Explore San Sebastián’s Culinary Delights with British Airways’ New Direct Flights

Published on December 6, 2025

San Sebastián, one of Spain’s most celebrated culinary destinations, is set to become even more accessible to international visitors with the announcement of new British Airways flights. BA Cityflyer, a wholly-owned subsidiary of British Airways, will introduce direct flights to San Sebastián from the UK next summer, further cementing the city’s place as one of Europe’s top destinations for both food lovers and beachgoers. This move is expected to increase the flow of tourists to the Basque city, known for its world-class restaurants, scenic coastline, and cultural offerings.

San Sebastián, or Donostia in Basque, has long been a beacon for gastronomic tourism, with an impressive concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants. The city, located on Spain’s northern coast in the Basque Country, is also home to La Concha Beach, often ranked as one of Europe’s finest. The new British Airways flights are expected to attract more visitors seeking to experience both the culinary excellence and the beautiful natural landscapes that make San Sebastián a unique holiday destination.

British Airways Expands its Reach to Northern Spain

The introduction of flights to San Sebastián marks an exciting addition to British Airways’ route network, providing travelers with a direct and efficient way to access one of Spain’s most iconic cities. British Airways is known for offering a mix of domestic and international routes, and the new flights to San Sebastián come as part of the airline’s strategy to expand its offerings and meet the growing demand for travel to regions beyond Spain’s traditional tourist hotspots like Madrid and Barcelona.

San Sebastián will be served by BA Cityflyer, which specializes in connecting travelers to smaller regional destinations. These flights will offer both business and leisure travelers a convenient and comfortable way to reach the Basque region without the need for connecting flights. Travelers from key UK cities such as London, Manchester, and Edinburgh will benefit from these new direct services, making San Sebastián more accessible to a broader audience.

Gastronomy Tourism: A Major Draw for San Sebastián

San Sebastián is widely regarded as one of the best food cities in Europe, and its culinary scene continues to attract food enthusiasts from around the globe. The city is home to an array of high-end restaurants, including the famous Arzak and Akelarre, which boast Michelin stars and are celebrated for their innovative takes on Basque cuisine. Visitors flock to San Sebastián to indulge in the best of Basque culinary traditions, which are rooted in fresh, local ingredients and seafood.

In addition to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city’s pintxos (small tapas-style dishes) bars are a popular attraction. Tourists can stroll through the Old Town, known as Parte Vieja, sampling a variety of creative pintxos, paired with the region’s excellent wines. This vibrant food culture has made San Sebastián a top destination for food tourism, and the new flights are likely to increase the city’s appeal to culinary tourists seeking new and exciting dining experiences.

Beaches and Scenic Beauty: A Perfect Coastal Getaway

While San Sebastián is renowned for its food scene, the city also offers visitors access to one of the most stunning coastlines in Europe. La Concha Beach, a crescent-shaped stretch of golden sand bordered by hills and cityscapes, is regularly ranked as one of Europe’s best beaches. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing while enjoying panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay.

Beyond the beach, San Sebastián boasts picturesque streets, historic sites, and cultural attractions, including the San Telmo Museoa, a museum dedicated to Basque culture and history, and Monte Urgull, a hill offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding areas. The city’s proximity to the Pyrenees Mountains also makes it a fantastic destination for hiking and outdoor activities, adding another dimension to its appeal as a holiday destination.

The combination of a top-tier food scene and beautiful beaches makes San Sebastián a year-round destination, perfect for visitors looking for a balance of cultural, culinary, and natural experiences.

The Impact of New Flights on Local Tourism

The launch of British Airways flights to San Sebastián is expected to provide a major boost to the city’s tourism sector. Direct flights will make it easier for international travelers, especially from the UK, to visit the city, potentially leading to an increase in tourism-related spending in the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and local attractions are all likely to see more visitors, providing a welcome economic boost, particularly as the city recovers from the impacts of the global pandemic on the tourism industry.

Tourism officials are optimistic that the new flights will attract more visitors to not just San Sebastián but the wider Basque Country, which is home to other popular destinations such as Bilbao, known for the iconic Guggenheim Museum, and the scenic Biarritz coastline. With an increase in international visitors, the Basque Country is poised to strengthen its position as a leading tourism region in Spain and Europe.

Looking Ahead: The Future of San Sebastián Tourism

With the introduction of new direct flights and the continued growth of its gastronomic tourism sector, San Sebastián is set to further solidify its status as one of Europe’s top travel destinations. The city’s blend of rich culinary traditions, beautiful beaches, and cultural attractions ensures that it remains a must-visit spot for those seeking an authentic and vibrant European experience.

As the city embraces more international visitors, the focus will likely remain on promoting sustainable tourism practices to protect the environment and preserve the cultural identity of this unique destination. With a commitment to sustainability and a growing international presence, San Sebastián’s future in the tourism sector looks bright.