Surroundings · Hotel Palacio de Aiete

San Sebastián tourism

It's said that a picture is worth a thousand words, but in the case of San Sebastián, the well-known saying is particularly true; no matter how many words we used, it would be impossible to convey the beauty, contrasts, breath-taking views and charm which captivate all who visit this city that shines with its own light. Enjoy this visual tour of San Sebastián and its sights.

La Concha's beach and its famous railing

It is the main attraction of the city and it has been selected as the best beach of Europe and 6th in the world for two consecutive years by TRAVELER'CHOICE. The walk along the bay of La Concha is decorated with the famous white railing, a symbol of the city.

The Comb of the Wind

The Basque sculptor Chillida designed this figure by fusing its metal structures on the rocks of the sea, which makes it look like the waves are combing the sculptures. It is undoubtedly a sculpture that identifies us beyond our city.

Mount Igueldo

Take its centenary funicular and arrive at one of the most known places for its panoramic views over the city and the bay of La Concha. Here you will also find an amusement park that no longer exists, a vintage park with charm.

Old town and its pintxos

Our old town is located at the foot of Mount Urgull and the port is famous for having the largest concentration of bars. Here, you can enjoy the charm of its streets and taste the world famous pintxos, renowned for their careful preparation and perfect presentation.

Michelin Restaurant

Do you know how many Michelin stars there are within that resulting small circle, whose boundaries are covered in just ten minutes by car? There are 16 Michelin stars. Moreover, of the nine restaurants with three Michelin stars in the state, three are in San Sebastian and its surroundings: Arzak, Akelarre and Martín Berasategui. In addition, Mugaritz and Amelia have two Michelin stars, and Kokotxa, Alameda and Elkano, with one star. It is an extraordinary fact. In reality, with the exception of Kyoto, Japan, there is no other place in the world with a higher concentration per square meter.

Buen Pastor’s cathedral

It is the most notorious religious building in the capital of Guipuzcoa, endowed with a marked verticality, and the largest in Guipuzcoa. Its construction took place in the last years of the nineteenth century in a neo-Gothic historicist style. Since 1953 it has held the rank of cathedral.

International Film Festival

At the end of September, our most international event is held at the Kursaal Congress Centre, which places our city in the cultural spotlight while our streets are filled with international stars and great cinema.

Cultural offerings

Some must-visit spots are the San Telmo museum, Naval museum, Science museum, Aquarium and more options that offer a huge variety of cultural possibilities.

Ondarreta and Zurriola beaches

We also have Ondarreta’s beach, which is a small but often-visited one in the city. Zurriola beach, situated in the neighborhood of Gros, is not protected by the bay, so it offers larger waves and is a great surfing destination.

Aiete’s palace park

This is a must-visit due to its location next to the hotel. These beautiful gardens hide paths, trees, a broad diversity of flowers, a little cave and ponds full of romanticism that help visitors disconnect from their everyday reality.