Car Hire San Sebastian - Mini guide to San Sebastian

The most glamorous city in Spain, San Sebastian is found in the Basque Country of Northern Spain. It enjoys a stunning locations on a deep, aqua bay lined by a sparkling beach and bounded by lush, rolling hills. It has a reutation for attracting Spain’s wealthy vacationers.

San Sebastian has three beaches: the Playa de la Concha, Ondaretta and the Playa de Gros. La Concha is probably the prettiest, with a wide crescent of sand stretching around the bay. The beaches lie at the base of Mount Igeldo and visitors can take a ride to the peak to check out the spectacular view.

The Parte Vieja (Old Quarter) is a district of narrow, cobbled streets, containing the oldest buildings in the city. It is also the most important area for dining, drinking and entertainment. San Sebastian was once a walled city and you can still see part of the murallas de la ciudad (city walls). The architecture and street lamps are reminiscent of Paris, and for this reason it is known as the Área Romántica (Romantic Area).

The old quarter has plenty of bars and waterside restaurants crowding the narrow and noisy streets. Tapas are laid out at all but the fanciest bars for delectable bites of special treats, and shellfish merchants hang out by the harbour to hawk the freshest of fish. The nicest clubs are along the beach promenade, Paseo de la Concha, or you can hang out with the more bohemian crowd in the Reyes Católicos behind the Baroque cathedral.

A popular trip is to follow the coast between the Peine de los Vientos and the district of Sagüés. It is about 7kms, can be covered in two or three hours, and takes in the sea, the beach and the magnificent buildings along the way.

San Sebastian Airport is located about 20km from the capital. There is also easy access by train or bus to France, being in close proximity to the beach. Alternatively you can arrive in Madrid and travel overland.