In the early 1900s, the city became very popular when Queen Maria Cristina built her summer residence by La Concha beach. This led to the construction of luxury hotels, casinos, and theaters, making San Sebastian one of Spain's most popular cities. This remains true today, and many visitors come to experience the city's extensive culinary offerings for the summer or even just a weekend getaway.
Food is a significant aspect of San Sebastian, ranging from simple tapas bars to 3-star Michelin restaurants. In the old town, there's a street filled with bars serving "pintxos," which are pieces of bread topped with various ingredients like cheese or shrimp. Simply stand at the bar, pick up a plate, and choose the pintxos that look most appealing, preferably accompanied by a beer or a glass of Rioja wine. Try one pintxo at each bar, then move on to the next one.
For a more upscale dining experience, reserve a table at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant. It's definitely worth a visit, as Arzak is renowned for inspiring the cuisine served at top restaurants across the country. The area boasts three restaurants with 3 Michelin stars.
La Concha beach, the most famous, is located in the city and is shaped like a shell, hence the name. Just outside the city is Ondarreta beach, popular with a younger crowd due to excellent surfing opportunities.
San Sebastian hosts numerous festivals, with the film and jazz festivals being the most renowned. These events attract celebrities annually.
Rent a car and explore the Basque Country for a few days, driving along the coast to enjoy charming villages, vast beaches, and lush landscapes. Stop in a small village for lunch and taste the day's menu, typically plentiful and delicious at a reasonable price. For those interested in visiting two countries, the French border is just a short 20-minute drive away.
Our selection of accommodations in San Sebastian is diverse, ranging from simple hotels to more luxurious ones, and even house rentals are available in the area. Our wide range of options makes it easier for you to find the perfect accommodation for your vacation.
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Map of San Sebastian
Popular hotels in San Sebastian
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