7 Tips for Living in San Sebastian
Summary: Advice for people moving to San Sebastian or thinking about moving there.
This is a must read if you're moving to San Sebastian or thinking about moving there.
San Sebastian, or Donostia as it's known in the Basque language, is a stunning coastal city in Spain's Basque Country. Known for its world-class cuisine, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, it's a popular destination for expats and digital nomads. Here are seven key tips to help you make the most of your time in this unique city.
1. Learn Some Basque
While Spanish is widely spoken in San Sebastian, the city is in the heart of the Basque Country, where the unique Basque language is also commonly used. Learning a few phrases in Basque can help you connect with locals and show respect for the local culture. Plus, it can be a fun challenge to tackle a language that's unlike any other in the world!
2. Explore the Neighborhoods
San Sebastian is made up of several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character. The Old Town (Parte Vieja) is famous for its narrow, winding streets and plethora of pintxos bars. Gros, on the other hand, is a trendy neighborhood popular with surfers and home to Zurriola Beach. Antiguo, at the foot of Mount Igueldo, offers a more residential feel with plenty of shops and cafes. Spend time exploring each neighborhood to find your favorite.
3. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
San Sebastian is a food lover's paradise. The city is known for its pintxos - small snacks typically eaten at bars - and boasts more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than almost any other city in the world. Be sure to try local specialties like txuleta (a thick, juicy steak) and bacalao a la vizcaina (Basque-style cod). Some popular restaurants to check out include Arzak, Akelarre, and Bar Nestor.
4. Take Advantage of the Outdoors
With its stunning beaches and lush green mountains, San Sebastian is a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts. Surfing is a popular pastime, particularly at Zurriola Beach. For a more leisurely activity, take a stroll along La Concha Beach or hike up Mount Urgull for stunning views of the city. Don't forget to visit the Peine del Viento, a famous sculpture by Eduardo Chillida, located at the foot of Mount Igueldo.
5. Embrace the Local Culture
San Sebastian is rich in culture, from its traditional Basque customs to its thriving arts scene. Attend a local festival, such as the Tamborrada drum parade or the San Sebastian International Film Festival, to experience the city's vibrant spirit. Visit the San Telmo Museum to learn about Basque history and culture, or catch a performance at the Victoria Eugenia Theatre.
6. Get Involved in the Community
One of the best ways to feel at home in a new city is to get involved in the community. Look for opportunities to volunteer, join a local club, or participate in community events. This can be a great way to meet locals, learn more about the city, and make a positive impact.
7. Plan for the Cost of Living
While San Sebastian is not the most expensive city in Spain, it's not the cheapest either. Be prepared for the cost of living, which can be higher than in other parts of Spain due to the city's popularity and high quality of life. This includes rent, groceries, dining out, and leisure activities. However, with careful budgeting and planning, it's possible to live comfortably and enjoy all that San Sebastian has to offer.
Living in San Sebastian offers the chance to immerse yourself in Basque culture, enjoy some of the world's best food, and explore stunning natural landscapes. With these tips in mind, you're well-prepared to make the most of your time in this incredible city.
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With over 40 years of professional experience, Balcells Group provides legal advice on immigration, business, real estate, and tax. They help individuals, companies, investors, students, entrepreneurs, highly-qualified professionals, digital nomads, and more, to enjoy successful law processes in Spain by guiding their clients every step of the way. They speak Spanish, English, Catalan and Russian.
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With over 40 years of professional experience, Balcells Group provides legal advice on immigration, business, real estate, and tax. They help individuals, companies, investors, students, entrepreneurs, highly-qualified professionals, digital nomads, and more, to enjoy successful law processes in Spain by guiding their clients every step of the way. They speak Spanish, English, Catalan and Russian.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Public Transportation in San Sebastian
- Best Markets in San Sebastian
- Retire in San Sebastian Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in San Sebastian
- Pros & Cons of Living in San Sebastian
- Cost of Living in San Sebastian
- Health Care in San Sebastian
- The Essential Guide to San Sebastian
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Spain
- Best Places to Live in Spain
- Real Estate in Spain
- 5 Affordable Places to Retire in Spain
- Pros and Cons of Living in Spain 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Spain