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The best time to visit San Sebastian is from May to July when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is moderate. September and October offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall foliage in nearby wine regions. Summer months of July and August are peak season with the warmest weather but also the most tourists.

Spain uses the euro as its official currency. Major credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops throughout San Sebastian. ATMs are plentiful in the city center and tourist areas for cash withdrawals. While tipping isn't mandatory in Spain, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated in restaurants.

Both Spanish and Basque (Euskara) are official languages in San Sebastian, with the city having the highest number of Basque speakers in the region. Basque is one of Europe's oldest living languages and is completely unrelated to Spanish or any other Romance language. Most locals are bilingual, speaking both languages fluently, and English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

San Sebastian is renowned as one of the world's premier foodie destinations with more Michelin stars per capita than almost anywhere. The city features three stunning urban beaches, including the famous La Concha Beach with its elegant seafront promenade. The old town is packed with pintxos bars serving elaborate Basque tapas on small pieces of bread. San Sebastian's International Film Festival, held each September, is one of Europe's most prestigious cinema events.

The Basque people are considered one of Europe's oldest ethnic groups with a distinct cultural identity spanning both Spain and France. Basque cuisine, particularly pintxos and fresh seafood, represents a unique culinary tradition blending Spanish and French influences. Traditional sports like pelota (a fast-paced ball game) are deeply rooted in local culture and still widely played. The region celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, including Tamborrada in January with its famous drum processions.

San Sebastian is generally more expensive than other Spanish cities, particularly during high season and the film festival in September. Accommodation prices are significantly higher than in many parts of Spain, especially in the old town and beachfront areas. However, pintxos bar hopping offers an affordable way to experience world-class cuisine without dining at Michelin-starred restaurants. Visiting in shoulder seasons like May, June, or October helps reduce costs while still enjoying pleasant weather.

Bilbao, home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum and beautiful old quarter, is about 60 miles west of San Sebastian. The French Basque towns of Bayonne and Biarritz offer charming architecture and coastal beauty just across the border. Pamplona, famous for the running of the bulls festival, features historic sites and excellent wine region access. Guernica holds deep historical significance as the site immortalized in Picasso's famous painting.

San Sebastian is located just 12 miles from the French border in Spain's northeastern corner. The French Basque town of Hendaye is the closest across the border, easily accessible by local bus or car. Popular French destinations like Biarritz and Bayonne are within 30-45 minutes by car. This proximity makes San Sebastian an ideal base for exploring both Spanish and French Basque Country in one trip.