Hondarribia Travel Guide

Uncover the secrets of Basque Country's food culture - a guide to the vibrant gastronomy of Hondarribia

A charming, laid-back harbor town sitting a stone’s throw from the border with France and about half an hour from wonderful gourmet San Sebastian, Hondarribia is a popular seaside destination thanks to its charmingly well-preserved old quarter and its French-flavored appeal. A modest resort on the Guipúzcoan Coast, this Basque town boasts several lovely beaches, although it’s better known for its historic quarter. Here, twisted cobblestone alleys are lined with ornate churches, shady plazas, and stately colorful manor houses whose balconies overflow with flowers. This storybook knot of a town center is enclosed by sturdy 15th-century defense walls set up to protect the town from frequent attacks by the French. The original gateway, the Puerta de Santa Maria, is still the main entry point into historic Hondarribia.

Sitting at the mouth of the Río Bidasoa, Hondarribia faces directly toward France, which sits on the other side of the Bay. As the defensive walls attest, relations between the two neighbors were not always smooth, although these days, the only people marching across the border are troops of day-trippers. Most head toward the Kale Nagusia (Calle Mayor, or Main Street), which cuts through the casco histórico (historic center), where you will find must-see sights like the elaborate church Nuestra Señora de la Asunción y del Manzano or the Palacio de Carlos V, a 16th-century palace built atop a 10th-century base and now converted into an elegant hotel.

The waterfront is equally enticing, with a string of old-fashioned bars, seafood restaurants, and a lovely view of the ports. The town’s main beach, the Playa de Hondarribia, stretches 800 meters along the coast and is popular in fine weather. Strolling along the Paseo Ramón Iribarren, a promenade that links La Marina fishermen’s quarter with the fishing port, is the ideal way to wind down the day. A visit to Hondarribia is a must-do if you visit Spain’s Basque Lands and nearby Rioja and Navarra wine country.

 

  • Restaurante Alameda, where innovation and tradition intersect
    Restaurante Alameda (see below), where innovation and tradition intersect

    Gastronomy & Wine

Nearby Wine Regions

Highlights

  • Restaurante Alameda

    Restaurante Alameda is a culinary jewel, and the Txapartegi brothers create a menu that showcases the best of Basque cuisine, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to craft dishes that are both innovative and rooted in tradition. The dishes at Alameda reflect Basque culinary techniques, with a menu that features everything from succulent grilled meats to delicate seafood dishes. Every dish is a true work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The wine list is equally impressive, featuring a carefully curated selection of Spanish and international labels that perfectly complement the flavors of the food.

    The atmosphere at Alameda is warm and welcoming, with a stylish and modern interior that captures the essence of Basque culture. This restaurant captures the Basque region’s heart and soul, emphasizing great food, wine, and company. So come and experience the magic of Restaurante Alameda in Hondarribia, and discover the authentic flavors of the Basque Country in every bite.

    Find out more

  • Puerta de Santa Maria

    The original 15th-century gate of the defensive walls that encircle the city, this beautiful stone Puerta ushers you into the old city.

  • Nuestra Señora de la Asunción y del Manzano

    The town’s most famous church, this largely Baroque creation, soars above the clustered buildings of the old city.

  • Palacio de Carlos V

    Now a Parador state-run hotel, this elegant castle-palace complex (traced to the 10th century and built mainly in the 16th) dominates Hondarribia from its perch at the town’s peak.

  • Plaza Guipúzcoa

    One of the town’s main squares, this ornate plaza is a pretty, quiet spot ringed by historic buildings.

  • La Marina

    The old fishermen’s quarter is a lively seafront neighborhood where you will find atmospheric bars and great seafood restaurants overlooking the water.

  • Cala Asturiaga

    A cove near the new port houses the ruins of a Roman ship and anchorage.

  • Beaches

    North of town are many excellent beaches, like the Playa de Hondarribia, that are ideal for soaking up the sun.

  • Ermita de San Marcial

    This small chapel sits on a hill just six miles south of Hondarribia. From the top, enjoy panoramic views over the coast and countryside.

Recommended for you

More information

If you would like us to customize an exclusive luxury tour, contact us and let us know your travel plans. We offer luxury food and wine tours for private groups of a mininium two guests. In addition, all of our private, chauffeured tours are available year-round upon request.

Cellar Tours Private Luxury Food & Wine Tours

Cellar Tours

Welcome to Cellar Tours, the premier Luxury Travel Specialist since 2003. Our goal is to provide you with the ultimate food and wine vacation experience, with exclusive Mercedes chauffeured tours that showcase the best of local cuisine and wines.

Our team specializes in crafting bespoke, custom-designed vacations, events, and incentives tailored to your unique tastes and preferences. Travel is not just about seeing new places - it's about creating unforgettable memories and indulging in the finer things in life.

As members of Slow Food, OTAVA (Travel Agency Association in Spain), and the IACP (International Association of Culinary Professionals), we promote sustainable tourism and support local communities. We work closely with top-rated hotels, restaurants, and wineries to provide you with the highest level of service and attention to detail.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a corporate retreat, let Cellar Tours be your guide. With our passion for food and wine, extensive knowledge of local culture, and dedication to exceptional customer service, we're confident we can exceed your expectations.

Contact us today to start planning your dream vacation – we can't wait to hear from you!

Recommended by