San Sebastian Key Attractions

San Sebastian, or Donostia as it is also commonly known, has a great range of attractions including grand historic buildings, charming old districts, excellent beaches, intriguing villages and spectacular scenery. Many of the attractions are within a reasonable walking distance, and there are plenty of shady spots and street cafs in between in which to rest and soak up some of the pleasant atmosphere.

Parte Vieja

The oldest section of the city, Parte Vieja, is also the social heart of San Sebastian. One street is all that remains untouched by the disastrous fire of the 19th century, meaning that most of the buildings in the old town centre are actually not that old at all. However, all of the most important city landmarks, such as Santa Maria Church, Constitution Plaza and San Telmo Museum, are within Parte Vieja, and it is here that many of San Sebastians best restaurants and shopping areas are located. The maze of narrow twisting lanes that make up the district are a delight to explore, and many establishments here maintain a charming and traditional ambience.

Iglesia de Santa Mara la Real

Arguably the most important religious building in San Sebastian, Santa Maria Church dates from the 16th century, although the site has been occupied by various buildings since the 12th century. The layout is that of a Latin cross, with an impressive nave, altar, bell tower and portico. Architecturally, much of the church is in the Renaissance style, although there are many intriguing features that make the building quite unique, such as the free standing bell tower.

Catedral del Buen Pastor

San Sebastians other main religious building is the magnificent neo-Gothic Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, which dates from 1897. The strong stone walls support sturdy beams that form the three naves that are enormous and airy. The stain glass windows and religious dcor are of superior quality and workmanship, befitting the largest church in the city. The cathedral is located opposite Santa Maria Church and has lovely gardens in its grounds.

Miramar Palace

Built on the site of the former San Sebastian monastery by Queen Maria Cristina in the latter part of the 19th century, Miramar Palace is a royal country house modelled along English lines, but possessing Basque neo-Gothic features. Today, the palace functions as a conference centre, with sections of the building housing meeting facilities and amenities that have been extensively modernised. Other sections of the building and the estate are still in their original condition however, and the magnificent dcor and furnishings are interesting to behold. Outside, there are beautiful gardens to explore and the grounds offer some stunning vistas of the coastline.

Mount Urgull

On the landward side of the city towers Mount Urgull, an important strategic position that has played a prominent military role in defending the city in past centuries. The mountain has a number of attractions, the highlight being the Castillo de la Santa Cruz de la Mota, a 12th century fortification that has undergone numerous modifications over the centuries to maintain its effectiveness. The castle is enthralling to explore and the views from the ramparts are simply breathtaking. On the castle grounds are three old churches, and dotted on the face of the mountain are several buildings originally used for military purposes but now housing various social societies such as a photography club. Also of interest is the English Cemetery, where the bodies of English soldiers killed here in the early 19th century Anglo-French battles are buried.

La Concha Beach

Internationally famous and featuring a superb setting, La Concha Beach (Seashell Beach) is one of three beaches in San Sebastian. The magnificent wide stretch of fine sand is framed by the citys two mountains, Urgull and Igeldo, and by the small offshore island of Santa Clara. Lining the shore of the beach are the citys most luxurious hotels, restaurants and shops as well as many of San Sebastians livelier nightspots. Strolling along the beachside promenade is very pleasant and relaxing, passing landmarks such as the Royal Nautical Club on your way around to the end of the beach, which lies below Miramar Palace. You can continue walking past Ondarreta Beach to the Wind Comb statue, where a fantastic view of Concha Bay awaits you.

Santa Clara Island

Lying just offshore from La Concha Beach is the tiny island of Santa Clara, which along with Mount Urgull once formed an impressive defensive military stronghold that served to protect the town. Not surprisingly, the main attractions here are the remains of fortifications, including parts of the 18th century wall that unsuccessfully attempted to bridge the island and Mount Igeldo. There is a small beach on the island that is popular in the summer months and Santa Clara offers great views back across the water of La Concha Beach and San Sebastian.

Hondarribia

An excellent choice for a daytrip from San Sebastian is the ancient coastal town of Hondarribia, situated north of the city, not far past the airport. Hondarribia features one of the best preserved fortified towns in the Basque country, with the walled quarter containing a castle, palaces, churches and fascinating old buildings, which once served all the needs of this 12th century town. Nearby is Mount Jaizkibel, which has its own fair share of stunning ancient architecture, most notably the Medieval San Enrique Castle.