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woman put her hand on man's shoulder while walking during daytime - Photo by Kamila Maciejewska

Explore the Spanish City of San Sebastian: A Must-Visit Destination in

About San Sebastian, Spain

San Sebastian, Spain is a breathtaking travel destination that is known for its stunning beaches, world-class cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. This coastal city is located in the Basque Country region of Spain and offers visitors a unique cultural experience. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or explore the city's rich history, San Sebastian is the perfect destination for your next vacation.

San Sebastian, Spain is a hidden gem located in the Basque Country. Known for its pristine beaches, delicious food, and rich cultural history, San Sebastian should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

One of the main attractions of San Sebastian is its beaches. La Concha Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Spain and is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand. The beach is surrounded by mountains, which makes for a picturesque backdrop. Zurriola Beach, located on the opposite side of the city, is a surfer’s paradise. The beach has waves suitable for all levels of surfers and is also a great spot for people watching.

San Sebastian is known for its gastronomy and is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. The city has more Michelin stars per capita than any other city in the world, with 16 in total. The Basque Country is known for its pintxos, which are small tapas-style dishes. The old town of San Sebastian is full of bars that serve these tasty bites, making it the perfect spot for a food crawl.

Aside from its beaches and food, San Sebastian has a rich cultural history. The city has a number of museums and art galleries, including the San Telmo Museum, which showcases Basque history and culture. The city also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the San Sebastian International Film Festival and the Semana Grande Festival.

San Sebastian is a city that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, a surfer, or a history buff, this city will not disappoint. With its beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich cultural history, San Sebastian should be at the top of your travel list.

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Popular Stays in San Sebastian, Spain

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in San Sebastian, Spain

Sports and Entertainment
Business hotelsBeach hotelsDesign

Barcelo Costa Vasca

The hotel is2. 0km from citycentrewitha huge array ofshopsbarsrestaurants and clubsas well as public transport - The Barcelo Costa Vasca is placed in the Ondarretas residential peacefulzone scanty meters of the breathtaking beach of the same name Ondarreta beach and close to Miramars Palace Gardens. The Barcelo Costa Vasca is an urban hotel in San Sebastian 550 m from Ondarreta beach and the famous Peine del Viento sculpture by Eduardo Chillida. It is connected with the city centre by the magnificent La Concha beach promenade. The hotels 203 rooms offer different capacities and facilities and are notable for their cutting-edge design. Modern and comfortable they have been fully equipped to the highest level and designed to offer guests maximum comfort during their stay. The hotel has private parking a Lobby Bar and a restaurant offering a carefully designed menu with local produce. Cuisine is the true star attraction of northern Spain and the Barcelo Costa Vasca is a reflection of this. In the summer season the extensive garden area is open as well as the semi-Olympic sized swimming pool where you can relax with a cocktail. To keep body and mind in shape there is nothing better than the 220 m2 wellness centre and fitness centre available at the hotel. Whether travelling for business or pleasure San Sebastian is one of Europes most beautiful and exciting cities thanks to a packed agenda Jazz Festival Film Festival and the pintxos route among others.
Conferences
Business hotels

Ilunion San Sebastián

The Hotel ILUNION San Sebastián is your choice to live a few days always special in San Sebastián, a city of cinema in which you can experience all kinds of gastronomic proposals, cultural and landscape. Located a few meters from the beautiful Ondarreta beach, the Hotel ILUNION San Sebastián puts your available a renovated accommodation known for its friendly treatment and formidable atmosphere. Perfect for family vacations and in couple, delicious moments await you at the Cafeteria Restaurant Ondarreta and the atmosphere of the American Bar Green Bar.
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotels

Hotel San Sebastian Orly Affiliated By Melia

Located in San Sebastián (San Sebastián Centro), Hotel San Sebastián Orly, Affiliated by Meliá is within a 10-minute walk of Concha Beach and Bay of Biscay. This upscale hotel is 2 mi (3. 1 km) from Donostia-San Sebastian Aquarium and 12. 3 mi (19. 9 km) from Zarautz Beach. Make use of convenient amenities, which include complimentary wireless internet access and tour/ticket assistance. Make yourself at home in one of the 64 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and blackout drapes/curtains. Enjoy a satisfying meal at Breakfast Buffet serving guests of Hotel San Sebastián Orly, Affiliated by Meliá. Buffet breakfasts are available daily from 7:30 AM to 11 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Planning an event in San Sebastián? This hotel has 431 square feet (40 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and meeting rooms. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite. Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. Concha Promenade - 0. 1 km / 0. 1 mi- Cathedral of the Good Shepherd - 0. 4 km / 0. 2 mi- Concha Beach - 0. 4 km / 0. 3 mi- Bay of Biscay - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- Edificio de Correos - 0. 5 km / 0.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with charmHistoricalSport hotels

Parador De Hondarribia

Located at the highest point in the town, this historical hotel stands tall on the old town's beautiful Plaza de Armas. Guests will stay in one of the stateliest towns in the Basque country, 1 km from the beach, 2 km from the French border and 20 km from San Sebastian. Biarritz is just a 30-minute drive and it is 90 minutes to Bilbao. The hotel is housed in a castle dating back to the 10th Century and is set on the Bidasoa estuary. The building is an authentic fortress which was built by King Sancho Abarca of Navarra, according to the principles of defensive architecture of the time, and enjoys beautiful panoramic views. The hotel comprises a total of 36 rooms and combines the modern and the ancient, offering elegant interiors. The communal rooms and bedrooms provide a perfect combination of the innovative with ancient lines and shapes. Lances and canons share the scene with modern design details in the bedrooms, with the result being elegant interiors with a comfortable cosy atmosphere. Facilities on offer to guests include a lobby area with a 24-hour reception and 24-hour check-in/check out service, a currency exchange facility, a cloakroom, lift and a café. It offers a TV lounge, restaurant, conference facilities and WLAN/Internet access. Guests may also take advantage of the hotel's room and laundry services (both for an additional fee) and there is parking available for those arriving by car (charges apply). The rooms feature twin beds and come with a private bathroom with a shower/bathtub, as well as a hairdryer, direct dial telephone, Internet access and a minibar. They are also equipped with satellite TV, telephone, safe and central heating. All the rooms have windows and enjoy pleasant views of the historical courtyard or the sea. The hotel serves a varied breakfast buffet.
General view
Business hotels

Silken Amara Plaza

The Silken Amara Plaza is a modern building, designed by the renown architect Paña Ganchegui. It is located in the Pio XII sq., very well linked to the city exits and at the same time within walking distance to any point of San Sebastian: the Kursaal Congress Palace, the Anoeta sports city, beach of La Concha, or the old city center where the famous pintxos prepared with regional food will delight visitors. The hotels has 162 rooms equipped with TV, telephone, AC and full bathroom. For individual stays it is also possible to book basic rooms with a double bed of 1.35 m. Wifi is free and more than 500 m2 of versatile modular public rooms to celebrate all kinf of events. *Register of Tourism: HSS000571
General view
Business hotelsDesign

Mercure San Sebastián Monte Igueldo

This delightful hotel lies in the leisure district of San Sebastian. Guests will find themselves just a few minutes' walking distance away from the heart of the city centre. A diverse selection of bars and restaurants are to be found nearby. This delightful hotel enjoys an attractive architectural design, blending effortlessly with its culturally-rich surroundings. The guest rooms are beautifully appointed, and come complete with modern amenities for added comfort and convenience. Guests are invited to take advantage of the hotel's excellent facilities and services. Guests can dine in style in the restaurant, then sit back and relax with a refreshing drink from the bar.
General view
Business hotels

Palacio De Aiete

The Hotel Palacio de Aiete **** takes its name from one of the most beautiful monuments of the city of San Sebastián / Donostia: Aiete palace. The hotel is located in a unique and privileged location, in the exclusive residential area of Aiete, high in the city and perfectly communicated with all points of the city. Our location allows to enjoy a pleasant and quiet stay and advantages such as free parking facilities for our guests. The Hotel Palacio de Aiete **** is an independent hotel with personalized service and specially conceived for our clients. It consists of 75 completely renovated rooms, 16 superior rooms, 2 junior suites, adapted rooms, and 1 luxury apartment, all equipped with hairdryer, safe, piped music, air conditioning, heating, and LCD flat screen. Our policy is the greatest satisfaction and our team works daily with the aim that your stay with us is exactly what you want and deserve. *Register of Tourism: HSS652. *Non smoking hotel. *Dogs allowed up to 8 kg, on request and with surcharge.
Restaurant
Business hotelsHotels with charmSustainable Hotel

Nh Collection San Sebastián Aránzazu

NH Collection San Sebastián Aránzazu enjoys a privileged location in one of San Sebastián's upscale neighborhoods. From this elegant and relaxed hotel you can take a pleasant walk to the Ondarreta beach and the Ancient Quarter of the city. Within minutes from the hotel you can sample some of the best cuisine in Spain, with various Michelin-star restaurants close by. The 180 rooms at NH Collection San Sebastián Aránzazu are decorated in a warm, contemporary style and a neutral color palette. Rooms feature especially designed furniture, including creations by Isamu Noguchi. You will enjoy a great night's sleep with oversized mattresses and a pillow menu. Throughout your stay, relax with rain-effect showers and a canopy lighting effect in each room. A delicious buffet breakfast is served daily, offering guests a variety for every taste. For fresh Spanish cuisine, enjoy your lunch or dinner at Kukuarri, created by MartÍn Aristondo, who locally sources ingredients and creatively adapts them into delectable dishes. The hotel bar features a cocktail menu created by renowned barman Diego Cabrera. There is a gym for our guests with lovely views of the city. For meetings, make use of our 9 function rooms for up to 400 guests.

Things to do in San Sebastian, Spain

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in San Sebastian, Spain

Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Digital Voucher150 minutes

Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian

This is a unique way to experience the famous bar hopping tour tasting pintxos, basque tapas, drinking local wine or beer, while gathering with locals in the old town of San Sebastian. Visiting some of San Sebastian's best pintxo bars with a food-culinary expert guide on this amazing and fun tour. Enjoy the tour as a local on our small groups, which means you can get to know the real taste of some typical San Sebastian pintxos. Amazing tastes of local different pintxos and wines, beers or soft drinks Learn about the culinary-gastronomy culture of San Sebastian Taste the real food along the street bars and restaurants like a local!
Highlights of the Basque Country 4-Day Private Tour
Digital Voucher4 days

Highlights of the Basque Country 4-Day Private Tour

Discover the main attractions like a local in 4 days! 4 Full day tours along the basque country. Visiting the main touristic places as well as of the track ones which only local people know.
San Sebastian Shared Cultural Walking Tour
Digital Voucher120 minutes

San Sebastian Shared Cultural Walking Tour

Meet San Sebastian's most interesting spots by walking across its historic area! Join our local guides and do not miss any of the secrets that this emblematic city hides, learning every detail of its buildings and its people. Departing from the border of Old and New Towns (where the 19th century city walls were built!) we will take you through the serpentine Old Town streets, visiting the two main churches and the pintxo streets. Later on we will show you the expansion of the city during the early 20th century with the influence of the Spanish Queen Maria Cristina in the construction of many of San Sebastian's most characteristic buildings such as Hotel de Londres and Maria Cristina (named after her), the catherdal of Buen Pastor (Good Shepherd), the Tabakalera museum, Victoria Eugenia auditorium and many more. This activity includes a pintxo round in a traditional bar in La Parte Vieja, the Old Town!
Enjoy our pintxos!
Digital Voucher180 minutes

San Sebastian Pintxo Tasting Paired with Spanish Wines

Immerse yourself in the charming and wonderful Parte Vieja (Old Town) of San Sebastian and let yourself be advised to taste the best pintxos in town paired with 5 Spanish wines from different Apellations of Origin, feeling like a donostiarra (native from the city) throughout the whole experience. Taste the best gastronomic art pieces combined with some of the best Spanish wines. In between pintxos you will have the chance to discover the whereabouts of this amazing area full of history, getting mixed with the local people through the route that our guides will take you.
From the market, to the secret kitchen
Digital Voucher480 minutes

From the market, to the secret kitchen

I am a Basque native, in love with my country, culture and gastronomy. And after be working with travelers 7 years, in 2015 I started offering artisan, unique and authentic experiences in my own. Aiming to offer the possibility to enjoy feeling and living, the true essence of the Basque Country, out of the commercial and away from the tourist masses. And this is the best experience I offer ever about our gastronomy in San Sebastian and probably the most pure that is offered in the city. If you don’t believe me, came on to buy all we will need, in the market and old stores, for cooking and eating, one of our most classic menus in my "gastronomic society". And after completing the experience, you are not satisfied. I will return you, the amount paid for it. * The gastronomic society : Is where you can experience the region’s gastronomy from first hand. The love of food and social dining is what brings together to cook top quality ingredients with loving care.
Ultimate San Sebastian Pintxos & Wine Tour (Evening)
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Ultimate San Sebastian Pintxos & Wine Tour (Evening)

In a food mecca like San Sebastian, there are some places you just can’t leave without trying—and we’re going to visit them all tonight. Come with us to San Sebastian’s pintxos headquarters, the Old Town, where we’ve carefully chosen the best bites the city has to offer for you. As we go, we’ll teach you what to do—and what not to do!—so you can successfully navigate the pintxos scene during the rest of your trip. - Don't miss a thing in a city known for its food—we've selected the best for you! - Squeeze into a bar that's a San Sebastian institution for locally-caught seafood. - Learn the unwritten rules of pintxos so you can eat like a pro during the rest of your stay. - Enjoy classic pintxos in the classic style: standing elbow to elbow in bars packed with locals! - Conquer all of San Sebastian's must-visit bars in one night.
Countryside & Coast Private tour
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Countryside & Coast Private tour

One of the most attractive things about San Sebastian is its magnificent hinterland. Although the city itself has much to offer, it is well worth venturing further afield to discover the lesser known Basque Country. Continuing north we will find the coast. The Basque Coast is an authentic natural paradise with treasures you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Discover a territory that holds, a lush green maze-like countryside, a versatile coastline, a strong cultural tradition, the oldest language in Europe and where cooking is an essential part of the culture and of life itself.
San Sebastian - Private walking tour
Digital Voucher150 minutes

San Sebastian - Private walking tour

San Sebastian offers sea and mountain, tradition and cutting edge, and at the City Tour we have selected the city's best spots.The city’s unique location, rich history – particularly as the royal summer resort of Europe’s elite during the Belle Epoque, its international reputation as a food mecca and unique combination of seaside and metropolitan appeal, and, last but not least the superb quality of life in the city help to make it one of the happiest in the world. And one we love to share with guests and visitors by taking them on fabulous walking tours.

Why People Love San Sebastian, Spain

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in San Sebastian, Spain

H
Happiness31014030666
5
Jun 2024
Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Iker was an amazing guide! He took our family of 4 on a great food and drink tour of San Sebastián. Great food, great beer/wine, and a great host to give us history and introductions so some fantastic places. Iker asked us for our preferences and hit the nail right on the head with what we lik...
CH
Chelsea H
5
Oct 2021
Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Iker is a fantastic and knowledgeable guide who was very accommodating to the vegetarian and the extremely picky eater in our crew. He chose very interesting and delicious food and wines for us, based on our tastes and preferences and was helpful with recommendations for the rest of our time in t...
C
Cburton9
5
Oct 2021
Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Open Food & Wine tours in San Sebastian
Tasting pintxos in the old town and hearing about the history of San Sebastián. Iker is very friendly and knowledgeable . Highly recommend !

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Frequently Asked Questions about San Sebastian

What are some must-see attractions in San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is a beautiful coastal city in Spain with plenty of attractions. One of the must-see attractions is the La Concha Beach, which is known for its scenic beauty and crystal-clear waters. Another popular attraction is the Monte Igueldo, a hill with a stunning view of the city. The Old Town is also a great place to visit, with its narrow streets and historic buildings.

What are some popular activities to do in San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is known for its beautiful beaches, so one of the most popular activities is to spend a day at the beach. Surfing is also a popular activity, and there are several schools where you can take lessons. Another popular activity is to go on a pintxos tour, where you can sample some of the best local cuisine. If you're interested in art and culture, the San Telmo Museum is a great place to visit.

What are some of the best restaurants in San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is famous for its cuisine, and there are many great restaurants to choose from. Some of the most popular ones include Arzak, which has three Michelin stars, and Mugaritz, which has two Michelin stars. For a more casual dining experience, try Bar Nestor, which is known for its delicious steak and tortilla.

What is the best time of year to visit San Sebastian?

The best time to visit San Sebastian is during the summer months, from June to September. This is when the weather is warmest and the beaches are at their best. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter time to visit, consider going in the spring or fall.

What are some good accommodations in San Sebastian?

There are many good accommodations in San Sebastian, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular options include Hotel Maria Cristina, a luxury hotel with a great location, and Pension Altair, a budget-friendly option in the heart of the Old Town. Another great option is the Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra, which has a stunning view of La Concha Beach.

What is the best way to get around San Sebastian?

One of the best ways to get around San Sebastian is on foot, as many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. There are also buses and taxis available, and you can rent a bike to explore the city's bike paths. If you're traveling outside of the city, renting a car is a good option.

What are some lesser-known attractions in San Sebastian?

While San Sebastian is known for its popular attractions, there are also some lesser-known places to visit. One such place is the Aquarium, which has a variety of marine life and is a great place to visit with kids. Another lesser-known attraction is the Chillida-Leku Museum, which has a collection of sculptures by Eduardo Chillida.

What are some good day trips from San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. One popular day trip is to the nearby town of Getaria, which is known for its seafood and picturesque harbor. Another popular day trip is to the French town of Biarritz, which has a beautiful beach and a charming Old Town. The Basque Country is also a great place to explore on a day trip.

What is the nightlife like in San Sebastian?

San Sebastian is known for its lively nightlife, and there are many bars and clubs to choose from. The Old Town is a popular spot for bar-hopping, with many bars offering pintxos and drinks. Another popular area is the Gros neighborhood, which has a more laid-back vibe. If you're looking for a more upscale night out, head to one of the city's many cocktail bars.

What is the weather like in San Sebastian?

San Sebastian has a mild climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit during the summer months. The winter months are cooler, with temperatures in the 50s Fahrenheit. It can be rainy in San Sebastian, so be sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella if you're visiting in the fall or winter.