Best Cocktail Bars in San Sebastian

From terraces to upscale lobbies and classic insitutions, we've rounded up our favorite coctelerias in town for all styles.

Best cocktail and nigthclubs in Donostia

Museo del Whiskey

The Museo del Whiskey is a Donosti institution for fun times and late nights. Owner Paul and his family are responsible for the impressive collection of whiskeys that you won't find elsewhere in town. The ambience is unique, genuine and full of character. There are good snacks to go with great drinks, and if you stay late, you can enjoy the piano bar downstairs.  

Dry San Sebastian at Hotel Maria Cristina

If you want to feel like royalty, visit Dry San Sebastian at Hotel Maria Cristina located in the lobby of this grand hotel. The bar is run in partnership with cocktail master Javier de Las Muelas. We love the impeccable service, tasty house creations, and ode to a time gone by - the María Cristina hotel is as classic as they come.

La Gintonería Donostiarra

La Gintonería Donostiarra is a favorite of ours in Gros. The choice of Gin is impressive and this spot has gained a loyal following thanks to its great service and talented mixologists who are happy to help recommend your next best drink.

Terrace at Abba Hotel

Terrace at Abba Hotel, which can be found at the top floor of the Abba Hotel, is an oasis worth checking out. There's a great selection of spirits, champagne and cocktails and we appreciate that you get a view of city, sea and river. Don't miss the rotating guest DJs that spin during the summer months. 

Urgulleko Polboriña

Urgulleko Polboriña is an unexpected gem to be found after a hike up Monte Urgull. If you're up for the 30-minute ascent, this outdoor cocktail terrace is the ideal reward to celebrate making it to the top of the trail. The setting itself is simple and laidback, the views of the sea are spectacular and the relaxed vibe make it a summer favorite of ours. If you enjoy live music, there is often a rotating band playing well into sunset.

The Blind Pig

Visit this intimate speakeasy style bar for flavorful cocktails made by experienced bartenders. The Blind Pig is run by Italian Marco Ferreri, service at The Bling Pig is top notch. While he's partial to a great negroni, Marco pours love and passion into each killer cocktail. Check out details here for how to retrieve the special code required to enter.

GU San Sebastián

This iconic bar has spectacular views of the bay and the cocktails are creative. GU San Sebastián is a great place to watch the sun set or the moon rise - guest DJs turn this boat shaped bar into a nightclub that keeps the party going until morning. 

Terrace at Hotel Akelarre

There is nothing quite like visiting this terrace at Hotel Akelarre tucked in the coastal hillside of Monte Igeldo. Here, Patxi Troitiño, professor at the Basque Culinary Center, offers a list of unique cocktails crafted with the same innovative flavors that make the restaurant the gastronomic destination it is. You don't require a restaurant reservation to enter. Visit any day from 4pm to take in incredible sea views, sip on an eye-opening cocktail and don't hesitate to have a snack or two.

Terrace at Nobu Hotel

Terrace at Nobu Hotel is a superstar establishment and the terrace on the second floor of this hotel is worth a visit. The bar offers a wide selection of special sakes, wines and refreshing handcrafted cocktails. The setting is a blend of Japanese-inspired simplicity with seaside sophistication.

Check out our blog for other articles about Donostia, such as the one where we discuss the best location to stay in San Sebastián.