The city is in the north of the Basque Country, on the southern coast of the Bay of Biscay. San Sebastián's picturesque coastline makes it a popular beach resort. Adding to the seaside environment, it benefits from hilly surroundings easily available, i.e. Urgull (at the heart of the city by the seashore), romantic Ulia extending east to Pasaia, Mount Adarra rising proud far on the south and Igeldo, overlooking the bay from the west.

The most important Spanish speaking international film festival and one of the most important film festivals in Europe is held in this city, the San Sebastián International Film Festival.

San Sebastián is renown for its Basque cuisine. San Sebastian and its surrounding area is home to a high concentration of restaurants boasting Michelin stars, namely Arzak (San Sebastian), Berasategi (Lasarte), Akelarre (district Igeldo), to mention but a few. Adding to these cooking highlights, the city features tasty snacks similar to tapas called pintxos, which may be found at the bars of the Old Part.