Where to park your bike in San Sebastián: a handy guide for cyclists and cycle tourists

Here’s where to park your bike in San Sebastián: a handy guide for cyclists and travellers. Getting around Donostia/San Sebastián by bike is one of the best ways to explore the city. Its cycle path runs along almost the entire coastline and connects the main neighbourhoods, making it a convenient, sustainable and very enjoyable option. However, there’s one key question many cyclists ask themselves: where can I leave my bike safely? In this guide, we explain all the available options, along with practical tips to avoid any issues.

Types of parking available

Public transport system: Dbizi

The main bike-share scheme in the city is Dbizi, run by the city council. It has around 70 stations spread throughout the city.

You can:

• Hire electric or standard bikes.
• Pick them up and drop them off at any station. Here is a map of the stations.
• Use the system flexibly.

This system is ideal if you don’t have your own bike and want to get around on an occasional basis.

Private car parks (Dbizi Parking)

In addition to public facilities, there are secure bike parks within the Dbizi network where you can leave your bike safely.

Features:

• Covered or underground spaces.
• Controlled access.
• Affordable rates (usually under 10€).
• Daily or monthly options.

It’s a great option if you’re going to leave your bike for several hours or days. These facilities are designed to offer greater convenience and security than conventional bike racks.

Locations:

• The city’s main bus station.
• The Pío XII area.
• Loiola side street.
• Near the University Hospital.

Street-side stands

Whether you bring your own bike or hire one from a shop in town, it’s best to park it in the bike racks or stands found throughout the city, as shown in the photo below.

Safety tips

We recommend that you buy a good lock to secure your bike when you leave it parked. We use high-security locks, such as those made by Abus. The best ones are U-locks, which are shaped like a horseshoe. Similarly, if you decide to leave it in a public car park, look for well-lit, busy areas and avoid isolated or out-of-the-way spots.

Sticking to the set times is also a good idea. You can leave your bike at public parking facilities whenever you like, as they have no set opening hours. As for the car parks managed by Dbizi, the opening hours for bike use on weekdays are from 6:00 am to midnight. On Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, the service runs 24 hours a day, as do the private car parks (except for the one at the bus station).

To prevent theft, remove any accessories from your bike. Take your lights, bag, GPS, helmet and any other removable items that might be tempting with you. You can also personalise it with stickers so you can easily identify it.

Local regulations for bicycles

• Obey traffic lights and road signs. You will sometimes come across traffic lights specifically for cyclists. If they are amber (flashing) or green, you may go ahead; if they are red, you must stop.
• Ride in the cycle lane. Whenever possible, ride in the designated cycle lane. If you are riding in a group, ride in single file, as cycle lanes are almost always two-way.
• Pedestrians have right of way. If you are riding in the cycle lane and come to a zebra crossing, you must let them cross. If you encounter one on the road, it is the cars that must let you cross.
• We recommend wearing a helmet. In urban areas and on cycle lanes, helmets are compulsory for under-16s. Those over 16 must only wear one on main roads. However, we advise wearing one for safety reasons to prevent serious injury in the event of an accident.
• Do not use a mobile phone or headphones. It is strictly forbidden to wear headphones whilst cycling, as well as to use a mobile phone. If you do, you may be fined up to 200€.
• Be respectful towards others. This may be the most important point. If you wish to continue cycling in the city of Donostia or the surrounding area, it is important to avoid unnecessary arguments.

With these tips, you’ll be able to cycle around San Sebastián with complete peace of mind and enjoy the city like a true local.