Tour of historic shops in San Sebastián
- Donosti Feeling
- 2025 Apr 23
Casa Munoa (1935): The jewel of San Sebastián
We kick off our tour with Casa Munoa, a jewellery shop that has been glittering in the city for almost a century. It has been creating unique jewellery since 1935, drawing inspiration from big names such as Balenciaga and Chanel. A classic that is still laying down the rules of style.
"Pastelería Otaegui" pastrymakers (1886): The same taste down through the years
No better idea than a break to take pleasure in a sweet treat. A stone's throw from Casa Munoa, right in the heart of the Old Town, we find Pastelería Otaegui, dating back to 1886. Its confectionery combines the best of Basque and European tradition, earning it the status of official purveyor to the Royal Household in the early 20th century. They say Queen María Cristina simply adored its almond sponge.
Ponsol (1838): The oldest hat shop
After sweetening up our tour, we move on to Ponsol. Dating back to 1838, this is the Basque Country's oldest milliner's shop, and one of the city's signature establishments. There was a time when going out without a hat was unthinkable and, although times have changed, here they are still experts in finding the perfect accessory for each different style.
Irulea (1932): Artisanal clothing
From hats we move on to traditional fabrics. Irulea, which means ‘spinner’ in Basque, has retained its original furnishings, and is still one of the main outlets for home fabrics and artisanal clothing. Each garment from here has that unique custom-made touch which only a shop with a wealth of history can offer.
Perfumería Benegas (1908): The essence of the city
Our tour takes us to Perfumería Benegas, a San Sebastián classic since 1908. It was originally a hairdresser's with an English-style perfumery, and it was not long before it became one of the haunts of Belle Époque socialites in the city. It eventually put hairdressing aside to specialise in high-quality cosmetics and fragrances, moving on to become one of the city's most emblematic outlets.
San Martín Market (1884): The city's retail hub
Nothing like losing yourself among the aisles of a market to get a feel of the city. The San Martín Market, which opened in 1884, has evolved from a food market to a modern shopping centre with no loss of its essence. In recent years it has consolidated as the city's main market, and a meeting point for the people of Donostia, combining tradition, gastronomy and fashion outlets.
Box (1948): The art of leather
From market freshness to the art of leather. Box has been a symbol of quality, design and tradition in the world of leather goods since 1948. What started out as a small workshop is now a synonym of elegance and impeccable crafting.
Miner (1926): San Sebastián on wheels
To finish off the tour, no better idea than hopping on to a Miner bike. Since 1926 Miner has been the classic choice for people in Donostia seeking to get around on two wheels. What was originally a small workshop has become a leading brand of urban sport fashion, with three generations focusing on sustainable mobility and innovation.
Each of these shops is a part of the city. They don't just sell products - they tell stories too. And so the next time you find yourself strolling around San Sebastián, go in, take a good look round, and let yourself be carried away. Because in every nook and cranny there's a little piece of its past just waiting to be found.
