Where to Stay in San Sebastián (From a Local)

Best Hotels in Old Town

✔️ Hotel SANSEbay

The very first time I visited San Sebastián it was just me and my 15-year-old daughter and this hotel was where we stayed.  It is a boutique hotel located in Old Town and right on the harbor.  

The rooms face the ocean and offer incredible views of La Concha bay. The rooms are modern and bright and there is a small cafe in the lobby that serves coffee and some of the most delicious fresh baked Basque bread!  

When you exit the hotel you are in the middle of all the action right in Old Town, and just a few steps from great shopping, incredible pintxos and at the doorstep of Mount Urgull which is a beautiful park and meaningful historic location in San Sebastián.  

If you are looking for a perfect hotel in San Sebastián with an ideal location and access to everything this hotel will not disappoint!

Prices range from $100/night in the low season to $350/night in the high season

✔️ ATRI HOTEL

This hotel is RIGHT in the middle of Old Town set amongst the cobblestone streets of San Sebastián, and only steps from the Santa Maria del Coro basilica, which is an incredible display of baroque architecture that was built in 1774.  

This is the hotel you want to stay in to get the feel of being back in time, in the heart of the city and in a location with constant activity and a serious pulse.

The rooms are simple, modern and full of Basque charm.  The bottom floor houses the amazing Amama restaurant which features delicious Basque food. One of the best parts of a stay at the Atri hotel is the buffet breakfast with views of the Basilica.  

Staying at the Atri hotel allows for a very authentic experience in Old Town, San Sebastián.  

Prices range from $125/night in the low season to $350/night in the high season.

✔️ Hotel Aldamar

This lovely family-run boutique hotel is a gem located on the outside of Old Town. Located only minutes from the river, beach and all that Old Town has to offer Hotel Aldamar is a great option when staying in San Sebastián.

It does not have many of the amenities of larger hotels, but the local and personalized charm is what sets it apart. It is also one of the most cost-effective options when staying right in Old Town.

Prices range from $60/night in the low season to $250/night in the high season.

✔️ Lasala Plaza Hotel

This hotel is an exceptional place to stay in Old Town. It has sweeping views of La Concha bay, an incredible rooftop bar and pool and it is located in the middle of Old Town with easy access to shopping and amazing gastronomy. You can pay a bit more for sea-view rooms which is well worth the extra expense.

The staff is wonderful and the rooms are bright and comfortable. They also give discounts during the offseason. And if you don´t end up staying here be sure to at least have a cocktail on the rooftop bar. This is my kiddos favorite hotel in town.

Prices range from $120/night in the low season to $340/night in the high season.

Best House Rentals in Old Town

👉🏻 Santa Maria House Rental in Old Town

I absolutely love this house rental in Old Town. The building itself is hundreds of years old and the inside of the apartment has old stone walls mixed with modern wood design. The apartment sleeps 3 and is located in a fantastic location in Old Town just minutes from famous Pinxto Bars, shopping and the harbor. Prices start at $15o/night

👉🏻 Konsti House Rental in Constitution Plaza

Ok, so a house rental in San Sebastián does not get more central than this one! Located in Constitution Plaza this apartment is literally in the center of San Sebastián and all the celebrations.

This is a fun house to rent if you are looking for an action-packed and fun time in San Sebastián, and the apartment can sleep 6. This is not the house for you if you are sensitive to noise as the plaza is constantly buzzing, even late into the night. But if you come to town during any of San Sebastiáns amazing celebrations you will have a front-row seat to all the action! Prices start at $240/night

👉🏻 Maritxus House Rental

This is a great rental for up to 6 people in the middle of Old Town. So if you are a big family (like us) or a group of friends, this is a perfect rental that is bright, open and with room to spread out. It is close to all the action, amazing restaurants, and great shopping. Prices start at $200/night

Where to Stay in El Centro, San Sebastián

El Centro is the well,… in the center of town just like the name suggests. El Centro is full of elegant European buildings, shopping, restaurants, and green spaces. I love walking through El Centro and appreciating the traditional architecture and details on the elegant wrought iron balconies.

El Centro has excellent shopping (fewer boutiques and more chains), restaurants, cafes, and the beautiful Buen Pastor Cathedral.

The streets are wider than in Old Town and things are more spread out and less dense. You are centrally located and just a short walk to Old Town, La Concha Beach, and the river. You can also cross the river and in just a few minutes be on Zurriola Beach in Gros, another popular part of San Sebastián.

El Centro is the spot to stay if you are looking to be in the heart of everything, but with fewer crowds than Old Town.

This is the place to stay if you want to be in the center of the city with easy access to all San Sebastián has to offer.

Best Hotels in El Centro

✔️ Villa Katalina

This boutique hotel located right next to the beautiful Buen Pastor cathedral is a perfect choice when staying in El Centro in San Sebastián. It is central to everything, a 10-minute walk to the beach, and attached to a fantastic restaurant that serves delicious fresh and local food.

The rooms are cozy and you can request one with a balcony and view of the cathedral…highly recommend.

Prices range from $80/night in the low season to $350/night in the high season.

✔️ Hotel Arbaso

This is a beautiful and elegant boutique hotel located in a great location.  There is the remarkable Narru restaurant on the first floor that serves world-class farm-to-table meals.  Be sure to take part in their breakfast, which is delicious.

Hotel Arbaso is in the heart of El Centro, across from the beautiful Buen Pastor cathedral, close to shopping, and a 10 minute walk to the beach.  

The architecture of the building is the baroque style with silver accents that never ceases to impress me.  Each room is slightly different with rich colors and decor that are both modern and warm.  

Prices range from $120/night in the low season to $360/night in the high season.

✔️ Catalonia Donostia

This hotel sits in the middle of the city, but it is situated up a hill and out of the way. It is a bigger hotel and not as much historic charm as the others, but it has great views of the city and you can take an elevator down to the street and be in the middle of El Centro and all the action within minutes. It also has a pool on the roof and is an 8-minute walk to the beach and a 10-minute walk to Old Town.

Prices range from $100/night in the low season to $220/night in the high season.

✔️ Hotel Room Mate Gorka

This is another lovely boutique hotel in a great location. It is located right next to Plaza Guipuzcoa which is a beautiful park and a historically significant part of the city with beautiful buildings. There are great cafes and shopping close by and easy access to the river, beach, and Old Town.

The rooms are open and bright, it is locally owned and the staff is lovely.

Prices range from $99/night in the low season to $250/night in the high season.

✔️ Hotel Maria Christina

If you are looking for a much larger, luxury hotel with all the amenities located in an incredible location in San Sebastián this is your spot.  With higher price points, but worth every penny, Hotel Maria Christina offers dream accommodation when visiting San Sebastián.  

Located in El Centro, and right on the beautiful Urumea river, the location of this hotel is exceptional.  

The hotel offers old-world charm and romantic ambiance. The rooms are decorated in the style of Belle Epoque (Golden Age) and make you feel like you are in a different part of the world in a bygone era.  

Hotel Maria Christina provides a dream luxury stay in the city of San Sebastián and is a perfect choice if looking for amenities and luxury in the middle of all the action.

Prices range from $300/night in the low season to $700/night in the high season.

👉🏻 Moon River House Rental

Moon River is an excellent house rental in the heart of San Sebastián. It is located right on the Maria Cristina bridge, with great views and walking distance to the Old Town and Gros. It has easy access to delicious restaurants and shopping. The house sleeps 6 comfortably. Prices start at $220/night

👉🏻 Luxurious Apartment House Rental

This apartment is luxurious, elegant, and decorated beautifully. As soon as you step out the door, you’re close to some of the best shopping and restaurants in El Centro. There is a balcony overlooking the bustling street and the house sleeps 6. Prices start at $240/night

👉🏻 La Belle Ville House Rental

I love this apartment because of the huge outside terrace that is great for visiting with friends and family. The house sleeps 8 and is wonderful for two families or a big group of friends and/or couples. I love recommending large houses like this as it can really reduce the cost of lodging if you stay with another family or a group of friends.

The house is centrally located and close to fantastic shopping, delicious food, and a 10 minute walk to the beach…and the decor is fantastic! Prices start at $340/night

✔️ Hotel Londres

This hotel is right on the promenade with sweeping views of La Concha beach. It is a fantastic location only minutes from Old Town and El Central. The hotel itself has old-world charm and a nice restaurant just off the lobby. It has been a favorite San Sebastián hotel for over 150 years.

Prices range from $180/night in the low season to $280/night in the low season.

✔️ Hotel Niza

This hotel is located right on the promenade with rooms facing the ocean. It is not the most updated of hotels, but the location is incredible and you can request an ocean view room. There is a restaurant below and a popular place to get cocktails right out front on the promenade. It is a good economical choice and in a top-notch location.

Prices range from $100/night in the low season to $280/night in the low season.

✔️ Nobu Hotel

Ok, so when most people hear Nobu they think of super luxury or sushi.  But the Nobu brand is also known for world-class hotels with great service and this hotel is no exception.  This hotel was recently completed and is located right on La Concha Bay with some of the best views in town.

You are set up from the street so you get to take in the view and activity from the balcony all day and night.  

Be sure to have your coffee out on the balcony or sip one of their amazing custom cocktails while taking in the San Sebastián sunset. There is also the world-class Nobu restaurant on the ground floor. Nobu hotel it is a charming boutique hotel with only 17 rooms that creates a one-of-a-kind stay in San Sebastián. The prices are higher, but it is worth the experience.

Prices range from $400/night in the low season to $1000/night in the low season.

✔️ Hotel Villa Favorita

Located right on the promenade Hotel Villa Favorite is in a league of its own.  The rooms are spacious and bright and most have a private balcony right on La Concha beach.  This hotel lets you experience the magic and expansiveness of San Sebastián in a remarkable location.  

The Michelin-star restaurant by Paula Airaudu located in the hotel serves up fresh natural works of art for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  Be sure to get room service at one point and enjoy the views from the privacy of your own balcony.   

The hotel is adults only and you can easily walk to Old Town and El Centro and watch people going for their morning swims in La Concha Bay.  Hotel Villa Favorite truly is a one-of-a-kind hotel in San Sebastián and a favorite of me and my husband.  

Prices range from $200/night in the low season to $800/night in the high season.

✔️ Hotel Zenit Convento San Martin

Located just a few hundred meters from La Concha beach and the promenade, Hotel Zenit Convento San Martin is a one-of-a-kind experience when staying in San Sebastián. This hotel is a converted convent using stones from the Igeldo quarry and the inside is stunning with dramatic ceilings and architecture.

The rooms are beautiful, bright and modern and there is a great gym and a swimming pool as well. There is also the incredible Restaurante Sukaldean which is a must when staying at the hotel.

This hotel is not right on the beach like the others, but the ambiance and setting are incredible and you are only a 2 minute walk to the beach.

Prices range from $280/night in the low season to $1000/night in the low season.

👉🏻 La Concha House Rental with Terrace and Stunning Views

With a 10 rating on VRBO, this is a perfect house rental in the best location on La Concha Bay with unbeatable views and easy walking access to everything. This apartment sleeps 3 (one bedroom) plus a pull-out couch, has laundry, a kitchen and a terrace overlooking La Concha Bay. Prices Start at $200/night.

👉🏻 Chicago House Rental

This house is set back one block from La Concha beach so the views are not of the bay, but the location is fantastic. The house has two full bedrooms and is great for a family or two couples and sleeps 4. Prices Start at $200/night.

👉🏻 Concha Suite House Rental

This house is in a fantastic location, bright and open, and virtually brand new. The house rental is not located right on the promenade, but it is just a few hundred meters from the beach and a 10 minute walk to Old Town. A great option for up to 4 people in a wonderful location! Prices Start at $200/night.

Where to Stay in Gros, San Sebastián

Gros is the younger and hipper part of San Sebastián, full of trendy restaurants, surf shops, and Zurriola Beach (a popular surf spot).  There is always a lot happening in this part of town and it is an incredible spot to take in the sunset and watch the locals surf, socialize and sip cocktails while catching up with each other.

Gros is not as elegant as El Centro or as historic as Old Town, but it has its own charm and is full of amazing food, a spectrum of shopping options, and access to the beach.

There is also the Kursaal Convention Center, an iconic building, located at one end of Gros that hosts the San Sebastian International Film Festival each year and fantastic concerts all year long. Gros allows you to experience the unique culture that is San Sebastián, but with easy access to the river, Zurriola Beach, and El Centro.

This is a great place to stay if you want a more casual vibe.

Best Hotels in Gros

✔️ Abba Hotel

This hotel is located on the river in Gros and is not only a fantastic location but a beautiful old building.  It is within walking distance of the train station, Zurriola Beach and a short walk across the bridge into El Centro.  

One of my favorite parts of this hotel is the panoramic view from the rooftop terrace.  If you are visiting in the winter the picturesque Christmas markets are set up along the river and you can walk with a hot chocolate in hand while you check out the local Basque vendors.   

Prices range from $100/night in the low season to $250/night in the high season.

✔️ Hotel Arrizul Beach

Hotel Arrival is a no frills hotel that is clean and bright and in a great location. It is right across the street from the Kursaal Convention Center which is the location of the famous San Sebastián film festival that happens every year. It is a 2 minute walk to the beach and steps to the river.

The rooms are simple and you can step outside your door to dozens of dining options, boutiques and surf shops.  Be sure to try the famous Basque Cheesecake they serve at the Loaf, located one block from the hotel.

Prices range from $100/night in the low season to $170/night in the high season.

✔️ Hotel Arrizul Congress

This hotel is related to the one mentioned above but located several blocks away. The hotel is located in a historic building in the middle of Gros. It is surrounded by local shops, cafes and just minutes from the river and the train station. The rooms are clean and bright and there is nice morning breakfast buffet.

Prices range from $100/night in the low season to $170/night in the low season.

✔️ Leonardo Boutique Hotel

This is a great little boutique hotel in the middle of Gros at a nice price point. This hotel is a no frills, casual, clean and bright option for your stay in Gros. It is surrounded by good shopping, great food and just a short walk to the beach.

Prices range from $100/night in the low season to $170/night in the low season.

👉🏻 Zurriola Loft House Rental

This is a great house rental with views of the beach. It is clean and modern and sleeps up to 4 people. This is a great house rental option in Gros. Prices Start at $200/night.

👉🏻 Jai Alai 54 House Rental

This house rental is in a fantastic location in Gros and is close to dozens of dining options and good shopping. The apartment sleeps 8 and is beautifully decorated. It’s a great option for two families, several couples or a group of friends. Prices Start at $260/night.

👉🏻 Allegra House Rental

This is a great rental for a family or two couples and I love the decor and the layout. With 2 rooms and a pull-out couch, you can comfortably sleep 5. You are located in a wonderful part of Gros, only a few minutes from the beach and surrounded by good dining options. Prices Start at $220/night.

👉🏻 Olatu House Rental

This is a cute little apartment with a fun (albeit small) terrace overlooking the streets below. It is bright and clean and comfortably sleeps 4 people. With easy access to all Gros has to offer and a few blocks from the beach this is a nice option for your stay in Gros. Prices Start at $220/night.

✔️ Hotel La Galeria

This hotel is a gem and one of my absolute favorite hotels in San Sebastián.  The rooms are old-world Spain and not the traditional luxury and super spacious rooms that most hotels across the world try to emulate.  They are smaller with simple traditional Spanish furnishing that have an authentic feel.

The building itself is beautiful and represents the historical and unique architecture of the Basque Country.  

But what really sets the hotel apart is the location!  A stone’s throw away from Ondaretta Beach, Hotel La Galeria in my opinion is in the perfect location.  It is a one-minute walk to the beach, a three-minute walk to the charming and very authentic old town of Antiguo, and a fifteen-minute walk into downtown San Sebastian.  

Hotel La Galeria is a real gem of a hotel in Antiguo, San Sebastian.

Prices range from $100/night in the low season to $300/night in the high season.

✔️ LETOH LETOH San Sebastián

A recent remodel of a historic building Hotel Letoh Letoh is located on the main street in Antiguo. The rooms are modern, but in an old reformed building with a very welcoming staff.  This is a true authentic Basque neighborhood where I could sit and people watch all day.  

It is minutes from the beach and just a short walk to the famous comb of the wind (El Piene del Vient0).  There is a good restaurant on the first floor and a rooftop balcony with great views.  

Prices range from $100/night in the low season to $300/night in the high season.

✔️ Hotel Ezeiza

This hotel is located right across the street from Ondaretta beach and many of the rooms have ocean views. The hotel is on the older side and lacks some of the ambiance of the others mentioned above, but the location is amazing.

It is a smaller hotel and is just minutes from the Funicular (The Cable Railway) which takes you up to Mount Igueldo, the neighborhoods of Antiguo and the Miramar palace.

Prices range from $100/night in the low season to $270/night in the high season.

✔️ NH collection Aranzazu San Sebastian

Ok I wasn’t going to name this hotel as I am not a fan of big chains but it is a good option as it is larger, has easy access and allows pets. This hotel is like many others across the globe so you miss out on that unique San Sebastián charm but it is a good choice as parking is easy, you can walk to the beach, into Antiguo and they have a good restaurant in the lobby.

Prices range from $100/night in the low season to $250/night in the high season.

👉🏻 Brunett III House Rental

This house rental is fantastic! It is located a block from the beach and set amongst beautiful old homes and only two blocks from Main Street in Antiguo. It is bright inside, has a nice balcony, and sleeps 6. Prices Start at $280/night.

👉🏻 Brunett House Rental

This house rental is a great option in Antiguo. With three bedrooms, the apartment can sleep up to 6 and is great for a family or several couples. It is located a block from the beach and a short walk to the Funicular that takes you up Mount Igueldo. It is bright inside and has a nice balcony. Prices Start at $260/night.

👉🏻 Villa Ondaretta

Antiguo has some of the oldest and most beautiful old homes in San Sebastián, and this is one of them. Located right across the street from the beach this house is in a league all its own. The decor is eclectic, there is ton of space and a great yard to sit and visit with family and friends.

The house sleeps up to 8 people and could easily accommodate several families. It is a great option for an exceptional getaway in San Sebastián. Prices Start at $420/night.

Where to Stay Outside the City, San Sebastián

Part of the magic of San Sebastián is that the lush, green rolling hills and more rural settings are just minutes from the more densely packed city.

Within just a few minute’s drive, you can find yourself in a tranquil and beautifully natural part of the greater San Sebastián area. These rolling hills give you a glimpse into the remarkable landscape that makes up Basque Country.

Just outside the city of San Sebastián, you will find picturesque family farms, large Basque homes, hiking trails, and stunning views. There are a variety of lodging options just outside the city that provide a peaceful and bucolic stay while visiting San Sebastián.

Staying outside the city does, however, require a car so factor this into your plans.

This is a great place to stay that allows for easy enough access to San Sebastián, but where you are surrounded by more nature.

Best Hotels Outside the City

✔️ Akelare

This hotel is exceptional. Set up on the cliff just to the west of San Sebastián with breathtaking views Akelare is more of an experience than a hotel.

Everything about this hotel is breathtaking from the views, to the world-class spa, to the Michelin Star Restaurant and stunning architecture. This hotel feels like you are far from the city, but within 10 minutes you can find yourself in the middle of El Centro.

Prices range from $350/night in the low season to $500/night in the high season.

✔️ Hotel Restaurant Usategieta

This is a rustic hotel set in the scenic and green rolling hills of Basque Country. Locally owned and surrounded by nature, personal touches, and solitude this hotel allows for a very Basque experience.

About a 20-minute drive into San Sebastián and a 15-minute drive into France, this is a nice option for a more out-of-the-way and rural stay in San Sebastián.

Prices range from $90/night in the low season to $250/night in the high season.

✔️ Iriarte Jauregia Hotel

A bit farther out (35 minutes) from San Sebastián sits this gem of a hotel in the rolling green hills of Basque Country. Built in the 17th century and in the middle of nature this hotel is an experience like no other. You are surrounded my animals, orchards and beautiful farms that serve locally sourced and delicious cuisine.

This is a stay that provides you with a quiet and serene experience in the heart of Basque Country.

Prices range from $120/night in the low season to $250/night in the high season.

Conclusion: Where to Stay in San Sebastián…

There are so many wonderful areas to stay in San Sebastián and each location has its own charm and personality. There are a wide variety of welcoming, charming and beautiful hotels and house rental throughout San Sebastián.

It is fun to share some of our favorite recommendations of where to stay, and we know that any one of the options will allow you to have an amazing trip and enjoy all that San Sebastián has to offer.  

Wishing you a fantastic visit to San Sebastián and be sure to let us know what you enjoyed most!

Want some help planning the perfect trip to San Sebastián? Please feel free to reach out as we are more than happy to help you plan your ideal visit with our trip planning services.