Museums

Culture

Museums

Unmissable museums close by: art, history, science and the sea.

Our selection

Eight museums for understanding the Basque Country

If you're planning a visit to San Sebastián, don't miss the chance to discover some of its impressive museums. Here are our recommendations: from the Basque art of San Telmo to the traditional shipbuilding of Albaola.

In the city

A stone's throw from the hostel
01

San Telmo Museum

Website: www.santelmomuseoa.eus Neighbourhood: Old Town · Plaza Zuloaga

A must if you want to get to know Basque history and culture. Located in the city's Old Town, on Plaza Zuloaga, this museum holds an impressive collection of Basque art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Its archaeology section is fascinating too, with remains from prehistory, the Roman era and the Middle Ages. Don't miss the chance to explore this fascinating museum and immerse yourself in the history of the region.

02

Aquarium

Website: aquariumss.com Neighbourhood: Harbour · next to La Concha

If you're looking for a fun activity for the whole family, the Donostia-San Sebastián Aquarium is an excellent choice. It sits in the harbour, next to La Concha beach, and is home to a wide variety of marine species from the Bay of Biscay and other seas around the world.

Watching sharks, rays, jellyfish, octopuses and penguins makes for a unique, enriching experience. It also runs activities and workshops for children and adults.

03

Also known as Urgull Castle, this is a historic monument on the summit of Mount Urgull, in the heart of San Sebastián. It is a military fortress dating from the 12th century that has witnessed countless historic events.

From the top of the hill you get spectacular views of the city, the bay and the Basque coast. The castle has several exhibition rooms devoted to the history and culture of the city, as well as to Basque archaeology and ethnography. Getting there means a steep climb on foot, but the effort is well worth it.

04

Naval Museum

Website: itsasmuseoa.eus Neighbourhood: Harbour · Free entry

If you're interested in naval history, the San Sebastián Naval Museum is a place you have to visit. Here you can learn about the history of seafaring and maritime activity in San Sebastián, from the whaling era to the present day.

The collection includes model ships, nautical instruments, uniforms, weapons, maps and photographs. Audio guides and guided tours let you explore the story behind each piece in detail.

05

Eureka! Science Museum

Website: www.eurekamuseoa.eus Neighbourhood: Miramón

A fascinating visit into the world of science, in a building designed by architect Rafael Moneo. The permanent exhibition includes over 170 interactive experiments that reveal the scientific principles governing our world, plus a temporary exhibition area and a 3D screening room.

It's an ideal place for a fun, educational family day out. Admission is affordable and combined tickets are available with the Planetarium in the same building.

06

Diocesan Museum

Website: www.dmuseoa.com Neighbourhood: City centre · Buen Pastor Cathedral

If you love sacred art, the San Sebastián Diocesan Museum is a must. It's housed inside the Buen Pastor Cathedral, in the city centre. The collection includes pieces from the 12th century to the present day: sculptures, paintings, silverwork, liturgical vestments and religious objects.

There is also a section devoted to the history and architecture of the cathedral.

A few kilometres away

Day trips
01

Chillida Leku

Website: www.museochillidaleku.com Address: Hernani, 10 km from San Sebastián

If you love contemporary art, you can't miss the Chillida Leku Museum. Located in Hernani, it holds a permanent collection of works by sculptor Eduardo Chillida, as well as temporary exhibitions by other contemporary artists.

Its setting in stunning natural surroundings makes it a unique place, perfect for enjoying a cultural and natural experience at the same time.

02

Albaola, the Basque Maritime Factory

Website: albaola.org Address: Pasaia San Pedro

A museum of traditional shipbuilding in the town of Pasaia, a few kilometres from San Sebastián. Here you can watch boats being built using traditional techniques and learn about the history of seafaring and fishing in the Basque Country.

Admission is affordable and guided tours are offered in several languages. You can get there on foot along the cliff trail.

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