8 Reasons to Visit San Sebastián in January
One of Spain’s top tourist destinations, the charming resort town of San Sebastián (or Donostia, if you speak Basque) receives over 620,000 visitors annually. While plenty flock to this picturesque coastal city for summertime surf and sun, a trip to San Sebastián in January offers advantages that travelers may not have considered. From can’t-miss cultural experiences to unique access to renowned restaurants and more, here are 8 reasons to visit San Sebastián in January.
Party on San Sebastián Day
Arguably one of the biggest days for Donostians, January 19th kicks off a 24-hour-long, citywide celebration of all that makes San Sebastián special. Gastronomy clubs host traditional Basque dinners, and then the town gathers at the town’s main square, Plaza de la Constitución, to raise the flag. Marching bands and traditional drum parades (tamborrada) take to the streets until the evening of the 20th when the celebration concludes. If you want to immerse yourself in Basque culture, plan your trip to coincide with San Sebastián Day.
Reservations at San Sebastián’s Michelin-star restaurants
San Sebastián boasts more Michelin stars per square meter than any other city in the world; however, securing a reservation during peak season can be challenging. While some acclaimed restaurants close for the winter season, plenty of noteworthy eateries like Akelarre and Kokotxa currently have available reservations in January (see full Michelin star list here).
San Sebastián cheap hotel rates
Hotel prices hit an all-time low in January, meaning waterfront accommodations like Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra and Hotel Niza are less than $100 per night. Even high-end hotels like the iconic Hotel María Cristina drop rates to around $200 per night (rather than their $900 price tag in peak summer). San Sebastián has a rich history as a vacation destination, so why not treat yourself to a luxury stay without the royal price tag?
San Sebastián has mild winter weather
If you’re concerned about winter weather affecting your enjoyment of San Sebastián’s natural beauty and ornate architecture, you’ll be pleased to know that the area experiences little to no snowfall in January. The temperatures remain pleasant, hovering around high 50s to low 40s, making it ideal for strolling through the cobblestone streets of Parte Vieja, San Sebastián’s Old Town, or taking a scenic walk along the picturesque shorefront of Playa de la Concha.
San Sebastián’s outdoor sculptures
San Sebastián’s open-air sculptures transform the city into a stunning work of art. A visit to the Peine del Viento sculpture in January provides the chance to see the fierce sea in contrast with these impressive iron structures. Sculptor Eduardo Chillida aimed to create a dialogue between his art and the surrounding landscape, making winter an excellent time to experience this dynamic.
Visit San Sebastián’s pintxos bars
Pintxos are small, delectable snacks characteristic of Spain’s Basque region. They are intricately crafted and intended to be savored in just a few bites while enjoying drinks with friends at local bars. The best pintxo spots in San Sebastián tend to get very crowded during peak travel season, but a January visit means you’ll have access to prime pintxos wherever you go. Notable locations include made-to-order creations at La Cuchara de San Telmo, local favorites at Ganbara , and the highly regarded Bergara Bar. You won’t have to look far for where to eat pintxos in January!
Celebrate Three Kings Day in San Sebastián
San Sebastián’s festivities often have deep religious roots, ranging from the town’s namesake, Saint Sebastian (the patron saint of athletes and archers), to stunning 18th-century churches, as well as modern sculptures like the Cross of Peace. If you find yourself in the Basque Country on January 5th, join the procession of the three kings through the streets of San Sebastián. Locals portray the biblical figures Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthazar as they parade through the town center to City Hall. Following the event, indulge in a slice of Roscón De Reyes, a cream-filled cake adorned with “treasures” reminiscent of those brought by the three kings to baby Jesus. If you’re fortunate enough to get the slice with the baby king hidden inside, expect good luck all year long (but prepare to cover everyone’s share of the cake, as per Basque tradition).
San Sebastián cider season starts in January
January marks the beginning of peak cider season in San Sebastián. Experience the Basque tradition of enjoying cider directly from the barrel at one of San Sebastián’s cider houses. When you hear someone shout “txotx,” it’s a signal for visitors to gather around as a new barrel has been opened, presenting an opportunity to savor fresh cider. Many Basque cider houses charge a fee per person, which typically includes an array of food items paired with cider, such as a salt cod omelette, rare steak, and local cheeses.
