Best viewpoints in Donostia

If you have come to visit the city and want to enjoy some wonderful views, read on. In this article, we present the best viewpoints in Donostia. Not only those from which you can see the coast, but also those from which you can see other emblematic places.

 

Mountains

Mount Igueldo

You can’t leave Donostia without having climbed a mountain. In our opinion, Mount Igueldo offers the best views. The best way to get up there is by funicular at the end of Ondarreta beach, although you can also go up by car. At the top you will not only enjoy the incredible views, but you can also visit a small amusement park that has the title of being one of the oldest in Spain and has the oldest steel “roller coaster” in the world.

Mount Ulia

If you like hiking, Mount Ulia is your best option. You can start in San Sebastian and finish in the small fishing village of Pasaia San Pedro, following a path that will offer you unforgettable views. If you don’t feel confident doing it alone, you can always hire the services of a guide. Moreover, if you do this route, you can say that you have done a part of the Camino de Santiago, as it is part of it.

Mount Urgull

Mount Urgull is the last mountain left to mention in the city. It’s a good option if you’re strolling around the Old Town and want to see a beautiful sunset. All you have to do is climb one of the slopes or stairs that will take you to the top. If you’re feeling sporty, you can get to the top in about 30 minutes to see the fortress of Castillo de la Mota and the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Otherwise, you can always stay at the Batería de las Damas or the Cementerio de los Ingleses. A great summer plan is to go to the Polvorín bar, which is open in season, to have a drink with your friends.

 

Other viewpoints

Tabakalera

In Donostia we have a cultural centre called Tabakalera. Its name comes from the fact that it used to be a tobacco factory, but a few years ago it was refurbished and today it offers all kinds of services. There is a bar, a library, exhibition rooms and, if you reach the top floor, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Urumea river and the María Cristina bridge, named after the queen who spent most summers in our city.

San Bartolomé viewpoint

If you prefer to enjoy a panoramic view of the city’s buildings, your option is the San Bartolomé viewpoint. You can get there from the lift in Calle Easo or by going up part of the Aldapeta slope. From there, you will be able to contemplate one of the city’s most emblematic neighbourhoods, with its French-style buildings. What will undoubtedly attract your attention the most will be the Buen Pastor Cathedral, as from there you have a beautiful view of its highest tower.

Aldapeta viewpoint

Finally, here is a more secret viewpoint in the city. If you go up the slope of Aldapeta to number 48, you will find some stairs that will take you to one of the most beautiful viewpoints. You will be able to contemplate La Concha beach from an ideal and somewhat more private perspective. If you go all the way down the stairs, you will quickly reach the bay of La Concha and you can finish the walk.