As you get lost in San Sebastian’s charming streets, it’s hard to resist the temptation of delectable, freshly baked pastries and cakes gleaming in the windows of local bakeries.
If the deliciousness isn’t calling your name yet, just step inside one of them and let the warm, irresistible aroma wash over you. In a city that’s gained international renown for its gastronomic excellence, it’s no surprise that even the bakeries and pastry shops are a step above the rest. These bakeries in San Sebastian are perfect for whenever you’re craving a sweet pick-me-up—treat yourself!
Pastelería Oiartzun
If the quintessential cozy European pastry shop is what you’re after, look no further than Oiartzun. A family-run labor of love that prides itself on selling the best homemade treats in town, their tantalizing pastries and intricate cakes are impossible to resist. And with an unbeatable location just off of Alameda del Boulevard, it couldn’t be easier to find. Take a seat in the warm, welcoming interior or out on the sunny terrace to enjoy your tasty treat and watch the world go by.
The Loaf
Mouthwatering fresh-baked bread and treats, piping-hot specialty coffee, and an enticing beachfront location—what could be better? The Loaf is one of the top bakeries in San Sebastian, and for good reason. Spanish barista champion Javier García—who now owns Sakona, another one of our favorite cafes in San Sebastian—helped establish this charming artisanal bakery as one of the best of its kind. They offer several different kinds of bread baked fresh daily, along with a tempting selection of homemade pastries and soul-warming coffee to wash it all down.
Santa Lucía
Churros, anyone? Count us in! And here in San Sebastian, there’s no better place for these classic treats than Santa Lucía. In addition to being one of the best bakeries in San Sebastian, with tasty breakfast treats made from scratch every day, this humble little cafe also fries up the best churros in San Sebastian. With more than 60 years of experience under their belt, it’s safe to say they’re doing something right. A toasty-warm cup of thick, rich hot chocolate is all you need to complete the indulgent experience.
Otaegui
From the moment their first shop opened in 1886, the Otaegui name became associated with products of the highest quality. More than a century later, it’s still one of the best bakeries in San Sebastian—and still run by the same family! The popularity of their exquisite pastries and cakes has resulted in the opening of several Otaegui bakeries around town, but all feature the excellent quality and customer service that established them as a standout from day one. Be sure to try their pantxineta, a delicious delicacy typical of the Basque country made of puff pastry stuffed with cream and almonds.
Barrenetxe
The family behind Barrenetxe boasts a long and storied tradition in the bakery industry. Although the first establishment with the family’s name on it didn’t open until 1993, they’ve been perfecting their craft for generations—as far back as 1699, to be exact! Their signature txintxorros (almond-orange muffins) are a must-try, but you can’t go wrong with anything you order here—from the colorful, Instagram-worthy macarons to the best croissants in San Sebastian.
Izar
Hortensia Izar de la Fuente established her eponymous bakery in 1949. 70 years later, it’s still considered one of the top bakeries in San Sebastian, with a small but passionate team continuing Hortensia’s vision by preparing artisanal sweet treats of the highest quality every day. With signature sweets ranging from Basque delicacies to everyday favorites. As a bonus, they even offer free delivery within San Sebastian, so you don’t have to miss out if you’re enjoying a lazy morning at your hotel.