“We could make the argument, that there’s no better place to eat in Europe than the city of San Sebastián.” - Anthony Bourdain I decided to create these immersive multi-day tours because I felt that the typical walking tours I used to offer fell short of providing a truly comprehensive experience. I have always dreamed of curating journeys where every restaurant is carefully selected and pre-booked. Having observed that many of my tourists struggled to secure tables at the most sought-after establishments due to arriving in the city without prior reservations, I have taken extra measures to ensure a seamless dining experience for our group. My long-term goal is to connect with food-loving, adventurous travelers who are eager to join these types of tours. Eventually, I hope to expand to other destinations, such as Mexico, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and more. As your full-time local guide and a gastronomy expert, I have taught about culinary cultures in various institutions around the world and possess extensive knowledge of the local food scene. Throughout the tour, I will accompany you during all meals and visits. However, please note that I will not be joining the post-dinner festivities and will retire to my own apartment for the night. Join me on an exhilarating culinary adventure through the vibrant city of San Sebastian. As a resident expert in gastronomy and a seasoned culinary researcher, I am thrilled to guide you on a multi-day tour that will ignite your taste buds and immerse you in the captivating world of Basque cuisine. Prepare to embark on a journey like no other, where each day will be filled with tantalizing flavors, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable dining experiences. Together, we will uncover hidden culinary gems, savor mouthwatering specialties, and dive deep into the rich cultural tapestry that defines the Basque region. Our adventure begins with a delightful welcome cocktail, where we'll gather to savor authentic local products and share stories of the Basque people and their remarkable food culture. This initial gathering sets the stage for the incredible culinary journey that lies ahead.
Hello, I'm Erich Eichstetter, a resident of San Sebastian for the past six years. I first came to this vibrant city as a young intern at the renowned restaurant Mugaritz. With over a decade of experience as a chef, I have now specialized in culinary research for the past eight years, working full-time at the esteemed Basque Culinary Center, often considered the best culinary university in the world. As a side job, I started offering gastronomic tours a year ago under the brand Gastro Gems. So far, I've received only five-star reviews from my clients on various platforms. They commend my ability to curate an exceptional selection of food and share engaging stories surrounding each dish. I humbly accept these generous comments. Additionally, I host a food podcast called "Pot Luck Food Talks," available on all platforms, where I discuss the pleasures of eating and the cultural narratives woven into food. We release a new episode every Monday, covering a diverse range of topics.
About the accommodation: Is a 2 Airbnb room with double beds. 2 shared rooms with double individual beds. Private room available for an extra 530€. If anything is not clear feel free to reach out to me in the Q&A section!
What's included?
Food
Private food tour guide + chef
Restaurant selection and booking
Food lecture (if wanted)
1 cooking session (if wanted)
Transportation
Accommodation (Shared rooms)
Your Booking includes free protection from Trip cancellations. Learn More
You can chat with Erich once you reserve your spot.
Trip Itinerary
1
Centro
Day 1
Day 1: The Arrival. Approx. 11 am-2 pm. As you arrive, prepare to be greeted with an exciting welcome cocktail, setting the tone for a remarkable culinary journey ahead. Join us as we gather to share introductions and embark on a tantalizing adventure of the senses. Delight in a delectable array of indigenous products, immersing yourself in the flavors that define the Basque region. Throughout the gathering, I'll regale you with captivating insights into the local culture and the vibrant food scene that sets this destination apart. If our group fills to capacity, fear not, for we have two charming apartments at our disposal, coming together to create a unified and dynamic atmosphere.
2
Zurriola beach
Day 1
2pm-3:30pm: Prepare to be captivated by the picturesque beauty of Zurriola Beach as we embark on a leisurely stroll along its sandy shores. Allow the breathtaking scenery to awaken your senses as you soak up the sun's warm embrace. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure, creating memories that will be etched in your heart forever.
3
ELKANO
Day 1
In the spirit of starting our culinary journey on a high note, our evening will be a grand affair. We'll dine at Elkano, a prestigious Michelin-starred restaurant that has earned a coveted spot among the top 50 restaurants in the world. Renowned for its expertise in grilling exquisite seafood, Elkano promises a gastronomic experience like no other. Prepare to indulge in a symphony of flavors as you savor each meticulously prepared dish, a testament to culinary artistry. During dinner, I'll provide a detailed briefing, unveiling the exciting plans for the following day.
4
Centro
Day 1-2
Around 11:30 pm, we'll take a taxi back to our accommodations, where we can relax and rest. However, I have my own city apartment, so that's where I'll be heading for the night. We'll say goodbye and meet again in the morning.
5
Centro
Day 2
Day 2: Views and Pintxos, 9:00 Morning: We'll kick off the day with a delightful communal breakfast, where we'll come together to fuel up for the adventures ahead. As we plan our itinerary on WhatsApp, we'll decide whether to gather for breakfast at one of the two apartments (where I'll showcase my culinary skills, drawing from over 10 years of experience) or explore a nearby eatery.
6
Haizearen orrazia
Day 2
Funicular Experience: After breakfast, we'll venture to the western part of the city, where we'll embark on a scenic journey up Mount Igeldo aboard a traditional funicular. Prepare to be mesmerized by the panoramic vistas of the city from the lookout point. While there, we'll also have the opportunity to marvel at Eduardo Chillida's famous sculpture, "Peines del Viento" (Comb of the Wind). Following our time at the lookout, you'll have some free time to enjoy the nearby beach and bask in the summer atmosphere.
7
Antiguo
Day 2
Around 1:30 pm, lunch: We'll gather in El Antiguo, a neighborhood near the beach, for a light and early lunch. This will ensure we have ample time to prepare for one of the highlights of the trip: the pintxos tour.
8
Old Town
Day 2
6:30 pm.Pintxos Tour: Get ready to embark on an unforgettable culinary journey as we explore my personally curated selection of the city's finest bars, each boasting their own unique specialty pintxos. Along the way, we'll sample different wines and local beverages, savoring the vibrant flavors that define Basque cuisine. Immerse yourself in the local culture as we delve into the history, traditions, and noteworthy establishments that have shaped the city's gastronomic landscape. With each bite, you'll experience the fusion of flavors that make pintxos an essential part of Basque culinary heritage, creating a truly immersive and delicious experience.
9
Centro
Day 2-3
By 9:30 pm, we'll conclude our delightful feast, I'll provide a detailed briefing, leaving you with a night of boundless possibilities. Prepare to embrace the vibrant nightlife of the city as you venture out and experience the exhilarating party scene. Rest assured, I'll provide you with insider tips and recommendations for the hottest spots in town. However, as your culinary guide, I'll bid you farewell and retire early for a well-deserved rest. Don't miss out on the chance to create unforgettable memories and immerse yourself in the infectious energy of the city's nightlife.
10
Urgull
Day 3
Day 3: Best Steak in the World: 9:00 AM. For those who managed to escape the clutches of a hangover, I have a treat in store—a short excursion to the city's other mountain. Here, you'll behold a breathtaking view of the bay from a different perspective, along with an ancient fortification that tells tales of the past.
11
Donostia-San Sebastian
Day 3
Around 10:00 AM, we'll gather in the city to enjoy a delightful breakfast together. It's a perfect opportunity to refuel and savor the delicious flavors that await us. Whether it's a cozy café or a trendy brunch spot, we'll take our time to relax, share stories, and connect over a scrumptious meal.
12
Gros
Day 3
11:30 AM: Next, we'll hop on a train and embark on a journey to Tolosa, a captivating city nestled in the heart of Guipúzcoa. Prepare to immerse yourself in its rich cultural tapestry, and visit a culinary temple.
13
Casa Julián
Day 3
2:00 PM: Upon arrival, we'll visit Casa Julian, hailed by many as the purveyor of the world's finest steak. Indulge in their classic menu, tantalizing your taste buds with sublime flavors. Afterward, we'll take a leisurely stroll through the ancient city, savoring its historical charm before making our way back to the train. As an added treat, I'll endeavor to secure a reservation for what I consider the best Basque cheesecake, which we'll enjoy as we journey back.
14
Donostia-San Sebastian
Day 3-4
8:30 PM: Upon our return, we'll gather for a memorable dinner at a modern and casual restaurant, offering yet another perspective on the city's culinary scene. Immerse yourself in a different culinary experience, savoring innovative dishes that push boundaries and tantalize the senses. During dinner, I'll provide a comprehensive briefing, unveiling the exciting plans for the following day, ensuring you're filled with anticipation and eager to embark on the next adventure.
15
Pasaia
Day 4
Day 4: Hike, Fish, and Cider House, 11:00 AM: After a satisfying breakfast, we'll embark on a scenic hike through the majestic mountains, immersing ourselves in the breathtaking natural landscapes. Our path will lead us to Pasajes, a picturesque town, on a leisurely 3-hour trek. Connect with nature, relish in the awe-inspiring views, and burn off some of the calories accumulated in the past few days. Upon arrival, we'll cross over to the traditional Pasaia port via a small boat, where an authentic culinary haven awaits.
16
Pasaia
Day 4
2:30 PM: Casa Camara, step into the century-old temple of seafood and fish, Casa Camara, a culinary treasure that has been run by the Uriarte Cámara family for four generations. This esteemed restaurant stands as one of the province's most cherished establishments. Indulge in their specialties, featuring delicacies sourced from their own lobster and crayfish farm. With a dining room overlooking the Pasaia estuary, you'll savor the bounties of the sea while embracing the stunning surroundings. Delight in dishes like creamy seafood soup, Donostiarra-style spider crab, squid in ink sauce, clams in green sauce, pil-pil-style hake cheeks, meunière-style sole, roasted turbot, grilled lobster or crayfish, artisanal Armagnac ice cream, leche frita (fried milk), and tantalizing cheesecake.
17
Astigarraga
Day 4-5
7:30 PM: Get ready for a highlight of the day as we make our way to an authentic Basque cider house. Step into a world where tradition meets flavor, and experience the joy of pouring cider straight from the barrel in a charming, rustic setting. Indulge in the traditional cider house menu, featuring delightful offerings such as bacalao tortilla, confit cod with peppers, bone-in sirloin steak, and a delightful array of seasonal accompaniments. Wash it all down with generous pours of cider, savoring the lively atmosphere and the camaraderie shared with fellow travelers. Afterward, we'll make our way back to the city, allowing you to savor the memories of a remarkable day.
18
Centro
Day 5
Day 5: Farewell, we'll come together for breakfast, where we'll also assist with any travel connections and address any shared expenses. As we bid our farewells, rest assured that the deposit will be promptly returned to each participant. For those who have the afternoon to spare, there may be opportunities for additional activities, such as visiting museums or exploring the city's parks. Although our adventure is coming to a close, the memories, flavors, and friendships forged during this journey will endure. Cherish the experiences, and until we meet again, may the spirit of Basque cuisine and culture continue to inspire your culinary pursuits. Safe travels!
Trip Summary
Accommodation
Apartments
5 days trip
Centro, Zurriola beach & 16 more
Transportation
Car
What's excluded?
Extra drinks
Extra food
Party expenses
Flights to location
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Extra drinks 
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