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San Sebastian

Culture Corner

Map of San Sebastián, the University of Deusto and the Casco Viejo
View of San Sebastián

Region and Population

Located six hours north of Madrid and seven to the west of Barcelona, San Sebastián is a coastal city in the Basque Country region (País Vasco) of Spain. The region of País Vasco is roughly 2,800 square miles, making it almost exactly half the size of Connecticut. The third largest city in País Vasco, 180,000 people call the city of San Sebastián home.

San Sebastián is situated on an isthmus that joins the city’s center with Monte Urgull, the Bahía de la Concha, and the outlet of the Río de Urumea. The city prides itself on three renowned beaches: La Playa de la Concha, Ondarreta, and La Zurriola. These beaches are surrounded by green and lush vegetation, which adds to the city's reputation for being tranquil and serene.

Climate

San Sebastián experiences mild, coastal coolness and humid temperatures all through the year. Rainfall may be experienced more frequently during the spring and fall seasons. The average temperature in the summer is around 68°F and 48°F during the winter.

Average monthly highs and lows (°F) and rainfall (inches) in San Sebastián:

TypeJanFebMarAprMayJuneJulAugSeptOctNovDec
Highs515256576467717270655753
Lows444446475357616259554946
Avg. Rainfall3.603.152.764.223.122.542.482.773.464.324.763.78