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Culture Corner

Getting Around San Sebastián

Although San Sebastián does have a public bus system and taxis, there is really minimal need to use these means of transportation. Students are within walking distance to most everything, including the university and the ISA office. Walking is the best way to learn street names, experience the personality of the city, and soak up the local culture. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk much more than you might at home. If you get lost, don't be afraid to practice your Spanish to get yourself back on track.

To learn more about the different ways to navigate San Sebastián, please read the descriptions below.

Types of Transportation

Bus:
There is a public bus system in San Sebastián. A one-way ride costs about €1.30. You may also purchase a Donostia Card for about €10, which gives you unlimited use of city buses and museum discounts for three days. San Sebastián's central bus station is found in the La Plaza Nueva, connecting the center of San Sebastián to surrounding Donostarian neighborhoods. Click here to be redirected to the D Bus website.

Taxi:
Taxis are readily available throughout the city; although it is helpful to keep the taxi company's phone number handy to call for a cab if necessary.

Air:
San Sebastián has its own regional airport located in Hondarribia, a town about 15 miles away. A traveler can expect to spend €30 for a cab to the airport. Alternatively, you may take an Iparbus to the airport for about €3. Click here to be redirected to the San Sebastián Airport website.

For weekend travel, both Ryanair and EasyJet, economy European airlines, fly into Bilbao (approximately one hour by bus from San Sebastián) and offer non-stop service to London. Non-stop flights are available to many Spanish cities on Iberia and Spanair from both San Sebastián and Bilbao.