The Best Sight in San Sebastian, The Basque Country, Navarra, and La Rioja

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Benjamin Kemper

Every corner of Spain champions its culinary identity, but San Sebastián's refined fare is in a league of its own. Many of the city's restaurants and pintxos spots are in the parte vieja, on the east end of the bay beyond the elegant casa consistorial (city hall) and formal Alderdi Eder gardens. The building that now houses city hall opened as a casino in 1887; after gambling was outlawed early in the 20th century, the town council moved here from the Plaza de la Constitución, the parte vieja's main square.

La Concha

La Concha Fodor's Choice

San Sebastián's crown jewel is this sandy stretch that curls around the uninhabited Isla Santa Clara. One of the most famous urban beaches in the world, La Concha is filled day and night, rain or shine, with locals and tourists who go to swim, jog, stroll, and admire sand sculptures. The beach has clean, pale sand and few rocks or seaweed—but scant shade, near the promenade wall. Lounge chairs are available for rent. The calm surf makes it a favorite pick for families. Amenities: lifeguards; showers; toilets. Best for: sunrise; sunset; walking.