Heading to San Sebastian for a seaside sojourn? Tucked between rugged green mountains and beautiful beaches along Spain’s northern coastline, this Basque beauty, also known as Donostia, brims with culture, history, and gastronomic delights. But where to stay in San Sebastian? From the historic Old Town with its pintxos bars to the upscale elegance of La Concha, this laid-back town offers an array of different experiences. Dive into the local rhythm and make the most of your San Sebastian adventure in these cool neighborhoods and hotels!
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Old Town (Parte Vieja)
✓ Best area to stay in San Sebastián for culture and history
Old Town (Parte Vieja) is one of San Sebastián’s most iconic neighborhoods with its winding cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and traditional pintxos bars. If you want to be in the center of the action, this is the place to stay!
Nestled between the foot of Mount Urgull and Concha Bay, this historic quarter oozes charm and is home to many of San Sebastian’s top tourist attractions. Spend mornings with coffee in Constitution Square, afternoons exploring hidden tunnels beneath the streets, and evenings indulging in pintxos delights. For breathtaking panoramic views, climb Mount Urgull at sunrise and watch the sunset over the Bay of Biscay.
You’ll find a range of cool places to stay in Old Town, from charming guesthouses to boutique hotels, each offering an authentic experience amidst centuries-old architecture. Calle 31 de Agosto is the most happening street in the Old Town but can get quite noisy. Book a spot down one of the nearby side streets for a quieter experience.
Casa Nicolasa
Casa Nicolasa ticks all the boxes for a relaxed and laid-back retreat. Set in a beautiful old building on a quiet, tree-lined street, this charming guesthouse offers down-to-earth rooms, en suite bathrooms, and modern amenities. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi and upgrade to a suite for a private balcony.
Lasala Plaza Hotel
Set slightly back from the beach on the Plaza Lasala, Lasala Plaza Hotel oozes style with contemporary rooms and a gorgeous rooftop deck. Based in a beautifully restored 1917 building, hotel rooms have sea or plaza views. Book a luxurious top-floor room for a bathtub and panoramic vistas.
Hotel Atari
A short stroll from La Concha Beach, Hotel Atari boasts modern air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and basic amenities. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee every morning and drinks from your minibar. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and Zurriola and Santa Clara Island beaches are within walking distance.
Centro
✓ Best neighborhood to stay in San Sebastian for a central location
Once a small fishing village, Centro is San Sebastián’s most central district. Tucked between the beach and the Old Town, this bustling hub boasts a mix of historic landmarks, chic boutiques, and cozy restaurants. It’s a great neighborhood if you want to be close to the action in Old Town on your San Sebastian itinerary, but like a good night’s sleep!
You’ll find many accommodations in Centro, from luxurious beachfront hotels to cozy guesthouses on quiet side streets. Spend afternoons exploring the chic boutiques on Fuenterrabia and Getaria and evenings indulging in Basque delicacies at bustling pintxos bars.
Marvel at beautiful old buildings like the Donostia City Hall and the Victoria Eugenia Theatre. For spectacular panoramic views, climb Monte Urgull at sunset, where the city’s lights twinkle over the Bay of Biscay.
Hotel Arbaso
Ideally located just a few minutes’ walk from La Concha Beach, Hotel Arbaso offers a comfortable and convenient stay in the heart of Centro. Relax in modern rooms with smart TVs, minibars, and tea and coffeemakers. Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi during your stay, and sip cocktails at the hotel bar before heading out for dinner. Storage is available if you plan on bringing your bike.
Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra
Overlooking the beautiful La Concha Bay, Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra is a luxurious beachfront hotel with elegant rooms and suites and a top-notch restaurant serving Basque cuisine. Upgrade your room for a private terrace and whirlpool tub! Sip sundowners in the sophisticated cocktail bar.
Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian
Exuding a timeless grace and charm, the luxurious Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian, promises a one-of-a-kind stay. Set on the banks of the Urumea River, this grand Belle Epoque hotel has it all! Expect opulent suites with marble bathrooms, a sophisticated bar, a 24-hour gym, and an acclaimed Asian restaurant. A short walk takes you to La Concha Beach and the boutiques in the city center.
Gros
✓ Recommended area in San Sebastian for budget-conscious travelers wanting a laid-back vibe
East of the Old Town and the city center, you’ll find the laid-back surfers’ paradise of Gros. Situated on the eastern side of the Urumea River, this bohemian neighborhood boasts a charming blend of surf culture, culinary delights, and local authenticity.
Once a fishermen’s district, Gros has retained its charming, unpretentious vibe while evolving into a haven for surfers, foodies, and backpackers. It’s a fantastic place to base yourself on your San Sebastian itinerary if you’re on a budget or looking for a relaxed atmosphere.
Hit the waves at Zurriola Beach for a surf and enjoy world-class entertainment in the lively Kursaal area. Explore contemporary art and culture at Tabakalera and evenings savoring pintxos in local joints like Bergara or Zabaleta Kalea. Climb the Kursaal Bridge at sunset for breathtaking views.
Hotel Trueba
Set in a charming Art Deco building, Hotel Trueba is a relaxed hotel with snug rooms and modern amenities. Enjoy peaceful views from your private balcony and stay connected with free Wi-Fi. Larger rooms are available if you’re traveling with family, and four-legged friends are welcome! A few minutes’ walk takes you to Zurríola Beach.
Pension Kursaal
Comfortable and casual, Pension Kursaal exudes a home-away-from-home feel. You’ll find laid-back rooms with flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel is a short walk from Zurriola Beach and the neo-Gothic San Sebastián Cathedral. Enjoy in-room breakfast every morning.
Hotel Bed4U Zurriola San Sebastian
Hotel Bed4U Zurriola San Sebastián is ideal for exploring Gros and enjoying a relaxed, laid-back beach vacay. Set on a tree-lined street close to the shops, the hotel has comfy rooms with smart TVs, Chromecast, and free Wi-Fi. Tuck into breakfast at the casual café before heading out for the day.
Antiguo
✓ Recommended place to stay in San Sebastian for families
Traveling with the family and want a quiet neighborhood? Antiguo is a great choice! Situated on the city’s western side, Antiguo is the oldest neighborhood in the city. Dating back to the 19th century when it was a sought-after resort area, it’s retained its own distinct character.
Antiguo offers a more tranquil side of San Sebastian. You’ll find all sorts of accommodations, from family-friendly beachfront hotels overlooking Ondarreta Beach to cozy guesthouses along the leafy Avenida de Tolosa.
Head to the beautiful Ondarreta Beach for sunbathing and swimming. If you are feeling energetic, hike along the delightful coastal walk as far as El Peine del Viento. Take the funicular railway up Mont Igeldo to the vintage fairground and marvel at the breathtaking views.
Explore the Palacio de Miramar gardens for a peaceful retreat overlooking the Bay of Biscay. Spend lazy afternoons in Miraconcha Park and evenings sampling Basque cuisine in local gems like Bar Nestor or Narru.
Satori Suites
A stone’s throw from Ondarreta Beach, Satori Suites is a lovely guesthouse with air-conditioned rooms and private bathrooms. Modern amenities include flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, mini-fridges, minibars, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
NH Collection San Sebastián Aranzazu
For an upscale stay, head to the NH Collection San Sebastián Aranzazu. Unwind in chic rooms with wooden floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and spacious en-suite bathrooms. Enjoy fully-stocked minibars and free Wi-Fi and dine in the hotel’s modern eatery serving regional cuisine. For casual dining, head to the bar for cocktails and tapas.
Hotel Ilunion San Sebastián
Expect stylish, air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV and free Wi-Fi at the Hotel Ilunion San Sebastián. Relax on the sun terrace or in the beautiful gardens and enjoy traditional Basque cuisine at the hotel’s casual restaurant. Buffet breakfast is served every morning, and Ondarreta Beach is a short walk from the hotel.
Aiete
✓ Recommended area for peace and quiet
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Aiete, this peaceful and picturesque neighborhood offers a tranquil escape from the city’s bustle. Boasting lush greenery, stately homes, and a quiet ambiance, Aiete is the perfect area if you want tranquility while remaining conveniently close to the city center.
Bordered by the sandy Beach of La Concha, Aiete has many attractions, from the grand neoclassical Aiete Palace and the beautiful Aiete Park to the sprawling Reale Arena Stadium. For families, Eureka! Science Museum and the nearby San Sebastian Aquarium are a must!
Accommodations range from charming guesthouses with garden views to boutique hotels offering modern comfort and local charm.
Hotel Bed4U San Sebastián
A mile from Ondarreta Beach, Hotel Bed4U San Sebastián has a seasonal swimming pool, a fitness center and a casual lounge. Comfortably furnished, air-conditioned rooms have desks and flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi is available around the property. Kick back on the terrace with drinks from the hotel bar.
Barceló Costa Vasca
With comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and top-notch facilities, Barceló Costa Vasca has it all! Relax on vast outdoor terraces or unwind in the beautiful gardens. Stay cool in the fantastic swimming pool. Sip sundowners in the casual lobby bar and enjoy delicious local cuisine in the hotel restaurant.
Hotel Palacio de Aiete
Hotel Palacio de Aiete offers bright rooms with flat-screen satellite TVs and free Wi-Fi. Comfortable apartments feature kitchenettes and living areas for self-catering stays. Work out in the gym and relax on the rooftop sun terrace, with panoramic views over San Sebastián.
