San Sebastian or Donostia as it is known in Euskera, the Basque language, is splendidly situated around the shell-shaped La Concha Bay, protected from the Atlantic by a wooded island, the Isla de Santa Clara. San Sebastian has for a long time been considered one of the most elegant and fashionable Spanish seaside resorts, since it became a popular summer retreat with the Spanish aristocracy in the late 19th century. The best views of the city are to be enjoyed from the top of Mount Urgull. Crowned by a castle wall and magnificent statue of Christ, you can see the entire bay. At night the whole city is lit up making a truly magical scene. San Sebastian also boasts some of the best city beaches in Spain, in particular Playa de la Concha and Playa de Ondarreta.

This pulsating area is also famous for being the home of pintxos (pin-chose) the generic name given to the deliciously elaborated Basque gourmet snacks, which overflow every bar counter. Just deciding which one to try is probably the most difficult decision you´ll have to make while in San Sebastian. But do try them, you won´t regret it. Look out for the sculptures of Chillida in the Peine de los Vientos, and you can decide about whether or not it is a comb. If you are lucky, you will be able to hear the sounds of the waves. The leisure pier is crammed with small motorboats and yachts, and the fishing pier has a dozen or so fishing boats. Continue along the beach of Ondarreta, and go into Palacio de Miramar. You will understand why Queen María Cristina spent her summers here. To the north of the city lies a large area that was untouched by the bombing, the Parte Vieja. Here it is possible to see some of the city’s original character. The narrow streets with their crowded apartment buildings are home to the very best restaurants and bars. Also situated in the Parte Vieja are the city’s two principal churches, the Santa Maria Basilica, a Baroque building considered the most important in San Sebastian and San Vincente Church, a sixteenth century gothic edifice which is considered to be the oldest building in the city.

San Sebastian is widely considered one of the top ten cities of the world for its superb cuisine. Indeed throughout the Basque regions chefs are treated like football stars and some of the very best work in San Sebastian itself. Although the sea may be a little cooler than in other parts of the country, water sports are still very popular, and there are plenty of opportunities for surfing, sailing and scuba diving. If you feel energetic enough you can even swim out to Isla Santa Clara, or, if preferred, take one of the regular boat trips to the island. It is a popular place for sunbathing and picnicking and has an amazing view of the beaches and the entire city. Another favourite beverage in San Sebastian is cider, which is like pure apple juice only with an alcoholic kick. During the months of January to April locals and visitors alike pay visits to the cider territories, just south of the city to imbibe. And with many more information on San Sebastian we are present here at TourSanSebastian.com. to guide you for a vacation at San Sebastian.