Where to stay

Visitors to San Sebastian often come with one Basque culinary experience in mind: the pintxos bar. Stay close to all of the city's best pintxos by booking a hotel in San Sebastian Centro, which is especially convenient when returning late to accommodations after an evening going from bar to bar. A little bit farther out is the younger, trendier neighborhood of Antiguo. Accommodations here are near beaches and a wide array of places serving innovative as well as traditional Basque food and drink. Travel a few minutes into the hinterland to a hotel in Astigarraga, famous for its distinctive hard cider.

As any Basque person will tell you, the region has a culture, history, and language very distinct from the rest of Spain. Get an introduction to Basque culture by booking a hotel in the Old Town, which combines classic European charm with Basque museums and views from Mount Urgull. Discover authentic Basque lifestyle with accommodation in residential Amara, also good for families. The newly revitalized Egia neighborhood, a 20-minute walk from the city center, has recently repurposed several beautiful old factories into cultural centers.

San Sebastian is renowned both for its waves and its beach culture. The center of it all is in Gros, a laid-back neighborhood renowned for its surfing conditions as well as its arts and food. If basking on a beach is more appealing than riding the waves, stay in a hotel in La Concha, the area near the city's most famous fine sand beach, with a promenade perfect for people-watching. Combine history and beaches by getting a hotel in Hondarribia, about 30 minutes' drive from San Sebastian, where the old town is steps from the sea.