San Sebastian - Discovering Spain

Travelling to San Sebastian

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in San Sebastian, a pretty good destination in Spain (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to San Sebastian and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around San Sebastian, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Spain, here's everything to know about San Sebastian for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a city located in the north of Spain, in the Basque Country region. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, culinary scene, and cultural attractions. The city has a rich history, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the prehistoric age. San Sebastian is also home to several museums, including the San Telmo Museum and the Maritime Museum, as well as many festivals and events throughout the year, such as the San Sebastian International Film Festival and the Tamborrada drum festival.

What to visit in San Sebastian

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in San Sebastián, Spain: 1. La Concha Beach - This beautiful, crescent-shaped beach is one of the most popular attractions in San Sebastián. It's over a kilometer long with crystal clear waters. It's backed by an elegant promenade that's lined with impressive buildings and seafood restaurants.
2. Monte Igueldo - This is a must-visit spot in San Sebastián, a hill with stunning views of the city and the Bay of Biscay. You can reach the summit by a funicular and enjoy a panoramic view from its observation deck, which has a small amusement park and is perfect for families.
3. Old Town (Parte Vieja) - The Old Town is the historic center of San Sebastián. Its narrow streets are lined with colorful bars and restaurants where you can sample some of the best pintxos, delicious Basque tapas.
4. Miramar Palace - This was a royal residence and is now a cultural center which serves as an auditorium, theater and a conference hall with some spectacular gardens.
5. Aquarium Donostia-San Sebastián - This is a great place for families and animal lovers to get a glimpse of the underwater life of the Bay of Biscay region. It has several tanks with fish species such as sharks, rays and parrotfish.
These are just a few of the many attractions to be found in San Sebastián, Spain. There are also museums, iconic bridges, and many other beaches to explore.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Spain, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in San Sebastian.

When to go on holiday to San Sebastian

The best time to visit San Sebastian is during the months of April to June and September to November. The weather during these months is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as beach hopping, hiking, and sightseeing. July and August are peak tourist seasons, and the city is relatively crowded. The temperatures are high, and the beaches are at their busiest. However, if you want to experience the vibrant atmosphere of San Sebastian's festivals, then visiting during these months is recommended.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to San Sebastian

There are several ways to get to San Sebastian, depending on your starting point and preferences: 1. By plane: The closest airport is the San Sebastian Airport, also known as the Donostia Airport. It's a small airport that offers limited flights, mostly from domestic destinations in Spain. The alternative is to fly to Bilbao Airport, located about 100km from San Sebastian, and take a direct bus or train to San Sebastian.
2. By train: San Sebastian has a railway station that connects it to major cities in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, and Bilbao. Renfe is the national railway company, and you can book your tickets online.
3. By bus: San Sebastian is well connected by bus to other cities in Spain, as well as to nearby destinations in France. ALSA is the main bus operator, and you can book your tickets online or at the bus station.
4. By car: San Sebastian is easily accessible by car via the A-1 and the AP-1 motorways from Madrid, the AP-8 from Bilbao, and the French motorway A63 from Bayonne.
Once you arrive in San Sebastian, you can take a taxi, bus, or stroll around the city on foot or by bike.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit San Sebastian, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in San Sebastian

San Sebastian, Spain, is a culinary paradise that is famous for its diverse and delicious foods. Here are some of the typical foods of San Sebastian: 1. Pinxtos: These are small snacks that are similar to tapas. They usually consist of toasted bread topped with various ingredients such as ham, seafood, cheese, or vegetables. They are often served on a skewer, and they are a perfect option for a small bite while hopping from bar to bar.
2. Basque-style fish: San Sebastian is located on the coast, so it is no surprise that fish and seafood play a significant role in the local cuisine. Basque-style fish dishes are typically prepared by roasting a whole fish (such as sea bream or turbot) with onions, peppers, tomatoes, and garlic.
3. Txangurro: This is a stuffed crab dish that is popular in San Sebastian. The crab meat is mixed with a creamy sauce made of onions, tomatoes, and red peppers, and then it is baked with breadcrumbs and cheese.
4. Idiazabal cheese: This is a semi-hard, smoky cheese that is produced in the region around San Sebastian. It is made from sheep's milk and has a slightly nutty flavor.
5. Chuleta: This is a thick, grilled beef chop that is a staple of Basque cuisine. It is often served with roasted peppers or other vegetables.
6. Tarta de Queso: This is a traditional Basque cheesecake that is made with a creamy filling that is baked on a crumbly crust. It is typically served cold and dusted with sugar on top. 7. Cider: Although not a food, cider is a key component of San Sebastian's culinary culture. The Basque region is famous for its cider production, and San Sebastian is no exception. Locals typically drink it from a traditional porrón glass and it is often paired with grilled meats and pintxos.
You can find general info about typical foods in Spain here.

Is San Sebastian an expensive destination for tourists?

San Sebastian is considered one of the most expensive cities in Spain for tourists, mainly due to its high demand for accommodation, food, and entertainment. Prices tend to peak during the summer months, when the beaches are crowded and many festivals take place. However, if you plan your trip wisely, and opt for budget-friendly accommodation and eateries, you can still experience the beauty and charm of San Sebastian without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in San Sebastian

The best areas to find accommodation in San Sebastian, Spain, are: 1. Old Town (Parte Vieja): This historic area is the heart of the city, known for its charming narrow streets, tapas bars, and atmosphere.
2. Gros: Located on the east side of the Urumea River, this neighborhood is popular among surfers and offers a laid-back vibe, trendy bars, and restaurants.
3. La Concha: This upscale area stretches along the beautiful beach of the same name and offers some of the city's most luxurious hotels and apartments.
4. Paseo de la Zurriola: Located on the west side of the Urumea River, this area is hip and trendy, known for its lively nightlife, artistic spirit, and fashion boutiques. Regardless of where you stay, San Sebastian is a compact and walkable city, making it easy to explore its attractions from any location.
You can check hotel prices at San Sebastian here:
Booking.com

Is San Sebastian a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, San Sebastian is generally a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in the city is low, and violent crime is rare. However, like any city, tourists should still take basic precautions to ensure their own safety. This includes keeping an eye on their belongings when in crowded areas, avoiding dark or isolated streets at night, and being aware of their surroundings. It's always a good idea to stay alert and use common sense when traveling, but overall, San Sebastian is a safe destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Spain here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting San Sebastian.

What type of travelers will enjoy San Sebastian the most?

San Sebastian is a great destination for all types of travelers as it offers something for everyone. Couples will enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the city with its beautiful beaches, stunning views, and delicious food. Young people will love the vibrant nightlife and the many bars and clubs around the city. Families can take advantage of the many outdoor activities, parks, and aquarium, and museums. Additionally, San Sebastian is known for its surf schools, so it's a great place for surfing enthusiasts of all ages.

How to get around San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a relatively small city and can easily be explored on foot. However, if you want to venture outside the city or cover more ground within it, there are several transportation options available: 1. Bus: San Sebastian has a reliable and affordable bus network that covers most of the city. There are also night buses and special summer routes that connect the city's beaches.
2. Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but they can be a bit expensive. Make sure to check the fares before getting in.
3. Bicycle: The city has an extensive network of bike lanes and rental services. Biking is a great way to move around San Sebastian and explore its surroundings.
4. Train: There is a train station in San Sebastian that connects the city to other destinations in the Basque Country and beyond.
5. Car rental: If you plan on exploring the region, renting a car might be a good option. However, be aware that parking in San Sebastian can be challenging, especially during peak season.

What to see around San Sebastian

There are several beautiful places that can be visited on a day trip from San Sebastian. Here are some suggestions: 1. Bilbao: Known for its iconic Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao also has a beautiful Old Town and some great restaurants.
2. Zarautz: This small coastal town is just 20 km from San Sebastian and is known for its long beach and surfing.
3. Hondarribia: Located just across the Bidasoa River from France, this charming town has a beautiful medieval Old Town and a lovely harbor.
4. Getaria: This fishing village is located about 30 km from San Sebastian and is known for its delicious seafood and beautiful beach.
5. Pasaia: This historic fishing port is known for its picturesque harbor and old town, which has been featured in several movies.
6. Biarritz, France: This upscale seaside resort just across the border from Spain is known for its stunning beaches and art deco architecture.
7. Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France: This charming French town is located just a short distance from the Spanish border with beautiful beaches, a lovely harbor, and impressive architecture.
For every travel information about Spain you can click here.

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