Located in San Sebastian’s historic city centre, Hotel Maria Cristina is surrounded by gardens and promenades just a short walk from the main beach of the city, La Concha. This historic palace is this charming city's most iconic luxury hotel.
San Sebastian's best known and most luxurious hotel
Location within walking distance of beach and city centre
Lovely river, sea and city views
Gastronomic centre offering gourmet restaurants and a cookery school
In its commanding position overlooking the Urumea River, the Hotel Maria Cristina has been closely linked to the cultural life of the city of San Sebastian for more than a century. The hotel's namesake, Spain’s regent Maria Cristina, was the first person to cross the threshold on the day it opened in 1912. The hotel has hosted stars and dignitaries for over 100 years, including illustrious visitors to the city's famous film festival such as Elizabeth Taylor and Bette Davis - the latter having a suite named after her.
This historic hotel makes for a relaxing haven in the heart of the city, using a calming palette of soft greys and whites throughout the tastefully restored interior. In a city famed for its gastronomy, the Maria Cristina's culinary offering will not disappoint - from the elegant breakfast room to the Asian restaurant 'Cafe Saigon', featuring a varied menu of Japanese and Vietnamese specialities. Hotel Maria Cristina is also home to their very own culinary centre and state-of-the-art cookery school. Here, guests can learn the secrets of Michelin star cooking, try their hand at pinxto making with the experts, or accompany the chef's visit to the local market in search of the freshest seasonal ingredients used in Basque cooking. Facilities also include a 24 hour gym to burn off some of the unavoidable calories acquired by a stay in San Sebastian!
Rooms and suites at the Maria Cristina are light and bright, blending traditional Belle Epoque architecture with contemporary touches to create a relaxing ambience. Both couples and families are well catered for with a range of interconnecting room options, and the Terrace Suites are an ideal choice for couples seeking stylish interiors with a private outdoor spot to enjoy a sundowner after a day exploring the city.
This charming property is an ideal base for discovering San Sebastian's cultural and culinary scene, as well as venturing further out to the surrounding areas of Bilbao and the iconic Guggenheim, or on a wine tasting trail through the vineyards of La Rioja.
When to visit
September sees the arrival of the International Film Festival in San Sebastian, and the Hotel Maria Cristina attracts an extensive celebrity guest list.
Plan your trip
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Enquire NowHotel Maria Cristina is located in the centre of San Sebastian within easy walking distance of the Old Quarter.
The easiest way to get to San Sebastian from the UK is on a low cost flight to Biarritz (40km) or Bilbao (100km). Otherwise the city is well connected by train.
Epicurean Bordeaux & Basque Country
Embark on an unforgettable culinary and wine-focused journey through Bordeaux and the French and Spanish Basque region. Begin your journey in Bordeaux, exploring vineyards and indulging in wine tasting. Then, venture to the French Basque country, where you'll relax by the stunning Biarritz beaches and savour delectable seafood. Finally, make your way to San Sebastian where you will immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Michelin-star dining.
Gourmet Basque Country
Known for its fantastic culinary scene, the Basque Country offers the perfect escape for food lovers. Taste your way around the region, enjoying mouth-watering pintxos and Michelin-starred meals in San Sebastian, followed by delicious wines in La Rioja.
Tour of the Guggenheim with an expert art guide
A truly iconic monument, Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum has transformed the city. Tour this incredible art gallery with your private guide and admire the huge contemporary art collection inside, as well as the impressive building itself.
La Rioja wine region
Explore the famed Rioja wine region on a full-day tour of the area. Known for producing some of Europe's best wines, here you'll have the chance to visit boutique wineries and sample some of the local products.
