Hi, it’s Ryan here, back with another unforgettable travel tale. What started as a trip to San Sebastian to watch Manchester United play in the Europa League turned into an incredible five-day culinary and cultural adventure. The football became a sideline event as the food, drink, and charm of this beautiful Basque city took centre stage. Here’s why San Sebastian is a destination I’d recommend to anyone, football fan or not.
Low Season, High Value
Visiting San Sebastian in the low season was a brilliant decision. The city was less crowded, and the prices were unbeatable. House wine was just €5 a bottle, and beer was flowing at €1 a pint in many places. It felt like a foodie’s paradise on a backpacker’s budget—the perfect mix for a group of football fans looking to make the most of their trip.
Tapas Heaven
San Sebastian’s streets are lined with tapas bars, each more inviting than the last. The food here is nothing short of incredible. Dishes start at just €1, and in some places, you even get free tapas with your drink. While we didn’t make it to one of the city’s many Michelin-starred restaurants, the standard of food everywhere was so good that it hardly mattered.
From fresh seafood to traditional Basque dishes, every bite was memorable. One standout experience was discovering Basque cheesecake, a rich, creamy dessert with a caramelised top that’s worth travelling for alone. If you’re planning a visit, don’t leave without trying it.
The Darts Bar: A Home Away from Home
A special mention has to go to the Darts Bar, which became our nightly haunt during the trip. The vibe was unbeatable, the drinks were cheap, and the laughs were endless. By day four, we’d managed to drink the bar out of wine—a testament to how much fun we had there.
The Match: A Unique Experience
The football itself was, let’s say, a mixed bag. While the 1-0 win was a highlight, the experience inside the stadium wasn’t quite what we’d hoped for. Only water and crisps were sold at the ground, which put a slight dampener on the game. However, the atmosphere among the travelling United fans made up for it, and the win added a satisfying touch to an already incredible trip.
Michelin Stars Without the Price Tag
San Sebastian is famous for having the most Michelin-starred restaurants per square kilometre in Europe. While we didn’t manage to visit one on this trip, the city’s culinary excellence shines through in every bite, even at the most unassuming local bars. Whether it’s a plate of jamón ibérico or a perfectly cooked piece of fish, the quality of food is exceptional.
Final Thoughts
San Sebastian turned out to be so much more than just a football destination. The combination of incredible food, affordable drinks, and friendly locals made it one of the most enjoyable trips I’ve ever had. From the lively tapas bars to the low-season bargains and, of course, the Basque cheesecake, this city left a lasting impression.
If you’re a foodie, a football fan, or just someone who loves a good time, San Sebastian should be on your travel list. I’ll definitely be back—and maybe next time, I’ll make it to one of those Michelin-starred restaurants. Cheers to the next adventure!
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