Question 1

Which are the best hotels to stay in San Sebastián as a budget traveler?

Accepted Answer

For budget-conscious travellers seeking excellent value in San Sebastián, several highly-rated hotels stand out, including Intelier Villa Katalina Hotel, Hotel Villa Eugenia, and Bidaia Boutique Hotel.

The 3-star Intelier Villa Katalina Hotel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, offers comfortable rooms and excellent free WiFi, making it a great choice for those who value connectivity. Guests frequently praise the friendly and fantastic staff, and its excellent location is often highlighted in reviews.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star Hotel Villa Eugenia, also with a 9.8 rating. This hotel provides complimentary toiletries and free WiFi, along with various convenient parking options. Customers consistently rate the breakfast as excellent and great, and its location is described as walkable and good. The staff are also noted for being very helpful.

As another option, the 3-star Bidaia Boutique Hotel, rated 9.8, offers clean and quiet rooms along with free WiFi and complimentary toiletries. The food, both excellent and good, is a frequent highlight for guests, and the friendly staff contribute to a positive stay.

Question 2

How much does a budget hotel in San Sebastián cost?

Accepted Answer

Budget hotel prices in San Sebastián vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $64 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.

Question 3

Which area of San Sebastián is best to stay in for cheap hotels?

Accepted Answer

For solo travellers looking for cheap hotels in San Sebastián, the Gros neighbourhood offers the best value. This vibrant area, just across the Urumea River from the city centre, provides a more laid-back atmosphere and a good selection of budget-friendly accommodations, including guesthouses and hostels.

Gros is particularly appealing for its proximity to Zurriola Beach, a popular spot for surfing, and its numerous affordable pintxo bars and cafes. Solo explorers will find it easy to navigate on foot, and the area is well-connected by local buses to other parts of the city.

Question 4

What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in San Sebastián?

Accepted Answer

For families seeking top-rated and affordable hotels in San Sebastián, excellent options include the Leonardo Hotel San Sebastián, Pensión Sarriegi, and FeelFree STAYS Basoa.

The 3-star Leonardo Hotel San Sebastián, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers comfortable and clean rooms, along with friendly and helpful staff. Its modern facilities and lovely bar are often praised. Families will also appreciate the free WiFi and various parking options, including accessible parking and an electric car charging station.

Pensión Sarriegi, rated 9.2, is in an amazing location and provides great rooms. The staff are frequently mentioned as helpful, and the availability of free WiFi, free toiletries, and free cribs makes it a convenient choice for families. Some rooms also feature a balcony or patio.

FeelFree STAYS Basoa, with a 9.0 rating, offers excellent value with its free WiFi and a kitchen, which can be very beneficial for families looking to prepare their own meals.

Question 5

What cheap hotels in San Sebastián offer complimentary breakfast?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in San Sebastián that include complimentary breakfast, consider Koba Hostel, Pension Anne, and HOTEL DONOSTI.

Koba Hostel, with a fantastic 9.4 rating, offers free continental breakfast daily, which guests often describe as nice. Travellers frequently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, as well as its great location. The hostel also features a pleasant yard and terrace.

Pension Anne, rated 8.8, provides free breakfast, with options for self-serve on weekends. Reviewers often praise its great location, beautiful breakfast, and friendly service. The rooms are also noted for being spacious.

The 3-star HOTEL DONOSTI, rated 8.6, includes free continental breakfast daily. Guests can enjoy mountain views from a balcony or patio in some rooms.

Question 6

When is the most affordable time to visit San Sebastián?

Accepted Answer

The most affordable time to visit San Sebastián is typically during the shoulder seasons, specifically late spring (April to May) or early autumn (late September to October). During these months, you'll find pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices for accommodation and flights compared to the peak summer months.

For solo travellers, these periods offer a more relaxed atmosphere to explore the city's culinary delights and stunning beaches without the summer rush. You'll often find better deals on hostels and guesthouses, and it's easier to secure a table at popular pintxos bars, allowing for a more authentic and cost-effective gastronomic experience.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will also benefit from visiting during the shoulder seasons. The milder temperatures are ideal for strolling along La Concha Bay, exploring the charming Old Town, and enjoying the scenic Monte Igueldo funicular without battling large crowds.

Question 7

What are the best cheap hotels in San Sebastián with a pool?

Accepted Answer

For affordable hotels in San Sebastián that offer a pool, excellent choices include Hotel Villa Eugenia, Leonardo Hotel San Sebastián, and The Social Hub San Sebastián.

The 3-star Hotel Villa Eugenia, boasting an impressive 9.8 rating, provides a seasonal outdoor pool for guests to enjoy. Reviewers consistently praise its excellent breakfast and lovely rooms, while the staff are noted for being incredibly helpful. Free WiFi is available, and parking options, including accessible and electric car charging, add to its convenience.

Another great option is the 3-star Leonardo Hotel San Sebastián, which has a 9.4 rating. This hotel also features a seasonal outdoor pool. Guests frequently comment on the comfortable and clean rooms, as well as the friendly and helpful staff. Modern facilities and a fresh, good breakfast are also highlights.

The Social Hub San Sebastián, a 3-star hotel with a 9.4 rating, offers a seasonal outdoor pool, great for a refreshing dip. Guests appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, the excellent location, and the great value for money.

Question 8

Is San Sebastián a budget-friendly destination?

Accepted Answer

While San Sebastián is generally considered a more expensive destination, travellers can absolutely experience its magic on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, consider staying in the Gros neighbourhood, just across the river from the Old Town. It offers a slightly more affordable range of guesthouses and apartments, and is still very walkable to all the main attractions. Solo travellers might also find good value in hostels located near La Concha beach.

Couples can save on food by focusing on the city's famous 'pintxos'. Instead of sit-down meals, hop between pintxos bars, enjoying one or two small dishes and a drink at each. This is a fantastic way to sample local cuisine without breaking the bank, and many bars offer standing room, making it a quick and social experience. Look for pintxos bars in the Old Town or Gros for authentic and delicious options.

San Sebastián offers numerous free activities. Enjoy leisurely strolls along La Concha Bay, relax on the stunning beaches, or wander through the charming streets of the Parte Vieja (Old Town). A hike up Monte Igueldo or Monte Ulia provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline without any cost.

Question 9

What cheap hotels in San Sebastián offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in San Sebastián that provide cooking facilities or kitchenettes, excellent options include The Passage Apartments, The Social Hub San Sebastián, and abba Apartments Playa de Gros San Sebastián.

The 3-star The Passage Apartments, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, offers convenient kitchenettes, allowing guests the flexibility to prepare their own meals. Reviewers frequently praise its great location.

The 3-star The Social Hub San Sebastián, rated 9.4, also features kitchenettes. Guests consistently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, the free laundry facilities, and the excellent value for money.

Question 10

How can I save on a budget hotel in San Sebastián with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in San Sebastián. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards program, to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.

Question 11

Which cheap hotels in San Sebastián have good reviews for customer service?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in San Sebastián with excellent customer service, travellers frequently recommend Intelier Villa Katalina Hotel, Hotel Villa Eugenia, Casa Nicolasa, Hotel Atari, and Bidaia Boutique Hotel.

The 3-star Intelier Villa Katalina Hotel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, receives high praise for its fantastic and friendly staff, who are always ready to assist. Guests also benefit from free WiFi and air conditioning for a comfortable stay.

Another superb option is the 3-star Hotel Villa Eugenia, also rated 9.8. Reviewers consistently highlight the excellent service and the helpfulness of the staff. This hotel also provides free toiletries and various parking options, including covered and accessible parking.

Casa Nicolasa, with a strong 9.6 rating, is known for its friendly and helpful staff. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, a balcony, and a furnished patio or terrace, along with complimentary stocked items in the minibar.

Hotel Atari, rated 9.6, is celebrated for its friendly and attentive staff. Located in a historical district, it offers free WiFi and rooms with balconies, providing a pleasant experience.

Finally, the 3-star Bidaia Boutique Hotel, boasting a 9.8 rating, is frequently praised for its friendly staff.

Question 12

Are there any cheap hotels in San Sebastián that allow for late check-out or early check-in?

Accepted Answer

Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in San Sebastián are great for handling non-standard arrival or departure times, though specific policies can vary.

The Bidaia Boutique Hotel, a 3-star property with an impressive 9.8 rating, is much-loved for its flexible check-out options. Reviewers often mention its clean and quiet rooms, excellent food, and friendly staff. They offer free WiFi and complimentary toiletries, adding to the value.

Another excellent option is Hotel Arrizul Beach, which has a 9.2 rating. This hotel is known for its ability to accommodate early check-ins and late check-outs, making your travel plans more convenient. Guests also benefit from free WiFi and complimentary toiletries.

Pension Anne, with an 8.8 rating, also offers late check-out options. This pension provides great value with free breakfast on weekends, free self-serve breakfast, and free WiFi. Reviewers frequently highlight its convenient location, beautiful breakfast, spacious rooms, and friendly service. Parking is also available nearby at no extra cost.

Pensión Urkia, rated 9.2, is another good choice for late check-outs. It provides free WiFi and complimentary toiletries, and its proximity to the beach is a bonus.

Finally, Ibaia Et Arramak, with a 7.8 rating, offers both early check-in and late check-out options. This property includes a kitchen, free WiFi, and complimentary toiletries, making it a practical choice for travellers needing flexibility.

Question 13

What free activities should we do in San Sebastián?

Accepted Answer

San Sebastián offers a wealth of fantastic free activities, allowing you to immerse yourself in its beauty and culture without spending a penny.

For couples and solo travellers, exploring the city's stunning natural landscapes is a must. Stroll along La Concha Beach, one of Europe's most picturesque urban beaches, enjoying the golden sands and gentle waves. Walk around the entire bay to Ondarreta Beach and then up to Monte Igueldo for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline; while the funicular ride up Monte Igueldo has a small fee, the views from the base are still excellent. Another scenic walk is up Monte Ulia, offering different perspectives of the city and the rugged Basque coastline, great for a romantic afternoon or a reflective solo wander.

Wandering through the charming Old Town (Parte Vieja) is another rewarding free activity. Lose yourselves in its narrow, winding streets, soak up the vibrant setting, and admire the historic architecture, including the Basilica of Santa María del Coro and the Church of San Vicente. For a touch of art, many galleries and cultural centres in the city often host free exhibitions. You could also spend time people-watching at the bustling Plaza de la Constitución, once a bullring and now a lively public square.

Question 14

Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in San Sebastián as a package?

Accepted Answer

Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it’s wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.

Question 15

Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in San Sebastián for you.

Room 1

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check availability on San Sebastián Cheap Hotels

Our top choices for San Sebastián cheap hotels

1. Hotel Villa Favorita - Adults Only

2. Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel

3. Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra

4. Hotel Palacio Bellas Artes San Sebastián, Curio Collection by Hilton

5. Urbaia Rooms

6. Lasala Plaza Hotel - Adults only

7. Hotel Villa Eugenia

8. Abba San Sebastián Hotel

9. Hotel Arbaso

10. Hotel SANSEbay

11. Villa Soro

12. Hotel Atari

13. Room Mate Collection Gorka, San Sebastián

14. The Social Hub San Sebastián

15. Catalonia Donosti

16. Zinema7

17. Casa Nicolasa

18. Hotel Zenit Convento San Martín

19. NH Collection San Sebastián Aránzazu

20. Legazpi Doce Rooms & Suites

Find out more about San Sebastián

Discover cheap things to do in San Sebastián

Find the best cheap hotels in San Sebastián

Top San Sebastián Hotel Reviews

Zinema7

Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra

Hotel ILUNION San Sebastian

Sercotel Hotel Europa

Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Find Cheap Hotels in San Sebastián from CA $64