Food Tours in Donostia - San Sebastián

Located in northern Spain’s Basque Country, Donostia-San Sebastián is a gorgeous resort town known for its beachfront promenade, long sandy beaches, surfable waves and stunning architecture.

Another thing that the region is famous for is its pintxos, which are bite-sized snacks usually served in bars. Taste a variety of traditional pintxos and immerse yourself in local culinary culture when you join a food tour in San Sebastián.

You’ll soon see why northern Spain is a food lover’s dream destination!

Here's all you need to know about food tours, one of the most captivating gastronomic experiences in Donostia-San Sebastián.

What are the best food tours in Donostia-San Sebastián?

Guided food tour in San Sebastián with pintxo tasting and wine

Stroll around San Sebastian’s picturesque Old Town, with your knowledgeable guide leading the way. You’ll stop at five different eateries, where you’ll get to taste traditional pintxos perfectly paired with delicious Spanish wine tasting and even a local cider.

This tour provides the perfect opportunity for you to familiarize yourself with the Old Town in the company of a local foodie. Don’t be shy to ask questions so that you know where to eat and drink during the rest of your stay.

In addition to showing you the best culinary fare that San Sebastián has to offer, your guide will also share information about the town’s fascinating history and provide some insight into Basque culture.

When you choose a guided experience, you’ll get the chance to meet like-minded travelers and make new friends during your fun-filled food tour.

Food and drink tasting in San Sebastián with market visit

From the moment this tour begins, you’ll start to realize why San Sebastián is so famous for its food, in particular its pintxos! Your experienced local guide can’t wait to share their knowledge with you and ensure that you don’t miss a thing.

Your tour begins with a stroll around the market, which is bursting with delicious fresh produce. You’ll get to taste local ham before you make your way to an olive shop, where you’ll get to taste olives and olive oil.

Next, you’ll make your way to the Old Town for an action-packed bar-hopping experience. Your guide will fill you in on where the locals eat and drink and tell you about the legend behind La Gilda, which is said to be the oldest known pintxo.

Taste local wine and cider as you visit vibrant pintxo bars and learn more about Basque heritage and cuisine. At the end of your informative yet enjoyable excursion, you’ll part ways with your guide, but you’re welcome to continue exploring pintxo bars on your own.

Private Basque pintxos and tapas tour in San Sebastián

Every day, tourists and San Sebastián locals gather in the Old Town to eat, drink and be merry. While you could join in on the fun on your own, it definitely helps to have a guide to lead the way and help you get your bearings.

Meet your private guide in the Old Town, or opt for a hotel pickup if you prefer. You’ll be provided with basic insight into San Sebastián’s history and the rich culture of Basque Country before you begin your bar-hopping adventure.

Taste fresh pintxos, made with seasonal local produce, and discover what type of pintxo each bar is most famous for. In addition to these tasty bite-sized snacks, you’ll also get to taste drinks like wine and cider.

As you and your travel companions will be the only participants on the excursion, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience with plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

Are there any combos available with food tours in Donostia-San Sebastián?

History, culture and food walking tours in San Sebastián

Make the most of your time in the Basque Country when you choose a walking tour that focuses on the region’s food, history and culture. Your knowledgeable guide leads you through the beautiful town of San Sebastián, providing insight into its past and pointing out famous monuments.

Once the history portion of the tour is over, you’ll visit a variety of pintxo bars, where you’ll get to taste traditional bite-sized snacks and delicious local wine.

Which places are visited?

Food tours in San Sebastián typically visit at least five local bars, restaurants or eateries, providing you with an overview of the gastronomic options available in the city. Most tours stick to the Old Town, where dozens of amazing culinary establishments are situated.

Tour operators usually aim to visit both modern and more traditional pintxo bars, so that you can get a realistic idea of the various options available. As you walk between the different eateries, your guide may also point out significant landmarks along the way.

How much do food tours in Donostia-San Sebastián cost?

Basic food tours in San Sebastián typically cost around US$110 per person for a 2.5-hour excursion that visits a variety of pintxo bars and includes several tastings.

Slightly more comprehensive tours, which last 3 hours and also visit a local food market, usually cost around US$140 per person for a group excursion.

Private food tours in San Sebastián, which cater solely to your group, cost roughly US$180 per person, although the price could fluctuate depending on how many people there are in your group.

What is included?

While each food tour in San Sebastián is slightly different when it comes to inclusions, most food tours are inclusive of any entrance fees you may encounter, several pintxo tastings and a few glasses of wine.

Hotel transfers are not usually included and you may want to bring some extra spending money with you for any additional food, beverages and other personal expenses.

Where does it start?

Most food tours in San Sebastián begin at easy-to-find landmarks in the city, such as Garagar's Terrace or Lasta Plaza. Aim to meet your guide at the meeting point at least 5 to 10 minutes before the tour’s starting time.

How long does it last?

The typical duration of a food tour in San Sebastián is around 2 or 3 hours, giving you more than enough time to learn about the city’s fascinating culinary culture, taste local delicacies and visit a variety of pintxo bars.

Combination tours usually last closer to 5 hours and provide a more comprehensive overview of the city.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

While most food tours in San Sebastián are not wheelchair friendly, there are a few tour operators that cater to wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility. If you require wheelchair accessibility, ensure you read specific tour details before making a booking.

When is the best time for a food tour in Donostia-San Sebastián?

The best time for a food tour in San Sebastián is between late spring and early autumn, namely from May to September. This period provides a pleasant backdrop for strolling the streets and hopping from one pintxos bar to another.

Consider booking your tour for the beginning of your stay to get an idea of the best eats around.

What other gastronomic experiences can you enjoy in Donostia-San Sebastián?

• Cooking classes Donostia-San Sebastián
• Cheese tastings in Donostia-San Sebastián

Travel tips

• Pintxos is typically eaten standing up, and you'll do a lot of bar hopping. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes for the duration of your food tour.
• When you finish at a bar, it's customary to leave your napkins on the counter or floor. This might seem strange, but it's a traditional way to show appreciation for the food.
• Try the local drinks like Basque cider, txakoli (a slightly sparkling white wine), or Rioja wines from the nearby wine region.