Nestled along the breathtaking Basque coastline, the picturesque seaside town of San Sebastian beckons visitors to explore its rich cultural heritage and captivating natural beauty. Just a short drive from Bilbao, this private day trip offers travelers a chance to enjoy the charming old-world ambiance of the city, from the iconic La Concha bay to the historic cathedral and Renaissance-style city hall. With an English and Spanish-speaking guide leading the way, this comprehensive tour promises an insightful and seamless experience, allowing guests to uncover the Basque Country’s traditions and hidden gems at their own pace.
Key Points
- This private group tour departs from Bilbao and takes visitors on a guided 8-hour excursion to explore the scenic city of San Sebastian.
- The tour includes hotel/cruise port pickup and drop-off, a private English and Spanish-speaking guide, and a private luxury vehicle with a separate chauffeur.
- Highlights include a stroll along the picturesque La Concha bay, a visit to the neo-Gothic Cathedral of the Good Shepherd and the Renaissance-style City Hall, and exploring the historic Old Town.
- The tour provides access to the San Telmo Museum, which showcases the rich history and traditions of the Basque Country through its impressive collection.
- The tour offers a ‘Reserve now & pay later’ policy, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a hassle-free booking experience with 24/7 customer support.
Tour Details and Highlights
This day trip to San Sebastian offers a comprehensive tour experience, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the charming seaside town’s renowned landmarks and cultural attractions.
Starting from €673.00 per person, the private group tour lasts for 8 hours and is led by a live English and Spanish-speaking guide, making it accessible for wheelchair users.
Highlights include strolling along the picturesque bay of La Concha, admiring views of Santa Clara island, and discovering the town’s architectural gems like the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd and the San Telmo Museum.
Travelers will also enjoy the local pintxos gastronomic culture at a lively bar, while learning about San Sebastian’s appeal to the European aristocracy in the past.
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Inclusions and Services
The tour package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants. Travelers will receive hotel or cruise port pick-up and drop-off, as well as a private official tour guide for 4 hours in San Sebastián and a private luxury vehicle with a separate chauffeur for the full 8-hour duration.
Plus, all taxes are covered, and the tour operator provides a 24/7 Guardian Angel service to assist travelers throughout their journey. This all-inclusive approach allows visitors to fully enjoy the sights and experiences of San Sebastián without having to worry about logistics or hidden costs, ensuring a truly memorable day trip from Bilbao.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Travelers can reserve their spot on the tour and pay nothing today, as the tour operator offers a ‘reserve now & pay later’ policy.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for those with changing plans.
The booking and cancellation policy offers several key benefits:
- Secure your tour with no upfront payment
- Easily adjust your plans with free cancellation
- Receive a full refund if plans change within 24 hours
- Hassle-free booking experience
- Reliable tour provider with 24/7 customer support
This flexible policy allows travelers to confidently book their San Sebastián day trip, knowing they can make changes if needed without penalties.
Pickup and Scenic Drive
Beginning with a scenic drive through the countryside, the tour will pick up guests from their accommodation in Bilbao and transport them to the charming town of San Sebastián.
During the journey, passengers can admire the picturesque landscapes and rolling hills that dot the region. The private luxury vehicle will ensure a comfortable and smooth ride, with a separate chauffeur dedicated to the task.
Once in San Sebastián, the guide will lead the group on a comprehensive exploration of the town’s highlights, including the iconic bay of La Concha, the historic Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, and the vibrant Old Town.
This seamless door-to-door service sets the stage for an unforgettable day trip.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyExploring La Concha Bay
In an article titled ‘From Bilbao: Day Trip to San Sebastián With Guided Tour’, it’s now time to discuss the current points ‘Exploring La Concha Bay’.
Upon arrival in San Sebastián, the guide will first lead the group to the iconic bay of La Concha, a crescent-shaped stretch of coastline renowned for its picturesque scenery.
Visitors can stroll along the promenade, taking in the breathtaking views of the sparkling waters and the majestic Santa Clara island situated just offshore.
The guide will point out:
- The elegant Belle Époque-style buildings that line the seafront promenade
- The unique ‘Comb of the Wind’ sculpture that stands as a local landmark
- The bustling activity of beachgoers, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts
- The panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains that frame the bay
- The historic significance of La Concha as a favorite vacation spot for European aristocracy
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Historic Cathedral and City Hall
The guided tour then leads visitors to the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, an impressive neo-Gothic structure that dominates the city’s skyline. The guide will point out the cathedral’s ornate façade, adorned with intricate stone carvings and spires that reach toward the heavens.
Nearby, the stately City Hall building commands attention with its elegant Renaissance-style architecture, complete with a central tower and clock that have become symbols of San Sebastián’s civic pride.
The cathedral and City Hall serve as impressive landmarks, showcasing the city’s rich history and architecture. Visitors can admire these iconic structures and imagine the stories they hold within their walls.
Discovering the Old Town
After admiring the grand cathedral and city hall, the tour continues into the charming Old Town of San Sebastián. Winding cobblestone streets guide visitors through a labyrinth of historic buildings, each one offering a glimpse into the city’s storied past.
Quaint plazas dotted with bustling pintxo bars and local shops invite exploration, allowing guests to enjoy the vibrant cultural heart of this Basque coastal gem.
Discover hidden gems like the Calle Mayor, the main thoroughfare lined with 18th-century architecture. Admire the neo-Gothic splendor of the Church of St. Vincent, dating back to the 16th century.
Wander through the lively Plaza de la Constitución, the city’s central square with a distinctive arcaded design. Explore the bustling Mercado de la Bretxa, a vibrant indoor market brimming with local produce and delicacies.
Stop for a traditional pintxo crawl, hopping from bar to bar to sample the city’s renowned culinary offerings.
San Telmo Museum Visit
Next, the tour explores the San Telmo Museum, a celebrated cultural institution housed within a 16th-century Dominican convent. Visitors admire the museum’s impressive collection, which highlights the rich history and traditions of the Basque Country through diverse exhibits on archaeology, fine arts, ethnography, and more.
A knowledgeable guide leads the group through the museum’s hallowed halls, offering insights into the region’s captivating past and the significance of the displayed artifacts. Guests marvel at the museum’s beautifully preserved architecture, including its intricate cloisters and breathtaking courtyard.
From ancient Basque artifacts to contemporary art installations, the San Telmo Museum provides a comprehensive and engaging glimpse into the cultural heritage of this unique part of Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Attractions?
Yes, the tour can typically be customized to focus on specific attractions based on the traveler’s interests. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility to adjust the itinerary as desired.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can request an extended tour with additional time to explore San Sebastián in more depth. Additional fees may apply for the extended duration.
Are Private Tours Available for Larger Groups?
Yes, private group tours are available. The tour can accommodate larger groups and offers a private official tour guide and private luxury vehicle for the duration of the 8-hour excursion, providing a personalized experience.
Can the Tour Be Conducted in Other Languages Besides English and Spanish?
The tour can be conducted in other languages besides English and Spanish, but these are the only two languages mentioned in the provided details. Guests should inquire about availability of additional language options when booking the tour.
Is There Any Dietary Accommodation for the Food Tasting Experience?
The tour offers dietary accommodations for the food tasting experience, catering to guests’ specific dietary needs or restrictions. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request to ensure an enjoyable culinary experience for all participants.
Recap
This guided day trip from Bilbao to the picturesque seaside town of San Sebastian offers a comprehensive and immersive experience.
Visitors will explore the iconic La Concha bay, stroll through the charming Old Town, and explore the rich history and traditions of the Basque Country at the renowned San Telmo Museum.
With private transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, and accessible services, this tour provides a seamless and enriching day in the stunning coastal city of San Sebastian.
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