It's summertime in Europe, and Area is taking you to the picturesque coastline of northern Spain for the best of San Sebastián. We'll share an introduction and lodging selection today and return Wednesday for fancy fare and Friday for can't-miss see and do.
An elegant city sparkling under several Michelin stars, San Sebastián is on the shores of the Bay of Biscay in the Basque region of northern Spain.
This waist-expanding gastro hub takes food very seriously. The finest feasts in Europe come either Michelin-starred or in miniature - pintxos (Basque tapas) are served in every bar and if it's not market-fresh that morning, you're not in San Sebastián.
The dazzling coast is home to La Concha bay, a curved shore backed with lush green hills - Montes Igueldo, Urgull, Ulia, Pasaia and Adarra. This city with two names (it's also known as Donostia) has a Belle Epoque charm, and lots of graceful architecture. Of note are the sandstone columns of the Victoria Eugenia Theatre and the shuttered balconies of the Plaza de la Constitucion in the old quarter, at the base of Monte Urgull.
And it plays annual host to San Sebastián International Film Festival - so in September, enjoy film stars with fine food.
While in town we suggest staying at Astoria7 Hotel, a cinema-themed boutique hotel where each room is dedicated to a modern movie star and retro sophistication rules.
