San Sebastian shines brightest during lunch, when the city’s food culture comes alive. The Old Town’s narrow streets burst with pintxo bars serving bite-sized Basque specialties, while local markets showcase fresh seafood and regional ingredients. Several standout tours help visitors make sense of this rich culinary scene.
The Pintxo-Tapas Tour delivers the best bang for your buck, with stops at authentic local favorites that travelers rarely discover. For food market enthusiasts, the Old Town Market & Lunch Tour reveals where local chefs shop while teaching traditional Basque cooking methods. Wine lovers should consider the Rioja Wine Tour – it pairs excellent vineyard visits with unforgettable regional lunches. The 3Bahias 2 Countries Tour offers a perfect mix of coastal sightseeing and authentic Basque dining.
Let’s explore our favorite San Sebastian lunch tours.
Key Points
- The San Sebastián Market & Lunch Tour provides an immersive experience, including a walking tour, Basque tapas tastings, and recipes emailed to participants.
- The Culinary Delights tour emphasizes the social and cultural aspects of traditional Basque dining, with a focus on tasting local specialties like squid and bacalao.
- The 3Bahias 2 Countries Tour offers a scenic half-day cruise along the Basque coastline, including a visit to France and a local lunch.
- The Gipuzkoa Coast Tour showcases charming seafront towns, scenic vineyards, and Game of Thrones filming locations, complemented by a traditional Basque lunch.
- Many tours provide convenient hotel pickup and drop-off services, as well as flexible cancellation policies, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
San Sebastian Unique Pintxo-Tapas Tour With Lunch
For a first-hand taste of San Sebastian’s renowned pintxo (Basque-style tapas) culture, this unique tour provides an exceptional introduction.
With a 100% recommendation from travelers and a Badge of Excellence, the San Sebastian Unique Pintxo-Tapas Tour with Lunch offers a guided exploration of the city’s Old Town and its local “pintxos” bars.
Guests will savor five pintxos and five drinks, while learning about Basque culinary traditions from an expert guide.
Priced at $187.99 per person with free cancellation, this experience includes a personalized, small-group tour of up to 8 travelers and a delicious lunch.
Reviews highlight the exceptional guide, high-quality food, and tailored experience based on individual preferences.
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San Sebastian Old Town Market & Lunch Tour With Basque Bites
This guided San Sebastian Old Town Market & Lunch Tour with Basque Bites immerses guests in the vibrant culinary scene of the Basque Country.
The 3-4 hour experience includes a visit to the La Bretxa Market, a walking tour of the Old Town, and a culinary journey featuring Basque history and culture.
Participants will enjoy lunch at 3 top bars, tasting local specialties like squid, bacalao, sea urchin, and more, paired with regional wines, beers, and cider.
Led by an expert local guide, the tour also provides recommendations for further exploration of the Basque Country.
With free cancellation and a limited group size of 10, this tour offers an authentic and personalized taste of San Sebastian.
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San Sebastian Lunch Time Pintxo Tour With Wine
Delving into the vibrant culinary scene of San Sebastian, the San Sebastian Lunch Time Pintxo Tour with Wine immerses participants in the city’s rich gastronomic traditions.
Lasting 2 hours and 30 minutes, the tour whisks visitors through the old town, visiting 4-6 renowned pintxo bars to sample local specialties paired with regional wines and ciders.
Led by knowledgeable culinary guides, the tour provides an opportunity to learn the art of ordering and eating pintxos like a local.
With a maximum group size of 10, the intimate experience offers flexibility to cater to dietary needs and uncover hidden gems.
Highly rated by travelers, this tour is an excellent way to kickstart a San Sebastian food adventure.
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From San Sebastian/Bilbao/Vitoria: Rioja Wine Tour With Lunch
Transporting visitors on a captivating journey through the renowned Rioja wine region, the From San Sebastian/Bilbao/Vitoria: Rioja Wine Tour with Lunch offers an immersive experience for wine enthusiasts.
Priced from €230 per person, the 7.5-9 hour tour includes a visit to a traditional Spanish winery, a tasting of fine Rioja wines, and a delicious lunch with wine.
Catering to small groups of up to 8 participants, the tour features knowledgeable guides who share insights into the unique local wine production techniques.
Reviewers praise the well-balanced itinerary, the expertise of the guides, and the delightful culinary experience.
With free cancellation and a pay-later option, this tour is an excellent choice for exploring the wonders of Rioja.
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3bahias 2 Countries From San Sebastian to France, Lunch Included
Venturing beyond the renowned Rioja wine region, the 3Bahias 2 Countries from San Sebastian to France invites travelers on a captivating half-day cruise along the Basque coastline.
Renowned for its 100% recommendation and Badge of Excellence, this tour promises an immersive experience, featuring a scenic journey across the waters of three bays and a visit to France for coffee.
Guests can look forward to a delectable local lunch, audioguide commentary, and thoughtful inclusions like a souvenir Polaroid photo.
With its wheelchair-accessible transportation and warm, hospitable hosts, this tour is an ideal choice for small groups seeking a relaxing and informative coastal exploration.
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From San Sebastian: Biarritz & Basque Coast Tour With Lunch
Travelers seeking to enjoy the captivating Basque coastline can embark on the “From San Sebastian: Biarritz & Basque Coast Tour With Lunch.”
This 8-hour excursion transports guests from San Sebastian to the charming French Basque region, showcasing picturesque fishing villages, vibrant beach towns, and the renowned surfing destination of Biarritz.
The tour offers a 2-course lunch with dessert at a local restaurant, allowing visitors to savor the region’s culinary delights.
With a maximum group size of 8 participants, the tour provides a personalized experience with hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the option to reserve and pay later.
Wheelchair accessibility and positive customer reviews further enhance the appeal of this comprehensive Basque coast adventure.
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Full Rioja Wine Tour With Lunch From San Sebastian Private Tour
This private Rioja wine tour from San Sebastian takes guests on an immersive journey through Spain’s renowned winemaking region.
With a 5-star rating and 98% traveler recommendation, the tour offers an intimate, personalized experience. Guests can expect three winery visits, each featuring 3-4 wine tastings, and a traditional Rioja lunch.
The knowledgeable guide, Matteo, provides extensive information about the region and the winemaking process. Highlights include the underground caves at Tritium Bodega and the family-owned wineries showcasing innovative practices.
The tour’s flexibility allows for accommodating requests, and the comfortable private transportation ensures a seamless experience.
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Essential Pintxos Tasting in the Old Town – Lunch
For those seeking to enjoy San Sebastian’s renowned culinary scene, an essential pintxos tasting tour through the Old Town provides an unparalleled gastronomic experience.
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 308 participants, this 3-hour small group tour guides visitors through the vibrant streets, sampling an array of the city’s famous bite-sized delicacies paired with local wines.
Certified by GetYourGuide, the tour allows guests to discover the rich history and traditions behind these iconic Basque specialties.
At just over $104 per person, this guided pintxos experience offers an immersive and authentic taste of San Sebastian’s celebrated food and wine culture.
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History and Flavors of San Sebastian With Lunch
San Sebastian’s culinary heritage and vibrant food culture unfold during this immersive tour, which showcases the history and flavors that have earned the city its reputation as a gastronomic mecca.
Led by a bilingual expert guide, the small-group experience takes visitors on a guided stroll through the city, including the iconic Bay of La Concha, while providing insights into San Sebastian’s food, history, and culture.
Participants will enjoy a lunch of 5 authentic pintxos and 5 drinks, savoring the city’s renowned “snack culture” without the risk of tourist traps.
With a 100% recommendation rate from past travelers and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the heart of San Sebastian’s culinary traditions.
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Bilbao City & Guggenheim Museum With Lunch From San Sebastian
Set out on a captivating journey from San Sebastian to Bilbao, where the iconic Guggenheim Museum and the charming village of Getaria await.
This private tour offers a rundown of the region’s highlights. Enjoy a scenic drive, explore the Guggenheim’s remarkable architecture, and savor a delightful lunch.
While the museum’s exhibits may not impress as much as other world-class collections, the tour’s strengths lie in its personalized experience and cultural insights.
With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and all-inclusive amenities, this tour promises an enjoyable day exploring Bilbao and its surroundings.
Cancelation flexibility and positive customer reviews further enhance the appeal of this comprehensive San Sebastian excursion.
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Rioja Full Experience Tour From San Sebastian With Lunch
Stepping beyond the captivating landscape of Bilbao and the Guggenheim Museum, the Rioja Full Experience Tour from San Sebastian with Lunch offers oenophiles a delightful immersion into the renowned wine region of La Rioja.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 21 travelers, this tour promises an ideal experience for wine lovers. Highlights include visits to two renowned wineries, tastings at three wineries, and a delectable three-course lunch paired with local wines.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a friendly local guide, and all fees and taxes. Visitors praise the personalized nature of the tour and the exceptional wine-tasting experiences.
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Rioja Wine Tour: Winery, Tasting & Lunch From San Sebastian
Although San Sebastian serves as the ideal starting point, the Rioja Wine Tour: Winery, Tasting & Lunch from San Sebastian takes travelers on a captivating journey through the renowned wine region of La Rioja.
Highlights include visiting a local winery, strolling through vineyards, and enjoying a traditional two-course lunch with wine tasting.
The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and excellent wine and culinary experiences.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, the tour offers convenience and accessibility.
While some travelers note the price as high, the overall 5.0 rating and Badge of Excellence suggest a well-received experience for wine and culture enthusiasts.
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Gipuzkoa Coast Tour With Lunch
The Gipuzkoa Coast Tour with Lunch offers travelers a captivating journey along the picturesque coastline of the Gipuzkoa province.
This full-day tour from San Sebastián showcases the region’s charming seafront towns, scenic vineyards, and filming locations from Game of Thrones. Guests will visit Orio, Zarautz, and Getaria, with a highlight being the exploration of Zumaia, a filming location for Season 7 of the popular TV series.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by private vehicle, a knowledgeable local guide, a traditional Basque lunch, and bottled water and alcoholic beverages.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and personalized experience along the stunning Gipuzkoa Coast.
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San Sebastián Market & Lunch Tour With Basque Bites
Travelers frequently embark on the San Sebastián Market & Lunch Tour with Basque Bites, a captivating exploration of the city’s vibrant food and drink culture.
This 11 AM walking and bar-hopping tour features visits to three bars for traditional Basque tapas (pintxos) tastings and three drinks.
Led by an expert, local, English-speaking guide who’s a professional chef, the tour provides historical and cultural insights on the significance of food, drink, and socializing in Basque traditions.
Participants receive emailed recipes for recreating the dishes at home and recommendations for further exploration in the Basque Country.
The tour starts at Muka and ends at Constitución Plaza, with the guide ensuring guests aren’t left alone.
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Full-Day Private Wine Tasting Tour in La Rioja With Lunch
A full-day private wine tasting tour in La Rioja with lunch provides travelers with an immersive experience to explore the renowned Spanish wine region.
Operated by FEEL BASQUE COUNTRY, the tour includes guided visits and tastings at 2-4 wineries, such as Bodegas Gomez Cruzado, Bodegas Rioja Alta, and Bodegas Ostatu.
Travelers will enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, with alcoholic beverages included.
The tour, which starts at 8 AM and lasts approximately 90 minutes from San Sebastian, isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.
With 100% 5-star reviews, the tour is highly rated for its knowledgeable guide and scenic viewpoints.
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Private Biarritz and French Basque Coast Tour With Lunch
Exploring the picturesque French Basque Coast, this private tour from San Sebastian takes travelers on a captivating journey along the rugged yet charming seaside towns and villages.
Priced at SEK 2,900.86 per person, the tour includes all fees, taxes, lunch, and alcoholic beverages. Lasting approximately 5 hours, the tour features private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and a friendly local guide.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Travelers must have a valid ID or passport to cross the French border.
With a 4.5-star rating based on 5 reviews, this private tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the stunning landscapes and culinary delights of the French Basque region.
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La Rioja Private Winery Visit With Wine Tasting and Lunch
This private tour offers wine enthusiasts a chance to explore the renowned wine region of La Rioja.
Starting at 9 am, guests are picked up from their selected location and transported to a private winery in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
Upon arrival, they’ll embark on a guided tour, learning about the winemaking process and sampling the region’s finest vintages.
Lunch is included, allowing guests to savor local cuisine paired with the wines.
The tour is accessible to most travelers, with infant seats available.
Cancelations are flexible, with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
With a perfect 5-star rating, this immersive experience is an excellent choice for those seeking a taste of La Rioja’s winemaking heritage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Lunch Experiences?
The dress code is generally casual and informal for lunch experiences. Most restaurants and eateries don’t have strict dress requirements, allowing patrons to dine comfortably in their everyday attire. Light, comfortable clothing is typically the norm for these casual lunch outings.
Are Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Available for the Lunch?
Most restaurants in San Sebastian offer vegetarian and gluten-free options to accommodate various dietary needs. Guests should inquire about the availability of these options when making reservations or upon arrival to ensure their preferences can be accommodated.
Can the Lunch Tours Accommodate Large Groups or Families?
Many lunch tour providers in San Sebastian can accommodate large groups and families. They often offer flexible group sizes and specialized menus to cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences.
What Time Do the Lunch Tours Typically Start and End?
The lunch tours typically start around midday and last for 2-3 hours. The exact start and end times can vary depending on the specific tour, but they’re designed to accommodate a full lunch experience during the day.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Participants of the Lunch Tours?
Most lunch tours don’t have age restrictions, allowing participants of all ages to enjoy the experience. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the tour provider beforehand to ensure the tour is suitable for any children or elderly guests.
The Sum Up
San Sebastian is renowned for its exceptional pintxo-tapas culture and world-class cuisine. The city offers a variety of unique dining experiences, from guided tours of the Old Town Market to private wine tastings in the Rioja region. Whether you’re looking to savor local Basque bites or explore the flavors of the French Basque Coast, San Sebastian has something to satisfy every culinary palate.