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Best places to stay:

Hotel Maria Cristina

San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain

|www.marriott.com|
External view of whole hotel
Last updated: 10 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Dana Facaros

Built by Charles Mewes, the architect of the Ritz Paris and Ritz Madrid, San Sebastian’s grandest hotel was named in honour of its first guest, the Regent Maria Cristina.

To celebrate its centenary in 2012, it underwent a massive facelift, buffing up the opulent Belle Epoque rooms that have played host to movie stars galore during the city’s annual Film Festival.

Located in the heart of town, it’s as suited to first-time visitors as Hollywood heartthrobs, with spacious bedrooms and lovely views of the water.

There’s a sumptuous breakfast buffet in the elegant dining room, a royally plush bar and terrace, and Café Saigon restaurant with an all-Asian menu.

It’s an easy walk to the beach and the buzzy bars and restaurants in the old town. Its neighbour on the elegant riverfront paseo is the equally opulent Victoria Eugenia Theatre, which plays host to the Film Festival.

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Key facilities

Airport transfers*
Beach: < 5mins walk
Creche
Fitness centre
Fitness classes
Golf course
Hot tub
Parking
: Nearby *
Pool (adults only)
Pool (indoor)
Pool (outdoor)
Pool (kids)
Spa
Tennis courts
WiFi: Free
Yoga

Food & drink

All inclusive
Kids menu
Restaurant on-site
Self catering
*
Additional charge

Room types

Apartments
Bedrooms
Cabins
Suites
Tents
Villas
Yurts

Room facilities

Air conditioning
Flat screen TV
Jacuzzi (private)
Pool (private)
Tea & coffee making facilities
WiFi

Bedding options

2+ bedrooms
3+ beds
Connecting rooms
Rollaway/sofa bed

Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

view of vineyards smothering hills with blue sea behind
Experience

Getaria Wine Region

Getaria, Basque Country, Spain[18.9 miles]

A delightful fishing village with pretty architecture, food, beaches and superb wine – and it’s largely undiscovered by tourists.

Best for ages: Any | Free

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Overview >

Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first

Spanish ham hanging on a stall in the Boqueria market in Barcelona.
Experience

San Martin Market

San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain[0.4 miles]

San Sebastian’s central market, just in from La Concha bay, opened its doors in 1884, and underwent a complete transformation in 2006; along with traditional food stalls, San Martin now hosts concerts and cultural events.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Overview >
exterior facade of museum, golden sandstone
Experience

San Telmo Museum

San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain[0.5 miles]

San Sebastian’s delightful museum offers insights into the unique Basque culture, plus extraordinary murals by Jose Maria Sert.

Best for ages: 18+ | £5

Website >Overview >
external facade and entrance of the museum
Experience

San Sebastian Aquarium

San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain[0.9 miles]

Dedicated to fascinating underwater life in the Bay of Biscay, San Sebastian’s aquarium boasts a walk through 360-degree tunnel.

Best for ages: Any | £11

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Overview >
small amusement park with castle tower behind on the mount summit, views of sea behind
Experience

Monte Igueldo Theme Park [& cable car]

San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain[2.1 miles]

Ride the cable car up San Sebastian’s Monte Igueldo for superb panoramic views of the bay from the summit (head to Bar Danontzat). At the top, you’ll also find the historic Monte Igueldo amusement park, a charming, old-fashioned funfair with some inevitably enjoyable rides.

Best for ages: 6+ | £3

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Overview >

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