San Sebastián, or Donostia as it is known in Basque, was founded in 1180 by Sancho el Fuerte (Sancho the Strong) around what is presently called the Parte Vieja (Historical Quarter). While the city dates back nearly a millennium, it is extremely modern and sophisticated. Over time, it has become the cultural center of País Vasco. Hailed as cosmopolitan, San Sebastián is known for its bay, La Bahía de la Concha, and is a popular tourist destination for many Spaniards in the summer. It is located just 13 miles from the French border and was made famous by Ernest Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises, in which several characters stayed at the Hotel Londres, an important landmark situated along the Playa de la Concha.

Modern architecture is juxtaposed with Belle Epoque design making San Sebastián a city with strong Spanish, French, and Basque character. Many agree that the Basque city is the most beautiful city along the Cantabrian coast. Like any city in País Vasco, San Sebastián prides itself on food. Cuisine is an integral component of Basque social life and to share a meal with a Donostiarra (San Sebastián native) is a unique experience. San Sebastián welcomes tourism and friendly faces walk the streets and eagerly assist any traveler that chooses Donostia for travel or long-term stay. The summers in San Sebastián start with a bonfire on the beach to mark the Fiesta de San Juan and end with the International Film Festival, but not a week goes by without being able to attend a music or cultural event.

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.

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:

• Tourism in Spain
• San Sebastián Tourism
• UNESCO World Heritage Center