Where can you sleep?
The capital of Gipuzkoa, Donostia-San Sebastián, is divided in different areas, with 17 quartiers in total. In the quartier of the city Center you will find the Parte Vieja, or old town, of the city with some urban enlargements added in the 19th century. Gross is a great place for the youngest ones and surf-lovers; in the neighbourhood of Amara-Oneta you will find a very pleasant residential area that is not very far from the centre.
Towns like Hondarribia and Zarautz are squeezed every year in the list of the most beautiful towns from this province. Either if you prefer staying in the inland, or you're more into sea views, you will find in them an ideal place to take a break from daily routine and, at the same time, be close to some of the main tourist attractions of this region.
What to do in the area?
The city of Donostia-San Sebastian is considered one of the most beautiful ones not only out of Spain, but out of the whole world. La Concha bay is a must visit, but it's not the only one. Monte Urgull embraces the whole city, in which streets you will find incredible buildings such as the Catedral del Buen Pastor, and the Basílica de Santa María de Coro.
In the 68 km of coast in Gipuzkoa you will fin fishing towns with their own character: Zarautz or Zamaia are frequented by surfers who are looking for the perfect wave; in Deba you will be facing some of the most impressive cliffs, and if you go to Hondarribia you will be able to walk through one of the most beautiful historic centres of the province.
But the views in the inland do not fall short to the views of the seaside: in the natural park of Aizkorri you will be able to explore its wild nature, while in the areas of Goierri and Tolosaldea you will discover the origin of deeply-rooted traditions and customs .
What typical foods are recommended?
It should not come as a surprise that San Sebastián is considered by many a synonym of gastronomical culture and the truth is, it is the city with the most Michelin stars per m2 of the entire world. But this information should not be misinterpreted: the local cuisine here offers many different options to everyone's liking, and everyone's pockets. Amongst the most representative and famous dishes of this region are the very popular 'pintxos', small portions of food both warm and cold, the delicious Idiazabal cheese, or cod prepared in the 'pil pil' style. All of the above watered down with some cider, and the local txakoli wine.
Where are the festivities?
Since 1953, the city of San Sebastián has hosted its International Film Festival, which take place by the end of September. But this is not the only international that you will be able to witness in this city. You can also enjoy attending its Jazz Festival held in the third week of July, or the Quincena Musical, an event dedicated to classical music exclusively, in August.
San Sebastian's most important local festivity, known as the Tamborrada, is celebrated each 20th of January, when the city is filled with music and dancing to the rhythm of the drums and the 'barriles de bomba'.
