Exclusive experiences in San Sebastian for a premium getaway

Private sailing in La Concha Bay

One of the most breathtaking ways to explore San Sebastián is from the sea. Glide across La Concha Bay on a private sailboat, feel the salty breeze, and toast with a glass of champagne as the sun sets behind Monte Igueldo. Companies like Navegavela and DSS Sailing offer tailored experiences, from romantic sunset cruises to adventurous trips along the rugged coastline toward Hondarribia—or even dolphin-watching excursions in the Bay of Biscay.

For something more intimate, Brai Kantauri and Ostarte Sailing sail in small groups: the first pairs the route with delicate onboard gastronomic touches, while the second uses classic wooden sailboats that preserve the spirit of another era. For a more active plan, Oribay Tours organizes fishing trips along the San Sebastián coastline, and if you only have an hour to spare, the Catamarán Ciudad San Sebastián offers a regular 40-minute crossing from the city's harbor, with a Pintxo-Bote option pairing the ride with live music and a pintxos tasting on board.

Exclusive txakolí wine tastings in historic wineries

Txakolí is more than just a wine—it's an essential part of Basque culture. To truly appreciate its character, visit the charming wineries of Getaria, where every glass tells a story. Around Tours offers private visits to renowned wineries like Rezabal, Txomin Etxaniz, and Ameztoi, where you can stroll through vineyards with ocean views and uncover the secrets behind this crisp, slightly effervescent white wine. No tasting would be complete without pairing it with aged Idiazabal cheese or the region's famous anchovies.

In Hondarribia, Bodega Hiruzta offers private visits and personalized tastings among its vineyards, with the experience completed at its tavern or at Sutan grill restaurant. And in Orio, Bodega Katxiña invites you to discover the making of its txakolí up close, with the option to dine afterward at its restaurant, awarded 2 Repsol Suns, where the grill highlights fish and meats with effortless simplicity.

Private tours of San Sebastian and the Basque Country

San Sebastián is a city of many faces—elegant, coastal, cultural, and above all, gastronomic. The best way to dive deep into its essence is with a private guide. Ikusnahi Tours and Feel Basque Country craft personalized itineraries, from architectural walks through the city's Belle Époque landmarks to immersive culinary tours in local markets and bars. You can also venture beyond the city to discover the vineyards of Rioja Alavesa, the dramatic cliffs of Zumaia's Flysch, or the medieval charm of Hondarribia.

Thalassotherapy and wellness by the bay

After a day of exploring, the body asks for its own moment too. La Perla Talasoterapia, recognized as one of Europe's finest urban thalassotherapy centers, sits in a privileged location overlooking La Concha Bay with direct access to the beach. Its selection of wellness, beauty and health experiences, designed ad-hoc, is built to restore balance at any point in the stay.

Seeing the Basque Country from above

For a completely different perspective on the region, Basque Helicopters offers flights over the Basque Country's most iconic landscapes. Their routes can be combined with landings at carefully selected locations, including some of the finest restaurants, for complete experiences where landscape and gastronomy meet.

World-class dining experiences

In San Sebastián, food is more than a passion—it's a way of life. The city is home to some of the world's most acclaimed restaurants, where every dish is a masterpiece. For an unforgettable Michelin-starred experience, don't miss Arzak, Akelarre, or Martín Berasategui, where innovative tasting menus bring Basque tradition to life in surprising and delicious ways.

Handpicked restaurants by Lasala Plaza Hotel

If you're looking for a more relaxed yet equally refined dining experience, we recommend:

• Narru – Modern Basque cuisine made with the finest local ingredients.
• Bodegón Alejandro – A historic restaurant where chef Martín Berasategui launched his career.
• Casa Urola – A cozy spot known for its charcoal-grilled seafood and seasonal dishes.
• La Rampa – The go-to place for the freshest seafood and shellfish.
• Rekondo – Famous not only for its Basque flavors but also for one of Spain's most impressive wine cellars.

Get closer to Basque cuisine

If you'd rather put on the apron yourself, Mimo Bite The Experience, located within the iconic Hotel María Cristina, offers cooking classes, food tours and private dining led by expert chefs, using top local produce.

A pintxos tour you can't miss

San Sebastián's pintxos culture is legendary. Hopping from bar to bar, tasting exquisite bite-sized creations, is an experience in itself. Here are a few must-try spots:

• Ganbara – Famous for its indulgent crab tartlet.
• Borda Berri – Don't leave without trying their creamy Idiazabal "risotto" (made without rice!).
• Txepetxa – A temple of anchovies, prepared in every way imaginable.
• La Viña – Home to what many consider the best cheesecake in the world.

For a sweet finish, Casa Otaegui, San Sebastián's oldest artisan pastry shop since 1886, is the birthplace of the pantxineta, a must-try local pastry.

Luxury shopping in San Sebastian

If you're looking for a unique souvenir or a touch of local elegance, these boutiques are worth a visit:

• Casa Munoa Jewelry – Timeless pieces crafted with exquisite artistry.
• Benegas Perfumes – One of Spain's oldest perfumeries, offering rare fragrances.
• Minimil – Contemporary Basque fashion with a sophisticated twist.
• BOX San Sebastián – High-end leather goods made with exceptional craftsmanship.
• Quera Joyería – Family-run jewelry and watchmaking since 1887, in the largest space of its kind in the Basque Country.
• Amarenak – Unique, numbered textile pieces reinterpreting Basque heritage from the heart of the Old Town.
• Noventa Grados – A concept store on Mayor and Loiola streets blending fashion, art and design.
• Ekain Arte Lanak – A contemporary Basque art gallery in the Old Town, showing sculpture, painting and graphic work.
• Real Sociedad Official Store – To take home a piece of San Sebastián's txuri-urdin spirit.

Exploring the city by electric bike

There's no better way to soak in San Sebastián's charm than on two wheels. Go Local offers guided electric bike tours that take you from the iconic Peine del Viento sculpture to Zurriola Beach, weaving through the Old Town and hidden corners of the city. It's the perfect way to explore at your own pace while taking in stunning coastal views.

Art, history, and culture

San Sebastián is also a cultural gem, with several must-visit sites:

• San Telmo Museum – A deep dive into Basque history and art.
• Tabakalera – The city's hub for contemporary art and creativity.
• Miramar Palace – Once a royal summer residence, now a peaceful spot with views of the bay.
• Arteko Gallery – In the Gros district, a reference for contemporary art, with a particular focus on works on paper and artist books.
• Chillida Leku – Just outside the city, far more than a museum: sculptures by Eduardo Chillida in dialogue with the landscape among beech, oak and magnolia trees.

Day trips to charming towns

If you have extra time, venture beyond the city and discover these charming Basque towns:

• Hondarribia – A fairytale town with medieval walls and a thriving food scene.
• Getaria – The birthplace of fashion icon Cristóbal Balenciaga, home to the best grilled fish and to the Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum, dedicated to the precision and elegance of the couture master.
• Zumaia – Marvel at the otherworldly Flysch cliffs, featured in movies and TV series.

The art of staying at Lasala Plaza Hotel

After a day filled with unforgettable experiences, there's no better place to unwind than Lasala Plaza Hotel. Set between the harbor and La Concha Bay, in the historic center of San Sebastián, our elegantly designed rooms and attentive service make for a stay to remember.

If you're arriving by plane, or simply prefer to move around the city with complete ease, Basque Luxury offers a private transportation service backed by over 20 years of experience and a fleet of high-end vehicles, so every journey feels like part of the stay.

Ready to experience San Sebastián like never before? Book your stay with us and discover why this city is more than just a destination—it's a journey to remember.