World-renowned cuisine, impressive architecture, breathtaking nature, and the list goes on. Welcome to San Sebastián.
There’s so much to do and see, so much to soak up, and here we’ll give you the keys to knowing where to start and what’s most important.
Come with us on a route where we’ll discover everything you absolutely must see in San Sebastián; from picture-perfect beaches to the city’s iconic monuments. Come with us so you don’t miss a thing.
Everything you must see and visit in San Sebastián
La Concha Beach
There can be no doubt that this must be the first stop in San Sebastián, or at least on our list. When you think of San Sebastián, you think of its most famous beach.
It may be the most recognized and beautiful urban beach in all of Europe. Its promenade, all the surrounding buildings from the 19th and 20th centuries, and everything that surrounds it make it a must-see, no matter what time of year you visit. It’s always a good idea to come to La Concha beach.
And while you’re here, don’t forget to take the boat to Santa Clara Island, where surprises await you, such as its lighthouse, its paths, and the incredible natural pool inside.
Basilica of Our Lady of the Choir
There are several concepts you should start learning now, so you can navigate among the locals and throughout San Sebastián. All major cities have an old town, an area where the foundations of the city’s first settlements were laid, the oldest part with the most classical monuments. Well, it’s not called that here.
Yes, we agree that if you say old town, everyone will understand you, but let’s get things straight. Here, the Old Town is where the heart of San Sebastián beats. And here, architecture and history take centre stage.
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Choir, which bears the image of the patron saint of San Sebastián, is a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles, although it dates back to the 18th century. It’s a whole history lesson at your fingertips, and it doesn’t end there, because very close by is another building that is a tribute to architecture and the senses.
Cathedral of the Good Shepherd
A ten-minute walk from the Basilica of Our Lady of the Choir, we find the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd. The reward of the walk is well worth it, because you’ll be amazed by its entrance.
It seems like we’ve travelled all the way to Cologne, but this 19th-century building is one of the most spectacular in the entire country and an example of Neo-Gothic architecture. And if you’re wondering, seeing it inside is well worth it, don’t hesitate.
Plaza de la Constitución
We continue along the same area, a short walk away. A few meters away, the emblematic sites almost crowd one another, and that’s even with us. We arrived at Constitution Square, the epicentre of the city of Donostia.
There are already traces of the square dating back to the 18th century, and events and various festivals are held there throughout the year. In addition, there is the old town hall, another must-see in San Sebastián.
Miramar Palace
We apologize in advance if anyone who was familiar with some of San Sebastián’s monuments missed the Miramar Palace when they started reading. Don’t panic, it was planned, but the urge to take a walk through the entire downtown area and the old town got the better of us. But here we are.
We head to Ondarreta Beach, which is located more or less at the end of La Concha Bay and is an impressive mansion from the late 19th century. And when we say impressive, we don’t mean it’s a gimmick, nor is it advertising, it’s simply an attempt to do it justice, but we warn you right now that we’re not being exact.
The Miramar Palace itself is a gem, but its location and stunning gardens make it a perfect place to unwind, enjoy, and, of course, take hundreds of photos. Remember that the interior is currently closed to the public, but getting up close and personal with the exterior is a must.
San Sebastián’s Ensanche
How beautiful is San Sebastián, and how beautiful is its Ensanche district. As in Bilbao, urban planning here has taken control and created new forms for the city. Since the 19th century, San Sebastián’s profile has changed, and it looks as spectacular as we can enjoy it today.
Walking through the district, you can visit the Town Hall, the Paseo de Francia, the María Cristina Bridge, and the Plaza de Gipuzkoa. This entire area is part of the city’s spirit, a place of discovery, gathering, and beauty. And another place to take photos with your phone? Yes, possibly. Power banks welcome, and thank you.
Nature and natural landscapes in San Sebastián
Walking along its trails, paths, and mountains is one of the best things you can see and do in San Sebastián. There are four mountains surrounding and protecting the city: Mount Urgull, Mount Igeldo, Mount Ulia, and Mount Adarra.
Mount Urgull is very close to the Old Town, and at its peak, in addition to impressive views of the city, you’ll find the twelve-meter-high sculpture of the Sacred Heart. On Mount Ulía, located near La Zurriola Beach, you may have the best views of the coast, as it runs parallel to it.
One of San Sebastián’s great gems is Mount Igueldo, or Igeldo in Basque. The views from its summit are unbeatable, the best in the entire city at more than 180 meters above sea level. If you’re sporty, don’t hesitate to begin the climb, but if you don’t feel ready for the Olympics yet, take the oldest funicular in the entire northern peninsula. Don’t worry, it’s still working perfectly after more than a hundred years. Plus, and as a grand finale, you’ll find an amusement park with about twenty rides.
Paseo Nuevo
Surrounding Mount Urgull and the Old Town, this impressive Paseo Nuevo is a stroll through the city and its beauty. Whether you come alone, as a couple, or with friends, this walk is truly breathtaking.
In addition to the beauty of the surrounding nature, you’ll find iconic buildings and landmarks such as the Zurriola Bridge and its streetlights, the Conference Center, and the Mota Castle.
Peine del Viento
A meeting point between nature and art, here man comes closer without invading the environment. This artistic and sculptural ensemble is already part of San Sebastián’s history. It’s one of the most visited and photographed monuments and has become a symbol of the city.
But don’t think it ends here; it’s just a few sculptures located on Mount Urgull, in La Concha Bay, and nothing more. Not at all. The pipe system means that when there are strong waves, seawater enters the pipes and then shoots upward through openings. Difficult to explain, but a unique spectacle to experience.
