Hotel Arrizul Congress
San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain[0.3 miles]
In central San Sebastian, by the beaches, this modern hotel has rooms of all shapes and sizes. Brilliant value for groups or families.
Official star rating:
Bucket list experience:
San Sebastian International Film Festival
The world-famous San Sebastian International Film Festival takes place there every September
Credit: Bahdanovich Alena / Shutterstock.com
Last updated: 10 November, 2022
Begun in 1953, the San Sebastian International Film Festival is a sophisticated, established highlight of the global film calendar.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the town’s La Concha beach, SSIFF is a truly international affair, showcasing new movies from around the world.
It’s also one of the most accessible festivals around, with scores of tickets for new and classic film screenings available at reasonable prices.
Want more recommendations in this destination?
Destination Guide >Price from: £5
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
Frequency: annually
When: 3rd week September
Duration: One week
Getting there & doing it
The main venue, the striking, Brutalist Kursaal Centre, is across the river from San Sebastián’s historic centre. Tickets are available in person at the Kursaal Centre, or online in advance – they go on sale about two weeks before the festival. Book early for the best screenings. Seats aren’t numbered, so come early to get a good spot.
When to do it
The festival runs annually for one week during the third week of September.
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Hotel Maria Cristina
San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain[0.4 miles]
Belle Epoque glamour and buckets of history wait at this film-star favourite in San Sebastian next to the festival theatre.
Official star rating:
Hotel Lasala Plaza
San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain[0.8 miles]
A stylish and romantic boutique hotel with a rooftop pool, in a fantastic setting overlooking San Sebastian’s bay.
Official star rating:
Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra
San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain[1 miles]
A Belle Epoque beauty right on San Sebastian’s La Concha beach, a short walk from the lively bar-filled old town.
Official star rating:
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Basque Country
Basque Country, Spain
Fascinating ancient traditions, world-famous gourmet treats, Spain’s finest wine region and a gorgeous golden coastline.
Website >
Overview >
San Sebastian
Basque Country, Spain
A grand but charming beach resort in northern Spain famous for its glut of Michelin-recognised restaurants and superb pintxos.
Website >
Overview >