Donostia San Sebastian Hotels

San Sebastian, also known as Donostia, is a beautiful coastal town in the Basque Country of Spain. People love it for its stunning beaches, rich history, and delicious food. Picture yourself walking along La Concha Bay, feeling the warm sun and soft sand. Wander through the narrow streets of the old town, each one telling stories from long ago. Here, old traditions blend seamlessly with modern life, creating a city full of culture and charm. Enjoy the delightful aromas emanating from the local bars, where delicious snacks await. Whether you're exploring rugged trails or relaxing in lush parks, San Sebastian offers unforgettable experiences and memories.

Where is San Sebastian?

San Sebastián, officially known by the bilingual name Donostia / San Sebastián, is a city and municipality located in the Basque Autonomous Community, Spain. It lies on the coast of the Bay of Biscay, approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the border between France and Spain.

Where To Stay In San Sebastian?

San Sebastian offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. However, there are some highlighted areas for first-time visitors:

• Old Town: The beating heart of the city, characterized by its historic buildings, charming cobbled streets, and stunning attractions such as the San Telmo Museum. It offers a mix of guesthouses, boutique hotels, and hostels. Ideal for immersing yourself in the city's historic charm and vibrant nightlife.
• Centro: The Center neighborhood offers chic and contemporary accommodation options. It is suitable for those interested in city exploration or beach relaxation, to discover the city's landmarks and shopping districts.
• Gros: It is known as the hipster neighborhood, characterized by thriving art scenes and plenty of cool bars and restaurants offering excellent vibrant nightlife. It offers budget-friendly accommodation options, including hostels and guesthouses.
• La Concha: If you are a beach lover, La Concha is one of the best choices to stay in Donostia with its crystal-clear beaches and lively atmosphere. In San Sebastian, you can find a variety of accommodations ranging from luxury hotels like Hotel Maria Cristina and boutique options like Hotel Villa Soro to cozy guesthouses such as Pension Altair and budget-friendly hostels like A Room In The City.
• Antiguo-Ondarreta: It is the oldest neighborhood in the city, known for its authentic culture and relaxing atmosphere. It offers a charming blend of coastal beauty and a relaxed ambiance. Here, you'll find accommodation options ranging from cozy guesthouses and boutique hotels to upscale beachfront resorts.
• Amara: This is the hidden gem of San Sebastian for visitors who want to experience the vibrant atmosphere and convenient location that reflects the local way of life. Here, you'll find a variety of accommodation options, including modern hotels, cozy guesthouses, and budget-friendly hostels.
• Mount Urgull: Offers unique accommodation options, such as historic palaces and mansions converted into luxurious hotels. Offers breathtaking views of the city and the bay, although it is somewhat secluded.

Find all the San Sebastian hotels here!

Places To Visit In San Sebastian

Prepare to be captivated by the architectural wonders of this historically rich city. Here are the top attractions in San Sebastian that you absolutely cannot miss during your visit:

• San Telmo Museum: Located at Plaza Zuloaga, offers a collection that focuses on Basque history, culture, photography, religion, and local art, making it a cultural hotspot in the city.
• Comb of the Wind: This iconic sculpture is situated at Eduardo Chillida Pasealekua and is a popular attraction known for its artistic significance and stunning location by the sea.
• Konstituzio Plaza: Found at Juan de Bilbao Kalea, is a highly-rated spot that provides a pleasant environment for visitors to enjoy and explore.
• Aquarium: Situated at  Plaza de Carlos Blasco Imaz, the Aquarium is a highly-rated attraction featuring a diverse collection of marine life, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts.
• Beach of La Concha: A picturesque beach in Gipuzkoa, offering stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere for sunbathing and enjoying the coastal beauty.
• The Good Shepherd of San Sebastián Cathedral: Situated at Urdaneta Kalea, this cathedral is renowned for its impressive architecture and historical significance, drawing visitors intrigued by religious structures.
• Parque de Atracciones Monte Igueldo: Located at De Igueldo Ibilbidea, this amusement park offers a fun-filled experience with various attractions and activities for visitors of all ages.

Is San Sebastian Safe?

San Sebastian is considered a safe city for both tourists and residents, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere.However, visitors should be cautious of petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching in crowded tourist areas and on public transport.

Is San Sebastian Expensive To Visit?

San Sebastian can be considered relatively expensive, especially during peak tourist seasons. Travelers can manage costs by planning in advance, opting for budget-friendly accommodation, dining at local eateries, and seizing deals on flights and lodging.

San Sebastian Currency

The currency used in Granada, Spain, is the Euro (€), as in the rest of Spain. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases, although credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including shops, restaurants, and hotels.

San Sebastian Language

The official languages in San Sebastian are Basque and Spanish. While Basque is the local language of the Basque Country, Spanish is widely spoken in the city. English is also widely spoken in San Sebastian, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and among the younger population. 

San Sebastian Time Zone

San Sebastian is in the Central European Summer Time (CEST) time zone, which has an offset of GMT+2 during daylight saving time. The city observes daylight saving time, with clocks moving forward 1 hour on the last Sunday of March and back 1 hour on the last Sunday of October each year.

How Many Days To Visit San Sebastian?

Spending at least 3 days can provide a good introduction to exploring the city. For a more in-depth exploration or to visit additional museums and surrounding areas, a longer stay of around four days to a week may be preferable.

When Is The Best Time To Stay In San Sebastian?

The best time to stay in San Sebastian is from May to July. During this period, the weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C, making it one of the driest times of the year. During this timeframe, you can enjoy pleasant conditions for exploring the city, relaxing on the beaches, and savoring the renowned culinary scene.

What To Pack For Your Visit To San Sebastian?

Here’s the packing list for San Sebastian depending on which season you plan to visit the city:

• Spring (March to May): Bring your t-shirts, tank tops, and shorts, a light jacket or sweater for mornings or evenings, an umbrella, raincoat, and rain boots.
• Summer (June to August): Lightweight clothing like tank tops and shorts, comfortable, lightweight shoes, and sunscreen.
• Fall (September to November): Jeans or pants, light sweaters, jacket for layering, and comfortable shoes.
• Winter (December to February): Jeans or pants, light sweaters, long-sleeve tops, vests or jackets, comfortable shoes or boots, and a scarf.

San Sebastian Food

San Sebastian offers visitors a traditional culinary feast with its delicious cuisine. Here are some of the must-try foods in San Sebastian:

• Anchovies and Gilda Pintxo: Indulge in the local specialty of anchovies, often served in pintxos (small snacks) alongside Gilda, a skewer with olives, peppers, and anchovies.
• Bolinhas de Bacalhau: Enjoy these Portuguese-inspired codfish balls, a savory treat popular in San Sebastian's gastronomic scene.
• Txangurro a la Donostiarra: Delight in this classic Basque dish featuring spider crab, typically cooked in a rich sauce and served with breadcrumbs.
• Txuleta: Indulge in a mouthwatering Basque-style steak, renowned for its exceptional flavor and tenderness, typically prepared on a wood-fired grill.
• Idiazabal: Sample this locally produced Basque cheese, known for its distinctive smoky flavor, made from sheep's milk.
• Kokotxas de Merluza: Try this delicacy made from the tender cheek of hake fish, often served in a flavorful sauce.
• Torrija: It is a traditional Basque dessert, similar to French toast, that is typically served with a sweet syrup or honey.
• Talo Con Chistorra: Enjoy this regional specialty consisting of a cornmeal pancake (talo) topped with spicy sausage (chistorra).
• Piquillo Pepper: Taste the sweetness of these roasted red peppers, often stuffed with a variety of fillings such as cheese or seafood.

San Sebastian Nightlife

San Sebastian offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and entertainment options. Here are some of the best places to spend your night in San Sebastian:

• Dabadaba: A versatile music venue that hosts markets, exhibitions, music gigs, and parties, attracting an alternative, bohemian crowd.
• Le Bukowski: A retro pub known for live music and eclectic DJ sets, offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the Egia district.
• Altxerri Bar & Jazz: A jazz paradise located near the Victoria Eugenia Theatre, featuring old-style jazz performances, excellent cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.
• Convent Garden: A relatively new spot catering to the alternative youth, offering a unique pub experience with different areas for socializing and live music.
• Bataplan and GU San Sebastián: Popular discos with fabulous locations near Playa de la Concha, offering breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife experiences.
• Victoria Café Disco: Located near the Victoria Eugenia Theatre, this venue offers a luxurious setting for a memorable night out in San Sebastian.