San Sebastián

San Sebastián —Donostia in Basque— is the capital of Gipuzkoa and one of the most sought-after destinations in northern Spain. La Concha bay, flanked by Monte Igueldo and Monte Urgull, is its most recognisable image: a shell-shaped beach that looks like a painting. The city combines elegance, top-level gastronomy and an atmosphere that blends traditional Basque culture with international tourism.

Gastronomy is the soul of San Sebastián. The Old Town is full of bars where pintxos —creative small bites on bread— are stacked on the counters. It is one of the cities with the most Michelin stars per square kilometre in the world; restaurants like Arzak, Akelarre and Martín Berasategui have put Donostia on the fine dining map. Txakoli —slightly sparkling white wine— and cider accompany the experience.

The promenade runs along the bay from the City Hall to the Peine del Viento, Chillida's sculptures embedded in the rocks facing the Cantabrian Sea. Monte Igueldo, accessible by funicular, offers panoramic views. Monte Urgull, with its castle and San Telmo Museum, tells the city's history. La Concha beach is ideal for swimming and strolling; Ondarreta and Santa Clara island complete the coastline.

The Tamborrada on 20 January —thousands of Donostiarras dressed as cooks and soldiers playing drums— is the most unique festival. Semana Grande (Aste Nagusia) in August fills the city with concerts and atmosphere. The San Sebastián Film Festival in September attracts international stars. The city has an oceanic climate: frequent rain but mild temperatures; summer is the driest and liveliest season.

San Sebastián is well connected by road and has an airport in nearby Hondarribia. There is no direct high-speed rail; the train station connects to Madrid and Irún. Prices are high —it is one of Spain's most expensive cities— but the quality of the experience justifies it. Spring and early autumn offer good weather with fewer crowds than August.