San Sebastian old town
1 / 5

San Sebastian, Plaza de la Constitucion - by Vincent Soleil on Unsplash





Description
San Sebastian (Donostia) is the capital of the Gipuzkoa province, in the Spanish Basque Country. It lies on the Bay of Biscay and became a popular seaside resort at the end of the 19th century, with luxury hotels and a casino. The old part of town (Alde Zaharra) was surrounded by defensive walls until 1863 but is now best known for its monuments, squares, restaurants, and tapas bars. Key attractions include the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus (late 18th century), the Constitution Square (with numbered bullring boxes) and the town hall (now a library).
Access & Transport
The historical centre is immediately north of Gipuzkoa Plaza and the City Hall, only 5-10mins walk from the main train station. The city is quite easy to get to by car from Bilbao or France (only 20km across the border). The nearest airport bears the name of the city but is actually next to Irun, at the French border, just across Hendaye. The next closest is Bilbao.
Instructions & Recommendations
The atmosphere is the most lively in the evening when the tapas bars fill up. The rest of the day is best for a quiet exploration and cultural activities such as the San Telmo Museum. Parking is difficult to find in the area so you may need to leave your vehicle further away and walk.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral. Part of the architectural heritage of the city but socially, the benefits of tourism balance out the drawbacks of over-commercialisation
Conclusion
San Sebastian's old town is, together with the Concha beach, the defining feature of the city. One should visit both by day and by night for two different experiences. Worth a special trip even for those not interested in the drinking aspect.
Key positive
Compact area and centrally located
Lively atmosphere
Key negative
Over-commercialized and too busy at times
Suitability
The neighbourhood is accessible for visitors with reduced mobility (the Basilica perhaps not)
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:1h 30m
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo