Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach break or a cultural city escape, Spain is a popular destination for holidaymakers from around the world. But if you’re looking to blend the hustle and bustle of city life with stunning seaside views, one city has been hailed for its beauty.
Sharing to a travel forum on Reddit, one holidaymaker described Spain’s San Sebastián as “one of the most beautiful beach cities I’ve ever been to.”
A second tourist added: “San Sebastián is the one place in Europe that I could see myself dropping everything and moving to.”
The resort town is located on the Bay of Biscay in Spain’s mountainous Basque Country, famous for its world-class cuisine and stunning scenery. The mix of beaches, mountainous landscapes and an array of restaurants make it a perfect destination to tick a multitude of boxes.
A stretch of white sand runs between the Urgull and Igeldo mountains, looking out to the blue waters of the Bay of La Concha. Playa de la Concha sits at the heart of San Sebastián and remains one of the most photographed spots in the city.
The city is also home to a second beach, Playa de Ondarreta. Both beaches are framed by a picturesque bayfront promenade.
The city is also surrounded by nature, with the Igueldo, Urgull and Ulia mountains looking down across the landscape.
The mountains make perfect hiking trails and though some of them are not for the faint-hearted, they offer incredible views of the cityscape below.
Urgull is slightly smaller, considered more of a hill, with the Sagrado Corazón statue perched on top. This is a fantastic destination for the beautiful vistas of La Conca Bay.
Away from the beaches and mountains, the cobblestoned old town is a draw for visitors and residents alike – where you can find a selection of upscale shops and vibrant bars. San Sebastián is also home to several high-end restaurants including Mugaritz, which was named by Condé Nast Traveller as one of the best restaurants in the city.
Known for its avant-garde menu, the restaurant is located in a pitched-roofed farmhouse, with a rustic outdoor dining area perfect for summer evenings.
While San Sebastián is certainly popular with tourists, it has also been named one of the best places to live in Spain.
James Smith, from Learn Spanish with James, who spent many years living in Spain named San Sebastián as one of the top recommended places for Britons who want to relocate thanks to its diverse landscape.
