Everyone talks about the pintxos in Donostia-San Sebastián — and yes, they’re incredible. But what if I told you that one of the city’s greatest food pleasures doesn’t come on a slice of bread, but in a cone? Yep, I’m talking about helado — good old ice cream — the unsung hero of Basque indulgence.
San Sebastián is famous for Michelin-starred restaurants and creamy cheesecakes, but when the sun shines over La Concha Bay, nothing beats wandering the promenade with a scoop (or two) of the city’s best gelato. And honestly, even when it’s not summer (let’s be real, Donosti weather can be moody), ice cream still hits the spot. Cold days, cold dessert — there’s a certain harmony to it.
A Little Scoop of History
Ice cream arrived in Spain through the Mediterranean ports centuries ago, but it wasn’t until the 20th century that artisanal heladerías became a thing up north. San Sebastián, with its old cafés and love for sweet traditions, embraced gelato culture early — especially thanks to Italian families who brought their recipes to the Basque coast. Over time, locals perfected it with their own twist: creamy textures, natural ingredients, and flavors inspired by the region — think local milk, roasted nuts, or even hints of Basque desserts.
Today, Donosti’s heladerías are part of its daily rhythm. They’re where you stop mid-walk, chat with friends, and taste a bit of joy before the next pintxo crawl.
My Top 3 Heladerías in Donosti
1. Heladería Oiartzun
A local legend. Oiartzun has been around since the 1970s, and it’s basically an institution by now. Their ice cream is creamy perfection — made fresh daily with natural ingredients, no weird additives. The pistachio is divine, and the dark chocolate? Dangerous. Plus, you can grab your cone and stroll right toward the harbor — best combo ever. Located in c/ Igentea 2, next to Pasteleria Oiartzun, just in front of the Town Hall.
2. Papperino Izozkiak
Run by true gelato lovers, Papperino is where Italian technique meets Basque soul. Their sorbets are bursting with real fruit flavor — the lemon and mango ones taste like sunshine. But don’t skip their mascarpone-fig combo. It’s ridiculously good. The place itself feels cheerful and cozy, and you’ll probably end up chatting with locals in line. Located in C/ San Francisco 12.
3. Gelateria Boulevard
Gelateria Boulevard is the cool, modern kid on the block. They offer a wide variety of flavors, including classics as well as more inventive and seasonal options. Many customers praise their vegan, “sin azúcar” (sugar-free), and sorbet flavours. They have 3 locations, for example on Boulevard Zumardia, 20 and Boulevard Zumardia, 10.
Why Ice Cream Wins — Any Day, Any Weather
Ice cream in Donosti is more than just a summer treat. It’s a mood booster, a mini-celebration between rain showers, and a break from the heavy pintxos or rich cheesecake slices the city is famous for. It’s light, refreshing, and you can eat it while walking — no table reservation needed.
So next time you’re in San Sebastián, don’t just chase the best pintxo bar. Chase the perfect scoop. Whether the sun is blazing or the clouds are sulking, an helado is always a good idea.