Study in San Sebastián: a guide for international students

Studying abroad in San Sebastián: a guide for international students 

San Sebastián, also known as Donostia, is often considered one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. It may not have the non-stop sunshine of the Costa del Sol, but it offers stunning architecture, a gorgeous windswept coastline and some of the best food in the world. This Basque city is known for its innovative gastronomy, making it a top choice for any student foodies. 

The beaches of the Basque Country have some seriously good waves, so San Sebastián surfers are in luck. Maybe you're a seasoned surfer or perhaps you'd like to try the sport for the first time. Either way, San Sebastián will be a great place for embracing new adventures. Prefer not to get your hair wet? You can keep fit on dry land, exploring the stunning hiking trails in the nearby area. 

Studying in San Sebastián also allows you to discover the unique culture of the Basque Country. Prepare to see a totally different side of Spain, one that feels a million miles away from the crowded streets of Benidorm and the droning techno of Ibiza. This is a remarkable city with its own distinct lifestyle, perfect for adventurous students. 

Why study abroad in San Sebastián? 

Erasmus in San Sebastián and other exchange programmes are very popular – and with good reason. Not only does the city have some prestigious universities, offering world-class education, but it also gives students a heap of fun things to do in their free time. Here's what you can expect when you study at university in the Basque Country. 

High-Quality University Education in a Unique Cultural Setting 

San Sebastián is home to several prestigious educational institutions. Not only can you pursue a traditional degree here at places like the University of San Sebastián or the University of Deusto, you can also study something practical like culinary arts at the world-renowned Basque Culinary Centre. Admirers of the Basque Country will also have the chance to take a course in Basque studies and enrich their knowledge.

Whatever you study, you're bound to learn lots about the unique local culture. The people of San Sebastián are fiercely proud of their Basque heritage. Get ready to dive deep into the fascinating intricacies of the local language, traditions, food and festivals, making your university adventure truly extraordinary. 

Outdoor Activities 

San Sebastián can get rainy in winter, but that doesn't stop people from loving the great outdoors. Right in the city centre you'll find the most famous San Sebastián beach, the iconic Playa de la Concha. Want to stretch your legs a bit more? Try walking to Monte Igueldo for stunning panoramic views across the bay. To explore the coast more, take the Jaizkibel Coastal Trail. This 22-km hike is the first stage of the Camino del Norte, a five-week pilgrimage that will take you all the way to Santiago de Compostela. You may not have time for that, but a day out on the trail when you're not studying will let you enjoy the spectacular beauty of Basque nature. 

World-Renowned Gastronomic Paradise 

Loosen your belt, because San Sebastián has more Michelin stars per square metre than anywhere else in the world! You've probably already tried the famous San Sebastián cheesecake with its caramelised top, but there's nothing like having it in the city. There are so many amazing restaurants in San Sebastián, and you don't have to spend a fortune, either. Basque people tend to go out for "pintxos", the local version of tapas. Enjoying a couple of these tasty bar snacks with a glass of red wine will let you immerse yourself in the local culture in style. Don't miss the annual food festivals, which attract foodies from all over the world. 

Vibrant Student Life and Community 

San Sebastián is a pretty small city, with fewer than 200,000 residents. It's very walkable, and it won't be long before you know all your neighbours. The people of Donostia are known for their loyalty and open-mindedness; the city has a thriving LGBTQIA+ scene and is famous for its tolerance. Learn a few words like "eskerrik asko" (thank you) in Euskera, the Basque language, to impress the locals. If you take an interest in any of the unique aspects of the Basque culture – food, sports, dancing, or any other traditional activity– why not join a club? You'll soon have friends for life. 

Stunning Natural Beauty 

San Sebastián has some of Spain's best beaches. The water up here can be pretty chilly, so you might not want to do much more than dip a toe in – but there's nothing to stop you from admiring the views. The incredible natural surroundings don't stop at the coast, either. When you head inland, you'll find the lush green mountains that the Basque Country is famous for, all dotted with hiking trails to discover. The mild summers mean that it's never too hot to hit the trail, unlike in other parts of the Iberian Peninsula. If you love the great outdoors, this city is an excellent choice. 

Student housing in San Sebastián 

Most international students in San Sebastián live in privately rented accommodation; dorms are not very common at Spanish universities. Finding San Sebastián apartments for rent can be tricky, so it's usually easier for students to stay in a designated residence like The Social Hub. This way they won't need to worry about expensive monthly bill payments or navigating the complicated world of Spanish rental contracts. Even better, The Social Hub is all-inclusive, making it the perfect base for your student adventures. You’ll never get bored or lonely thanks to the fun weekly events, and there are comfy common areas where you can hang out with your new-found friends. 

What to do in San Sebastián as a student 

There are so many things to do in San Sebastián. Any student who chooses to travel to this city will find an exciting world of nature, culture and sport waiting for them. You'll find some of here – but sshhh, don't tell too many people! 

Picnic in Miramar Palace 

This is a great choice for the student on a budget. Grab your favourite picnic blanket and some tasty snacks and head with your friends to the Miramar Palace gardens. It's best to keep this  spot for a day when you're not in a hurry. Let your picnic stretch out over the afternoon, and you'll be able to enjoy one of the best sunsets in the city. 

Enjoy the San Sebastián Nightlife 

Your first night out in San Sebastián may come as a surprise. The locals tend to stay out all night, so don't make any plans for Saturday morning. Start your evening on a pintxo trail, hopping from bar to bar to try the specialties. When you've eaten enough, move on to somewhere you can listen to music. That might be a chilled-out jazz club, a wild rock pub or a nightclub where you can dance the night away. 

Surfing in the Basque Country 

The Basque Country is a true surfer's paradise. The windswept coast creates the perfect conditions for big, dramatic waves. Two of the best beaches, Zurriola and Zarautz, are just a stone's throw from the city centre. If you've never tried surfing before, there are plenty of places around the city to take lessons. 

Hiking from Ulia to Pasajes San Juan 

There's nothing quite like hiking in the Basque Country. You'll soon find that most of your classmates are avid hikers – it's a real passion here. Why not join them? The trail from Ulia to Pasajes San Juan is one of the best, with dramatic cliffs, traditional fishing villages and a rugged coastline to explore. Finish your hike with a short boat trip to enjoy the mesmerising landscapes from the Cantabrian Sea. 

Get lost in the San Sebastián Old Town 

Explore the marvelous Old Town: This is the beating heart of the city, with narrow streets and a maze of interesting shops and bars. It's worth visiting by day and night, as the atmosphere changes completely when the sun sets. You'll often find traditional Basque cultural performances taking place in its streets. 

Best Places to Eat in San Sebastián Spain 

How could we talk about San Sebastián without mentioning the culinary scene? This is one of the best cities in the world for dining out, thanks to the delicious pintxos served in bars all over town. Here are some of the bars you can't miss: 

• Bar Nestor: Save this one for a special occasion, as it's on the pricey side. When you want a treat, don't miss the Spanish tortilla. 
• Borda Berri: A popular spot in the Old Town, famous for its fresh and tasty pintxos at reasonable prices. 
• Bar Sport: This bar in the Old Town has a lively atmosphere and serves traditional pintxos. 
• La Mejillonera: Want a taste of the sea? This bar specializes in mussels, but there are lots of other seafood options on the menu.  
• Bar Juantxo: If you're looking for a great sandwich, this is the most popular local choice. The Spanish tortilla sandwich is particularly good. 
• La Viña: Try the famous Basque cheesecake in its birthplace! La Viña is well-known for its cheesecake, making it a must for anyone with a sweet tooth. 

Cost of living San Sebastián 

The cost of living in San Sebastián is high by Spanish standards. Of course, you might still find it cheap compared to other countries. The biggest expense is likely to be rent. A room in a shared apartment might cost you between €700 and €1,000, while a studio can cost €1,300 or more. For many students, living in a student residence is a more budget-friendly choice. A room at The Social Hub, for instance, will only set you back around €800, but comes with many different perks.  

Utilities can be expensive, at around €100 to €150 a month. Bills will probably be a bit higher in winter, due to the chilly mornings and evenings. The price of a gym membership can vary, but even a budget choice like the McFit chain will set you back €30 a month. The good news? If you choose to stay at The Social Hub, your utilities – yes, including high-speed wifi – and gym membership are included in the basic price. Plus, you’ll have weekly events to attend at no extra cost. 

If you take public transport regularly, you might want to get a monthly pass for €41. Otherwise, you'll be paying €1.85 for each journey. You can also save money by shopping at low-cost supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl. By doing this, you could live on a tight food budget of €200 to €250 per month. 

Getting Around 

If you're living in the city centre, then you may not need to spend any money on transport. San Sebastián is very walkable – which is good for your wallet and your health. You can also grab one of The Social Hub's bikes and explore the city on two wheels. The bikes are available free of charge to Social Hub residents. 

To go beyond the city centre, look for discount travel passes for students. The Basque Country has various travel cards available for young people and international students, and many offer generous discounts. 

Health care in Spain as a student 

Before you arrive in San Sebastián, check what kind of health insurance you need. If you have a European Health Insurance Card from another EU country, you may be able to access healthcare services easily. However, non-EU students may need private health insurance. Check with your university, as they can help you and provide you with all the information you need. To learn more, take a look at this guide to . 

Where to stay in San Sebastián 

The Social Hub is conveniently located a very short walk away from Deusto University and close to several other campuses. It's a vibrant, welcoming place with the relaxed vibes you need to study in peace. You'll find some coworking spaces that are ideal for cramming for an exam, a well-equipped kitchen where you can cook up a storm, and areas where you can socialise and get to know your fellow students. A monthly cleaning service and quality bed linen mean that you don't have to give up little luxuries just because you're a student! 

Accommodation options at The Social Hub 

All rooms in The Social Hub San Sebastián have climate control, a private bathroom and shower, and a desk where you can study. You can take a . The Standard single room is ideal for a student on a budget - there's a comfy single bed where you can get a good night's sleep and a large desk to help you stay on top of your assignments. Meanwhile, in the Executive Queen, you can sleep like a baby in your very own queen-size bed. This room also features a wall-mounted TV directly opposite the bed, so you can relax and catch up on your favourite shows. The Deluxe queen is about twice the size of a standard single, giving you enough space to throw down a yoga mat and have a workout. You've also got a queen-size bed and a TV, just what you need to relax.

Come study abroad in San Sebastián 

Staying in The Social Hub San Sebastián will give you a fabulous student experience! Come and explore the vibrant Basque Country when you study abroad in San Sebastián.