Bike hire in Donostia

Did you know that Donostia has more than 60 kilometres of cycle lanes? All the city’s neighbourhoods are connected by this network, even the most remote ones, and it is even possible to cycle to the surrounding villages. For us, the bike is one of the best means of transport for getting around San Sebastian, and that’s why we recommend renting a bike in Donostia as a way of getting from one part of the city to another, especially now that the good weather is starting to arrive.

The bike lanes, by the way, are called bidegorris, red paths, because most of them are made of red asphalt. When they are not, they are often delimited by red lines. And that’s why on the official city map the cycle lanes are marked in this colour.

But where to rent bikes in Donostia? Fortunately, there are several options.

One of them is the city’s own rental system called dBizi. More than three hundred mechanical bikes and as many electric bikes are distributed in around 65 stations that you can find all over the city. To use them you have to register beforehand and you can manage their use through an app. It’s very easy to use and the fare for occasional use is only €6, and they are available 24 hours a day. The only downside? If you get to the nearest station and there are no bicycles available or there is no space to park the one you have.

If you don’t want to risk being left without a bike, you can always rent one from one of the bike rental companies that are located all over San Sebastian, especially in the more touristy areas of the city centre and the beaches. In these companies you will usually find different sizes and types of bikes, such as tandems, mechanical bikes, electric bikes, touring bikes or mountain bikes. You can usually also book them in advance and get a helmet for your safety, and you will most likely be able to ask for recommendations on what to see or where to go, which is always appreciated when you are in a new and unfamiliar place.

We particularly recommend you to rent your bikes to tour around Donosti at Bike Rental San Sebastian. Located in the Old Town, more specifically in the Plaza Sarriegui, at Bike Rental San Sebastian you will find a fleet of Orbea electric bikes perfect for our bidegorris and for discovering the city. The helmet and lock are included in the price, unlike other companies that charge extra and the people who carry them are also tour guides, so they know Donostia inside out and will be more than happy to help you get around the bike lanes without any problems.

And what to do once you have your bike? At least ride along the coast of San Sebastian from Sagues to the Peine del Viento. And if you’re up for it, go inland, discover the public parks like Aiete and Cristina Enea, visit Tabakalera, cross the Morlans tunnel (the second longest tunnel for bikes in Europe!) or ride along the Urumea, we’re sure you’ll end up in love with our city as much as we are.

And of course, don’t forget to stop for a break and rest, especially if it’s hot. A pintxo and a drink mid-morning or mid-afternoon will be great for you, we promise!

So now you know, whether in a group, alone or as a couple, renting bikes in Donostia is always a good idea that will make you feel like a local. The best plan for your holidays, no doubt.