San Sebastián: The Complete Guide

San Sebastián, located in Basque Country, is a city renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery, world-class cuisine, and elegant charm. One of its most famous attractions is La Concha Beach, a stunning crescent-shaped bay with golden sands and clear waters that make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or taking a relaxing seaside stroll. The beachfront promenade, lined with historic railings and stylish cafés, invites visitors to enjoy the magnificent ocean views while experiencing the relaxed yet refined atmosphere of San Sebastián. Whether indulging in water sports or simply enjoying the serenity of the waves, La Concha is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.
Beyond its coastal beauty, San Sebastián offers a vibrant culinary scene, widely regarded as one of the finest in the world. The city is famous for its pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, served in lively bars throughout the Parte Vieja (Old Town). Visitors can spend their evenings hopping between taverns, sampling exquisite small plates such as txistorra sausage, bacalao (salted cod), and Idiazabal cheese, paired with local cider or Txakoli wine. San Sebastián also boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants, where chefs craft groundbreaking dishes that elevate Basque cuisine to an art form. The fusion of traditional flavors and avant-garde techniques makes dining in the city an unforgettable experience.
For those who love scenic viewpoints and cultural excursions, Monte Igueldo offers spectacular panoramas of the city and coastline, accessible via a funicular ride that dates back to the early 20th century. Meanwhile, the city’s cultural festivals, including the internationally acclaimed San Sebastián Film Festival, bring excitement and artistic flair throughout the year. Whether enjoying stunning landscapes, indulging in exceptional food, or soaking in its cultural richness, San Sebastián delivers a dynamic yet relaxing getaway that encapsulates the essence of Basque Country.
Table of Contents
- History of San Sebastián
- San Sebastián in the Medieval Era
- San Sebastián in the Age of Exploration
- San Sebastián in the 19th Century
- San Sebastián in the 20th Century
- San Sebastián Today
- 27 Best places to See in San Sebastián
- Plaza de Gipuzkoa
- Plaza Cervantes
- Parque de Alderdi Eder
- Playa de la Concha
- Victoria Eugenia Theater
- Ayuntamiento de San Sebastian
- Mercado de la Bretxa
- Real Club Náutico de San Sebastián
- San Sebastián Parte Vieja or Old Town
- Kursaal
- Iglesia de San Vicente
- Basílica de Santa María del Coro
- Plaza de la Constitución
- La Perla Spa
- San Telmo Museum
- Untzi Naval Museum San Sebastian
- Playa Zurriola
- Monte Urgull
- Aquarium Donostia-San Sebastian
- Construcción Vacía
- Santa Clara Island
- Ondarreta Beach
- Miramar Palace
- Peine del Viento
- Mount Igueldo
- Torreón de Monte Igueldo
- Faro Monte Igueldo
- 10 Best Day Trips from San Sebastián
- Where to Stay in San Sebastián
- Best Time to Visit San Sebastián
- Visiting San Sebastián in Spring
- Visiting San Sebastián in Summer
- Visiting San Sebastián in Autumn
- Visiting San Sebastián in Winter
- How to get to San Sebastián
History of San Sebastián
San Sebastián in the Medieval Era
San Sebastián’s origins date back to the 12th century, when it was established as a strategic coastal settlement under the reign of King Sancho VI. Its location made it a vital maritime and trade hub, attracting merchants and fishermen who contributed to the city’s early economic growth. Fortifications were built to protect against pirate invasions, and San Sebastián quickly became an important stronghold for the kingdom.
Throughout the medieval period, San Sebastián developed a thriving fishing industry, particularly in whaling and cod exports. It also played a significant role in European trade routes, connecting merchants across the Iberian Peninsula and beyond. Despite occasional conflicts and territorial disputes, the city’s fortifications ensured its resilience and growth.
San Sebastián in the Age of Exploration
The 16th and 17th centuries marked an era of expansion and global trade, with San Sebastián benefiting from its connection to Spanish exploration and maritime expeditions. The city’s port was used for naval operations, with ships departing for transatlantic voyages. During this time, San Sebastián became known for its shipbuilding expertise, contributing to Spain’s growing influence in international trade and military power.
However, the city also endured periods of instability, facing military conflicts that resulted in multiple sieges and destruction. Despite these challenges, San Sebastián rebuilt itself stronger each time, reinforcing its strategic importance along Spain’s coastal defense network.
San Sebastián in the 19th Century
The 19th century was transformative for San Sebastián, as it transitioned from a military stronghold to an elegant seaside resort. During the reign of Queen Isabel II, the city’s natural beauty and coastal appeal made it a favored destination for aristocrats and royalty. The construction of grand promenades, luxurious hotels, and cultural landmarks gave San Sebastián a refined and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
This era also saw the expansion of urban infrastructure, with developments such as the famous La Concha Beach promenade attracting visitors from across Europe. The city’s cultural scene flourished, paving the way for its reputation as one of the most sophisticated destinations in Spain.
San Sebastián in the 20th Century
The 20th century was marked by political shifts, economic challenges, and artistic movements that shaped San Sebastián’s identity. The Spanish Civil War had a significant impact on the region, but the city remained a cultural beacon, hosting intellectual gatherings and creative minds. By the mid-20th century, San Sebastián gained international recognition through its cinema, gastronomy, and festivals, including the prestigious San Sebastián Film Festival, which continues to attract global talent.
The city also became a culinary powerhouse, earning recognition for its pintxos culture and Michelin-starred restaurants. Chefs introduced groundbreaking gastronomic innovations, cementing San Sebastián’s status as a world-class food destination.
San Sebastián Today
Today, San Sebastián is celebrated as a blend of tradition and modern luxury, attracting visitors for its coastal beauty, culinary excellence, and cultural events. Its old-town charm remains intact, while contemporary influences continue to evolve its artistic and architectural landscape. Whether exploring its historic streets, indulging in gourmet experiences, or attending international festivals, San Sebastián stands as one of Spain’s most captivating cities.
Visiting San Sebastián for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in San Sebastián on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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27 Best places to See in San Sebastián
This complete guide to San Sebastián not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in San Sebastián and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Plaza de Gipuzkoa

Location: Gipuzkoa Plaza 10 20004 Donostia Gipuzkoa Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Plaza de Gipuzkoa
Plaza Cervantes

Location: Kontxa Pasealekua, 1, 20007 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Plaza Cervantes
Parque de Alderdi Eder

Location: Alderdi Eder, Alderdi Eder, Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Parque de Alderdi Eder
Playa de la Concha

Visiting Playa de la Concha
Victoria Eugenia Theater

Location: Victoria Eugenia Theater Argentinar Errepublika, 2 20004 Donostia-San Sebastian SS Spain | Hours: From 11:30am to 1:30pm & from 5pm to 8pm | Website | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Victoria Eugenia Theater
Ayuntamiento de San Sebastian

Location: 1 Ijentea Kalea, Donostia, Euskadi, 20003, Spain | Hours: N/A | Price: N/A | Website | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Ayuntamiento de San Sebastian
Mercado de la Bretxa

Location: De la Brecha Enparantza, 2, 20003 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain | Hours: 8am-9pm Mon-Sat | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Mercado de la Bretxa
Real Club Náutico de San Sebastián

Location: Antiguo Embarcadero del Náutico Lasta Plaza, 1 20003 Donostia-San Sebastian SS Spain | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Real Club Náutico de San Sebastián
San Sebastián Parte Vieja or Old Town

| Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting San Sebastián Parte Vieja or Old Town
Kursaal

Location: Avenida de Zurriola, 1, San Sebastián | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Kursaal
Iglesia de San Vicente

Location: Calle de San Vicente, 3 - 20003 Donostia / San Sebastián Spain | Hours: 9am-1pm & 5-8pm | Price: Free | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Iglesia de San Vicente
Basílica de Santa María del Coro

Location: Basílica de Santa María del Coro 31 de Agosto Kalea, 46 20003 Donostia Gipuzkoa Spain | Hours: From 10:15am to 1:15pm and from 4:45pm to 7:45pm. | Price: Free | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Basílica de Santa María del Coro
Plaza de la Constitución

Location: Constitución Plaza, 119, 20003 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Plaza de la Constitución
La Perla Spa

Location: La Perla Centro Talaso Sport paseo de la concha Edificio La Perla 20007 Donostia Gipuzkoa Spain | Hours: 8am-10pm | Website | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting La Perla Spa
San Telmo Museum

Location: San Telmo Museum Plaza Zuloaga, 1 20003 Donostia Gipuzkoa Spain | Hours: 10am-8pm Tue-Sun | Price: adult/child €6/free, Tue free | Website | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting San Telmo Museum
Untzi Naval Museum San Sebastian

Location: Euskal Itsas Museoa - Museo Marítimo Vasco Kaiko Pasealekua, 24 20003 Donostia-San Sebastian,Spain | Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 10am to 2pm / 4pm to 7pm Sunday and bank holidays: 11am to 2pm Mondays: Closed. | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Untzi Naval Museum San Sebastian
Playa Zurriola

Location: Zurriola beach Gipuzkoa Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Playa Zurriola
Monte Urgull

Location: Monte Urgull, Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Monte Urgull
Aquarium Donostia-San Sebastian

Location: Aquarium de San Sebastián 1 Plaza de Carlos Blasco Imaz 20003 Donostia Gipuzkoa Spain | Hours: 10am-9pm Jul & Aug, 10am-8pm Mon-Fri, to 9pm Sat & Sun Easter-Jun & Sep, 10am-7pm Mon-Fri, to 8pm Sat & Sun Oct-Easter | Price: Adult/child €13/6.50 | Website | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Aquarium Donostia-San Sebastian
Construcción Vacía

Location: Jorge Oteiza: Construcción Vacía, Pasealeku Berria, Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.1km
Visiting Construcción Vacía
Santa Clara Island

Location: Kalea Isla de Santa Clara, 2, 20003, Gipuzkoa, Spain | Hours: All day every half hour from 10:00 until 20:00. | Price: Boats direct €4.00, tour the bay is €6.00 each way | Distance: 1.5km
Visiting Santa Clara Island
Ondarreta Beach

Location: Ondarreta Pasealekua, 4, 20008 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.6km
Visiting Ondarreta Beach
Miramar Palace

Location: Parque Miramar - 20009 Donostia / San Sebastián | Distance: 1.6km
Visiting Miramar Palace
Peine del Viento

Location: Paseo Eduardo Chillida - 20008 Donostia / San Sebastián | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Peine del Viento
Mount Igueldo

| Hours: 10am-9pm Mon-Fri, to 10pm Sat & Sun Jul, 10am-10pm Aug, 10am-8pm Mon-Fri, to 9pm Sat & Sun Jun & Sep, shorter hours Oct-May | Price: €2.30 | Website | Distance: 2.2km
Visiting Mount Igueldo
Torreón de Monte Igueldo

Visiting Torreón de Monte Igueldo
Faro Monte Igueldo

Location: Igeldo mendiko itsasargia Itsasargi Pasealekua, 107 20008 Donostia Gipuzkoa Spain | Hours: N/A | Distance: 2.5km
Visiting Faro Monte Igueldo
Best Day Trips from San Sebastián
A day trip from San Sebastián offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around San Sebastián provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Visiting Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Biarritz

Visiting Biarritz
Bayonne

Visiting Bayonne
Pamplona

Visiting Pamplona
Vitoria-Gasteiz

Visiting Vitoria-Gasteiz
Bilbao

Visiting Bilbao
Logroño

Visiting Logroño
Pau

Visiting Pau
Santander

Visiting Santander
Lourdes

Visiting Lourdes
Where to Stay in San Sebastián
San Sebastián offers a range of accommodations that cater to visitors looking for seaside luxury, cultural immersion, or scenic tranquility. Parte Vieja (Old Town) is the best place to stay for travelers who want to be in the heart of the city’s pintxos scene, surrounded by historic buildings, lively bars, and charming plazas. This area provides easy access to key attractions such as San Sebastián Cathedral and Plaza de la Constitución, making it ideal for those wanting to explore the city’s vibrant character. A recommended hotel in this district is Hotel Villa Soro, offering elegant accommodations in a restored manor house with classic Basque charm.
For visitors looking for beachfront luxury and relaxation, La Concha Beach is a prime location. This district offers stunning views of the Bay of Biscay, upscale dining options, and access to beautiful promenades where guests can enjoy the city’s most iconic coastal scenery. Staying near Playa de la Concha allows travelers to wake up to the sound of waves, experience elegant terraces, and take refreshing morning strolls along the famous seaside walkway. A fantastic option in this area is Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra, featuring stylish rooms with direct views of the bay and a refined ambiance.
If you prefer a quiet retreat with breathtaking nature, Monte Igueldo and the outskirts provide a peaceful stay while still being a short distance from the city center. This area is perfect for travelers wanting panoramic views, hiking trails, and a relaxed escape from city crowds. It’s ideal for visitors who enjoy outdoor activities and wish to experience the green hills surrounding San Sebastián. A recommended stay in this district is Akelarre Hotel, offering a luxurious boutique experience with world-class dining and serene coastal surroundings. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s culinary delights, its stunning coastline, or its peaceful hillside retreats, San Sebastián has accommodations to suit every traveler’s preference.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in San Sebastián. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
San Sebastián Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit San Sebastián
Visiting San Sebastián in Spring
Spring, from March to May, is an excellent time to visit San Sebastián. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F). This season is perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions, such as the beaches and parks, and enjoying the blossoming flowers and vibrant greenery.
Visiting San Sebastián in Summer
Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season in San Sebastián. The weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). This is the best time to enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches, such as La Concha and Zurriola, and participate in various water sports. The city’s lively festivals and events, including the famous San Sebastián Jazz Festival in July, make summer an exciting time to visit.
Visiting San Sebastián in Autumn
Autumn, from September to November, is another great time to visit San Sebastián. The temperatures are cooler, ranging from 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F), making it comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The crowds from the summer have diminished, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the city’s historical sites and cultural attractions. The autumn colors enhance the natural beauty of the area.
Visiting San Sebastián in Winter
Winter, from December to February, is mild in San Sebastián, with temperatures averaging between 8°C and 15°C (46°F to 59°F). This is the off-peak tourist season, offering a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. Winter is a good time to explore indoor attractions such as museums and historic buildings without the crowds. The city’s festive decorations and events during the holiday season add a charming touch to the visit.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 11°C 55°F
- February 12°C 58°F
- March 14°C 62°F
- April 15°C 63°F
- May 19°C 69°F
- June 21°C 74°F
- July 24°C 78°F
- August 24°C 78°F
- September 24°C 78°F
- October 21°C 74°F
- November 15°C 62°F
- December 13°C 59°F
Festivals held in San Sebastián
How to get to San Sebastián
By Air to San Sebastián
The nearest airport to San Sebastián is San Sebastián Airport (EAS), located about 20 kilometers from the city center. Another option is Bilbao Airport (BIO), which is approximately 100 kilometers away. From these airports, you can reach San Sebastián by taxi, car rental, or shuttle services.
By Train to San Sebastián
San Sebastián is well-connected by train, with the main station being Donostia-San Sebastián. There are regular train services from major Spanish cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Bilbao. High-speed trains (AVE) and regional trains (Renfe) provide convenient and comfortable travel options.
By Bus to San Sebastián
Several bus companies operate routes to San Sebastián from various cities across Spain and neighboring countries. The main bus station, Estación de Autobuses de Donostia-San Sebastián, is centrally located, offering easy access to the city’s main attractions.
By Car to San Sebastián
Driving to San Sebastián is a convenient option, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding Basque Country. From Bilbao, the drive takes about 1.5 hours via the AP-8 highway. From Madrid, it takes around 4.5 to 5 hours via the A-1 and AP-1 highways. The city is well-connected by road, making it easy to navigate by car.
If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.By Local Transportation in San Sebastián
Once in San Sebastián, you can explore the city by walking or using the local bus network operated by Dbus. Taxis and bike rentals are also readily available for getting around. Walking is particularly enjoyable in San Sebastián due to its compact size and the close proximity of major attractions.