open to the sea and sheltered by soft hills, the city of san sebastián (donostia in the basque language) is one of the most famous tourist destinations in spain. its devotion to sustainable development and culture has not only transformed it into a leader among european cities but has also earned san sebastián the designation of europe´s cultural capital in 2016. the city is the perfect destination for everybody. whether you love nature, culture, sports or are looking for an extra-ordinary culinary experience- san sebastián has something for everyone!

san sebastián´s picturesque location makes it one of the most popular destinations in spain

nature
located within only 30 km of the french border, san sebastián is part of the basque autonomous community in northern spain. beaches make up an important part of san sebastián´s identity. the iconic concha beach with its white sand and spectacular landscape make it one of the most photographed, most visited and overall the second top city beach in the world according to the travel and leisure magazine. san sebastián´s many parks and gardens together with the hills surrounding the city are considered to be the green lungs of the city and are a big part of the city´s sustainable image. even more beautiful landscapes can be found beyond the borders of san sebastián. the coastline stretches out to the east and west of the city with its ever-shifting line of steep cliffs and beautiful beaches, an extraordinary collection of lighthouses, and little fishing villages. taking the inland route south will lead you into the green heart of the region with its deep valleys, rivers, hilly countryside and curved roads.

the green heart of the region and its beautiful coastline beyond the borders of san sebastián

european capital of culture 2016

the candidature slogan “waves of energy” is san sebastián´s message that people and citizens are the real driving force behind transformations and changes in the world and play the leading role in the search for solutions to new global challenges. the designation of the european capital of culture gives san sebastián the opportunity to undertake sustainable and strategic projects aimed at cultural development, social cohesion and european awareness. the programme of over sixtly cultural and leisure activities throughout 2016 will complement the city’s already extensive and varied cultural attractions and more than ever make san sebastián a perfect destination for cultural tourism enthusiasts.

cultural highlights
museums, galleries, festivals, architecture, sculptures- san sebastián has it all. stroll through the narrow streets of the old town and be amazed by the city´s oldest buildings, such as the 16th century san vicente church or san sebastián´s old city hall. placa de la constitution lies in the heart of the old town and is nowadays the setting for all major local festivities and a popular location for locals as well as tourists to enjoy basque culinary highlights. every september the national and international film industry comes to san sebastián to be part of the zinmaldida, the international film festival, one of the biggest and most prestige of its kind in europe.

a stroll through san sebastián´s old town

the basque cuisine

a total of 16 michelin stars held by local restaurants are proof that san sebastián is one of the leading culinary destinations in the world. not only the famous pintxos, little culinary bites traditionally secured with a toothpick or skewer, but also dedication to top-quality fresh, local and seasonal products are part of the basque food culture. enjoy a culinary short break in san sebastián with basque classics, new creations and a glass of locally produced cider or txakolí wine.

experience the famous basque cuisine with some pintxos, cider or wine

sports
travelers looking for a more active holiday destination will not be disappointed by san sebastián´s healthy lifestyle and variations of outdoor sports. zurriola beach has long become a popular destination for surfers from all around the world, hosting some of the greatest national and international surf competitions and events. all kinds of other water activities, running, cycling, hiking or roller-skating are also hugely popular equally among san sebastián´s inhabitants as well as visitors. in addition to the well-known types of sports, the basque region is also home to some of its own sports disciplines such as basque pelota, a traditional racket game or basque rural sports, such as wood chopping or stone lifting.

surfing is one of san sebastián´s most popular outdoor sports

how to get around
spanish airlines offer daily flight connections from barcelona as well as madrid to san sebastián. bilbao, which is well connected to the majority of european cities, is only about an hour bus ride away from san sebastián. the train station in the city center is very well connected to numerous spanish as well as international cities, such as paris or lisbon. in the city itself a good public transport system makes it easy for people to get around even without a car.

for more information on san sebastián please visit http://www.sansebastianturismo.com. and for more information on tours to this destination and tips for hotels and transportation, do not hesitate to contact us. we will be happy to assist you to make sure you make the best of your time in san sebastián or anywhere else in the basque region.