Things to do in Donostialdea/Donostia-San Sebastián

The Playa de la Concha (usually referred to in English as Concha Beach) is a beautiful central beach in the city of San Sebastián in northern Spain. It’s located in the stunning bay Bahía de La Concha, which takes its name from its distinctive “concha” shell shape. Spend a fantastic day on a spacious Spanish beach with amazing views and lovely walkways.

Embark on an undersea odyssey and observe a variety of aquatic species at the Donostia-San Sebastián Aquarium. This oceanographic museum has more than 30 aquariums that feature animals from the Cantabrian-Atlantic Sea. Visit its exhibition space dedicated to naval history and the local fishing industry.

Concha Promenade is the central boulevard of San Sebastian, where you’ll find many of the city’s events, ceremonies and activities. With its white balustrade and tall clock towers straddling Concha Beach, the promenade is among the most iconic landmarks in the region. Join joggers and skaters on this lively pedestrian avenue, which is shaped like a horseshoe.

The Monte Igueldo (Igueldo Mountain) or Igeldo, Txubillo o Hiru Txubilloak in Basque language, is a very famous spot west of the city of San Sebastián. Ride to the top of the hill on the old-fashioned Funicular de Igueldo (Igueldo funicular railway) to marvel at some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the bay Bahía de la Concha and discover a classic fun park.

One of the main urban strands in San Sebastian, Ondarreta Beach is a wide stretch of golden sand beside picturesque Igueldo Mount. Its shallow water and flat sand provide ideal conditions for the entire family. Snap photos of the mossy mound of Santa Clara Island that rises tall from the bay beside a headland.

The site of celebrations and activities, Plaza de la Constitución is the main square of San Sebastian. Majestic colonnades of grand buildings surround the spacious plaza, which was formerly a bullfighting arena. Consider the rich and intriguing history of this square and how the city formed around it.

Zurriola Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand between the Urumea River and the mossy green Ulía mountain. It is the only one of three urban beaches of San Sebastian that doesn’t face Concha Bay, leaving it more exposed to larger waves that are ideal for surfing. Join skaters and joggers along the lively promenade that backs onto this exceptional stretch of sand.

The Cathedral of the Good Shepherd (Catedral del Buen Pastor de San Sebastián) is a famous church in San Sebastián in the north of Spain. Within the Basque Country (Pais Vasco) it is known as Artzain Onaren katedrala. See this amazing neo-Gothic religious construction built in the late 19th century. Marvel at its picturesque spires and the many intricate details of its interior.