If you’re looking for a quiet escape in the Canary Islands, this hotel review Gran Canaria is for you. We recently stayed at the wonderful H10 Costa Mogan, an adults-only hotel in Playa del Cura. After just a few hours, it was clear: this trip that we took with Jet2 would be special.
First Impressions and a Warm Welcome
The check-in experience set the tone for our stay. We were welcomed with a glass of bubbles and broad smiles. The luxe large entrance, surrounded by palm trees and soaring cliffs, felt inviting and tranquil. It was immediately evident that this was a place made for relaxation – something that has become desperately needed after a very hectic start to the year.
From the terrace we could see the ocean, glass-bottom boats, and speedboats heading out for dolphin watching. The setting felt peaceful but full of life. It was easy to settle in – it’s truly beautiful.
Our Room: Modern and Comfortable
The room was modern, spacious, stylish, and very clean. It included a king-sized bed, walk-in shower, fast Wi-Fi, a coffee pod machine, and a balcony with sea and pool views. The soft colour scheme helped create a calm and soothing atmosphere.
After each evening’s entertainment came to a close (hosted in M10’s Mogán Lounge Bar from around 9pm-midnight – always a fun time :), we slept soundly. The room was blissfully quiet, the bed was excellent, and the blackout curtains worked perfectly. For a good night’s rest, it really delivered.
Facilities and Activities: Thoughtful Touches Everywhere
The main pool area was one of our favourite spots. There are plenty of loungers, shady areas for when you need a break from the sun, and a relaxed, adults-only vibe. The bar serves drinks and snacks and as we had our handy all-inclusive wristband on, we could access whatever we wanted at any time.
Pool towels are available to borrow at the mini market on site. It also sells lovely gifts, resort wear and basics. On my first day I couldn’t help but buy a beautiful silk sarong and pink bikini: my last purchase like this was a few years ago, so I just went for it!
If you like, you can hire a lovely Bali Bed at H10’s La Riviera Beach Club for €35 per day. In April it wasn’t busy enough for us to consider this, but in the height of summer it could be a good option to guarantee a good place for yourself for the day.
There’s also a small gym, a wellness centre, and free daily classes like Yoga, Pilates and aqua aerobics. These sessions made a big difference to how we felt, and were all hosted by lively, engaging ‘Entertainment Managers’. They helped us reset both physically (needed after our buffet visits!) and mentally. It’s the kind of wellness travel that sneaks up on you – in the best way.
Dining: Excellent Food and Generous Service
Speaking of buffets… we went all-inclusive and were glad we did. The buffet was generous and very high-quality, with lots of fresh salads, fish, grilled vegetables, and desserts. Each meal was different enough to keep things interesting.
The drink service was generous, and the cocktails were well made. Staff were friendly and attentive without being overbearing. Dining here felt calm and comfortable, not rushed or loud.
On the Friday evening, a wonderful saxophonist played while we dined creating a wonderful ambiance in an already sublime setting.
The hotel is well equipped with multiple entertainment and dining spaces. We also adored the Rooftop Sky Bar on the fifth floor overlooking the beach and vast ocean. A second restaurant is on site too but not included in all-inclusive. We loved our selection so much we didn’t feel the need to branch out, but will visit the Costa Fusion Restaurant next time for sure!
Nearby and Easy to Explore
Although you don’t have to leave the resort, there’s a large Spar supermarket nearby as well as a few local eateries. The Spar turned out to be helpful since I’d forgotten to pack deodorant: that could have ended badly!
If you’re searching for hotels in Gran Canaria that offer comfort, calm, and good value, H10 Costa Mogan is a fantastic option.
See More, Do More Gran Canaria
You can of course relax and stay around the hotel for your entire trip, it’s easy to do. We sure didn’t want to leave. However, you can also engage in a wide range of activities that get you around the island. Shopping excursions to the capital of Las Palmas, dolphin watching and glass bottom boat rides, all-day jeep experiences, and food tours abound. All of this can be booked via Jet2 on the ground and at your hotel. Easy done.
Why This Hotel Stands Out
This hotel review Gran Canaria is an honest reflection of a truly easy and relaxing stay. The hotel has thoughtful details, great food, and peaceful surroundings. It’s perfect for couples, solo travellers, or anyone needing to recharge.
Booking with Jet2 made everything easy. From flights to Gran Canaria to smooth transfers and clear communication, we felt supported at every stage.
Our Trip and Disclosure
This trip was part of a content invitation from Jet2holidays. We were invited to share our experience in Gran Canaria with Jet2. Our flights, hotel and transfers were complimentary, but this is not a paid post. All opinions are our own.
Booking Details
Here’s what we did:
Gran Canaria in April, flying from Stansted Airport in London.
4 nights at adults-only accommodation H10 Costa Mogán, arriving Friday evening, departing Tuesday afternoon.
Flights, transfers and hotel are part of the package. You can add extras including seats, food and drinks for during your flight.
Our room was facing the beach and ocean: simply sublime.
We experienced full board which included three amazing restaurant buffet meals a day. Additionally, full board includes an entire menu of drinks available at the Pool Bar, Rooftop Sky Bar, and Mogán Lounge Bar.
Activities are also on offer at H10 Costa Mogán including Yoga, Pilates, aqua aerobics. And, if dancing is your thing, there’s nightly entertainment. Pack what you will with this advice :)
Drinking water: we were advised to drink bottled water here. Accounts vary as to whether the island water is drinkable or not. Our tap water didn’t taste too great, so we just filled our bottles up using the facilities provided at the hotel.
Looking for a warm and relaxing break in Europe? Enter Gran Canaria with Jet2 – an adults-only getaway done right! From smooth flights to golden beaches and tranquil villages, this trip is ideal for couples or solo travellers seeking sunshine and serenity. Honestly, our expectations were entirely exceeded which hasn’t been our experience for a long time! This was our first time flying with Jet2 but certainly will not be our last.
Jet2 from London Stansted
Our holiday started the moment we arrived for our flights at London Stansted Airport. Check-in with Jet2 was fast and easy. The staff were exceedingly friendly, and the flight departed on time. It was a comfortable and relaxed journey, with Jet2 offering excellent service throughout. On the other side, there was no faff: great signage and support enabled a smooth transition to our transfer bus. In fact, from the beginning of the trip to after we’d left the hotel, text messages arrived from Jet2 offering help, advice and directions, including to the bus bay number where our transfer was waiting at Gran Canaria’s airport. We are definitely surprised and delighted by their service and can confirm that the return trip was just as easy.
Welcome to Playa del Cura, Gran Canaria
We were based in Playa del Cura, a peaceful beachside town in the southwest of Gran Canaria. The area is calm and less crowded than other coastal spots, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet. Its beach is small but clean, and there’s a relaxed atmosphere all day long. As a base, we were totally happy with this area and will head directly there in the future (yes, we are already planning to return).
Hotels in Gran Canaria offer something for every kind of traveller, and Playa del Cura is a great base for exploring, or resting which was what we were after following a very busy start to the year.
Our Stay at H10 Costa Mogán
We stayed at the H10 Costa Mogan, a stylish and contemporary adults-only hotel just a short walk from the beach. The hotel is beautifully designed with coastal-inspired décor, a large outdoor pool, multiple chill-out areas, several bars, two restaurants, wellness activities, and spacious modern rooms.
It’s the perfect place to unwind. The calm, adults-only atmosphere helped us relax from day one. The views from the roof terrace and the fresh, locally-inspired cuisine added to the experience.
Over the weekend too, we received one of Jet2’s helpful messages from a customer service representative, letting us know about a window of time they would be at the hotel, should we have any questions or need help. Fab!
Exploring Puerto de Mogán: Gran Canaria’s “Little Venice”
A highlight of our trip was a visit to picturesque Puerto de Mogán. This charming fishing village is known as ‘Little Venice’ because of its canals and pretty whitewashed houses. Colourful bougainvillaea climbs every balcony, and the marina is lined with cafes and shops.
We spent a few hours strolling the narrow streets, shopping for local gifts and enjoying a seafood lunch by the water. It’s a must-see when visiting Gran Canaria with Jet2. You can easily reach Puerto de Mogán from Playa del Cura by taxi in about 20 minutes, or local bus. In the interest of saving time, we took a cab to and from H10 Costa Mogan hotel, which cost around €20 each way. Taxis here are payable by cash or card.
Tip: found a great coffee at a little place called Sai Heladeria just off the main esplanade near the beach, and €2.50 large beers at the Mogán Bar along the beachfront.
See More, Do More Gran Canaria
If you want to relax and stay around the hotel, there’s plenty to do. However, you can also engage in a wide range of activities that get you around the island. Shopping trips to the capital of Las Palmas, dolphin watching and glass bottom boat rides, all-day jeep experiences, and food tours abound. All of this can be booked via Jet2 on the ground and at your hotel. Easy done.
Adults-Only Relaxation with Jet2holidays
If you’re looking for a child-free, stress-free holiday, we think adults only holidays with Jet2holidays are ideal. This trip was just what we needed – a slow, quiet pace, AMAZING food, stunning views, and revitalising sea air.
Jet2 took care of every detail. From the flights to Gran Canaria to airport transfers and accommodation, everything is streamlined and simple. This package made travelling easy, especially perfect if you want everything in one place. We have booked other package holidays before and actually had a negative experience: we’d not planned to again. However, now we’ve discovered Jet2, quite honestly, we’re not sure we can go back to DIY. We’re already looking at Jet2’s holiday destination map to make a decision on our next trip to book! We’ve got our eyes on Crete and Turkey, although, it’s going to be hard to beat Gran Canaria!
Why Choose Gran Canaria with Jet2?
Before heading to Gran Canaria, we quizzed friends who continue to visit the Canary Islands all year round: now we know why they return. Whether you’re escaping winter or just need a sunny break (which we did after a long British winter), Gran Canaria with Jet2 is a perfect choice. The destination offers warm weather, beautiful landscapes and plenty of opportunities to unwind. Jet2 makes travel smooth, affordable, and stress-free – everything you (and we!) want in a holiday.
With direct flights from multiple airports in Britain, flexible booking, and great hotels, we’re pretty much raving fans of Jet2 now, and highly recommend you check them out while planning your next island getaway. The app is on our phones – originally downloaded for easy access to our booking, but it’s good to browse for travel ideas too. It’s especially handy if you’re prone to a little impulse-booking, as we tend to be!
Our Trip and Disclosure
We were invited by Jet2holidays to experience and share what it’s like to travel to Gran Canaria with Jet2. While our flights, accommodation and transfers were provided free of charge, this is not a paid collaboration. All thoughts and opinions are entirely our own.
Booking Details
Here’s what we did:
Gran Canaria in April, flying from Stansted Airport in London.
4 nights at adults-only accommodation H10 Costa Mogán, arriving Friday evening, departing Tuesday afternoon.
Flights, transfers and hotel are part of the package. You can add extras including seats, food and drinks for during your flight.
Our room was facing the beach and ocean: simply sublime. If you are sensitive to noise at night or like to go to sleep before midnight, see if you can request a room a little further away from where the evening entertainment is held at the Lounge Bar. Not a big deal, but worth knowing.
We experienced full board which included three amazing restaurant buffet meals a day. Additionally, full board includes an entire menu of drinks available at the Pool Bar, Rooftop Sky Bar, and Mogán Lounge Bar.
Activities are also on offer at H10 Costa Mogán including Yoga, Pilates, aqua aerobics. And, if dancing is your thing, there’s nightly entertainment. Pack what you will with this advice :)
Drinking water: we were advised to drink bottled water here. Accounts vary as to whether the island water is drinkable or not. Our tap water didn’t taste too great, so we just filled our bottles up using the facilities provided at the hotel.
Spring and summer 2025 travel from England to Europe offers a wealth of exciting destinations. With quick connections by train or plane, you can discover breathtaking places in just a few hours. Whether you crave vibrant cities, serene beaches, or charming countryside retreats, here are ten must-visit European getaways for spring and summer 2025.
1. Paris, France
Paris never loses its charm, especially in spring and summer. Stroll along the Seine, enjoy a picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens, or admire the Eiffel Tower. Spring blooms make the city even more magical, and summer evenings are perfect for outdoor dining. High-speed trains from London make it an easy and quick escape. Learn more about travel tips to Paris in our France travel vlog.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam comes alive in spring with its famous tulip season. Visit the Keukenhof Gardens or explore the city’s canals on a boat tour. Summer is ideal for biking through the city’s picturesque streets. Direct flights and Eurostar trains make it a convenient getaway from England. Learn about the best places to visit in Amsterdam on I Amsterdam.
Barcelona combines vibrant culture with stunning beaches, making it a fantastic summer destination. Visit iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Familia, relax on Barceloneta Beach, and indulge in tapas. Spring offers pleasant weather for exploring the city’s architecture and parks.
4. Rome, Italy
Spring and summer are the best times to experience Rome. Discover historical landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain. Enjoy gelato as you explore cobblestone streets or unwind in the city’s piazzas. Budget airlines from England make Rome a top choice.
5. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s sunny weather and colorful streets are perfect for spring and summer getaways. Enjoy scenic views from the city’s hills, explore the Alfama district, or visit nearby beaches. Summer evenings are ideal for enjoying fado music and fresh seafood.
6. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik’s medieval charm and stunning Adriatic coastline make it a top summer destination. Wander through the Old Town, take a boat trip to nearby islands, or relax by the crystal-clear sea. Spring offers fewer crowds, while summer is perfect for beach days.
7. Vienna, Austria
Vienna in spring boasts blooming gardens and outdoor concerts. Summer brings lively festivals and outdoor dining. Visit the historic Schönbrunn Palace, stroll along the Ringstrasse, and indulge in Viennese coffee culture. Direct flights from England make Vienna an accessible choice.
8. Santorini, Greece
Santorini’s iconic whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches are picture-perfect in spring and summer. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets, relax on volcanic beaches, and explore charming villages like Oia. Direct flights from England to Athens with connecting ferries make Santorini a dream destination.
9. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is perfect for spring and summer with its waterfront vibes and colourful Nyhavn district. Explore Tivoli Gardens, bike through the city, or enjoy Nordic cuisine at local eateries. Summer’s long daylight hours add extra time for sightseeing.
10. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges offers fairytale charm just a short train ride from England. Spring brings blooming flowers, while summer is perfect for canal boat tours and exploring the medieval town square. Try Belgian chocolates and waffles for a delicious treat.
Tips for Planning Your Getaways
Book flights and accommodations early to secure the best deals. Consider using travel apps like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track prices. For train travel, book through platforms like Eurostar and Rail Europe for discounts. Pack appropriately for the season; spring may require layers, while summer calls for lightweight clothing.
Spring and summer 2025 travel from England to Europe promises unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the romantic streets of Paris, the sunny beaches of Santorini, or the cultural treasures of Vienna, these quick getaways offer something for everyone. Plan your trip early, embrace the adventure, and create lifelong memories.
When you think of the classic Romeo and Juliet setting, various images might pop into your mind. Perhaps you envision a vibrant and modern adaptation à la Baz Luhrmann. Or maybe your imagination is captivated by a stunning ballet rendition seen somewhere around the globe.
While I cherish every interpretation of this timeless tale (can’t forget Leo and Claire’s mesmerizing portrayal in 1996!), I invite you to join me in envisioning Verona as the quintessential Romeo and Juliet setting. This Italian city, steeped in romance and history, is where the love story of Shakespeare’s most famous characters unfolds.
In recent years, Verona has continually emerged in our travel conversations. Eventually, after countless recommendations from friends, we finally embarked on a journey to explore this historic city.
Verona, an effortlessly navigable city, is perfect for a romantic getaway or a more extended visit of three to four days. We seamlessly included Verona in our train trip itinerary, which started in Milan and concluded in Venice.
The city offers a myriad of attractions, striking the perfect balance between variety and manageability. At the heart of these is Juliet’s balcony in Verona, a symbolic site deeply intertwined with the Romeo and Juliet narrative.
Despite its touristy reputation, visiting Juliet’s balcony remains a sentimental highlight in Verona.
Romeo and Juliet Setting: Romantic Verona, Italy
If you, like me, are a devotee of William Shakespeare, Verona is not just a city but a pilgrimage to the original Romeo and Juliet setting. As we dive into 2025, it’s fascinating to consider how this city has maintained its Shakespearean charm.
Interestingly, Shakespeare set a third of his plays in Italy, with his most acclaimed works rooted in Verona, as well as in nearby Padua, Venice, and Rome. While it’s a mystery if Shakespeare ever visited Italy, his vivid depiction of these locales in his plays speaks volumes about his fascination with the country.
For those keen on exploring ‘Shakespeare’s Italy’, here are some resources updated for 2025:
An in-depth Italy destinations feature in the renowned Traveller Magazine.
Current research from the British Library in London, offering insights into how Italian culture and politics influenced Shakespeare’s works.
Juliet’s Balcony in Verona, Italy: A Shakespearean Dream Come True
Juliet’s balcony in Verona remains a magnet for romance seekers worldwide. This picturesque spot, nestled in a quaint courtyard of a 14th-century residence purported to be Juliet’s house, is an experience straight out of a Shakespearean dream.
The location gained even more fame with the 2010 film Letters to Juliet and continues to be a highlight for visitors today. The tradition of the ‘Secretaries of Juliet’, responding to heartfelt letters in multiple languages, still thrives.
Juliet’s Balcony: The Heart of Romeo and Juliet’s Verona
Experiencing Juliet’s balcony is like stepping into the pages of Shakespeare’s play. For a small fee, you can ascend to the balcony, perhaps to recite a line from Romeo and Juliet or just to soak in the ambience. Don’t forget to bring a marker to leave your mark among the myriad love notes adorning the walls.
In pursuit of luck in love? Touching the right breast of Juliet’s statue beneath the balcony is said to bring good fortune in finding true love – a charming tradition that continues to captivate visitors.
Exploring Verona’s Rich Historical Tapestry
Verona, as we discovered, is much more than just the setting of Romeo and Juliet. The city, often described as a theatre with its hills resembling rows of seats, offers a myriad of historical and cultural experiences. The Adige River meanders through the city, connecting various parts through picturesque bridges and leading to the well-preserved old town, reminiscent of a scene from a Shakespearean play.
The charm of Juliet’s balcony in Verona is just one aspect of the city’s allure. Another highlight is the vibrant Piazza delle Erbe, Verona’s old town market square. This historically rich area, adorned with ancient frescoes and exquisite architecture, continues to be a hub for locals and tourists alike.
A Glimpse into Medieval Verona
The medieval walls of Verona, meticulously maintained through the centuries, offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past. They frame the market and dining area, creating a unique blend of historical significance and modern-day leisure.
Within the square, you’ll encounter the Venetian lion, a symbol of Venice’s past rule over the city. Looking up, you’re likely to spot the famous whale rib, suspended since at least the 1700s. According to legend, it will fall only when someone who has never told a lie walks beneath it – a tale that continues to captivate visitors.
Discovering the Best of Verona
The essence of Verona lies in its ability to blend the old with the new. Strolling around the city, you are likely to be drawn to the riverbank, where you can explore the numerous bridges, old churches, and hidden corners that echo the city’s history. We found that stepping out of the main parts of the old town offers a more authentic experience, with better deals on food and coffee. Crossing one of the bridges to explore what lies on the other side is an adventure in itself.
Verona’s Must-See Attractions
There’s no shortage of sites to explore in Verona. Some of the key attractions include:
Castel San Pietro, perched on a hill above the city, offering a mysterious yet inviting aura with its cypress-lined avenues and breathtaking views.
Piazza dei Signori, a serene square adorned with medieval arches and architecture.
Torre dei Lamberti, dating back to 1171, serves as a historical beacon in the city. In medieval times, its bell signaled various communal activities and emergencies.
Centro Storico, the shopping heart of Verona, where you can indulge in Italian fashion and other exquisite local products.
Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore, renowned for its Romanesque architecture and the crypt where Romeo and Juliet were said to have married.
Juliet’s tomb, located in a 13th-century convent, a poignant site where visitors pay homage to the tragic heroine and Shakespeare himself.
Verona’s Living History: The Arena and Nightlife
A highlight that continues to amaze is the Verona Arena. This 1st-century Roman amphitheatre, extraordinarily well-preserved, hosts operas and concerts, offering a unique blend of historical grandeur and modern entertainment. It’s a place where history and present-day culture coalesce, providing an unforgettable experience.
Verona Travel Tips: Making the Most of Your Visit
As travellers in Verona, we discovered that the best way to experience this historic city is by immersing yourself in its local culture and history. A great tip for modern explorers is to book a guided tour, much like we did with ‘Wonderful Verona’.
This evening walking tour, led by a knowledgeable local guide, unveiled both popular and lesser-known gems of the city, enriched by tastings of local wines. These Verona travel tips from our guide, Jessica, significantly enhanced our understanding and appreciation of Verona’s unique charm
Our ‘dream loft’ Airbnb enhanced our stay, offering a stylish and cosy retreat after our daily excursions. It’s a testament to how local accommodations can add a unique flavour to your travel experience.
Engaging with Verona’s Nightlife and Cultural Scene
To truly capture the essence of Verona, especially after sunset, we recommend exploring its vibrant nightlife. The city, illuminated under the starlit sky, transforms into a romantic backdrop straight out of a Shakespearean play. The streets come alive with locals and tourists alike, enjoying the balmy evenings at quaint cafes and lively restaurants.
Concluding Thoughts on Verona: The Eternal City of Love
As we reflect on our journey through Verona, it’s clear that this city transcends time with its enduring charm. Whether you’re a Shakespeare enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in search of romantic escapades, Verona promises an experience that intertwines the past with the present, the mythical with the real.
If you have any questions or additional tips about exploring Verona, feel free to share them in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your experiences in this timeless city!
Got questions or a tip to add? Let us know in the comments below
We recently descended on the beautiful city of San Sebastian in Spain and were pleasantly surprised to discover Pintxos culture!
What is Pintxos then? Pintxos (pronounced “peen-chos”) are the Basque Country’s version of tapas – small, savoury bites served on slices of bread or skewered with a toothpick. While similar to tapas, pintxos have their own unique style and traditions that set them apart.
Pintxos are typically prepared with high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients and presented as visually stunning small plates. They can range from classic combinations like anchovy, olive, and roasted red pepper to more creative, chef-driven compositions. The variety is endless, making pintxo hopping a thrilling way to sample the vibrant flavours of Basque cuisine.
Unlike tapas which are often served complimentary with a drink, pintxos are generally individually priced, allowing diners to custom-build their own tasting experience as they hop from bar to bar. This dynamic pintxo culture is a beloved tradition that is deeply ingrained in the social fabric of the Basque region.
Why San Sebastián for Pintxos?
San Sebastián, a picturesque coastal city in northern Spain, is widely regarded as the pintxo capital of the world. Pintxos are not just a snack here – they are a way of life, an art form, and a point of pride for the Basque people.
The sheer density of high-quality pintxo bars in San Sebastián is staggering. The old town (Parte Vieja) alone is home to over 100 establishments serving innovative, meticulously-crafted pintxos.
Venture outside the historic centre and you’ll find even more pintxo hotspots, each with their own unique culinary personality.
What sets San Sebastián apart is the city’s deep reverence for culinary excellence. As the home of numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, San Sebastián has established itself as one of the world’s great gastronomic destinations. This culture of culinary mastery extends to the humble pintxo, elevating it to an art form.
How Much Are Pintxos?
Pintxos in San Sebastián are generally very affordable, typically ranging from €2 to €4 per piece. This makes it easy to sample a wide variety of dishes as you bar hop through the city.
Some of the more elaborate or premium pintxos may cost a bit more, up to around €6-€8. But even at the higher end, pintxos remain a remarkably good value considering the quality of the ingredients and the skill required to prepare them.
Many bars also offer set “menu del día” options, where you can get a selection of 3-5 pintxos for a fixed price, usually around €10-€15. This is a great way to experience a broader cross-section of a bar’s pintxo offerings.
The low cost of pintxos allows you to indulge in as many or as few as you’d like without breaking the bank. This flexibility is part of what makes the pintxo crawl such a fun and social dining experience.
When to Eat Pintxos
Pintxos are traditionally enjoyed during two main times of day in San Sebastián:
Siesta Time (around 1-4pm): This is the prime pintxo eating window when locals take a break from work to socialize over a few plates of pintxos and drinks. Many bars will have their best and most creative offerings available during this period.
Evening (around 8pm-midnight): As the sun sets, the pintxo bars come alive again as people gather to enjoy the vibrant nightlife. The vibe is lively and convivial, with both locals and tourists mingling over plates of pintxos and glasses of txakoli (the local sparkling white wine).
While you can certainly find pintxos available throughout the day, these two time slots are when the experience is at its most authentic and energetic. Timing your pintxo crawl around these prime windows will allow you to soak up the full cultural atmosphere.
Where to Eat Pintxos
The Parte Vieja (Old Town) of San Sebastián is the epicenter of the city’s pintxo culture, with bar after bar serving up inventive and delicious bites. Some of the must-visit pintxo spots in this area include:
Bar Sport
Borda Berri
Bar Martinez
Casa Vergara
Gandarias
Txepetxa
La Viña for the Basque cheesecake :)
Bar Antonio for the BEST tortilla you’ll ever have!
No matter where you go, the key is to embrace the ritual of the pintxo crawl – hopping from bar to bar, sampling the unique offerings at each establishment. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in San Sebastián‘s vibrant food culture.
San Sebastian is one of Spain’s most alluring destinations. It is renowned for a stunning coastal setting, vibrant pintxo culture, and exceptional cuisine. But what are the best neighbourhoods to stay in San Sebastian and the Basque Country then?
When planning a visit, choosing the right neighbourhood to stay in can greatly enhance your experience.
Here are the three best areas to consider for your San Sebastian accommodation.
Parte Vieja (Old Town)
If you want to be at the heart of the action, the Parte Vieja, or Old Town, is the place to be. This historic district is the epicentre of San Sebastian‘s famous pintxo scene. It’s brimming with an array of bars and restaurants serving up wonderful and innovative small plates.
Wandering the charming, narrow streets of the Parte Vieja, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful Basque architecture, local boutiques, and lively plazas. It’s an absolutely captivating neighbourhood, with a tangible sense of history and community. Many of the best pintxo bars, such as Borda Berri and Gandarias, are located right in the heart of the Parte Vieja.
The trade-off is that this lively atmosphere can mean the area gets quite crowded, especially in the evenings when the pintxo crawl is in full swing. Accommodation options may also be more limited and pricier in the Old Town. But for those who want to fully immerse in San Sebastian‘s vibrant culture, the Parte Vieja is the ideal choice.
Gros
Located just across the River Urumea from the Old Town, the Gros neighbourhood offers a slightly more laid-back alternative. We stayed in this area in an Airbnb opposite the Kursaal Convention Centre where we attended TBEX Europe. This trendy, up-and-coming district is known for its dynamic food and art scene. We would also advocate for staying here – the Old Town is just a short stroll away – very accessible.
In Gros, you’ll find excellent pintxo bars like Ganbara, as well as an increasing number of innovative restaurants. The area also has a thriving creative community, with independent boutiques, art galleries, and design studios. It has a youthful, bohemian vibe that contrasts nicely with the historic charm of the Parte Vieja.
Accommodation options in Gros tend to be a bit more affordable than the Old Town. You’ll often get more space and modern amenities here. The area is well-connected via public transport, making it easy to hop over the river to explore the Parte Vieja. For those seeking a slightly quieter yet still very vibrant neighbourhood, Gros is an excellent choice.
Top tip: visit Abba Hotel rooftop bar in this area :)
Ondarreta
For a more tranquil, residential feel, consider basing yourself in the Ondarreta area, situated along San Sebastian‘s picturesque beachfront. This upscale neighbourhood is home to the Ondarreta Beach, one of the city’s most beautiful stretches of golden sand.
While Ondarreta may lack the frenetic energy of the Old Town or Gros, it offers a serene and luxurious setting, with elegant hotels, chic boutiques, and excellent dining options. You’ll find refined pintxo bars like Rekondo, as well as some of San Sebastian‘s celebrated Michelin-starred restaurants.
The appeal of Ondarreta lies in its ability to provide a peaceful respite from the bustling city centre, while still keeping you within easy reach of all the top sights and culinary delights. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to experience San Sebastian at a more relaxed pace, perhaps combined with a day or two exploring the vibrant neighbourhoods closer to the heart of the action.
Choosing Your Perfect San Sebastian Neighbourhood
Ultimately, the best neighbourhood for you in San Sebastian will depend on the type of experience you’re seeking. Are you drawn to the historic charm and lively social scene of the Parte Vieja? The trendy, creative vibe of Gros? Or the serene luxury of Ondarreta?
No matter which you choose, you’re sure to be captivated by San Sebastian‘s unique blend of natural beauty, architectural splendour, and world-class gastronomy. With this guide to the city’s top neighbourhoods, you can find the perfect home base to explore all that this Basque gem has to offer.
Hi, we’re Sarah & Cooper. Welcome to Travel Live Learn! We’re Aussie expats currently living in the UK (for the third time!) with our adorable Westie, London. Our mission? To inspire you to embrace a life of adventure—whether it’s travelling longer, relocating to the UK or Europe, or exploring the freedom of remote work and digital nomadism. Enjoy your time on our site! We'd love to stay in touch: subscribe for our weekly stories, updates and remote work job opportunities direct to your inbox.
TLL SHOP!
Grab our guides for 2025:
Master House Sitting with Our Must-Have 101 Essentials eGuide! Buy It Here
And, 7 Essential Strategies for Maximising Your Use of ChatGPT eBookBuy it here
Also, Visit Our Amazon Storefront! Shop Here!
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
![Exploring Verona: The Iconic Romeo and Juliet Setting [2025 Update]](https://www.travellivelearn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Discover-the-best-things-to-do-in-Verona-Italy.jpg)
