City guide — Spain
Donostia-San Sebastián travel guide · Europe
Donostia-San Sebastián is a stunning coastal city in the Basque Country of Spain, renowned for having one of the best urban beaches in Europe and an extraordinary culinary scene. With its charming Old Town, world-class pintxos bars, and multiple Michelin-starred restaurants, it is a paradise for food lovers. Surfers, sun-seekers, and culture enthusiasts all find their place in this vibrant yet intimate city of 187,000.
Summer months offer warm weather perfect for enjoying the beaches, outdoor dining, and the lively festival atmosphere. The cider house season (January to May) is also a unique local experience worth considering.
One of the most celebrated urban beaches in Europe, La Concha is a sheltered crescent-shaped bay with calm waters, an island in the bay, and stunning views of the surrounding city and hills.
The historic heart of San Sebastián, packed with pintxos bars, boutique shops, churches, and lively squares. The streets running parallel to Boulevard are the epicenter of the city's famous food culture.
A wide-ranging museum partially housed in a 16th-century Dominican convent, featuring Basque art and culture across multiple floors including a top-floor gallery dedicated to Basque artists.
A hilltop at the western end of La Concha bay offering panoramic views over the city and coastline, accessible by funicular. Home to a charming vintage amusement park at the summit.
A dynamic surf beach east of the Old Town and river, popular with surfers and beach sports enthusiasts. More exposed to waves than La Concha, making it ideal for surfing.
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One of Spain's most celebrated restaurants, holding three Michelin stars. Run by chef Juan Mari Arzak and his daughter Elena, it is a temple of innovative Basque gastronomy.
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A surf school founded in 2012 on Zurriola beach offering lessons for beginners and advanced surfers with experienced trainers. Board and wetsuit rentals also available.
A long-established surf school on Zurriola beach offering group surf lessons and equipment rentals, with an associated surf shop.
A historic funicular railway that carries visitors up Mount Igueldo, offering spectacular views over La Concha bay and access to the vintage amusement park at the summit.
Home stadium of Real Sociedad, San Sebastián's La Liga football club. Attending a match, especially the Basque Derby against Athletic Bilbao, is an electrifying local experience.
Kayaks can be hired on Ondarreta beach for exploring the calm waters of La Concha bay, with the city's iconic skyline as a backdrop.
The largest city in the Basque Country and a major cultural hub, home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and a vibrant pintxos scene.
Famous for the Running of the Bulls during the San Fermín festival, Pamplona is a historic city with a charming old town and rich Navarrese culture.
The capital of the Basque Country, known for its well-preserved medieval old town, green spaces, and status as a European Green Capital.
A glamorous French Basque resort town just across the border, famous for its surf culture, Belle Époque architecture, and beautiful beaches.
A French border town and transport hub connecting San Sebastián to the French rail network, with its own pleasant beach and views of the Spanish coast.
A picturesque fishing village and natural harbor just east of San Sebastián, reachable by a scenic coastal hike of about 2.5 hours along marked trails.
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