San Sebastian is regarded by many as one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Located on the Bay of Biscay, the San Sebastian coast and its surrounding environment, where the sea and mountain merge, are wonderful places to visit. The Bay, with La Concha beach and the artistic sculpture called El Peine del Viento (the Wind's Comb) by sculptor Eduardo Chillida and architect Peña Ganchegui, are its main landmarks.
The city's urban development is based on painstaking protection of the its green areas and parks. Most key places of interest can be easily reached on foot, strolling along its promenades and pedestrian walkways, or by bike along a network of 'bidegorris' (cycle lanes).
San Sebastian is a city of contrasts. Nowadays, old and stately buildings like the old Great Casino (now the Town Hall), the Miramar Palace or the bridges over the river Urumea, stand beside state-of-the-art buildings like the Kursaal Auditorium and Congress Centre, designed by architect Rafael Moneo, Anoeta Sports City, or the innovative Miramon Technology Park.
San Sebastian is a cultural and artistic centre with a wide range of services and congresses.The Kursaal is the main venue for the San Sebastian International Film Festival, the only Spanish film festival of such a high standard and in fact one of the most prestigious in Europe, held in September every year. The 'Jazzaldia' or Jazz Festival and the 'Musical Fortnight' (jazz and classical musical festivals, respectively) are some of its most important cultural events, without forgetting the city's main traditional feasts, known as the 'Tamborrada', which is held on the night of the 19th to 20th January every year.
The Old Quarter of San Sebastian is the city's historical and leisure centre, and one of the best places to taste the local cuisine ranging from its famous 'pintxos' to the best designer restaurants. Basque food is internationally renowned.
You can find more up-to-date information about the Basque Country and the city of Bilbao on the following websites:
