The Center & Romantic Area of San Sebastian is other the popular district of San Sebastian. Here you can find our useful guide on the center and romantic area of San Sebastian, including what to expect, things to do and see, shopping, food and drink, lodging, and visiting tips.
Top Things to Do & See
San Sebastian’s Center and Romantic Area are two of the most picturesque and vibrant parts of the city.
Located between the Bay of La Concha and the River Urumea, these neighborhoods are known for their elegant architecture, chic boutiques, and world-class dining options. Here are some of the top things to do and see in the Center and Romantic Area of San Sebastian:
La Concha Beach: One of the most famous beaches in Spain, La Concha is a stunning crescent-shaped beach that offers incredible views of the bay and the surrounding mountains.
Paseo de La Concha: This wide promenade runs along the beach and is lined with palm trees, cafes, and historic buildings.
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Old Town: The Old Town is located just a short walk from the Center and Romantic Area and is home to many of San Sebastian’s best pintxos bars, restaurants, and shops.
San Telmo Museum: This museum is located in a former Dominican convent and features exhibits on Basque culture and history.
Buen Pastor Cathedral: This Neo-Gothic cathedral is located in the heart of the Romantic Area and is one of the most iconic buildings in San Sebastian.
Plaza de la Constitución: This charming square is surrounded by colorful buildings and is a popular spot for outdoor dining and people-watching.
Mount Urgull: Located at the eastern end of La Concha beach, Mount Urgull offers incredible views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Aquarium: Located at the end of the pier, the aquarium is home to a variety of marine species from the Bay of Biscay.
Shopping
The Center and Romantic Area are home to many high-end boutiques and designer stores, as well as local markets and artisan shops. If you’re looking to do some shopping in the Center and Romantic Area of San Sebastian, you’ll find a great mix of high-end boutiques, designer stores, local markets, and artisan shops.
Some of the best places to go shopping in this area include the San Martin Market, which sells fresh produce and local specialties, and the Victoria Eugenia Theater Market, which sells handmade goods, jewelry, and artisanal foods.
Dining
When it comes to eating out in the Center and Romantic Area of San Sebastian, you’ll be spoilt for choice. From Michelin-starred restaurants to trendy cafes and pintxos bars, the Center and Romantic Area are home to some of the best dining options in San Sebastian. The area is famous for its excellent restaurants, which offer a range of cuisine, from traditional Basque dishes to international favorites.
One of the most popular areas for eating out in San Sebastian is the Old Town, which is just a short walk from the Center and Romantic Area. Here, you’ll find a wide range of pintxos bars, which serve small plates of local specialties, such as grilled prawns, cured ham, and creamy tortilla.
For a more upscale dining experience, head to one of the area’s Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Arzak, Kokotxa, or Martin Berasategui. These restaurants offer some of the best cuisine in the city, and are a must-visit for foodies and culinary enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for something a little more casual, there are also plenty of cafes, bistros, and brasseries in the area, which offer tasty and affordable meals. Some of the most popular spots include Cafe de la Concha, which offers great views of the bay, and the charming little bistro, La Madame.
Nigthlife
When it comes to nightlife, the Center and Romantic Area are home to some of the best bars and clubs in San Sebastian. From trendy rooftop bars to laid-back pubs and nightclubs, there’s something for everyone.
Some of the most popular spots include the rooftop bar at Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra, which offers stunning views of La Concha Bay, and the underground club, Dabadaba, which hosts live music and DJ sets.
Lodging
In terms of lodging, the Center and Romantic Area offer a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the most popular hotels in the area include the Hotel Maria Cristina, which is located just steps from the beach and offers elegant rooms and suites, and the Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra, which is housed in a historic building and features modern amenities and stunning views.
If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, there are also several hostels in the area, including the Urban House Hostel and the Green Nest Hostel, which offer clean and comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.
How to Get There?
The Center and Romantic Area of San Sebastian are easily accessible by foot, as it is a compact and walkable part of the city. If you’re arriving by car, there are several public parking options in the area, including the underground parking lot at Plaza de Catalunya.
The area is also well-served by public transportation, with several bus stops and taxi stands located throughout the district. If you’re arriving by train, the San Sebastian train station is just a short walk from the area, making it easy to reach from other parts of the city and beyond.
