San Sebastian is a city that practically lives and breathes gastronomy. Its pintxos culture, lively streets, and proximity to the Basque Coast make it an ideal destination for food lovers and culture seekers alike. We love how walking tours like the San Sebastian: Pintxos and Wine Tour reveal local culinary secrets, while private experiences offer a more personalized adventure. Whether you’re sampling tiny bites paired with local cider, learning to cook Basque classics, or venturing into nearby French towns, San Sebastian’s tour options promise authentic and memorable experiences. Plus, with options suited for all budgets and timeframes, you’re sure to find something that matches your travel style.
Quick Overview of the Best Tours in San Sebastian
Our list covers a variety of food and wine tours, like the highly-rated Pintxos and Wine Tour, which explores the city’s best pintxo bars. For those craving a more intimate experience, the Private Pintxos and Wine Tour offers tailored visits with expert guides. Cooking classes, such as the Basque Cooking Experience, allow you to learn local recipes firsthand. Meanwhile, day trips to French Basque Coast towns like Biarritz or Bayonne are perfect for travelers wanting a scenic escape. And if you’re interested in history, the San Sebastian City Highlights Guided Walking Tour offers a comprehensive look at the city’s landmarks. Read on to find detailed descriptions and insights into each.
1. San Sebastian: Pintxos and Wine Tour
At number 1 on our list, this 3-hour guided tour takes you through the heart of San Sebastian’s pintxo scene. You’ll visit some of the oldest family-run pintxo bars and hidden favorites, tasting authentic Basque bites and local drinks like cider and wines. The itinerary includes stops at seven iconic bars, such as Cervecerías La Mejillonera and Gandarias, offering a true taste of local life. Tour guide Hector is praised for his in-depth cultural knowledge and insider tips, which make the experience both delicious and educational. Guests love that the tour combines history, culture, and food, with reviews consistently rating it 4.8 out of 5.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for foodies eager to learn how to do pintxos like a local while enjoying a convivial atmosphere. Just be prepared for a fair bit of walking and standing—it’s a true immersion in San Sebastian’s culinary soul.
2. Private Pintxos and Wine Tour in San Sebastián
For around $342, you get a personalized, private experience that lasts about 3 to 4 hours. This custom tour combines exploring the medieval Old Town, stopping at some of the best pintxo bars, and sampling five pintxos paired with local wines. With a dedicated guide, you’ll get tailored recommendations and insider stories that go beyond the usual tourist routes. Guests rave about guides like Kai and Lide, who bring the city’s culinary and cultural history to life. The private format ensures you can customize your stops and pace, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking an intimate, entertaining experience.
Bottom line: If you want a flexible, in-depth exploration of San Sebastian’s culinary scene, this tour offers unmatched personalization and quality.
3. Basque Cooking Experience: Market Tour & Hands-On Class
This 3.5-hour class is a standout for food lovers who want more than just tasting—they want to learn to cook Basque dishes themselves. Beginning with a visit to the bustling local market, you’ll meet farmers and fishmongers, then head to a professional kitchen to prepare a four-course meal, including a dessert. Led by a knowledgeable chef like Carlos, the class accommodates different dietary needs and offers recipes to take home. Guests consistently comment on how fun and fulfilling it is; one called it the “highlight of their trip,” praising the “delicious, easy-to-make cheesecake.” The class is capped at 10, so personal attention is guaranteed.
Bottom line: Ideal for independent cooks and curious travelers who want a hands-on introduction to Basque cuisine, with the bonus of a meal to enjoy afterward.
4. I Travel for Food Tour in San Sebastian
This 3-hour walking tour is designed to introduce you to San Sebastian’s culinary neighborhoods. Starting behind the cathedral, the tour covers two districts, offering a mix of local pintxos spots and cultural insights. With a maximum of eight travelers, the intimate size means lots of personalized attention from guides like Jack, who share tips on where to find the best pintxos and tell fascinating stories about the city’s food scene. The tasting stops include traditional bites and modern takes, all paired with drinks. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to discover non-touristy spots.
Bottom line: Great for first-timers wanting an authentic taste of local San Sebastian with a small-group vibe.
5. Biarritz & French Basque Coast Private Tour from San Sebastian
This 8-hour private day trip offers a scenic escape across the border into France. Your driver-guide will take you along the La Corniche Basque, then explore charming towns like Saint-Jean-De-Luz, Guéthary, and Biarritz. Highlights include Louis XIV’s wedding site, surfing spots, and glamorous seaside hotels. The tour also covers the Aristocratic history of Biarritz and its palaces, with plenty of photo stops. Guests appreciate the flexibility of a private tour tailored to your interests, with some praising guides like Alex for their knowledge and friendliness.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a luxurious, personalized day trip with scenic views and cultural insights, especially if you want to skip the hassle of driving.
6. San Sebastian Centro Neighborhood Pintxos & Wine Tour
Spending 2.5 hours exploring San Sebastian’s Centro district, this small-group tour visits over a dozen bars, trying more than 10 pintxos and sampling five drinks. Stops include Vinos Ezeiza, a cozy third-generation wine shop, and a bar that inspired a famous Ibiza nightclub. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to try lesser-known local flavors and experience the city’s culinary diversity away from the crowded Old Town. Guides are praised for their enthusiasm and ability to cater to dietary restrictions.
Bottom line: A lively, food-focused tour ideal for solo travelers and groups who want to sample San Sebastian’s lesser-trodden culinary corners.
7. Private Rioja Wine Tasting Tour with Local Lunch
For wine aficionados, this full-day private tour to La Rioja is a highlight. The trip includes visits to two wineries—one featuring Gehry-designed architecture—and a stroll through Laguardia’s medieval streets. Tasting some of Spain’s most esteemed Rioja wines, paired with a local Basque lunch, makes for an indulgent day. Reviews emphasize how guides like Daniel and Iker make the experience personal and educational. The tour offers a perfect blend of wine, culture, and cuisine for those seeking an authentic experience outside tourist traps.
Bottom line: Excellent value for wine lovers eager to explore Spain’s top wine region without sacrificing comfort or depth.
8. Pintxo Lunch Tour in San Sebastian: A Unique Culinary Experience
This 3-hour guided tour is perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with a hearty lunch. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit local favorite pintxo bars, sampling five different pintxos along with five drinks. The walk takes you through famous Old Town spots, with insider tips on how to order like a local. Guests love the relaxed pace and the chance to try traditional Basque dishes in authentic settings. This tour is an excellent value given the included tastings and expert guidance—especially for first-time visitors.
Bottom line: Perfect for food lovers who want a comprehensive, tasty introduction to San Sebastian’s culinary scene.
9. San Sebastian Walking Tour with Pintxo and Drink
In just 2 hours, this guided walk covers the city’s main sights, from La Concha Beach to the Victoria Eugenia Theatre. Along the way, you’ll stop at a traditional bar for a round of pintxos and drinks, making this a quick but rich introduction to the city’s architecture, culture, and gastronomy. The small group size ensures a personal touch, with guides like Fabien or Victor sharing local stories and insights. Reviewers appreciate how efficiently it packs in highlights while keeping the atmosphere relaxed and friendly.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers short on time but eager for a taste of San Sebastian’s highlights and culinary culture.
10. Biarritz and French Coast Small Group Tour from San Sebastian
This 6 to 8-hour tour takes you across the border into France, exploring Biarritz, Bayonne, and Saint-Jean-de-Luz. It’s a scenic, comfortably paced experience with stops at famous sites like the Rocher de la Vierge and Louis XIV’s wedding church. The guide shares regional history and stories, making the journey educational as well as beautiful. Guests praise guides like Javier for their knowledge and personable style.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip with all transportation arranged and the flexibility of a small group.
11. San Sebastian: City Highlights Guided Walking Tour
This 1.5-hour tour covers San Sebastian’s must-see landmarks, including the City Hall, Plaza de la Constitución, and Victoria Eugenia Theatre. The experienced guide walks you through centuries of architecture and urban development, finishing with views of La Concha Bay. It’s a perfect way to orient yourself and get a quick historical overview. Reviewers appreciate the informative narration and efficient itinerary.
Bottom line: Excellent for first-time visitors wanting a concise, well-rounded introduction to San Sebastian’s urban fabric.
12. San Sebastian Market & Lunch Tour with Basque Bites
This 3-4 hour walking tour focuses on the local markets and pintxos bars, showcasing fresh ingredients and regional specialties. Visiting the Mercado La Bretxa, you’ll learn about Basque food traditions and then taste three pintxos with three included drinks. Guides like Mikel make it lively, sharing stories about regional food customs. Reviewers mention the delicious bites and the fun, informal atmosphere.
Bottom line: Perfect for culinary travelers who want to see behind the scenes of San Sebastian’s food scene and enjoy local flavor.
13. Lourdes Sanctuary Private Tour & Hotel Pickup
For travelers interested in spiritual sites, this 8-hour private tour offers a personalized visit to Lourdes, one of the world’s most famous pilgrimage destinations. The private driver ensures comfort and flexibility, with time to explore the Grotto and Sanctuary at your own pace. Guides customize the itinerary based on your interests, making this a meaningful and relaxed experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking a personal, spiritual day trip, or who want to explore Lourdes in comfort.
14. 4 Day Basque Country Tour: San Sebastian, Biarritz, Bilbao, and Rioja
This comprehensive four-day private tour covers the region’s top highlights, including gourmet city San Sebastian, Biarritz’s glamorous beaches, and Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum. With a flexible itinerary, you’ll enjoy private guides, wine tastings in Rioja, and visits to hidden gems like Hondarribia. Guests praise the guides’ local knowledge and the ability to customize each day. Perfect for travelers who want an in-depth, all-inclusive experience of the Basque Country.
Bottom line: Best for serious explorers or extended visitors wanting a tailored, multi-day journey.
How to Choose the Best Tour for Your Trip
Picking from these options depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If your focus is sampling authentic pintxos, the Pintxos and Wine Tour offers a rich, guided tasting. For a more personalized experience, the Private Pintxos and Wine Tour is ideal, especially if you want to tailor your stops. Cooking classes like the Basque Cooking Experience suit hands-on foodies, while scenic day trips to French towns appeal to those seeking a broader regional taste.
Consider your time availability—a quick 2-hour walk like the San Sebastian Walking Tour with Pintxo and Drink works for tight schedules, whereas the 4-day tour is perfect for those with multiple days to explore deeply. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours with limited spots or private options.
In summary, San Sebastian offers a diverse array of tours catering to food lovers, culture buffs, and wine enthusiasts. For a delicious introduction, the Pintxos and Wine Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a customized day, the Private Pintxos and Wine Tour provides flexibility and intimacy. For a culinary hands-on experience, the Basque Cooking class is perfect. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these delightful ways to experience San Sebastian.