21 Fun Things to do in San Sebastián with Kids  

We have lived in San Sebastian with our three kids for almost two years. 

One of my favorite things about this city is how family friendly it is. Kids are always welcome, and there are dozens of activities to do with them.

San Sebastián, Spain, is a dream destination for families, blending stunning beaches, delicious food, and plenty of kid-friendly adventures.

Whether you’re splashing in the waves of La Concha Beach, tasting culinary delights or riding the charming funicular up Monte Igueldo for breathtaking views, there’s no shortage of fun for travelers with kids.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do with kids in San Sebastián to make your family trip unforgettable!

Top Things to do in San Sebastián with Kids

2. 🚋 Take a Ride on the Monte Igueldo Funicular

While you can hike up Monte Igueldo, the best (and most fun!) way to get to the top is by riding the historic funicular.

Built in 1912, this vintage wooden railway was originally used to transport San Sebastián’s wealthy residents to the casino at the top of the hill (which is now a hotel). Today, it’s one of the most charming attractions in the city—and a big hit with kids!

• Preserved Wooden Carriages – The original design has been carefully maintained, offering a truly unique step back in time.
• A Relaxing Ride – It’s a short but scenic journey that saves little legs from a tiring climb.
• Unbeatable Views – Once you reach the top, the panoramic views over San Sebastián will take your breath away!

Why Families Love Monte Igueldo

✅ A mix of history, fun, and nostalgia – great for kids and parents alike
✅ Kid-friendly rides and attractions
✅ One of the best viewpoints in San Sebastián
✅ A unique, off-the-beaten-path experience

Whether you’re looking for classic amusement park fun, a memorable ride up a historic funicular, or simply a beautiful spot to take family photos, Monte Igueldo is a must-visit.

Tip for Parents: Pack a few snacks and a camera—the views are too good not to capture! 📸

3. 🚢 Explore the San Sebastián Aquarium

A visit to the San Sebastián Aquarium is a fantastic family-friendly activity, especially if you’re traveling with little explorers who love marine life.

Located in the harbor area, this aquarium is one of the best in Spain and offers a fun mix of interactive exhibits, historic displays, and an incredible underwater tunnel.

Family highlights include:

• The Oceanarium 🌊 – Walk through a 360-degree glass tunnel surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and colorful fish! It’s a mesmerizing experience that kids (and parents) will love.
• Touch Tanks 🐠 – Let your little ones touch and interact with starfish and other marine creatures.
• A History of Seafaring 🚢 – The aquarium also features an interesting maritime museum, where families can learn about San Sebastián’s long history with the sea.

This is a great rainy-day activity and a must-visit for families looking to mix education with fun.

Tip for Parents: The aquarium is stroller-friendly, and there’s a small café inside for a snack break!

4. 🏖️ Have a Beach Day at La Concha

No family trip to San Sebastián is complete without a visit to the city’s most famous beach, Playa de la Concha. With its soft golden sand, gentle waves, and stunning backdrop, it’s the perfect spot for a fun and relaxing beach day.

Why families love La Concha Beach:
✅ Calm, shallow waters – Perfect for young swimmers! 🌊
✅ Plenty of space – Build sandcastles, play beach games, or just relax in the sun. 🏖️
✅ Scenic promenade – Ideal for a family stroll or biking along the coast. 🚲
✅ Playgrounds nearby – There are multiple play areas along the promenade for kids to enjoy.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the bay or take a boat trip to Santa Clara Island, where you’ll find a small, secluded beach and even a natural swimming pool!

Tip for Parents: Arrive early to grab a good spot, and don’t forget sunscreen and beach toys for the little ones! ☀️

5. 🍦 Enjoy Family-Friendly Pintxos & Ice Cream

San Sebastián is famous for its pintxos (small Basque tapas), and the good news is that there are plenty of kid-friendly options too!

While some traditional pintxos might be a bit adventurous for little taste buds, you can easily find kid-approved favorites like:

• Mini ham and cheese sandwiches 🥪
• Croquetas (crispy fried croquettes with ham or cheese) 🧀
• Grilled chicken skewers 🍢
• Patatas bravas (crispy potatoes with mild sauce) 🍟

Many pintxos bars welcome families, and the casual dining style makes it easy to try different foods without committing to a full meal.

Top kid-friendly pintxos spots:

• Borda Berri – Simple, delicious bites
• Ganbara – Great for pastries and ham-based pintxos
• La Cuchara de San Telmo – Famous for delicious, easy-to-eat pintxos

And, of course, no family outing is complete without ice cream! 🍦 Stop by Heladería Papperino or Otalora for some of the best gelato in town.

Tip for Parents: Many pintxos bars get crowded later in the evening, so go earlier (around 12–1 PM for lunch or 6–7 PM for dinner) for a more relaxed experience with kids

6. 🌳 Have a Picnic at the Gardens of Miramar Palace

After a morning of exploring, there’s no better place for a family siesta than the gardens of Miramar Palace. Overlooking La Concha Bay, this 3.5-hectare green space is the perfect picnic spot!

Built in 1893 as a summer retreat for Queen Maria Christina, the palace itself looks like a storybook English cottage, making for a great backdrop for family photos. 📸

Why families love Miramar Palace Gardens:
✅ Expansive lawns – Perfect for picnics, games, or just lying back and enjoying the view. 🧺
✅ Gorgeous views – One of the best panoramic spots in San Sebastián. 🌅
✅ A peaceful escape – Away from the busy city streets, it’s a quiet place to recharge.

Tip for Parents: Stop by a local market or bakery to pick up some fresh baguettes, cheese, and fruit for the perfect Basque-style picnic! 🥖🧀🍇

7. 🏄 Take a Surf Lesson at Zurriola Beach

San Sebastián is one of the few cities in the world where you can surf just minutes from downtown! If your family is looking for an active adventure, head to Zurriola Beach—the city’s surfing hotspot.

🌊 Why Zurriola Beach is great for families:

• Beginner-friendly waves – Perfect for kids and first-time surfers. 🤙
• Lots of surf schools – Sign up for a lesson with experienced instructors who specialize in teaching beginners. 🏄‍♀️
• Board & wetsuit rentals – Available along Avenida de la Zurriola, so you don’t need to bring your own gear!

Even if you’re not ready to hit the waves, the beach has a fun, laid-back vibe, with plenty of space for sandcastle building, sunbathing, and people-watching.

Tip for Parents: Lessons fill up fast in peak season—book in advance if you want to guarantee a spot!

8. 🌳 Run, Play & Explore at Cristina Enea Park

Need a break from the city’s hustle and bustle? Cristina Enea Park is the perfect place for families to unwind, let kids run around, and enjoy nature in the heart of San Sebastián.

This beautiful green oasis is just a short walk from the city center and offers:

• Shady walking paths 🌿 – Ideal for a stroller-friendly walk or a leisurely family picnic.
• Play areas & open spaces 🛝 – Let the kids burn off energy in the open meadows or at the small playgrounds.
• Peacocks & wildlife 🦚 – Keep an eye out for the colorful peacocks that freely roam the park—kids love spotting them!
• A small pond with ducks 🦆 – Bring a snack and relax by the water while the little ones watch the ducks swim.

This is a great low-cost activity, especially if you want a relaxing afternoon away from the crowds. Whether you’re walking, biking, or having a picnic, Cristina Enea Park is a peaceful escape for families traveling with kids.

Tip for Parents: Grab some fresh pastries from a nearby bakery and enjoy a picnic with a view! 🧺

9.🏝️ Spend the Afternoon on Santa Clara Island

Sitting at the heart of La Concha Bay, Santa Clara Island is more than just a pretty view—it’s a hidden gem full of fun for families!

Though small (just 400 meters wide), the island offers plenty of adventure for kids and parents alike:

• A secret beach – At low tide, a small sandy beach appears, complete with a natural swimming pool. Perfect for a refreshing dip! 🏊‍♂️
• Easy hiking trails – A gentle 48-meter climb leads to a viewpoint with stunning city views. Even little legs can make it to the top! 👣
• Hondalea Sculpture – A fascinating geographical art piece inside the old lighthouse—kids will love exploring its unique shapes. 🎨
• Picnic & relax – Find a shady spot, bring some snacks, and enjoy a peaceful island escape.

🚤 How to get there: Hop on a boat from the harbor or, if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard and make your way over!

Tip for Parents: Bring water shoes—some of the shoreline is rocky! And don’t forget sunscreen! ☀️

10.🚶‍♂️ Take a Scenic Family Stroll Along Paseo Nuevo

For a fun and easy family-friendly activity, take a leisurely walk along Paseo Nuevo, one of San Sebastián’s most scenic coastal paths. This picturesque promenade wraps around Monte Urgull, offering breathtaking views of La Concha Bay, Santa Clara Island, and the Cantabrian Sea.

The entire loop starts near the Aquarium and ends at the Zurriola Bridge near Kursaal, taking about 30–40 minutesto complete. It’s an ideal walk for families, with plenty of space for little ones to run, scoot, or bike while parents soak in the stunning views.

What Families Love About Paseo Nuevo:

✅ Easy, stroller-friendly path – Smooth and wide, great for young walkers or kids on scooters.
✅ Exciting waves – On windy days, you might see huge waves crashing against the walls (just stay a safe distance back!). 🌊
✅ Plenty of photo spots – Perfect for snapping some family vacation memories! 📸
✅ Benches along the way – Take a break, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch the world go by.

Tip for Parents: If you’re visiting on a stormy day, keep an eye on the waves—they can get big enough to splash unsuspecting walkers! On calmer days, it’s a peaceful and relaxing way to enjoy San Sebastián’s natural beauty.

11. 🌊 Watch the Waves Crash at Peine del Viento

For a mesmerizing and unique experience, take the family to Peine del Viento (The Comb of the Wind), one of San Sebastián’s most iconic landmarks. This set of huge steel sculptures, created by artist Eduardo Chillida, sits dramatically on the rocky coastline at the end of Ondarreta Beach, blending seamlessly with the sea.

Why Families Love Peine del Viento:

✅ A fascinating mix of art and nature – Watch as the waves interact with the sculptures in a different way each time. 🎨🌊
✅ Exciting wave displays – On windy or stormy days, the sea crashes against the rocks, sending dramatic sprays of water into the air! 💦
✅ Fun for kids – The blowholes on the viewing platform shoot out air and mist, making it an interactive experience for little ones.
✅ A peaceful spot on calm days – On sunny, quiet afternoons, it’s a great place to sit and watch the waves roll in.

This spot is completely free to visit and is a must-see for families wanting to experience a mix of art, nature, and a bit of adventure!

Tip for Parents: Hold onto little hands on rough weather days—waves can get powerful! If visiting in the evening, it’s also a beautiful sunset spot. 🌅

12. 🏛️ Explore the Parte Vieja (Old Town) – A Family Adventure

San Sebastián’s Parte Vieja (Old Town) is like stepping into a storybook, full of history, delicious food, and lively charm. Once enclosed by city walls (before they were removed in 1863), this area is now a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, hidden plazas, and amazing pintxo bars.

Why Families Will Love It:

✔ A lively, walkable area – Kids will love exploring the winding streets! 🚶‍♂️
✔ Tasty food stops – Plenty of kid-friendly pintxos (small snacks) to try. 🧀🍢
✔ Historic landmarks – Discover old churches, markets, and even a carousel in Plaza de la Constitución! 🎠

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• Plaza de la Constitución – A large, open square where kids can run around while parents relax with a coffee. ☕
• San Vicente Church & Santa María Basilica – Beautiful historic churches that even little explorers will find impressive. ⛪
• Pintxos tasting tour – Try mini sandwiches, cheese, or croquetas—easy bites for little hands. 🥪

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Tip:

Visit earlier in the day (before 1 PM or around 6 PM) when it’s less crowded, making it easier to stroll and explore at a relaxed pace.

If your family loves a mix of history, culture, and great food, Parte Vieja is a must-visit! 🍽️✨

13. 🥾 Hike Mount Urgull – A Fun Family Adventure!

Towering behind the Old Town, Monte Urgull is a fantastic place for families who love exploring and the outdoors. With shaded walking trails, stunning viewpoints, and a castle at the top, this hike is a mix of history, nature, and adventure—perfect for curious kids!

Why Families Will Love It:

✔ Easy, family-friendly trails – Well-maintained paths suitable for kids who enjoy walking. 👣
✔ Breathtaking views – See all of La Concha Bay and Santa Clara Island from the top! 🌊
✔ A real castle to explore! 🏰 – Castillo de la Mota, once the city’s first defense, now houses a small museum.
✔ History comes to life – Discover old cannons, fortifications, and the English Cemetery.

How to Get There:

🗺️ Multiple paths lead to the top, but the easiest starts near Plaza Zuloaga in the Old Town. It takes about 30–45 minutes to reach the summit at a kid-friendly pace.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Tip:

Bring snacks and water, as there are no cafés at the top. The shady paths make this hike doable even on warm days! ☀️

Monte Urgull is a great way to mix outdoor fun with history, and kids will love reaching the top and discovering the castle! 🏰🚶‍♂️

14. Take a Ride on the Tourist Train 🚂

For a fun and relaxing way to explore San Sebastián, hop on the Tourist Train! This charming little train takes you on a panoramic city tour with stops at:

✔ La Concha Bay & Miramar Palace – Beautiful seaside views. 🌊🏰
✔ Buen Pastor Cathedral – One of San Sebastián’s most famous landmarks. ⛪
✔ Victoria Eugenia Theatre – A historic cultural hotspot. 🎭

🔹 Best for: Young kids who love trains or families wanting an easy sightseeing option.

🔹 Schedule: Runs daily from July–September; check the winter schedule for other months!

15. 🏛️ Visit the San Telmo Museum – A Family-Friendly Dive into Basque History!

Located at the base of Monte Urgull, San Telmo Museum is a must-visit for families looking to add a bit of culture and history to their trip. Housed in a stunning 16th-century convent, this museum brings the fascinating world of Basque history, art, and traditions to life in a way that’s engaging for all ages.

Why Families Will Love It:

✔ Interactive exhibits – Kids will love exploring artifacts, artwork, and old photos! 🎨📜
✔ A mix of history & art – Discover everything from traditional Basque clothing to modern paintings. 🖼️
✔ A fascinating building – The museum is inside an old monastery with beautiful architecture. 🏛️
✔ Kid-friendly activities – Check the museum schedule for family workshops and hands-on exhibits! 🧑‍🎨

What to See Inside:

• Basque Society & Culture – Learn about the legends, traditions, and daily life of the Basque people.
• Ethnographic Collection – See how Basque communities lived through tools, crafts, and clothing.
• Fine Art Collection – Admire works from Basque and Spanish artists, including paintings, sculptures, and murals.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Tip:

🔹 Kids under 18 get in for free! 💰
🔹 The museum is fully stroller-friendly with elevators and ramps. 🚼
🔹 Visit early in the day when it’s less crowded for a more relaxed experience.

With engaging exhibits and a beautiful setting, San Telmo Museum is a perfect stop for families looking to add a fun and educational twist to their San Sebastián adventure! ✨🏛️

16. ⛵ Take a Boat Trip – A Fun Family Adventure on the Water!

One of the best ways to experience San Sebastián’s stunning coastline is by boat! During the summer months (June–September), families can hop on a boat taxi or take a scenic bay tour for an unforgettable adventure on the water.

Why Families Will Love It:

✔ A fun, unique way to see the city – Enjoy panoramic views of San Sebastián from the water. 🌊🏙️
✔ Glass-bottom boats – Kids will love spotting marine life and underwater rock formations. 🐠🔍
✔ Easy access to Santa Clara Island – Take a quick boat ride for a beach day or short hike. 🏝️🏞️
✔ Plenty of tour options – From short family-friendly rides to longer scenic trips, there’s something for everyone! 🚤

Family-Friendly Boat Options:

🔹 Boat Taxi to Santa Clara Island – A quick and easy ride to the island for a day of fun.
🔹 Blue Line Tour – Ride a glass-bottom boat and see the impressive “flysch-style” rock formations.
🔹 Private or Group Tours – Choose a short sightseeing cruise or even a fishing trip for a hands-on experience. 🎣

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Tip:

• Life jackets are provided for kids. 🦺
• Bring sunscreen and hats, as it can get sunny out on the water! ☀️
• If your kids are prone to motion sickness, choose a shorter trip and bring seasickness bands.

With stunning coastal views, a relaxing ride, and a bit of adventure, a boat trip in San Sebastián is a perfect activity for families! ⛵✨

17. 🚶‍♂️ Walk Along the River Urumea – A Scenic Family Stroll

The River Urumea is a beautiful and peaceful part of San Sebastián, perfect for a relaxing family walk away from the city’s busy streets. Flowing from the Martutene area to the Cantabrian Sea, the river divides the city, offering stunning views, charming bridges, and a mix of history and nature.

Why Families Will Love It:

✔ Wide, stroller-friendly walkways – Ideal for little feet and pushchairs! 👶🛴
✔ Beautiful bridges & architecture – Spot landmarks like the Kursaal building and Maria Cristina Bridge. 🌉🏛️
✔ A peaceful escape – A quiet alternative to the bustling Old Town. 🌿
✔ Fun water activities – Watch kayakers and even river surfers in action! 🚣‍♂️🏄‍♂️

Family-Friendly Highlights Along the River:

🔹 Maria Cristina Bridge – One of the most beautiful bridges in the city, with stunning sculptures and history.
🔹 Kursaal Building & Zurriola Beach – A great spot to end your walk and watch surfers in action. 🌊🏄‍♀️
🔹 Relax in Cristina Enea Park – A gorgeous green space filled with walking trails, peacocks, and picnic spots. 🌳🦚

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Tip:

• Walk in the morning when the paths are quiet and the air is fresh. ☀️
• Bring a scooter or bike for kids to make the walk more fun! 🚲

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll, a scenic jogging route, or a place to enjoy nature, a walk along the River Urumea is a great way for families to explore a different side of San Sebastián! 🚶‍♂️💙

18. 🚗 Take a Day Trip – Explore Beyond San Sebastián!

While San Sebastián has plenty to offer, taking a day trip is a great way to see more of the Basque Country! Whether your family prefers big cities, charming coastal towns, or even Game of Thrones locations, there’s something nearby for everyone. Plus, most destinations are easily accessible by train or bus!

Why Families Will Love It:

✔ Short travel times – Many destinations are just an hour away! 🚆
✔ Varied experiences – Choose from historic cities, beach towns, or cultural hotspots. 🏛️🏖️
✔ Something for all ages – Kids and adults alike will enjoy the mix of history, nature, and adventure!

Top Family-Friendly Day Trips:

🟢 Bilbao – Visit the famous Guggenheim Museum, explore the Casco Viejo (Old Town), or ride the Artxanda Funicular for great city views. 🎨🏙️

🟢 Pamplona – Walk the historic city walls, visit the Bullfighting Museum, and enjoy the beautiful parks in this city famous for the Running of the Bulls. 🏰🐂

🟢 Vitoria-Gasteiz – The capital of the Basque Country, known for its medieval old town, stunning cathedrals, and family-friendly museums. 🏛️

🟢 Getaria – A charming fishing village with a sandy beach, a delicious seafood scene, and the Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum for fashion lovers. 🎣👗

🟢 Hondarribia – A colorful coastal town with a medieval fortress, a calm beach for kids, and great pintxos. 🏰🌊

🟢 Zarautz – One of the best surfing beaches in Spain, with a long promenade, playgrounds, and family-friendly restaurants. 🏄‍♂️🍦

🟢 Game of Thrones Locations – Visit Zumaia and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (Dragonstone in the series), where kids can recreate scenes from the show! 🐉⚔️

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Tip:

• Public transport is great! Most destinations are easily reached by bus or train. 🚆
• Pack snacks and water for the trip, especially for little ones! 🥤🍎
• Check local festivals! Many towns have kid-friendly events and markets throughout the year. 🎉

Taking a day trip is a great way for families to experience even more of the Basque Country, from bustling cities to charming seaside towns! 🌍✨

19. Explore Scenic Hiking Trails

San Sebastián’s unique coastal landscape is adorned with three prominent hills—Igueldo, Urgull, and Ulia—each offering distinct hiking experiences suitable for families.

• Monte Urgull: Located between the Old Town and the Paseo Nuevo, Urgull is a verdant hill steeped in history. A leisurely 30-40 minute ascent leads to Mota Castle, crowned by a 12-meter statue of Jesus Christ. Along the way, families can enjoy panoramic views of La Concha Bay and explore the history museum housed within the castle.
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• Monte Igueldo: Accessible via the historic Igueldo Funicular, which has been operating since 1912, this hill offers a charming journey to its summit. At the top, an amusement park awaits, providing entertainment amidst breathtaking coastal vistas.
  Wikipedia
• Monte Ulia: This eastern hill presents gentle trails through lush forests and open meadows, making it ideal for families seeking a tranquil nature walk with occasional sea views.

For those wishing to venture further, the nearby Pagoeta Natural Park in Orio and the Jaizkibel mountain range east of Pasaia offer serene countryside escapes. Additionally, San Sebastián is part of the northern route of the Camino de Santiago, with segments leading towards Bilbao and Irun, providing families with a taste of the historic pilgrimage.

20. Explore San Sebastián on Two Wheels 🚴‍♂️

San Sebastián is a paradise for cycling enthusiasts, and it’s especially family-friendly thanks to its 30+ kilometers of dedicated ‘bidegorris’ (bike lanes). Whether your family wants a leisurely ride along the breathtaking La Concha Bay or an adventure through the charming streets of the Old Town, biking offers a fun, active, and eco-friendly way to explore.

Start your journey along the La Concha promenade, where kids will love stopping at playgrounds and enjoying the sea breeze. If you’re feeling adventurous, pedal toward Zurriola Beach, a favorite among surfers, or head to the Paseo Nuevo, a scenic route around Monte Urgull where waves crash against the rocky cliffs.

For an easy family-friendly excursion, consider a ride to Cristina Enea Park, a lush green space where kids can run around, spot peacocks, and have a picnic. There are several bike rental shops around the city, offering tandem bikes, electric bikes, and trailers for younger children.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Tips:
✅ Choose a route that suits your kids’ energy levels—some paths are hilly, while others are completely flat.
✅ Rent bikes with child seats or trailers if traveling with younger kids. Shops like Basque Bike and La Bicicleta offer great options.
✅ Make stops at playgrounds and ice cream shops along the way—try Heladería Papperino for delicious gelato!
✅ Stay on designated bike paths for a smooth and safe ride.

21. Swing Through the Treetops at Canopy Donostia 🌲

For families looking for a dose of adventure, Canopy Donostia Adventure Park is the perfect place to soar through the treetops and challenge your climbing skills! Located in the hills just outside the city, this exciting high-ropes courseoffers zip lines, suspension bridges, and climbing obstacles designed for different age groups and skill levels.

Younger children can try the easy circuits, which are lower to the ground but still packed with fun obstacles. Older kids (and parents!) can zip across the forest canopy, navigate wobbly bridges, and challenge their balance on rope courses. The highlight? The long zip line that flies over the forest with stunning panoramic views of San Sebastián!

Surrounded by nature, the park also has picnic areas and hiking trails, making it an excellent spot for a full day of outdoor adventure.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Tips:
✅ Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes—you’ll be climbing, jumping, and zipping through the trees!
✅ Book tickets in advance during peak tourist season to avoid long wait times.
✅ Pack snacks and water—there’s plenty of space to relax and refuel between activities.
✅ Check age and height requirements before going—some courses may have restrictions for younger children.