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Introduction
San Sebastián, also known by its Basque name Donostia, is the capital city of the Gipuzkoa province in northern Spain's Basque Country. Located on the southeastern coast of the Bay of Biscay, this coastal gem has a population of approximately 188,102, with its metropolitan area reaching around 400,000 residents. The city features three stunning beaches—La Concha, Ondarreta and Zurriola—and is surrounded by hills including Urgull, Mount Ulia, Mount Adarra and Igeldo. San Sebastián enjoys an oceanic climate with mild temperatures ranging from 8.9°C in January to 21.5°C in August, though fog and rain are fairly common throughout the year. The city is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, boasting the highest number of Michelin stars per capita in the world, and offers a vibrant nightlife fuelled by its large university population. Its picturesque Old Town (Parte Vieja) is rich in historical architecture, while the surrounding natural environment provides excellent opportunities for water sports and hiking.
Interesting Facts about San Sebastián
- San Sebastián boasts one of the highest densities of Michelin stars per capita in the world, making it a culinary hotspot.
- Originally a small fishing village, San Sebastián was established in 1180 by King Sancho VI of Navarre and grew into a vibrant city.
- San Sebastián's architecture blends historical and modern styles, exemplified by the neo-Gothic Buen Pastor Cathedral and the modern Kursaal Congress Centre.
- La Concha beach in San Sebastián is considered one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe, featuring a crescent, shell-shaped design.
- Pintxos are an important part of San Sebastián's local culture, with numerous pintxos bars in the old city centre offering a taste of Basque cuisine.
- San Sebastián was named the European Capital of Culture in 2016, highlighting its cultural significance and promotion of diversity.
- The locals often refer to San Sebastián as Donostia, which some believe is linked to Saint Sebastian's connection to Ostia, a port near Rome.
- A unique custom in San Sebastián involves touching the wall at the end of the beach during a boardwalk walk, embraced by locals as an unwritten rule.
- The railing surrounding La Concha beach, designed by the city architect, is said by some to look suspiciously like the railing on the Titanic.
- San Sebastián is known for the Tamborrada festival on January 20th, where the city is filled with the sound of drums for 24 hours as people celebrate Saint Sebastian's Day.
History
San Sebastián, also known by its Basque name Donostia, traces its origins back to 1180 when it was founded by King Sancho the Wise of Navarre near a monastery dedicated to Saint Sebastian. Originally a small fishing village, the settlement's strategic coastal location made it an ideal port and military stronghold, leading to the construction of protective walls and the conversion of Mount Urgull into a fortress. The city witnessed several sieges and wars throughout the 15th and 16th centuries as it developed into an important maritime centre.
The most devastating event in the city's history occurred in 1813 during the Peninsular War, when Anglo-Portuguese forces captured San Sebastián from Napoleon's occupying troops. The victorious forces subsequently ransacked and burned the city on 31st August, leaving only a few buildings standing, including what is now called 31 de Agosto Street. Following this destruction, San Sebastián was rebuilt with a neoclassical, austere architectural style, including the construction of Constitution Square in 1817 and the town hall between 1828 and 1832. The city walls were eventually dismantled in 1863 to allow for expansion.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked San Sebastián's golden age, known as the Belle Époque. The city's transformation began when Queen Isabel II visited in 1845 for therapeutic salt water baths. Later, Queen María Cristina made it her summer residence from the late 19th century until 1929, establishing it as a fashionable resort for European aristocracy. During this prosperous period, many of the city's iconic buildings were constructed, including the Miramar Palace, Hotel María Cristina, and Victoria Eugenia Theatre. Today, San Sebastián has evolved into a vibrant cosmopolitan city renowned for its beautiful beaches, world-class cuisine featuring numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, and rich cultural heritage.
Main Attractions
Ayuntamiento (City Hall)
San Sebastián's City Hall stands as one of the most elegant buildings along the bayfront. Completed in 1887 and designed by architect Luis Aladrén, the building originally served as a grand casino during the Belle Époque period when San Sebastián was the summer resort of choice for European royalty and aristocracy. The building's façade exemplifies the eclectic architectural style of the period, featuring ornate balconies, decorative stonework, and a central clock tower. When gambling was outlawed in Spain in 1924, the building was converted into the city hall. The interior maintains much of its original splendour, particularly in the grand staircase and the former gaming room that now serves as the plenary hall. Close inspection of the façade reveals bullet holes from the Spanish Civil War, silent witnesses to the city's turbulent history. The building overlooks the Alderdi Eder Gardens and La Concha Bay, occupying what is arguably the most prestigious address in the city. The square in front of the city hall serves as the stage for many important city events, including the raising of the flag that marks the beginning of the Semana Grande summer festival.
Plaza de la Constitución
Plaza de la Constitución forms the beating heart of San Sebastián's Old Town. This perfectly proportioned square is surrounded by elegant buildings with symmetrical façades, all featuring the same distinctive balconies. These numbered balconies reveal the square's past as a bullring—they once served as boxes from which spectators would watch the corridas. The square's name commemorates the Spanish Constitution of 1812, and the building at its northern end served as the town hall until 1943. Today, the plaza functions as the social centre of the Old Town, hosting markets, concerts, and major city celebrations, including the dramatic drum ceremony that marks the beginning of the city's main festival, the Tamborrada. The ground floors of the buildings surrounding the square house some of San Sebastián's most traditional pintxo bars and cafés, their terraces spilling out into the square. During summer evenings, the plaza fills with locals and visitors enjoying drinks and conversation, creating an atmosphere of convivial Mediterranean life.
Victoria Eugenia Theatre
The Victoria Eugenia Theatre is one of San Sebastián's most emblematic buildings, located in the city centre next to the Hotel María Cristina. Designed by architect Francisco de Urcola in neo-plateresque style, it was inaugurated in 1912 and named after Queen Victoria Eugenia, the consort of King Alfonso XIII. Throughout the 20th century, the theatre served as the cultural heart of the city, hosting significant events including the San Sebastián International Film Festival until 1999. After undergoing extensive renovation between 2001 and 2007, the theatre reopened with modern facilities whilst preserving its original charm. The refurbished venue now features a main hall with approximately 900 seats, a Club Room, dance room, and several multipurpose spaces. With its sandstone façades and characteristic silhouette marked by a dome and towers, the theatre offers wonderful views of the River Urumea and continues to be a premier cultural venue in the Basque Country.
Basilica de Santa María del Coro
The Basilica de Santa María del Coro stands as the most important religious building in San Sebastián's Old Town. Its imposing Baroque façade, completed in 1774, features an elaborate portal flanked by twin towers and crowned with a statue of Saint Sebastian, the city's patron saint. The church was built on the site of an earlier medieval temple that was destroyed in the city fire of 1489. The interior presents an elegant contrast to the ornate exterior, with a bright, spacious nave and an impressive altarpiece dedicated to Our Lady of the Choir. The basilica houses several important religious artworks, including a Gothic image of the Virgin Mary that survived the 1489 fire. The church's pipe organ, considered one of the finest in the Basque Country, provides magnificent acoustics for the religious services and occasional concerts held here. The basilica occupies a central position in local religious life and plays a key role in important city celebrations, particularly during Holy Week when numerous processions begin or end at its doors.
Iglesia de San Vicente
The Iglesia de San Vicente holds the distinction of being the oldest church in San Sebastián, with origins dating back to the 16th century. This Gothic temple, completed in 1584, features a simple yet elegant exterior with a distinctive square tower. The church survived the devastating fire of 1813 when British and Portuguese troops destroyed much of the city during the Peninsular War. The interior features three naves of different heights, creating a sense of soaring space typical of Gothic architecture. The main altarpiece, a masterpiece of Baroque art created by Ambrosio de Bengoechea and Bernabé Cordero, depicts scenes from the life of Saint Vincent. The church houses several important religious sculptures, including a notable Cristo de la Bonanza from the 17th century. The acoustics of San Vicente make it a popular venue for sacred music concerts, particularly organ recitals on its historic instrument. Located at the foot of Monte Urgull, the church stands as a testament to San Sebastián's resilience through centuries of conflict and reconstruction.
Miramar Palace
Miramar Palace stands as an elegant reminder of San Sebastián's royal past. Built in 1893 as a summer residence for Queen Maria Christina, the palace exemplifies English cottage style architecture, unusual for the region but chosen specifically to make the queen feel at home. The building sits on a privileged position between Ondarreta and La Concha beaches, surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens that slope gently towards the sea. The palace's warm sandstone façade, timber framework, and slate roof create a striking contrast against the blue backdrop of the bay. The gardens, designed in the English landscape tradition, feature winding paths, ancient trees, and hidden corners that offer spectacular views across La Concha Bay. Although the interior of the palace is not generally open to the public as it now houses academic institutions, the grounds are freely accessible and provide one of the most pleasant green spaces in the city. The royal connection helped establish San Sebastián as a fashionable resort in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting aristocracy from across Europe.
Kursaal
The Kursaal stands as a bold statement of contemporary architecture on San Sebastián's coastline. Designed by Rafael Moneo and completed in 1999, this cultural complex consists of two translucent cubes that appear to be washed up on the shore at the mouth of the Urumea River. The buildings are covered with translucent glass panels that allow them to change appearance throughout the day as light conditions shift—glowing like lanterns at night and appearing as crystalline structures during the day. The larger cube houses the main auditorium with seating for 1,800 people, while the smaller contains a chamber hall and conference facilities. The Kursaal serves as the primary venue for the San Sebastián International Film Festival, one of Europe's most prestigious film events. The space between the two cubes creates a public plaza that connects the city to the sea, while the terraces offer magnificent views of Zurriola Beach. The building's innovative design, which won the Mies van der Rohe Award for European Architecture, represents San Sebastián's embrace of modernity while respecting its natural setting.
El Peine del Viento (The Wind Comb)
El Peine del Viento represents the perfect marriage of art, nature, and engineering. Created by renowned Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida in collaboration with architect Luis Peña Ganchegui, this installation consists of three steel sculptures embedded in the rocks at the western end of Ondarreta Beach. Each piece weighs approximately 10 tonnes and is anchored to the natural rock formations, seeming to grasp the edge of the continent. The sculptures interact dramatically with their environment—during storms, waves crash against the rocks and through specially designed blowholes in the terrace, creating impressive geysers of sea spray. The sound of air being compressed in these cavities creates a haunting whistle that gives voice to the wind being "combed" by the sculptures. The installation is best visited at high tide or during rough seas when the interaction between art and nature is at its most dramatic. The terrace itself, with its pink granite paving, has become an iconic public space where visitors gather to contemplate the meeting of land and sea, art and landscape.
Castillo de la Mota
Castillo de la Mota, also known as La Mota Castle, is a 12th-century military fortress perched atop Mount Urgull. Originally built in 1194 by King Sancho VII of Navarre to protect the city from foreign attacks, the fortress has survived numerous sieges, lightning strikes and changes of ownership throughout its long history. The castle played a crucial role during the Franco-Portuguese siege in 1476, sheltering the city's inhabitants. Over the centuries, various monarchs contributed to its evolution, with significant renovations occurring during the 16th century under Carlos V and in the 17th century following designs by Tiburcio Spanochi. After falling into disrepair in the early 20th century, it was purchased by the San Sebastian city council in 1921, declared a National Monument in 1925, and later restored during the 1960s. Today, the castle stands as a popular tourist destination offering spectacular panoramic views of San Sebastian and the Cantabrian Sea, housing a museum that showcases the city's history.
Top Museums
Art and History Museums
San Telmo Museum
Located in the heart of San Sebastián's Old Town (Parte Vieja), the San Telmo Museum is housed in a magnificent 16th-century Dominican monastery. As the oldest museum in the Basque Country, it offers a comprehensive look at Basque society, from its prehistoric origins to contemporary developments.
The museum's permanent collection is divided into several thematic areas that explore the evolution of Basque society through archaeology, ethnography, fine arts, photography, and more. Visitors can admire prehistoric artefacts, traditional farming implements, fishing equipment, and religious art that tell the story of Basque cultural identity.
The fine arts section features works by renowned artists such as El Greco, Rubens, and Tintoretto, alongside Basque masters like Ignacio Zuloaga and Eduardo Chillida. The museum's crown jewel is undoubtedly the series of murals by Catalan painter Josep Maria Sert, which adorn the ancient church and depict significant moments in Basque history.
The thoughtful juxtaposition of the historic monastery with a modern extension designed by Nieto Sobejano Arquitectos creates a dialogue between tradition and innovation that mirrors the museum's approach to Basque cultural heritage.
Casa de la Historia
Perched atop Monte Urgull in an ancient castle overlooking the city, the Casa de la Historia (House of History) offers a captivating journey through San Sebastián's past. Through audio-visuals, models, and interactive displays, visitors can explore over 800 years of the city's vibrant history.
The museum chronicles San Sebastián's evolution from a small fishing village to a fashionable Belle Époque resort favoured by European royalty. It examines pivotal moments in the city's history, including the devastating fire of 1813 during the Napoleonic Wars and the subsequent rebuilding that gave the city its distinctive architectural character.
The strategic location of the museum itself adds to the experience, as visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of La Concha Bay, the Old Town, and the surrounding mountains from the castle ramparts. The 12-metre-high "Sacred Heart" statue that crowns Monte Urgull is also accessible from the museum.
Cristóbal Balenciaga Museoa
Fashion enthusiasts shouldn't miss the Cristóbal Balenciaga Museoa, located in the designer's hometown of Getaria, a short trip from San Sebastián. Housed in a striking contemporary building connected to the historic Aldamar Palace, the museum pays homage to one of the most influential fashion designers of the 20th century.
The museum's collection comprises over 1,200 pieces, including haute couture garments, accessories, and original patterns that showcase Balenciaga's revolutionary approach to fashion. Thematic exhibitions explore his technical innovations, such as the semi-fitted suit, the tunic dress, and the baby doll dress, which transformed women's silhouettes and continue to influence contemporary design.
Visitors can also learn about Balenciaga's early years in Getaria, his training in Madrid, and his rise to prominence in Paris. The museum offers insight into his working methods, his relationships with clients and collaborators, and his lasting impact on the fashion industry.
The building itself, designed by Cuban architect Julián Argilagos, features exhibition spaces flooded with natural light that complement the exquisite garments on display.
Museo Naval
Situated in the picturesque La Concha Bay, the Museo Naval explores San Sebastián's rich maritime history through artefacts, models, and interactive displays. The museum traces the evolution of Basque seafaring from prehistoric times to the present day.
Exhibits highlight significant achievements of Basque navigators, shipbuilders, and cartographers who contributed to maritime exploration and trade. Visitors can learn about traditional fishing techniques, the whaling industry that brought prosperity to coastal towns, and the development of naval technology.
The museum houses an impressive collection of ship models, navigational instruments, and maritime paintings that illustrate the changing relationship between the Basque people and the sea. A section dedicated to the Royal Cantabrian Sailing Club explores the development of recreational sailing and the prestigious regattas held in the bay.
Interactive elements allow visitors to experience aspects of maritime life, from knot-tying to understanding navigation principles, making the museum engaging for visitors of all ages.
Science and Technology Museums
Aquarium San Sebastián
Situated in the 'Palace of the Sea' at the end of the picturesque port, the Aquarium San Sebastián is one of Europe's most modern oceanographic museums. This fascinating complex delights visitors of all ages with its extensive marine life displays and interactive exhibits.
The highlight of the aquarium is the 360-degree underwater tunnel, where visitors can walk surrounded by sharks, rays, and countless fish species native to the Bay of Biscay and beyond. The oceanarium holds approximately 1.8 million litres of water and houses over 200 species.
Beyond the living collections, the museum features an impressive naval section that pays homage to San Sebastián's maritime heritage. Historical ship models, navigational instruments, and detailed dioramas illustrate the evolution of Basque seafaring traditions, from whale hunting expeditions to modern fishing practices.
The aquarium also houses a skeleton of a North Atlantic right whale, serving as a poignant reminder of the historical relationship between Basque whalers and these magnificent creatures, which were hunted nearly to extinction.
Eureka! Zientzia Museoa
For those with a passion for science, the Eureka! Zientzia Museoa is a must-visit. This hands-on science museum features 169 interactive exhibits spread across various themed zones, encouraging visitors to learn through experimentation and play.
The museum's Animalia section is particularly popular, housing terrariums and aquariums that showcase diverse ecosystems and wildlife. The Planetarium offers immersive astronomical experiences with its state-of-the-art projection system, while the Simulation Area allows visitors to experience the sensation of flying a plane or driving a Formula 1 car.
The Eureka! Zientzia Museoa also features a fascinating exhibition on the human body, exploring anatomy, physiology, and the senses through interactive displays. The outdoor science park extends the learning experience with large-scale exhibits demonstrating principles of physics and mechanics.
Regular workshops, science shows, and special events make this museum a dynamic space where scientific concepts come alive for visitors of all ages.
Unique Cultural Experiences
Chillida Leku
Just a short distance from the city centre in Hernani, Chillida Leku (meaning "Chillida's Place" in Basque) showcases the work of renowned Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida. Set in the picturesque 16th-century Zabalaga farmhouse and its surrounding 12-hectare grounds, the museum houses a comprehensive collection of Chillida's sculptures and archives.
The outdoor sculpture park features over 40 monumental works in materials such as steel, granite, and concrete, thoughtfully placed throughout the verdant landscape. These powerful abstract forms engage in a dialogue with nature, changing with the light and seasons.
Inside the carefully restored farmhouse, visitors can admire smaller sculptures, drawings, and the artist's distinctive "gravitaciones" (suspended paper works). The museum also houses Chillida's personal library and archives, offering researchers and enthusiasts insight into his creative process and philosophical approach to art.
Chillida Leku is more than a museum; it's an immersive experience that embodies the artist's vision of creating a space where his works could "breathe" in harmony with nature.
Sagardoetxea - Basque Cider Museum
Situated in nearby Astigarraga, the cider capital of the Basque Country, Sagardoetxea offers a delightful exploration of Basque cider-making traditions. This innovative museum is divided into three main areas: an apple orchard with over 100 native varieties, a traditional cider house, and an exhibition space.
Visitors can learn about the complete cider-making process, from apple cultivation to fermentation and bottling. The museum explores the cultural significance of cider in Basque society, from its nutritional importance for fishermen and farmers to the social rituals of the "txotx" season, when cider houses open their doors for public tastings.
Interactive exhibits allow visitors to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of traditional cider production. During harvest season, the museum organises apple-picking activities and demonstrations of pressing techniques using historic equipment.
The museum's orchard serves as a living gene bank, preserving indigenous apple varieties that might otherwise be lost to modern agricultural practices.
Albaola - The Sea Factory of the Basques
Located in the picturesque fishing village of Pasaia, just a few kilometres from San Sebastián, Albaola offers an immersive experience in Basque maritime tradition. This unique museum-shipyard is dedicated to preserving and showcasing traditional Basque boatbuilding techniques.
The centrepiece of Albaola is the ongoing construction of a replica of the San Juan, a 16th-century Basque whaling ship that sank off the coast of Newfoundland in 1565. Visitors can observe skilled craftspeople using traditional tools and methods to rebuild this historic vessel, following archaeological evidence and historical documents.
Beyond the shipbuilding workshop, the museum features exhibitions on Basque maritime history, including the significant role Basque sailors played in early transatlantic voyages and the whaling industry. Interactive displays explain navigation techniques, trade routes, and daily life aboard historical vessels.
Albaola also houses a traditional rope-making workshop and a small boatyard where visitors can see the construction of traineras (traditional Basque rowing boats) and other smaller craft.
Tabakalera - International Centre for Contemporary Culture
Housed in a former tobacco factory in the Egia district, Tabakalera has been transformed into a dynamic cultural hub that combines exhibition spaces with creative studios, a film archive, and public areas for cultural exchange.
While not a traditional museum, Tabakalera hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary art that challenge conventions and engage with current social issues. The centre emphasises experimental practices across various disciplines, including visual arts, cinema, design, and literature.
Tabakalera's Medialab promotes digital culture through workshops and residencies, while its public programmes include film screenings, concerts, and discussions that attract both locals and visitors. The building's rooftop terrace offers spectacular views of the city and serves as a venue for special events.
The thoughtful renovation of the industrial building preserves its architectural heritage while creating versatile spaces for contemporary cultural expression.
Local Cuisine
San Sebastián, renowned for its culinary excellence, offers a delectable array of Basque specialties that will tantalise any food lover's palate. The city's cuisine revolves around fresh seafood, with dishes like baked spider crab, hake cheeks in green sauce, and whole roasted turbot showcasing the bounty of the Cantabrian Sea. Pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, are a must-try, with the Gilda (a skewer of anchovy, olive, and pepper) being a classic choice. Meat enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to savour txuleta, a perfectly grilled, aged beef steak. For a unique delicacy, try kokotxas, the prized fish cheeks typically prepared in a pil-pil sauce. To round off your culinary adventure, indulge in the creamy Basque cheesecake or the traditional Gâteau Basque. With its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and bustling pintxos bars, San Sebastián truly is a gastronomic paradise.
Shopping
San Sebastián is organised into three distinct shopping areas: the Old Town with traditional shops and delicatessens; the Centre along Avenida de la Libertad, featuring upmarket boutiques with brands like Chanel and Zara; and the Gros district, known for art galleries, antiques, and sporting goods. The city houses several shopping centres, including Garbera with over 80 stores, San Martín market combining food vendors and fashion brands, and La Bretxa with its renowned seafood market. San Sebastián strikes a balance between traditional establishments selling Basque specialities and sophisticated boutiques offering luxury items from designers such as Gucci and Moschino.
Nature in and around San Sebastián
San Sebastián boasts remarkable natural settings both within and surrounding the city. The urban landscape features tranquil spaces such as Cristina Enea Park and Miramar Gardens, which offers splendid views of the bay. The iconic La Concha Beach forms a perfect shell-shaped crescent, whilst Ondarreta Beach sits beneath the elegant Miramar Palace. For elevated perspectives, visitors can ascend Monte Urgull to discover Castillo de la Mota or ride the historic funicular to Monte Igueldo. The surrounding region features three impressive natural parks: Aiako Harria with its three peaks over 800 metres, Aralar showcasing the towering Txindoki massif (1,331m), and Pagoeta with its diverse forests and historic mills. Water activities abound with options to sail to Santa Clara Island, surf, or paddleboard in the bay. Don't miss Eduardo Chillida's striking Peine del Viento sculpture dramatically positioned where land meets sea.
Alderdi Eder Gardens
Alderdi Eder Gardens occupy one of the most privileged locations in San Sebastián, stretching along the edge of La Concha Bay in front of the city hall. The name "Alderdi Eder" means "beautiful place" in Basque, an apt description for these meticulously maintained gardens. Created in the late 19th century as part of the city's expansion beyond its medieval walls, the gardens feature geometrically arranged flowerbeds, carefully pruned tamarisk trees, and elegant lampposts that light up the promenade at night. The centrepiece of the gardens is an ornate carousel that has delighted generations of children with its hand-painted wooden horses. Throughout the year, the flowerbeds are replanted to provide seasonal colour, from spring tulips to summer hydrangeas. The gardens provide the perfect foreground for the iconic view of La Concha Bay, creating a harmonious transition between the urban architecture and the natural landscape. This area serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, particularly during the evening paseo (stroll) that forms an important part of Spanish social life.
Ondarreta Beach
Ondarreta Beach sits at the western end of La Concha Bay, separated from its more famous neighbour by the Pico del Loro (Parrot's Beak) rock formation. This 600-metre-long beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere than La Concha whilst maintaining the same standard of beauty and cleanliness. Bordered by the gardens of Miramar Palace and the foothills of Monte Igeldo, Ondarreta provides a stunning natural setting. The beach is particularly popular with locals and features numerous sports facilities, including volleyball courts and areas for beach tennis. When the tide is low, fascinating rock formations are revealed, creating natural pools that are perfect for exploration. The western end of the beach connects to the dramatic setting of El Peine del Viento, making Ondarreta not just a place for sunbathing but the starting point for cultural discovery.
La Concha Beach
La Concha Beach stands as the crown jewel of San Sebastián's coastline. Named after its distinctive shell shape, this 1.5-kilometre stretch of fine golden sand is consistently ranked among Europe's most beautiful urban beaches. The bay is sheltered by Monte Urgull and Monte Igeldo on either side, creating calm waters ideal for swimming. The elegant promenade, lined with the distinctive white railings that have become an emblem of the city, offers a delightful walk with panoramic views across the bay to Santa Clara Island. During summer months, the beach comes alive with colourful parasols and beachgoers, while in winter, it transforms into a serene landscape of pristine sand and rolling waves. The gentle slope of the beach makes it particularly family-friendly, and the crystal-clear waters invite visitors for a refreshing dip regardless of swimming ability.
Zurriola Beach
Zurriola Beach, located in the Gros district across the Urumea River, offers a completely different beach experience. Unlike the sheltered waters of La Concha Bay, Zurriola faces the open Cantabrian Sea, making it a paradise for surfers and water sports enthusiasts. The beach stretches for about 800 metres and is characterised by stronger currents and more powerful waves. Throughout the year, surfers of all levels can be seen riding the waves, with numerous surf schools offering lessons to beginners. The beach has become the epicentre of San Sebastián's surf culture, hosting international competitions and attracting a younger, more alternative crowd. The promenade alongside Zurriola is lined with modern cafés and surf shops, creating a vibrant atmosphere that contrasts with the more traditional elegance of La Concha. The beach is also known for its spectacular sunsets, when the fading light creates a dramatic backdrop against the surfers catching their final waves of the day.
Santa Clara Island
Santa Clara Island sits like a green jewel in the centre of La Concha Bay, adding to the postcard-perfect views that have made San Sebastián famous. This small island, rising 48 metres above sea level, creates a natural windbreak that helps keep the waters of La Concha calm and safe for swimming. The island features a charming lighthouse at its highest point, a small chapel dedicated to Santa Clara, and a seasonal bar-restaurant with one of the most unique terraces in the city. On the eastern side of the island lies a small, secluded beach that appears and disappears with the tides, never exceeding 30 metres in length. During summer months, regular boat services connect the island to the mainland, allowing visitors to explore its walking paths and hidden coves. The waters around the island are particularly clear, making it a popular spot for snorkelling and diving. Swimming to the island from La Concha Beach has become something of a rite of passage for visitors and locals alike, with the 400-metre crossing offering a unique perspective of the bay and city.
Monte Urgull
Monte Urgull rises 123 metres above the eastern end of La Concha Bay, serving as a natural watchtower over the city. This historic hill has played a crucial role in San Sebastián's defence for centuries. A network of winding paths leads visitors through lush vegetation to the summit, offering increasingly impressive views with each turn. The hillside is dotted with historical fortifications, including remnants of the old city walls and defensive batteries that tell the story of the city's military past. At the summit stands the imposing Castillo de la Mota, a 12th-century fortress that has witnessed countless sieges and battles. The castle now houses historical exhibitions about San Sebastián's past. Crowning the mountain is the 12-metre-high Cristo de la Mota (Sacred Heart statue), installed in 1950, which has become one of the city's most recognisable landmarks. The various viewpoints around Monte Urgull provide unparalleled panoramas of La Concha Bay, the Old Town, and the surrounding mountains, making the climb well worth the effort.
Monte Igeldo
Monte Igeldo stands at the western end of La Concha Bay, offering what many consider to be the most spectacular views of San Sebastián. Visitors can reach the summit via a charming funicular railway that has been in operation since 1912, a journey that is an attraction in itself. The wooden carriages climb the steep slope, offering increasingly breathtaking vistas before reaching the top. Once at the summit, visitors are rewarded with a sweeping panorama that encompasses the entire bay, the city, and the surrounding mountains. Monte Igeldo is also home to a nostalgic amusement park that has maintained its early 20th-century charm, featuring classic rides like a wooden roller coaster, a haunted house, and bumper cars. The historic lighthouse, El Faro de Igueldo, stands at the edge of the cliff, having guided ships into the bay since 1855. The terrace of the Monte Igeldo Hotel offers one of the most privileged dining locations in the city, where visitors can enjoy Basque cuisine while gazing at the spectacular landscape below.
Getting There & Around
San Sebastián is easily accessible by flying to Bilbao Airport and taking the hourly Pesa bus, which costs 17€ per person and takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. Once in the city, walking is the most pleasant way to explore, as San Sebastián is quite pedestrian-friendly. For longer distances, the city boasts an extensive and affordable bus network operated by Dbus, with services running from early morning until late evening. Night buses, known as 'Búhos', operate on weekends and holidays. Taxis are readily available but don't typically stop when hailed; it's best to find a taxi rank or call for one. For a unique perspective of the city, tourists can hop on the Donostia-San Sebastián City Tour bus, which offers a comprehensive sightseeing route with audio guides in multiple languages. The TouristCard is an excellent option for visitors, providing unlimited public transport use and discounts at various attractions.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit San Sebastian is during the shoulder seasons of May, June, September, and October when the weather remains pleasantly warm and sunny, but the crowds are significantly smaller than during the peak summer months of July and August. May is particularly delightful, offering more sunny days than June whilst still avoiding the summer heat and tourist influx. For those seeking the highest temperatures, July through September provides the warmest conditions with average daily maximums of around 24°C, making these months ideal for beach lovers as sea temperatures reach a comfortable 22°C. Although San Sebastian experiences rainfall throughout the year due to its maritime climate, the summer months are relatively drier. Winter visitors need not be deterred by the cooler temperatures and increased rainfall, as the vibrant Basque culture and exceptional culinary scene can be enjoyed year-round, with locals simply bundling up and heading to their favourite pintxos bars regardless of the weather.