Discover San Sebastián: Top Attractions and Activities
San Sebastián, a stylish beach resort in Spain, offers sandy beaches, a charming Old Town, and renowned Michelin-starred cuisine. The city is framed by the hills of Urgull and Igeldo, and its Bay of Concha is famous for its scenic beauty and tranquil waters.
Visitors can explore royal palaces, stroll along the beach promenade, and indulge in pintxos, the Basque version of tapas. Read on for the best experiences in San Sebastián.
1. La Concha Bay's Seaside Splendor
La Concha Bay is San Sebastián's crown jewel, with its white-sand beach and calm waters. The Playa de la Concha exudes elegance, flanked by the La Perla spa and the Palacio de Miramar. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, with amenities like public toilets, showers, and lifeguard services.
The Paseo de la Concha promenade is ideal for a leisurely walk, and the nearby Alameda del Boulevard is a lively spot with shops and eateries.
2. Old Town Exploration
San Sebastián's Old Town, nestled between Monte Urgull and Alameda del Boulevard, is a bustling hub with the Plaza de la Constitución and the Iglesia de San Vicente. It's the place to be for pintxos, with a vibrant atmosphere in the evenings.
3. Monte Urgull & Monte Ulía: History and Nature
Monte Urgull offers a historic walk to Castillo de la Mota, while Monte Ulía boasts the Parque de Ulía for hiking and the Mirador de Ulía restaurant with panoramic views.
4. Museo San Telmo
The Museo San Telmo showcases Basque cultural heritage within a 16th-century convent. It features archaeology, fine arts, and ethnography collections.
5. Palacio de Miramar
The English Tudor-style Palacio de Miramar offers a glimpse into royal vacations with its gardens and sea views.
6. Monte Igueldo's Views and Amusement Park
Monte Igueldo provides breathtaking views and family fun at its amusement park, with dining options like the Mercure San Sebastián Monte Igueldo's restaurant.
7. Isla de Santa Clara
The tranquil Isla de Santa Clara offers a beach, natural swimming pools, and a lighthouse with stunning views.
8. Basilica de Santa Maria del Coro
This 18th-century Baroque church is a must-see with its ornate facade and Neo-Gothic interior.
9. Surf at Playa de la Zurriola
Playa de la Zurriola is a hotspot for surfers and beach sports enthusiasts, with the Centro Kursaal nearby for cultural events.
10. Relax at Playa de Ondarreta
Playa de Ondarreta is a family-friendly beach for sunbathing, swimming, and sports, with a children's playground and winter surfing.
11. Aquarium San Sebastián
The San Sebastián Aquarium, part of an Oceanographic Museum, displays diverse marine life and offers an underwater tunnel experience.
12. Catedral del Buen Pastor
The Cathedral of the Good Shepherd is a Neo-Gothic landmark with a richly decorated interior and stunning stained-glass windows.
13. International Jazz Festival in July
The International Jazz Festival is a six-day event with over 60 performances, mixing jazz and blues in various city venues.
14. Parque de Aiete
Parque de Aiete, with its romantic landscape and cultural events, is a serene spot for relaxation and exploration.
15. Hondarribia Fishing Village
Hondarribia is a picturesque village known for its historic landmarks and Michelin-starred cuisine, just a short drive from San Sebastián.
16. Carretera del Jaizkibel Scenic Drive
The Carretera del Jaizkibel offers a scenic drive with views of the countryside and a rustic hotel for a peaceful stay.
17. Day Trip to Getaria
Getaria, a scenic drive from San Sebastián, is a fishing port with a historic church and waterfront seafood restaurants.
18. Monasterio de San Ignacio de Loyola
The Monastery of San Ignacio de Loyola, in the Urola Valley, is a Baroque masterpiece with a stunning church and altar.
