Fodor's Expert Review Hotel María Cristina

Paseo República Argentina 4, San Sebastián, Basque Country, 20004, Spain Fodor's Choice

Belle Époque grace and opulence define San Sebastián's most legendary hotel, which has hosted countless movie stars and dignitaries since opening in 1912. Public spaces are appointed with Oriental rugs, potted palms, and Carrara marble columns, and there's a spacious gym in the basement. The renovated guest rooms—many with river views—feature elegant (if perhaps gaudy to some) design accents like tufted headboards and fuchsia wall art. Marble bathrooms add more pampering with deep-soak tubs and separate showers. A piano player teases out an eclectic medley of tunes nightly at the bar.

PROS

  • Luxurious breakfast in a soaring old hall
  • Classical elegance with new-world amenities
  • Grand historic building

CONS

  • Staff can be a bit stiff
  • Views aren't as dramatic as from other top hotels
  • Wildly expensive

QUICK FACTS

Hotel
$$$$

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 94-343--7600

HOTEL DETAILS

136 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

What’s Nearby