Protecting the narrow streets of Old Town (Parte Vieja) is the solid bulk of Monte Urgull, which…read morealso shelters the small harbour area. This is where San Sebastian was born about 1000 years ago. Because the Town burned down in 1813 (as Spain, Portugal, and England fought the French to get Napoleon's brother off the Spanish Throne), the architecture is generally Neoclassical and uniform. Still, this dense street grid hides heavy Baroque and Gothic Churches, surprise plazas, delicious pastry shops, lots of Pintxos (Tapas) bars, various Basque cultural items, and interesting places to shop. Gayle and I particularly enjoyed seeing the Basilica of Santa María as it faces the Iglesia de Buen Pastor (in New Town) across the Calle Mayor. We also walked along the water on both the Puerto Pequero and Kursaal Bridge sides, and with a nice hike up Monte Urgull in between. The Camino de Santiago (Northern Route) also follows Av. Zurriola (and towards La Concha Beach), and adjacent park was a nice place to hang out and watch this part of the World go by. Our other activities included a wonderful Tapas Lunch, a not as impressive dinner, relaxing at La Bretxa Plaza over a drink, marveling at Constitución Square and the nearby Town Hall and Kursaal Conference Center buildings, venturing into Calle Juan de Bilbao for a short lesson in Basque politics, enjoying the outlying areas of El Muelle, Monte Urgull, and Gros, and doing a lot of walking, including trying to get lost. It's all compact and doable in a reasonable amount of time.

San Sebastian is one of the most beautiful places I've ever set my eyes on. It is even better to…read morewalk around and eat in. It is a destination for for those who love food as the Pintxos to Michelin star eateries are abundant. The architecture a mix of Basque, Spanish, full of one of the most enthusiastic eating societies ever. Going from bar to bar hunting down Pintxos in the old town is a great way to experience the culinary offerings that are hidden through the many nooks and alleys. The Basque culture one of the most unique I've ever experience and the breadth of it can be had here in the Parte VIeja

The old lighthouse also known as the "Lamp" built in the 16th century. They've since built another…read morelight house on the side of the mountain but this still stands as a piece of history with an amazing panoramic view of the bay

Ondarreta Beach, located in the west of Donostia / San Sebastián, is by Igeldo Mountain and in…read morefront of Santa Clara Island. The golden-sand beach is one of the most elegant in Gipuzkoa. With its 600 metres, Ondarreta offers a varied sports offer. Swimming and volleyball lessons are organised in summertime. I visited it on my way to "El Peine del Viento" and I saw many people swimming, surfing, sun bathing or just enjoying the area by seating or walking. Definitely more laid back than La Concha, it's more of a beach for locals, being away from the tourist center.

The "little beach" as translated from Euskera. Perhaps one of the most picturesque beaches in a…read moremassively picturesque town. Across the way from Santa Clara island, walking along and observing the quiet and serene from barrier walls, is a terrific way to let your mind wander away.

A really wonderful hike. Definitely a must-do for Donostia in my opinion. Very good display of…read morehistory at the top and the view is amazing.

One of two viewpoints that are a must while visiting San Sebastian, but be ready for Monte Urgull…read more Why be ready for Monte Urgull, easy it is a stiff hike for someone who either is not found, ready, or use to vertical hill climbing. The positive aspect is that you can take your time, so while it may be a long and strenuous hike, it can be accomplished by most with the right mindset. I took my time as I had a family member who was not "hill climbing" ready, but was very determined to see those beautiful views that were awaiting us at the top! The trail itself is laid out pretty well, but be aware there are several trails, some leading to lower beach/ocean views, and others leading to small park areas, and the other preferred ones leading to the top. Fast forward past all of the beautiful scenery to top of Monte Urgull and you are greeted with various views, all stunning of course, but you can go to the "very top". This max vertical accession requires going through their free museum which is a nice touch especially on a hot day as some of the exhibit rooms are air conditioned! The very top obviously is where you will catch the iconic panoramic shots that most will see online when researching the city. On one last note, the opposite side of the mountain is the other view point, which is paved and regular bus routes consistently run throughout the day. It really leaves you with two choices, but many prefer the hike.

The Plaza de la Constitución, located in the old town of San Sebastián, occupies the heart of the…read morecity. It is where the most important and most important events of the city are celebrated, such as the traditional Tamborrada or the Santo Tomás Day fair. It is just 10 minutes from La Concha beach and is one of the places with the most history and greatest charm. The best pintxos bars in San Sebastián are located in its surroundings. The Plaza de la Constitución dates back to 1817 and the first thing that catches your attention when entering its premises are the arcades, their balconies and the numbering of the windows at the top. The reason for these numbers is that they were the boxes of the old bullring. If you ever purchased one of these apartments, you knew that the balconies were rented a few times a year to the public for them to watch the bull fights. Very interesting setup, but unique.

Within the centre of Parte Vieja (Old Town) is Constitución Square. Up until the forties, its…read morecentral building was San Sebastian's City Hall. We noticed the seal of San Sebastian above the Clock and the cafe tables at all corners within the square. The balconies of the aesthetically coloured buildings that line the Square bear numbers left over from its past when it was used as a bullring. Even if you owned an apartment here, the City retained rights to the balconies, which it could sell as box seats. Residents of course could peak over the shoulders of the paying customers.

Cute little public fountain located right by the Catedral. Great little landmark to get your…read morebearing and refill your water bottle. It's right in the heart of the city, a neat landmark, and a place to get your bearings. Lots of cafes and bars nearby, too!

This is an interesting fountain. The name translates to Fountain of the Dog even though they're…read morelions. According to my tour guide, it's because the people of Bilbao had never seen a lion before. I found that interesting. It's a cute corner and worth a stop as you make your way around the Old Town of Bilbao.

El Muelle or Puerto Pequero is the Fisherman's Quarter. Gayle and I first walked through after…read morecoming down off Monte Urgull. It was Monday and the Aquarium and Museo Naval were closed, but it was still fun to stroll along the water and view the harbor and the fishing boats. Halfway around the harbour is a monument to "Alta Mari", the nickname of a local boatman who became a hero fro his fearless acts of rescue of other sailors in fierce storms off the coast. In 1866 he perished in view of thousands attempting yet another rescue in a terrible tempest.

Stunning piece of architecture! Another must visit stop when you are in Bilbao. It's a short walk…read morefrom the Guggenheim and on the way to the cable car. There's a lovely promenade along the river once you get to the other side.

Zubizuri translates from Basque to "the white bridge" in English. And yes, it's white. A…read morefantastically lovely pedestrian bridge over the Nervion River here in Bilbao. It's just around the bend from the Guggenheim so if you've had your fill of fantastic artworks and you're headed to the Old Town for a pinxtos, then you'll spot this bridge. There are stairs and light ramp on both sides. I found the bridge to be absolutely lovely, even with the slight addition on the side for the Isozaki Atea towers.