San Sebastián is one of the cities that stands out the most in the Basque Country for its impressive landscapes that perfectly complement the cultural legacy of the area. The capital of Gipuzkoa is a reference for all vacation destinations, but its offer does not end there. And once autumn begins, its landscapes acquire a charm of their own.
Many people want to visit the place to soak up more of its tradition, its paradisiacal beaches and its rich gastronomy. Here we propose seven places to visit very close to San Sebastián.
Zarautz
A city known for its extensive beach, its surfing tradition and a charm for combining culture and nature. Zarautz, less than half an hour from San Sebastián, is the perfect destination for both those seeking adventure and those who opt for a quiet environment to stroll through ancient alleys and enjoy local cuisine.
Its beach, nicknamed The Queen of the Beachesis one of the longest in the Basque Country, famous for its quality. A landscape that is worth it at any time of the year. Another point that attracts the most attention is its impressive old town with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. lhe Torre Luzea is one of the best preserved examples of civil Gothic architecture in the region, and the Narros Palace, which was once the summer residence of Queen Elizabeth II, is surrounded by gardens that enhance its majesty.
Astigarraga
Just 15 minutes from San Sebastián, Astigarraga is known as the epicenter of cider production in the Basque Country. Visiting Astigarraga is almost synonymous with visiting a cider house, where you can live the “txotx” experience: drinking cider directly from the barrel accompanied by dishes such as steak or cod omelette. The Sagardoetxea Museum is a mandatory stop for those who want to delve deeper into the history and production process of this drink.. There you can learn about the importance of apples and cider in Basque culture.
Astigarraga also offers routes for those seeking to connect with nature. The surroundings of Astigarraga have several rural roads and trails that allow you to enjoy the landscapes of the mountains and forests. You can also visit the church of Our Lady of the Assumption, a building that dates back to the 16th century and that adds a historical touch to the tour.
Zumaia
Located about 50 minutes from San Sebastián, Zumaia is famous for its cliff coast, a geological spectacle of stone layers – known as flysch. Itzurun beach is ideal for observing these formations, and its peculiar landscape has been the scene of series such as Game of Thrones. The range of activities includes boat trips that allow you to see the cliffs up close and guided hiking routes in the surrounding area.
Inside the town is the Gothic-style church of San Pedro, another attraction in the center of Zumaia. This 13th-century building preserves unique architectural features and stands out for its stone tower. The Zuloaga Museum, dedicated to the painter Ignacio Zuloaga, is one of the obligatory stops for all art lovers.
Hondarribia
Half an hour from San Sebastián, Hondarribia is presented as a fishing town with a walled old town, the purest reflection of its medieval history. One of the main attractions is the Castle of Charles V, a 16th century fortress that today functions as a national inn.. The narrow streets of the historic center are adorned with colorful wooden balconies that give it a picturesque air.
The port area and the Marina neighborhood, with its pintxos bars, is ideal for enjoying traditional Basque cuisine, where fish and seafood are the protagonists. On weekends, gastronomic activity intensifies and many visitors cross by boat to the French town of Hendaye..
Pasaia (Passages)
Pasaia, just 20 minutes from San Sebastián, stands out for its natural configuration, in the shape of a fjord, which gives it a unique appearance. It is therefore a very protected port that has had great relevance for the region. The town is divided into Pasaia San Pedro and Pasaia San Juan, connected to each other by a boat service that crosses the estuary.
In Pasaia San Juan is the Victor Hugo House-Museum, which offers a window into the life of the French writer during his stay here in 1843. Visitors can tour the port, sample fresh seafood at local restaurants, and admire the Basque-style houses with their colorful wooden balconies. For those looking for a quiet, cultural experience, Pasaia is an excellent option.
Oñati
50 minutes from San Sebastián, Oñati is another of the towns with the greatest architectural heritage in Gipuzkoa. The Sancti Spiritus University, founded in 1540, is one of the oldest universities in Spain and stands out for its Renaissance architecture. Another essential stop for every traveler is the parish church of San Miguel, with its Plateresque doorway and cloister.
Oñati is also the gateway to the Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Parka paradise for hiking lovers. One of the most famous routes is the climb to Mount Aizkorri, the highest point in Gipuzkoa, from where you can enjoy impressive views of the region. Besides, The Arrikrutz caves offer the opportunity to explore underground geological formations and learn about fossils of prehistoric animals.
Getaria
Getaria, 40 minutes from San Sebastián, It is the home of the famous designer Cristóbal Balenciaga, whose legacy is present in the museum dedicated to his work. It is also an important wine destination, with txakoli vineyards that can be visited and where tastings are offered. The Gothic-style church of San Salvador is located in the center of the town and is known for its unique vault.
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