San Sebastián’s historic center, also known simply as Centro, represents the finest blend of urban elegance, architectural heritage, and quality of life. Born from the city’s first expansion into modernity, its orderly layout, carved-stone buildings, and immediate proximity to the sea make it one of the most sought-after residential areas in the Basque capital. This part of the city strikes a perfect balance between prestige and practicality, and concentrates some of San Sebastián’s most emblematic landmarks.

Lifestyle in Centro

Living in the historic center means enjoying a serene, well-connected daily life full of character. From early morning, the city center comes to life gently: terrace cafés, local markets, artisanal bakeries, and traditional shops create a well-paced routine free of rush or ostentation. The lifestyle here is elegant yet unpretentious; urban, yet with the calm rhythm of a walkable city. Just steps away, La Concha beach allows you to integrate the sea into your day—be it through a morning swim, a stroll along the white railing, or a quiet reading session on the benches lining the bay. The presence of historic bookstores, discreet galleries, and specialized shops reinforces the cultivated atmosphere of Donostia’s center, where everything is within human scale.

The real estate portfolio in San Sebastián’s center is composed of architecturally significant buildings, many of which were built between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With symmetrical façades, stately entryways, high ceilings, and original wood floors, these properties exude timeless elegance preserved through high-end renovations.

The historic center’s grand apartments, often with balconies or bay windows overlooking green spaces or the sea, have been sensitively modernized—featuring home automation, central climate control, and advanced energy solutions without compromising their original character. There are also penthouses with terraces, designer residences, and family homes that perfectly balance aesthetics and functionality.

Ambience and Atmosphere

San Sebastián’s Centro retains a sober, harmonious, and cosmopolitan character. Its wide, orderly streets, constant greenery, and pristine building preservation create a refined atmosphere with a well-balanced rhythm of life. Local families, professionals, diplomats, and international residents all share this distinguished yet authentic environment where essentials are within reach and excess is absent.

Atlantic light, closeness to the sea, and cultural richness contribute to a sense of serene vibrancy. It is the ideal place for those who appreciate everyday beauty, effortless comfort, and a high-end residential experience in San Sebastián’s historic heart.

Points of Interest

Among the most iconic landmarks in the Centro are the Alderdi Eder gardens, with their century-old tamarind trees and direct access to La Concha beach, and Plaza Gipuzkoa, with its pond, floral clock, and manicured French-style gardens.
The fully renovated San Martín Market blends culinary tradition with contemporary offerings in a stylish, functional space. Nearby, the public Koldo Mitxelena Library hosts temporary exhibitions, cultural activities, and one of the city’s best literary collections.

Price per m²: €6,407