San Sebastian hotels

Vibrant San Sebastian stretches out along Spain’s northern coast, and has one of the finest city beaches in Europe. Its Basque culture and cuisine are irresistible to visitors who want to discover a fascinating side of the Spanish coast. Its lively arts scene made it a natural choice to be a European Capital of Culture.

San Sebastian is a city of festivals, starting in January with a massive bash celebrating its patron namesake saint. Summertime sizzles during July’s jazz festival as well as August’s Semana Grande festival, which includes a spectacular fireworks extravaganza. September brings the San Sebastian Film Festival, one of the most enjoyable in the cinema-world calendar.

Things to Do in San Sebastian

Start at the beautiful crescent-shaped Concha Beach, where even in the winter you’ll find people strolling along the beach, enjoying the fresh Atlantic breezes. Then head to the old town, Casco Viejo, where you can join the locals strolling through its narrow streets and in the wide expanse of Plaza de la Constitución, the main square. Check out the imposing Baroque facade of the 18th-century Basilica de Santa Maria, just around the corner.

From Casco Viejo, it’s a short walk to Monte Urgull, a steep wooded headland where you can catch some amazing sunsets. Take one of the trails leading to the top, where panoramic views await you. Discover the region’s marine world and seafaring history at the aquarium at the base of the hill.

Where to Stay in San Sebastian

There’s a hotel for every budget in San Sebastian, as well as its suburbs and even in the villages further west, near the border with France. There’s everything from intimate guesthouses a short walk from the beach to grand hotels in lush gardens with luxury accommodation and roof terraces with sweeping views of the coast. Or you could opt for a romantic hideaway in the middle of the Spanish countryside.

Where to Eat in San Sebastian

San Sebastian’s food scene is among the most exciting in Spain. It’s the home of pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, which you can discover on a leisurely trawl through the atmospheric bars in Casco Viejo. Not surprisingly, seafood forms a major part of Basque cuisine, so feast on spider crab and squid along with succulent fresh fish. Treat yourself to a blow-out meal at one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants that champion the new Basque cuisine.

Shopping in San Sebastian

Check out the top-class delis and boutiques in Casco Viejo, as well as the tempting food stalls in the large covered Brexta market. Head across the Urumea River to the eastern side of San Sebastian and its Gros district, where surf shops, galleries and antiques shops are just a stone’s throw from the beach.

After soaking up San Sebastian’s sun and uncovering the secrets of its pintxos scene, you’ll find plenty of attractive hotels wherever you stay – whether it’s by the beach or in the tranquil countryside.