San Sebastian has a population of 180,000 people and is the cultural capital of the Basque area found in Northern Spain. It is an incredibly beautiful city and a popular choice for Spanish holidaymakers. More and more tourists from other parts of the world are visiting San Sebastian every year however.

Why Visit San Sebastian?

The area benefits from an extremely mild climate and that makes San Sebastian a good choice as a year round short break destination. It is also just 20 kms away from the French border making 2 centre holidays in 2 different countries a real possibility.

The city is home to several stunning beaches, La Concha bay being particularly scenic. There are plenty of monuments, museums and galleries to be enjoyed in the city too. There are plenty of green spaces as well as a cathedral and even a Palace. The Miramar Palace was the summer residence of the Queen.

Being so unspoilt and away from the well beaten tourist path makes San Sebastian a wonderful choice for either a mini-break or indeed a longer holiday. One trip is never enough to truly take advantage of everything the city and the surrounding area has to offer.

On 20th January St Sebastian’s Feast day takes place in San Sebastian. If you are lucky enough to be visiting during this time you will no doubt have a memorable trip! For 24 hours the whole city is filled with the sound of drums and music as a re-enactment of the city is held. If you can make sure you follow one of the drumming parades as it passes through the city – these take place throughout the day and into the early hours of the morning. In the morning of 20th January 5000 children take to the streets to take part in their own drumming parade. It is very bright and colourful and truly a wonderful spectacle to watch.

St Sebastian's Feast Day Jan 20

St Sebastian’s Day is an important and impressive event in the San Sebastian calendar. A particularly nostalgic event is the hoisting and then subsequent lowering of the flag in Constitución Square. There is a wonderful atmosphere throughout the city on this day and the partying and merriment goes on long into the night. If you are going to be in San Sebastian on 20th January you won’t forget your trip in a hurry.