Euskal Jaiak (Basque Festivals)
A week in September celebrating Basque culture with traditional clothing, rural sports, music, and dances.
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Zarautz
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City
ℹ️Practical info — Zarautz
▾
🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Walk along the promenade all the way to Getaria; the path follows the coastline and is incredibly scenic and flat.
- Rent a surfboard; thanks to its wide beach, Zarautz is considered one of the best places for beginners in the Basque Country.
- Visit the Municipal Market in the morning when local farmers from the hills bring in their fresh produce.
- Use the 'Euskotren' train for day trips to San Sebastián; the station is conveniently located in the town center.
- Go for Pintxos in the bars around Plaza de la Munoa, the lively social heart of the Old Town.
🍽 Food
🍽
Txakoli
A refreshing, slightly sparkling white wine from the coastal vineyards; try it at any local 'Bodega'.
🍽
Grilled Turbot
Caught daily and grilled over open charcoal; look for restaurants with outdoor grilling stations.
🍽
Goxua
A classic Basque dessert made of layers of cream, sponge cake, and custard with a caramelized top.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Municipal Market
The prime location to pick up Idiazábal cheese and other authentic Basque delicacies.
🛍
Pukas Surf Shop
A legendary local shop for high-quality surfboards and stylish coastal apparel.
🧘
Talaimendi Lookout
A hill at the edge of the beach where you can sit and watch the ocean in peace.
🧘
Iñurritza Biotope
A protected area of dunes and wetlands right by the beach, well-suited for birdwatching and quiet walks.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
6
Virgin of August Festival
In mid-August, the town celebrates the Assumption with open-air concerts, street parties, and traditional boat races.
San Pelaio Festival
The major start-of-summer festival in late June featuring live music, Tamborrada drumming, and festive cheer.
Txakoli Day
A May event celebrating the local, slightly sparkling white wine Txakoli with wine tastings and Basque gastronomy.
Pro Zarautz (Surf Competition)
An international spring surfing tournament attracting top European surfers to the famous beach of Zarautz.
Zarautz Inauteriak (Carnival)
The winter festival brings colorful costumes, traditional Basque dances, and festive parades through the town center.
Founded in 1237, Zarautz has transformed from a whaling village into one of Northern Spain's most prestigious summer resorts. Located in the province of Gipuzkoa, the town is best known for its striking 2.5-kilometer sandy beach, the longest in the Basque Country. This coastline is not only a haven for sunbathers but also a world-renowned surfing destination, hosting international competitions thanks to its consistent and high-quality waves. The seaside promenade is lined with contemporary sculptures and cafes offering panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay. The town is also a gastronomic hub, home to the famous chef Karlos Arguiñano's hotel and restaurant. The historic center features notable landmarks like the Narros Palace, where Queen Isabella II once spent her summers. Surrounded by green hills, Zarautz serves as a gateway to the nearby Txakoli vineyards and scenic coastal trails leading to Getaria.
- Location: Spain
- Top sights: Zarautz Beach · Church of Santa Maria la Real · Narros Palace
- Nearby: Zumaia (7 km)
- Population: ~23.500
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 18 | 20 | 21 | 19 | 17 | 12 | 10 |
| Rain mm | 126 | 96 | 90 | 86 | 82 | 68 | 48 | 51 | 64 | 94 | 149 | 117 |
Live webcam – Zarautz
See what it looks like near Zarautz right now.
Zarautz: Zarautz Beach · 0.2 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1237 by King Ferdinand III of Castile
- Home to the longest beach in the Basque Country (2500m)
- Located just 15 kilometers west of San Sebastián
- Average summer temperature is approximately 22°C
- Features the 16th-century Narros Palace
- Key stop on the Camino del Norte pilgrimage route
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
A day in the city
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→15:141.9 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 19–25 €Entries 22€ · Transport 0€
The walk starts in the center at the historic Portu Palace and the old Luzea defense tower. It continues to the magnificent Santa Maria la Real church and the royal Narros Palace on the edge of the beach. At noon, enjoy Basque cuisine in the famous Karlos Arguiñano restaurant. The afternoon is dedicated to the vast sandy beach of Zarautz, famous for its surf culture.
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13:57 · 47'
Strand von Zarautz
The longest beach in the Basque Country, convenient for surfing.
09:00→15:141.9 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 19–25 €Entries 22€ · Transport 0€
Morning walk through the palaces using umbrellas and arcades for cover. Midday is spent enjoying the storm views from the warmth of Arguiñano. Afternoon visits to the church interior provide a dry escape. The evening concludes in the cozy, sheltered streets of the old town.
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10:57 · 47'
Kirche Santa Maria la Real
Excellent place to visit the archaeological zone while staying dry.
🚶 6'0.16 km
🚶 19'0.78 km
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12:56 · 47'
Restaurant Karlos Arguiñano
Enjoy the view of the rough Bay of Biscay over a hot coffee.
🚶 14'0.56 km
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13:57 · 47'
Strand von Zarautz
The covered section of the promenade is convenient for sea views.
09:00→15:141.9 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 19–25 €Entries 22€ · Transport 0€
A crisp winter morning leads us through the historic residences. At midday, warm up with Basque cuisine at Karlos Arguiñano. The early sunset paints the beach in magical colors before the cool sea air drives us into cozy taverns. The night is quiet and refreshing.
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🚶 5'0.12 km
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10:02 · 47'
Turm Luzea
The mid-morning light highlights the texture of the old stones beautifully.
🚶 8'0.25 km
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10:57 · 47'
Kirche Santa Maria la Real
The thick walls retain the cold; make sure to dress warmly.
🚶 6'0.16 km
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11:50 · 47'
Palast von Narros
The winter sun is perfectly positioned for photos without harsh shadows.
🚶 19'0.78 km
🚶 14'0.56 km
09:00→15:054.7 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€
Zarautz is wonderful to explore by bike. From the Luzea tower, cycle to the interesting Photomuseum and on to the Narros Palace on the coast. The kilometer-long beach promenade is a highlight for cyclists and offers a fresh sea breeze. After a refreshment at the Karlos Arguiñano restaurant, cycle up to the Santa Barbara hermitage to end the day with a magnificent view.
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09:00→15:054.7 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€
Despite the rain, we start our bike tour carefully towards the towers. The Photomuseum offers the perfect long indoor stop. After a break at the palace, we brave the coastal path. Midday warmth at Arguiñano prepares us for the short ride to the hermitage.
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🚲 6'0.58 km
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11:54 · 47'
Strand von Zarautz
Ride slowly on the wooden boardwalk; it becomes extremely slippery when wet.
🚲 6'0.56 km
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12:47 · 47'
Restaurant Karlos Arguiñano
Quickly dry off your gear before entering the establishment.
🚲 14'1.8 km
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13:48 · 47'
Einsiedelei Santa Barbara
The climb can be muddy in the rain; stick to the asphalt path.
09:00→15:054.7 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€
A fresh winter morning on two wheels. The clear air makes the ride to the Photomuseum invigorating. At midday, enjoy the warm atmosphere at Arguiñano right by the sea. The afternoon leads us to Santa Barbara Hermitage for a stunning, early sunset over the bay.
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🚲 6'0.58 km
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🚲 11'1.34 km
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12:47 · 47'
Restaurant Karlos Arguiñano
Park your bikes close to the entrance to get inside quickly.
🚲 14'1.8 km
09:00→13:542.4 km drive5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 14–18 €Entries 16€ · Transport 0€
By car, it is worth first driving up to the Santa Barbara hermitage for a fantastic view. Back in town, park to explore the Photomuseum and the historic Santa Maria la Real church. The renowned Karlos Arguiñano restaurant offers an excellent lunch. You can then explore the coastal road or relax on the long sandy beach.
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09:00→13:542.4 km drive5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 14–18 €Entries 16€ · Transport 0€
Travel comfortably by car to the hermitage to watch the rain over the sea. The Photomuseum is the perfect indoor refuge for the morning. After the church visit, enjoy a relaxed lunch at Arguiñano while waves crash outside. Spend the rainy afternoon at the beach from the dry comfort of your car.
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09:10 · 47'
Einsiedelei Santa Barbara
Stay in the car during heavy rain and enjoy the panoramic view.
🚗 5'0.7 km
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10:53 · 47'
Kirche Santa Maria la Real
Short-term parking spots right in front are often available in the rain.
🚗 5'0.69 km
🚗 5'0.56 km
09:00→13:542.4 km drive5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 14–18 €Entries 16€ · Transport 0€
A sunny but cold winter day begins at the hermitage with vast views. The car provides cozy warmth between stops throughout the day. Lunch at Arguiñano is the culinary highlight. Experience the sunset at the beach sheltered from the wind before heading home.
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09:10 · 47'
Einsiedelei Santa Barbara
The drive up is often less busy and more relaxed in winter.
🚗 5'0.7 km
🚗 4'0.43 km
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10:53 · 47'
Kirche Santa Maria la Real
Watch out for icy patches in the shaded streets of the old town.
🚗 5'0.69 km
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🧰 Tools at hand▼
📅 Best time to visit
June to September for surfing and beach. Waves run year-round but autumn is best. Mid-September brings the WSL Pro Zarautz contest - crowded sand, unforgettable atmosphere.
⚠️ Where to be careful
Very safe, young surf crowd. Summer evenings the promenade stays loud late - if you want quiet sleep, book behind the church. Currents at the western end of the beach are strong, never swim outside the flags.
🗣️ Language quick-tip
Basque is really alive here - on the main street you'll hear Euskara as often as Spanish. Surf schools all speak English, as do most pintxo bars. 'Eskerrik asko' for thank-you works wonders.
Sights in the town Zarautz (15)
Zarautz Beach
The beach of Zarautz impresses as the longest stretch of coastline in the Basque Country, extending over 2.5 kilometers. With its lively and sporty atmosphere, this spot is renowned worldwide for its excellent surfing conditions. Visitors can expect a fantastic mix of water sports, long coastal walks, and relaxed sunbathing on the soft sand. It is worth arriving early to catch the best waves or secure a quiet spot near the water.
Sagasti plaza👨👩👧 family
Sagasti plaza serves as a lively, central meeting point in the heart of Zarautz. Within this family-friendly setting, a secure children's playground takes center stage, fostering a cheerful and carefree atmosphere. While the little ones enjoy their playtime, parents can take a brief pause from the urban bustle and engage in some local people-watching. A late afternoon visit is well-suited for winding down after a busy day of exploring.
Frequently asked questions
Is Zarautz good for surfing?
Yes, Zarautz is the surfing mecca of the Basque Country with consistent waves and many surf schools for beginners.
How long is the beach in Zarautz?
At 2.5 km, it is the longest beach on the Gipuzkoa coast and is often referred to as the 'Queen of Beaches'.
What should you drink in Zarautz?
Be sure to try Txakoli, a sparkling, young white wine from the region.
How to get from San Sebastián to Zarautz?
Ideally by Euskotren (narrow-gauge train) or by bus. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Are there good restaurants in the city?
Yes, Zarautz is known for its top-notch gastronomy, including the famous restaurant of TV chef Karlos Arguiñano.
Zarautz: where is it located?
Zarautz is located in Spain.
Zarautz: what is there to see?
Highlights include Zarautz Beach, Church of Santa Maria la Real, Narros Palace.
Zarautz: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Zarautz: why is it worth visiting?
Founded in 1237, Zarautz has transformed from a whaling village into one of Northern Spain's most prestigious summer resorts.
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