Learn Spanish in San Sebastian, Spain!
Explore the stunning city of San Sebastian and discover five neighbourhoods, four sculptures, three beaches two emblematic plazas and a river. The coastal city of San Sebastian named after the monastery of San Sebastian, began in 1181, when it was given self-governing status by King Sancho VI Garcés of Pamplona. At the turn of the 13th century, the town was taken by the King of Castile, Alfonso VIII. He allowed the autonomous charter to continue, and soon the town saw an influx of Gascon-speaking colonisers. This migration left a permanent imprint on San Sebastian’s character. Now the city has four main centres, the Old Town, the South, the Eastern headland, and the Area Romantica, where you can find beautiful 19th century old buildings.
Living in San Sebastian, you are only a short walk from the beach, so when classes finish, you can sunbathe and swim before you head out for tapas and beer. The city is small, cosy, and easy to explore on foot and discover its attractions without the hassle of planning transportation.
What to do in San Sebastian
There are lots of great things to do in this seaside Spanish city. Visit the Picasso Museum, located within the Palacio de Buenavista. The museum features work by the great artist Pablo Picasso. You can also visit Casa Natal, the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Malaga not only showcases art in its many museums but there are also museums for wine, cars, and many other wonderful things. Fun fact, Malaga has the most museums of any city in Andalusia! Outside of Malaga, explore the white villages in the hills and take the train along the coast to some of the many tourist resorts, or venture the pretty town of Nerja. Some of the other great attractions in this region include Tivolo World in nearby Benalmadena, featuring some thrilling rides and entertaining shows. Torremolinos is home to the first waterpark in Spain.
San Sebastian has it all
There is plenty to keep you busy when you study in San Sebastian. Take a stroll down the promenade and enjoy the views across the beautiful turquoise waters of the bay. The most scenic area is perhaps La Concha Beach, a truly picturesque strip of sand. You can also take the 10-minute boat ride to the port of Isla Santa Clara. There are two main beaches in the city, each on either side of the river. La Zurriola is recommended if you enjoy surfing and other wave sports. La Concha is the larger beach and ideal for lounging, sunbathing, and swimming.
It’s worth checking out the San Telmo Museo, which has a stunning refurbished 16th century Dominican convent. Within this gorgeous historic building you will find an impressive collection of artefacts and Basque artwork. You can also take the funicular up to the top of Monte Igueldo, where you are offered amazing views of the harbour, town, and lighthouse. Or perhaps take the short and relatively easy hike up to the statue of Christ on top of the mountain between the two beaches. It takes about an hour but there’s a bar along the way if you need to stop and take a break.
Foodie’s experience
No international experience is complete without trying the local cuisine, you might even pick up a few culinary skills while you study here. Basque cuisine is wide-ranging and varied, with ingredients sourced from the Cantabrian sea and from local gardens and farms. The key is the use of seasonal top-quality produce. Quality produce is the only standard you can expect not only from markets but specialised food shops and supermarkets. One of San Sebastian’s gastronomy treasures is its famous pintxos, small bite sized foods held together with a cocktail stick.
Learn Spanish in this beautiful city not only for its stunning beaches and array of museums but also a unique living experience.
Discover Schools in San Sebastian
Lacunza IH Escuela de Español
Lacunza IH San Sebastián is a renowned Spanish language school in the heart of San Sebastián, in northern Spain.
- Adults 17+/Max Class size 12
- Juniors 6+/Max Class size 12
- Year-round school with a seasonal Junior programme
- Spanish
