Last Updated on May 25, 2026 by Emma Fajcz | Published: June 3, 2019
July may just be the best time of the year to visit San Sebastián! Summers here are much more mild than in most of the rest of Spain—throw in the fact that we’ve got some of the best beaches in Europe, and you’ve got all the makings of a perfect summer destination. If you’ll be visiting San Sebastián in July (and we certainly hope you do!), there’s plenty going on that you can’t miss.
Curious what to pack when visiting in the summer? Here’s all our tips for what to pack for San Sebastián!
Table of Contents
1. Enjoy Smooth Sounds at Jazzaldia
Every year, one of the biggest jazz festivals in the world takes over San Sebastián. Jazzaldia is a must for any music lover visiting San Sebastián in July—having taken place for more than 50 years, it’s welcomed international icons such as James Brown, Liza Minelli, Diana Krall and B.B. King to its stages.
This year, dozens of artists from all over the world will perform across San Sebastián at venues ranging from beachfront terraces to grand concert halls.
2. Enjoy One of Europe’s Most Iconic Beaches
Here in San Sebastián, we’re quite proud of the fact that Playa de la Concha is considered one of the best city beaches in all of Europe. Flanked by lush green mountains and lined with a pristine white promenade, this classic seaside destination is a must, but don’t forget about the other lesser known but equally impressive beaches in San Sebastián.
To the west of La Concha, you’ll find Ondarreta Beach, a relaxed, laid-back beach that makes a great starting point for visiting the Peine del Viento sculpture as well as Monte Igueldo. Also worth visiting is Zurriola Beach, east of La Concha and just north of the Gros neighborhood, which boasts some of the best waves on Spain’s northern coast and is especially perfect for surfers!
3. Take in a Local Sporting Event
Some things are universal—among them the simple pleasure of enjoying an athletic event on a warm summer day. Luckily, if you’ll be visiting San Sebastián in July, you’ve got plenty of those to choose from.
Soccer fans will want to check out the Donosti Cup, which is akin to the Little League World Series of soccer. More than 200 talented youth teams from around the world will take over 15 fields throughout the city in a series of intense tournaments until a winner is crowned.
More of a watersports fan? Save the date for the San Sebastián Regatta taking place off the shores of the bay in mid-July. And of course, there’s always horse races at the local racetrack if you’d like to try your luck this summer.
4. Cook Like a Local at a Unique Culinary Workshop
It’s no secret that San Sebastián is home to some of the best food in Europe, if not the world. Get hands-on with the city’s incredible cuisine when visiting San Sebastián in July! Throughout the month, the Basque Culinary Center offers several unique cooking classes and workshops where you’ll learn the secrets of Spanish and Basque cuisine from the locals who know it best.
5. Enjoy Terrace Drinks
Summertime is all about sitting outside and enjoying the fresh air, and the only way that could possibly be better is with a drink in hand. Luckily, there’s no shortage of stunning outdoor terraces in San Sebastián where you can do just that. Enjoy the good vibes, beautiful weather, and great drinks at one of the many patios around town—it’s a simple but perfect formula for an idyllic summer night.
Learn Basque Cooking with Us!
Our Authentic Basque Cooking Class is the closest you’ll get to cooking like a local in San Sebastián! A professional chef will guide you through creating an aperitivo and four beloved Basque dishes. You’ll come away from your San Sebastián cooking class with a handy repertoire of new recipes to impress your family and friends back home.
Featured Review: Authentic Basque Cooking Class
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “We did this to round out our food focus in San Sebastián, as we had separately done Pintxos tours and a restaurant meal. This was great in that it gave really good insight into how to make classics, especially Tortilla and Basque Cheesecake, and provided recipes. Our food also managed to taste good, so we were well guided. The atmosphere with Alberto and the other participants was great.”
– Henry
Visiting San Sebastián in July FAQs
Is July a good time to visit San Sebastián?
Yes, July is one of the most popular times to visit San Sebastián thanks to its beach weather, lively atmosphere, outdoor dining, and summer festivals. Travelers especially love combining beach days with pintxos hopping and evening strolls along La Concha Bay.
What is the weather like in San Sebastián in July?
San Sebastián is usually milder than southern Spanish cities in July, with warm temperatures and occasional cooler or rainy days due to its Atlantic climate. Many visitors appreciate that it feels less intensely hot than places like Madrid or Seville.
What should you pack for San Sebastián in July?
Visitors should pack light clothes, beachwear, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Since the weather can occasionally shift quickly, many travelers also recommend bringing a compact umbrella or rain jacket.
Are San Sebastián beaches crowded in July?
Yes—July is peak travel season, so beaches like La Concha and Zurriola can become busy, especially on sunny weekends. However, many travelers still find San Sebastián less overwhelming than some Mediterranean beach destinations.
What are the best things to do in San Sebastián in July?
Popular July activities include relaxing on La Concha Beach, surfing at Zurriola, enjoying pintxos tours, riding the Monte Igueldo funicular, taking day trips along the Basque coast, and attending summer cultural events like jazz festivals and outdoor concerts.
