The Madrid to San Sebastian direct train takes a comfortable 5 and a half hours.
Zinema7 Hotel
Affordable, excellent value for money, peaceful ambiance, spacious rooms, bus stop right outside, equipped with a gym, and a convenient supermarket nearby.
A 15-20 minute walk to the vibrant old town, with average amenities overall.
Pick up the Basque Card at the tourist center—it’s valid for two people and offers various transportation discounts. Bus rides cost just 0.3€, and you can enjoy half-price tickets for buses to Bilbao (
San Sebastian bus station is located underground, with buses running frequently throughout the day and tickets available directly at the station).
Check-in spots
Wander through the charming old town, dotted with several serene small parks.
Visit the Good Shepherd Church, renowned for its stunning architecture.
Motako Gaztelua Castle: A 20-minute uphill stroll offers breathtaking views; however, entry into the castle itself incurs a fee, so admiring it from the exterior is equally rewarding.
Zurriola Beach, less crowded and perfect for surfing, is easily accessible via a pleasant walk over the bridge from the old town. The seaside promenade is particularly inviting.
La Concha Beach tends to be overly crowded, despite its crystal-clear waters. For a quieter experience, head to the mountain side, especially in the morning when fewer tourists are around (use Behatokia for directions).
Monte Igueldo Cable Car 
: Be prepared for long queues, which may deter visitors from making the ascent.
Bilbao
Catalonia Gran Via
Highly recommended! This hotel boasts modern facilities, an impressive gym, excellent amenities, and convenient access to public transportation. It’s within walking distance of major attractions, with a bus stop conveniently located downstairs. Plus, it’s only a 20-minute direct ride to the airport 
.
