San Sebastian is located on the northern coast of Spain’s Basque country about 20 kms from the French border. It is built around the Bay of La Concha and it has long been a resort that has attracted the Spanish upper classes. As a result it still retains much of its old world charm and elegance.
A major attraction is the San Sebastian Film Festival which takes place in September and where many famous movie stars might be seen. In July San Sebastian is also host to Spain’s major Jazz Festival which attracts many big names in the industry.
San Sebastian has another festival which is a major attraction for tourists. This is the Semana Grande, the Great Week, which commences with a gunshot on the Sunday evening, followed a week full of music, dancing and sporting events.
There are three main beaches at San Sebastian; the Playa de la Concha, Ondaretta and the Playa de la Zurriola. La Concha is most likely to be the most crowded with tourists, whilst the other two are popular for swimming and surfing.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the beaches, visitors can relax visiting the city's old town, the Parte Vieja. The area is a labyrinth of small streets crisscrossing each other and full of bars and restaurants where traditional tapas can be enjoyed.
For panoramic views of the bay and surrounding area take the old funicular railway to the amusement park which is at the summit of Monte Igueldo. As well as the views the park has roller coasters, family rides, cafes and gift shops.
San Sebastian has an aquarium with an enormous whale skeleton, an underwater viewing tunnel and shark feeding twice a day. Staying with the maritime connection there is also a Naval Museum which has many artefacts relating to the history of the Basque seafaring tradition.
Not an obvious choice for tourists, San Sebastian offers the chance to see a Spain that is a little different from the usual Mediterranean style of entertainment.
