San Sebastian: E-Bike Tour of Beaches, Palaces & Basque Art

Summary

Cycle San Sebastian’s beaches, palaces and buzzing neighborhoods

You’ll ride an e-bike through San Sebastian’s historic streets, pausing at beaches like La Concha and Ondarreta while your local guide shares stories only locals know. Expect art surprises near Miramar Palace and real slices of daily life in Gros—plus tips for pintxos after your ride. This tour leaves you with more than just photos; it gives you moments that linger.

What’s the experience like?

I rolled up to Reyes Católicos street feeling a bit nervous about riding an e-bike in San Sebastian, but our guide, Jon, had this easy way of making everyone laugh — even before we’d figured out the gears. We started near Buen Pastor Cathedral (the spires look taller when you’re standing right there), and after a quick rundown about how the city grew around these old stones, we were off. The bikes hummed quietly under us as we crossed the first bridge, wind carrying a salty smell from somewhere I couldn’t see yet. Jon pointed out buildings I’d never have noticed walking; he knew which ones used to be aristocrats’ homes and which were built by workers — you could almost feel the layers of history just by looking at the facades.

We zipped through Gros next — that part was lively, full of locals chatting outside cafés and kids darting between benches. At Cataluña Plaza, Jon explained how rents have shot up lately (he shrugged, “everyone wants to live here now”), and I caught myself people-watching more than listening. Then suddenly we were at Zurriola beach, where surfers looked like tiny dots braving these wild waves. You could hear them shouting over the wind — not that I understood much Basque, but their energy was contagious. Kursaal loomed ahead — Jon called it “controversial” and grinned; apparently locals still argue about whether it’s ugly or brilliant.

The route along La Concha beach is where it really hit me: this place is just… layered. There’s a legend about why there are so many little trees here (something to do with Japan? I probably got half of it wrong), but honestly I was too busy gawking at the curve of the bay in late morning light. The bidegorri bike path felt smooth under my wheels as we headed for Miramar Palace — all turrets and sea views — then on to Ondarreta Beach where sand stuck to my shoes when I hopped off for photos. The breeze picked up again; someone nearby was eating tortilla de patatas and for a second all I wanted was lunch.

We ended up weaving past modern sculptures at the edge of town before looping back along the Urumea River, villas flashing by on one side and little gardens on the other. There was this moment where Jon stopped us in an old neighborhood to show a “secret passage” between two streets — he said his grandmother used to sneak through it as a kid. That stuck with me more than any palace or postcard view. When we finally rolled back into Reyes Católicos, legs wobbly but happy, Jon suggested pintxos nearby (“just ask if you need tips!”). I still think about that view from Miramar Palace sometimes; something about sunlight on water makes you want to stay longer than you should.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — San Sebastian E-bike city and beach tour

• Meet guide on Reyes Católicos street
• Cycle to Buen Pastor Cathedral
• Stop at first city bridge
• Explore Gros neighborhood and Cataluña Plaza
• View surfers at Zurriola beach
• Pass Kursaal building
• Pass emblematic city building
• Enjoy city and ocean views
• Ride along Boulevard to La Concha beach
• Follow bike path to Miramar Palace
• Visit Ondarreta beach and learn history
• See contemporary art and city views
• Discover Basque modern art and secret passage
• Follow Urumea River to city center
• Tour ends at Reyes Católicos street

Top questions

How long is the San Sebastian e-bike tour?

The reference doesn’t specify exact duration but covers several neighborhoods and main sights in one continuous outing.

Does the tour include stops at La Concha Beach?

Yes, there is a stop along La Concha Beach with time to enjoy views and learn local stories.

Is lunch included on this San Sebastian bike tour?

No lunch is included but your guide can recommend places for pintxos after the tour ends near Reyes Católicos.

Are e-bikes provided or do I bring my own?

E-bikes are provided as part of your booking; no need to bring your own bike.

Is this tour suitable for beginners or kids?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; infant seats are available for small children.

What are some highlights seen during the ride?

You’ll see Buen Pastor Cathedral, Gros neighborhood, Zurriola beach surfers, Kursaal building, La Concha Beach, Miramar Palace, Ondarreta Beach, modern art spots, and riverside villas.

Does it include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at Reyes Católicos street in central San Sebastian.

Will there be a local guide on this e-bike tour?

Yes, every group is led by an expert local guide who shares stories throughout the ride.

What’s included

Your day includes use of an e-bike plus helmet (and infant seat if needed), guidance from a professional local guide who leads you through historic districts and along beaches—ending back in central San Sebastian with plenty of tips for what to eat next.