Where to eat on a budget in San Sebastián near the university

If you're a student in San Sebastián, you probably already know this: going out for pinchos is great… but your budget doesn't always hold up. That's why many students look for places to eat cheaply in San Sebastián without sacrificing good food.

In this guide, we'll show you some great places to eat affordably in Donosti, near the university or easily accessible, with options like daily specials, legendary sandwiches, and affordable dinners.

San Sebastián is one of the cities with the best cuisine in Spain… and also one of the most expensive.

But it is possible to eat well and cheaply in San Sebastián if you know where to go:

• avoid heavily touristed areas
• search for daily specials
• choose local bars
• share dishes

Many students get together to eat as a group and save money. Plus, living in a neighborhood where you know people makes it easier to find affordable places. At StepHouse, for example, students share recommendations and plans for eating on a budget in San Sebastian.

One of the best ways to eat well and affordably in San Sebastián is to choose the daily special.

Average price: €10–€14

It usually includes:

• first course
• main course
• drink
• dessert

Recommended areas:

• Amara
• Gros
• the areas surrounding universities

Perfect for students looking for affordable restaurants in San Sebastián.

Another great option for dining on a budget in San Sebastián are the sandwich shops.

Advantages:

• low prices
• large portions
• speed

Perfect if you're looking for places to have an affordable dinner in San Sebastián after class.

Although there are expensive gourmet options, you can also find places where eat cheaply in San Sebastián that serve burgers.

Tip: Look for combo deals or set menus.

Yes, there are affordable restaurants in Donostia; you just have to know where to look.

Key points:

• weekday menus
• less touristy areas
• places frequented by students

If you're wondering where to eat well and cheaply in Donosti, this is the best option.

For the evening, the best options are usually:

• affordable pizzerias
• kebabs
• bars with specials

Perfect for an affordable dinner in San Sebastián without any hassle.

Many of these plans come about spontaneously when you live with other students. At StepHouse, for example, it’s common to organize group dinners or go out and discover new places without spending much.

• Avoid the tourist area
• Search for set menus
• Share dishes
• Ask other students

The key is knowing the right places. Living in areas with a college atmosphere helps you discover them faster. At StepHouse, the residences are designed for students who want to enjoy the city without breaking the bank.

You can find daily specials, sandwich shops, and local restaurants with affordable prices.

Between €8 and €14, depending on the type of meal.

Yes, especially outside of tourist areas.

Local sandwich shops, pizzerias, and bars are the best options.

Although San Sebastián has a reputation for being expensive, the reality is that it is possible to eat on a budget in San Sebastián if you know where to look.

From daily specials to sandwich shops and local restaurants, there are plenty of options for students who want to eat well without spending too much.

In the end, it all comes down to knowing the right places… and having someone to enjoy them with.