete without tasting its famous grilled steak. Paired with a barrel-aged Navarra wine, this savory course offers tender slices of sirloin cooked to perfection. Reviewers frequently comment on the quality of the meat and the wine pairing, which elevates the simple dish into something memorable.

Sweet Ending at La Viña: Dessert & Dessert Wine

Your final stop is a spot chosen for its authentic San Sebastian dessert—a local specialty that’s hard to find elsewhere. You’ll get to try it alongside a dessert sherry, closing the tour on a sweet, satisfying note. Many reviews rave about how this dessert, especially when paired with wine, is a perfect, indulgent finish.

The Value of the Experience

At roughly three hours, this tour packs in eight bites, five drinks, and a wealth of stories. The price reflects the quality of local, authentic experiences, the variety of tastings, and the guidance of knowledgeable locals. Reviewers like Jan Carlo and Joanna have praised how well-organized and worthwhile the experience is, making it a top choice for those eager to explore local cuisine.

It’s a walk-and-taste journey, so comfortable shoes are recommended, and you should be prepared for standing in lively bars. The small group size (maximum 8 participants) ensures personalized attention and an intimate atmosphere.

While the experience is rich in food and drink, it’s equally a cultural walk, with guides sharing insights about Basque traditions like TXOTX! and the city’s historical sites. The tour is adaptable for vegetarians, pescatarians, and those with certain dietary restrictions, but vegans or those with severe allergies may find it less suitable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This pintxos and wine walk is ideal for travelers who want to taste local flavors without the fuss of restaurant-hopping on their own. It’s perfect for foodies, wine lovers, and history buffs looking for an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at San Sebastian’s culinary scene. It’s also a fantastic way to meet like-minded travelers and get insider tips on the city’s best spots.

If you prefer a relaxed pace, engaging guides, and a mix of history with gastronomy, this tour will suit you well. However, if mobility is an issue or you’re traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit due to the standing and walking involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, with flexible start times based on availability.

What does the tour include?
You’ll enjoy 8 different bites and pintxos, along with 5 local drinks including cider and regional wines.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or other dietary restrictions?
Yes, the tour can adapt for vegetarians, pescatarians, gluten-free, dairy-free, and non-alcoholic options, but vegan options are not available. Some stops might not have replacements for every restriction.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes and water are recommended, as you’ll be walking and standing in lively bars.

Are children allowed?
This tour is not recommended for children under 15 due to busy venues and alcohol focus.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, guests meet at the designated starting point in the Old Town.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour English-speaking?
Yes, all guides speak English and provide engaging commentary throughout.

Will I need to walk a lot?
Yes, it’s a walking tour covering several historic and lively bar stops, but at a moderate pace.

What about accessibility?
The tour isn’t suitable for guests with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or strollers.

The San Sebastian Pintxos and Wine Tour offers a lively, authentic glimpse into the city’s culinary heartbeat. With expert guides, a carefully curated selection of bars, and a variety of local flavors, it provides a genuine taste of Basque culture. For those eager to combine sightseeing, storytelling, and delicious bites in a relaxed atmosphere, this tour hits the mark.

It’s especially suited for food lovers, cultural explorers, and anyone wanting to experience San Sebastian’s famous pintxos scene without the hassle of figuring it out on their own. While it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children, most travelers will find it a delightful, full-flavored adventure.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this tour offers the perfect way to start or wrap up your San Sebastian visit—full of stories, smiles, and exceptional bites.

Note: Always check the availability and starting times to fit this experience into your schedule. And remember, the best way to enjoy the tour is with an open mind and a hearty appetite!

You can check availability for your dates here: