San Sebastian Spain Travel Guide: 13 BEST Things To Do In San Sebastián
So you want to know what are the best things
to do in san sebastian, spain? Great, you’re in the right place. In this video we’re gonna
discuss the top things to do in san sebastian. Number 15: The Old Town The Old Town is the second oldest area in San
Sebastián and serves as the city’s social heart. Its narrow streets are filled with bars and
historic buildings, including the Basilica of St Mary of the Chorus and St Vincent’s Church. One
of its highlights is the Plaza de la Constitución, a lively square that hosts popular local
festivals like the Tamborrada drumming festival. Number 14: La Concha Beach La Concha Beach is a major landmark
in San Sebastián, celebrated for its stunning setting. Located in front of Santa
Clara Island, it’s often featured in travel magazines and has been recognized as one
of the best beaches in Europe and Spain. Thousands of visitors enjoy strolling along its
promenade or swimming in its inviting waters. Number 13: Mount Igueldo Mount Igueldo is accessible via a
funicular with wooden carriages, one of the oldest in the Basque Country,
dating back to 1912. At the top, you’ll find a hotel with the Karrusel Gastro-Bar,
where you can enjoy Basque cuisine. The viewpoint offers some of the best panoramic
views of San Sebastián. There’s also a lighthouse on the site of a former 16th-century fort,
providing 360-degree panorama views of the city. Number 12: San Telmo Museum Located in the heart of the Old Town, San Telmo
Museum is set in a 16th-century building that was once a Dominican convent. The museum showcases
key events and cultural aspects of Basque society. A notable exhibit is the Sert Canvases, a series
of eleven paintings by José Maria Sert, displayed in the former San Telmo church and depicting
significant Basque symbols and historical moments. Number 11: Palacio Miramar Palacio Miramar, built for Queen Maria Christina,
is a large estate in San Sebastián covering more than 8.4 acres (34,000 square meters). Designed
in the style of an English palace, it includes a park and gardens. The estate also features
“The Embrace” by the sculptor Eduardo Chillida, which honors painter Rafael Ruiz Belardi. For
excellent views, visit Pico del Loro or walk through the Túnel del Antiguo, an interactive
tunnel with paintings by Victor Goikoetxea. Number 10: San Sebastián Aquarium The San Sebastián Aquarium, a key attraction
here, is housed in a historic 1928 building. It has two floors focused on the maritime heritage of
Gipuzkoa. Notable exhibits include a skeleton of a northern right whale and tanks displaying
over 200 species from the Bay of Biscay. The aquarium’s highlight is
its 360º underwater tunnel, offering views of sea creatures like sand
tiger sharks, large turtles, and moray eels. Number 9: Go Pintxos Tasting San Sebastián is well-known for its pintxos,
small and tasty snacks often enjoyed with a drink. Popular pintxos include the gilda, which features
green olives, pickled peppers, and anchovies on a skewer; the Pintxo de Pulpo, with octopus
served with paprika and olive oil on bread; and the Pintxo de Txangurro, spider crab mixed
with mayonnaise on a slice of bread. The best and most traditional pintxos can be found in the Old
Town, located between the harbor and the river. By the way, check the links in
the description for the ultimate guide on saving money while you travel, plus
recommended tour operators in San Sebastián. Number 8: Alderdi Eder Park Alderdi Eder Park, one of the most
beautiful parks in San Sebastián, lives up to its Basque name meaning “beautiful
place.” Positioned in front of the city’s town hall, this picturesque garden features a
variety of flowers, impressive palm trees, and century-old tamarisk trees. From
Alderdi Eder, you can easily visit nearby attractions like the Old Town,
La Concha Beach, and Miramar Palace. Number 7: Monte Urgull Monte Urgull, positioned at
one end of La Concha Bay, overlooks the Old Town. It is one
of the city’s main green spaces, offering a tranquil natural area with paved
paths surrounded by diverse plants. These trails lead to viewpoints with excellent
panoramic views of San Sebastián. As you walk around Monte Urgull, you’ll see remnants
from different historical periods, including old fortifications and parts of the ancient
city wall that once protected San Sebastián. Number 6: Playa de la Zurriola Playa de la Zurriola, often called Zurriola Beach
or simply ‘Zurri’ by locals, is the most energetic beach in San Sebastián. Known for its great
waves, it attracts surfers from near and far. In addition to surfing, the beach is popular
for activities like volleyball, football, and beach tennis. From Zurriola,
you can also walk to Monte Ulía, a nearby green area with excellent hiking
trails and a former whale lookout point. Number 5: Santa Clara Island Santa Clara Island is situated just 1,640 feet
(500 meters) from the coast and can be reached by boat, kayak, or even by swimming. The island
features a natural swimming pool, a beach bar, and a path leading to a 19th-century lighthouse.
Covering just over 12 acres (5 hectares), the island offers beautiful views of the Cantabrian
Sea to the north and the city and bay on the other side. Fun fact: It was used as a quarantine
site during the plague in the late 16th century. Number 4: Tabakalera Tabakalera, formerly a tobacco factory,
now serves as an international cultural center in San Sebastián. It includes
exhibition halls, a cinema, and a library, all aimed at encouraging cultural creativity
for the public. Many programs and activities at Tabakalera are free of charge. You can also
join free guided tours of the exhibitions and the building. Don’t miss the fifth floor, where
a terrace provides excellent views of the city. Number 3: Dabadaba Dabadaba, located just behind Tabakalera,
is a popular spot in San Sebastián where you’ll find many of the city’s trendiest
locals. This venue, once an old warehouse, now serves as a relaxed lounge with
a cozy terrace during the day and changes into an intimate concert space
in the evening. Since it opened in 2014, Dabadaba has hosted various cultural and
social events, including flea markets, local art exhibitions, and a wide range of
concerts, from Irish folk to electro-flamenco. Number 2: El Peine del Viento El Peine del Viento, or “The Comb of the Wind,”
is an art installation that features three large steel sculptures, each weighing over nine tons.
Positioned at the edge of the city where the land meets the sea, these sculptures are set on the
rugged cliffs of Monte Igueldo. The design makes it look like the sculptures are emerging from the
rocks, representing the blend of nature and art. Number 1: Parque de Atracciones Monte Igueldo Parque de Atracciones Monte Igueldo, situated
on Mount Igueldo, is a beloved amusement park with a vintage feel. Since it opened in 1912,
it has offered a nostalgic experience with its classic rides. Visitors can enjoy the
old-fashioned Montaña Suiza roller coaster, navigate the Gran Laberinto maze,
and admire the views from the Ferris wheel. The park also features the
Casa del Terror, a fun house of horrors. Click here to watch this video.
This San Sebastian travel guide shares the best things to do in San Sebastian.
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How to find cheap flights and travel more: https://travelmorepayless.com
Recommended Tours in San Sebastian:
Ultimate San Sebastian Pintxos & Wine Tour (Evening): https://www.viator.com/tours/San-Sebastian/Small-Group-Old-Town-Pintxos-Food-Tour-in-San-Sebastian/d5505-54130P1?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-SanSebastian
San Sebastian E-bike trour: Basque History and Cultural: https://www.viator.com/tours/San-Sebastian/Basque-by-Bike/d5505-298739P1?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-SanSebastian
Coastal “Winery Camino Trail” Walking Tour from San Sebastian: https://www.viator.com/tours/San-Sebastian/Sustainable-coastal-hiking-visiting-farmers-market-and-txakoli-winery/d5505-278255P1?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-SanSebastian
Biarritz and French Coast Small Grop Tour from San Sebastian: https://www.viator.com/tours/San-Sebastian/Biarritz-and-French-Basque-coast-tour-from-San-Sebastian/d5505-40961P22?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-SanSebastian
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Welcome to our video on the top things to do in San Sebastián, Spain. Located in the Basque Country along the Bay of Biscay, San Sebastián is famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant food scene, and rich cultural heritage. Here’s a guide to the best places to visit and activities to enjoy in San Sebastián.
Begin your visit at La Concha Beach, one of Europe’s most beautiful urban beaches. With its golden sand and clear waters, La Concha is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and taking leisurely walks along the promenade.
Explore the Old Town, known as Parte Vieja, which is packed with narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively pintxo bars. Don’t miss Plaza de la Constitución, the main square surrounded by colorful buildings and bustling with activity.
Visit Monte Igueldo for breathtaking views of the city and the bay. You can reach the top by taking the funicular railway, which has been in operation since 1912. Once there, enjoy panoramic views, explore the old amusement park, and visit the historic lighthouse.
Take a stroll along the Paseo Nuevo, a scenic promenade that offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and the Bay of Biscay. The promenade circles around Monte Urgull, providing a different perspective of the city and its natural beauty.
Discover the cultural side of San Sebastián by visiting the San Telmo Museoa, a museum dedicated to Basque society and culture. Housed in a former convent, the museum features exhibits on Basque history, art, and traditions.
Explore Monte Urgull, a hill located at the edge of the Old Town. The hill is home to historic fortifications, including Mota Castle, and offers walking trails with beautiful views of the city and the sea. At the top, you’ll find the iconic statue of the Sacred Heart and a small museum detailing the hill’s history.
Visit the Peine del Viento (Comb of the Wind) sculptures by renowned Basque artist Eduardo Chillida. Located at the western end of La Concha Bay, these striking sculptures are set against the backdrop of the sea and waves, creating a dramatic and unique art installation.
Experience the local food scene at the Mercado de la Bretxa, a traditional market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. It’s a great place to experience the flavors of the Basque Country and pick up ingredients for a picnic or a meal.
Enjoy a performance at the Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium, an architectural landmark designed by Rafael Moneo. The venue hosts a variety of events, including concerts, theater performances, and the renowned San Sebastián International Film Festival.
Join us as we uncover the beauty, culture, and culinary delights of San Sebastián, Spain. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more travel tips and guides. Thank you for watching!
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How to find cheap flights and travel more: https://travelmorepayless.com // Recommended Tours in San Sebastian:
Ultimate San Sebastian Pintxos & Wine Tour (Evening): https://www.viator.com/tours/San-Sebastian/Small-Group-Old-Town-Pintxos-Food-Tour-in-San-Sebastian/d5505-54130P1?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-SanSebastian
San Sebastian E-bike trour: Basque History and Cultural: https://www.viator.com/tours/San-Sebastian/Basque-by-Bike/d5505-298739P1?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-SanSebastian
Coastal "Winery Camino Trail" Walking Tour from San Sebastian: https://www.viator.com/tours/San-Sebastian/Sustainable-coastal-hiking-visiting-farmers-market-and-txakoli-winery/d5505-278255P1?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-SanSebastian
Biarritz and French Coast Small Grop Tour from San Sebastian: https://www.viator.com/tours/San-Sebastian/Biarritz-and-French-Basque-coast-tour-from-San-Sebastian/d5505-40961P22?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-SanSebastian