San Sebastian

San Sebastián, also known as Donostia, is a beautiful seaside town well known not only for its spectacular architecture but also for its mild climate. Until 1862 San Sebastian-Donostia was a walled city, fishing being the main occupation. But thanks to Isabel II of Spain it began to be really popular, due to the fact that the Queen suffered from a skin infection and was advised by her doctor to bathe in the Bay of Biscay. She chose San Sebastian as the best place where she spent summer after summer for many years.

A casino was built at the end of the 19th century and the city became a favourite place as a summer rendezvous of the European aristocracy. The civil war and a ban on gambling soon put an end to all that.

Visiting the old part of the city is a must. It is full of bars and restaurants, narrow streets and pedestrian areas. There is an aquarium and naval museum in this area.

In July an annual jazz festival is held. Every August there is a programme of classical music and Basque culture.
If you are into films, you may know that San Sebastian film festival, which is held in September, is world renowned.
At the end of October and at the beginning of November there is a week of cinema programme showing horror and science fiction
If you wish to know more about other events look up our web page: www.sansebastianfestival.com

One of the most notable buildings in San Sebastian is “el Palacio del Kursaal“, situated on the estuary of the river Urumea. It is known as the “Moneo cubes” because of its unique design (Moneo being the architect). Congresses,conventions,banquets and the international cinema festival are all held there.

Another interesting building is “Palacio de Miramar” which overlooks the sea and is set in beautiful gardens. It was once a favourite retreat of the Spanish royal family but now is now used for cultural events.

The church of “Santa Maria “ in the main street is easily identified by its two towers. Originally Romanesque, between 1522 and 1560 it was extended in Gothic and Renaissance styles. Its façade is considered of outstanding merit. There is also an interesting altar piece here to be seen.

Mount Igeldo located between Ondarreta beach and the village of Orio is now a park extending to 6.2 square kilometres. If you wish to go up you may do so by tram or by road. It is well worth a visit as the views from the top are spectacular.

There is a statue of the Sacred Heart at the summit of Mount Urgull. It offers spectacular views of the city below.

Tourist information office

Reina Regente, 3
20003 San Sebastián, Guipúzcoa
Phone: +34 943 481 166