Long renowned for its foodie scene, San Sebastián has all the other ingredients for the perfect city break. 18 Michelin stars within a 25 kilometre radius qualifies it as the dining capital of the Basque country. Add to the mix beautiful urban beaches and architecture, and a year-round mild climate, and the city offers much more for the weekend traveller.
FOOD
Michelin stars are what San Sebastián is arguably best known for. But if you need a break from formality, head to Parte Vieja, the old town, for some of the best pintxos in Spain. Pintxos are essentially bar snacks served with your drink, but they’re elevated into an art form in this city. Make like a local and wander the cobbled streets from bar to bar in the balmy evening air, trying tempting morsels and local wines.
BEACHES
A graceful sweep of sand at the heart of the city, Playa de la Concha is a contender for the ideal urban beach. In the summer the golden sands are filled with locals and visitors enjoying the calm waves and watersports. By night the promenade twinkles with lights for after-dinner strolling. Just around the corner, Playa de Ondarreta, or ‘little beach’, is another beautiful spot to soak up the Spanish sun.
CULTURE
Every September, the San Sebastián film festival comes to town, and the beautiful Belle Epoque boulevards become red carpets. Stars from Elizabeth Taylor to Brad Pitt have graced the event since it began in 1953, and it’s a great time to see the city come alive. Jazz and music festivals are also hosted throughout the year, bringing a carnival atmosphere to the streets.
For a true taste of San Sebastián, pair your pintxos with a chilled glass of txakoli, the highly-regarded local white – or take a vineyard tour to learn about its journey from grape to glass.