San Sebastián
A true paradise for food lovers, San Sebastián is a stunning seaside city on Spain’s Basque coast, renowned for its golden beaches and world-class cuisine. Visitors can indulge in pintxos at bustling bars, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, or stroll along the scenic La Concha promenade. The charming Old Town is filled with lively plazas, while nearby hills offer breathtaking views of the coastline. With its unique culinary culture, relaxed atmosphere, and coastal beauty, San Sebastián is a feast for the senses.
Airport
San Sebastián Airport (EAS) – A small international airport located 22 km east of the city, near the French border, with connections to major Spanish hubs like Madrid and Barcelona.
Train Station
San Sebastián Railway Station (Estación del Norte) – The main train station in San Sebastián, offering domestic routes across Spain and high-speed connections to France via the Hendaye border crossing.
Weather
The best time to visit San Sebastián is from May to September, when warm weather makes it ideal for enjoying the city’s beaches and famous pintxos culture. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, while autumn brings food festivals and cooler temperatures.
Known For
Known for its world-renowned cuisine, golden beaches, and the stunning La Concha Bay.
Neighbourhoods
San Sebastián’s neighborhoods combine coastal beauty with Basque culture. Parte Vieja (Old Town) is full of pintxos bars, lively squares, and historic churches. Gros is a trendy surf district with Zurriola Beach and vibrant nightlife. Centro is the shopping and business hub with elegant buildings and the Buen Pastor Cathedral. Antiguo is a relaxed area near Ondarreta Beach and the Monte Igueldo funicular. Miraconcha boasts luxury villas and stunning views along La Concha Bay.
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Parte Vieja (Old Town) – The historic heart of the city, filled with narrow streets, pintxos bars, and plazas. Great for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
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Gros – A surf-inspired, vibrant district with beach access and lively nightlife. Perfect for those who enjoy the beach, outdoor activities, and a youthful vibe.
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Centro – The commercial area with luxury shops, elegant buildings, and proximity to La Concha Beach. Ideal for visitors who want a more upscale, convenient location.
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Antiguo – A quieter area near Ondarreta Beach, perfect for a more residential stay with local markets and a relaxed atmosphere.
Hotel Guide
San Sebastián has accommodations to suit all budgets. Budget-friendly options include hostels and guesthouses in the Old Town and Gros, where travelers can stay close to the city’s surf scene and cultural offerings. Mid-range hotels are plentiful, offering stylish rooms and easy access to popular beaches and restaurants. For luxury stays, San Sebastián offers elegant hotels like the Hotel Maria Cristina and the Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra, where guests can indulge in refined luxury, fine dining, and spectacular views of La Concha Bay.
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Hostel Donosti – ★★★
A budget-friendly hostel located near the beach, offering dormitories and private rooms with modern amenities, perfect for travelers looking to explore San Sebastián on a budget.
Pensión Aldamar – ★★★
A charming, affordable guesthouse located in the Old Town, offering simple rooms and a cozy atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly stay in a prime location.
Hostal Urola – ★★★
A budget hotel located in the city center, offering clean and simple rooms, within walking distance to San Sebastián’s main attractions and beaches.
Budget Hotel Options
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Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra – ★★★★
A historic hotel located along the beach, offering elegant rooms with sea views, a great restaurant, and close proximity to San Sebastián’s Old Town and shopping area.
Hotel Niza – ★★★★
A comfortable and affordable 4-star hotel located near La Concha Beach, offering stylish rooms and a lovely seaside terrace with panoramic views.
Barceló Costa Vasca – ★★★★
A modern hotel located near the beach and the San Sebastián city center, offering spacious rooms, a wellness center, and a great base for exploring the region.
Mid-Range Hotel Options
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Hotel María Cristina – ★★★★★
One of San Sebastián's most prestigious hotels, offering luxurious rooms, a grand spa, and exceptional service. Located near La Concha Beach, it provides easy access to the city’s most famous attractions.
Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra – ★★★★★
This 5-star hotel along the beachfront offers elegant rooms with ocean views, an exclusive restaurant, and a prime location close to the heart of the city’s attractions.
Ikustza Hotel – ★★★★★
A contemporary luxury boutique hotel offering modern rooms with a blend of Basque charm and sophistication, located near the beautiful San Sebastián coastline.
High-End Hotel Options
Sights and Activities
San Sebastián is a sophisticated beach town known for its culinary scene, elegant architecture, and stunning coastline. Budget activities include walking along the picturesque La Concha Beach, visiting the San Telmo Museoa, or taking a hike up Monte Urgull for spectacular views. Mid-range activities might include exploring the Old Town’s pintxos bars, enjoying a boat ride along the bay, or visiting the contemporary art museum, Museo San Telmo. For luxury, indulge in private tours of Basque wineries, savoring Michelin-starred meals at restaurants like Arzak, or stay at the luxurious Hotel María Cristina for top-tier service and a prime location by the beach.
La Concha Beach
Relax or take a walk along this scenic urban beach, with beautiful views of the bay and nearby hills. Free access.
Old Town (Parte Vieja)
Wander through the charming narrow streets filled with pintxos bars, shops, and historical buildings.
Monte Urgull
Hike up this hill for breathtaking views of the city and coastline. The walk is free, and there’s a castle at the top to explore.
Plaza de la Constitución
Visit this lively square in the heart of the Old Town, surrounded by beautiful buildings and local cafes.
Budget Friendly Activities
Monte Igueldo
Take a funicular up to the top of this mountain for spectacular views of San Sebastián, and enjoy the old-fashioned amusement park at the summit.
La Concha Promenade
Walk along this beautiful beachfront promenade that stretches along the bay, perfect for enjoying the views and vibrant atmosphere.
San Telmo Museoa
Explore this museum showcasing Basque culture, with exhibitions on history, art, and anthropology in a stunning historic building.
Parte Vieja (Old Town)
Wander through the charming old town of San Sebastián, famous for its pintxos bars, vibrant atmosphere, and local culture.
Mid-Range Activities
Private Pintxos Tour
Embark on a private guided pintxos tour of San Sebastián, where a local expert will take you to the city’s best gourmet bars for a tasting of local delicacies paired with fine wine.
Private Boat Tour of La Concha Bay
Charter a private boat and cruise around La Concha Bay, enjoying beautiful views of the city’s beaches, cliffs, and the charming Old Town from the water.
Helicopter Ride over San Sebastián
Soar above the city in a private helicopter, taking in breathtaking aerial views of San Sebastián, including its golden beaches, surrounding mountains, and the Old Town.
Exclusive Wine Tour of Rioja
Take a day trip to the famous Rioja wine region with a private guide, touring some of the region's most prestigious wineries, complete with tastings of world-renowned wines.
Hi-End Activities
Please Note - All prices listed above are approximate and must be checked prior to quoting clients
Resources
Visa Requirements
No visa required for up to 90 days
*Note - VISA regulations change regularly. Always check official websites for the most up to date information.
Official Tourism Website
For more information explore this cities official tourism website
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Language
Spanish
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Currency
Euro (EUR)
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Population
186,000 (city proper), 400,000 (metro area)
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Time Difference from Melb (AEDT)
- -10 hours
Have a question?
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