Though most rooftop terraces in San Sebastián are only open through the summer months, some of the city’s best hotels have them—which might be exactly what you need to enhance your stay. Kimkim staff checked out San Sebastián’s famous rooftop hotels and listed the top options below. Many pair this perk with other amenities, like an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, spa, and historic elements.
## Rooftop Retreats: A San Sebastián Hotel Guide
San Sebastián, a jewel of the Basque Country, is renowned for its stunning coastline, vibrant culture, and exquisite gastronomy. What better way to soak in the city’s charm than from a rooftop vantage point? This guide unveils a curated selection of hotels in San Sebastián, each boasting a unique rooftop experience, promising unforgettable moments amidst breathtaking panoramas.
### Hotel Akelarre—Relais & Châteaux
Nestled along the breathtaking **Bay of Biscay**, a mere 10-minute drive from the heart of San Sebastián, lies the distinguished **Hotel Akelarre—Relais & Châteaux**. This exceptional property offers more than just accommodation; it provides an immersive experience in luxury and natural beauty. The hotel’s terrace is undeniably the focal point, offering an unparalleled vista that perfectly complements the avant-garde architectural design, meticulously crafted to harmonize with the surrounding landscape.
The terrace at **Hotel Akelarre** is not merely a space; it is a destination in itself. It is the ideal setting to witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the sunset, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Technically part of the esteemed **Espazio Oteiza** restaurant, the terrace invites guests to savor delectable cuisine while enveloped in the beauty of the sea. For an even more exclusive dining experience, the Michelin-starred **Akelarre** restaurant, also located within the property, offers equally stunning sea views, adding to the hotel’s culinary allure.
The commitment to providing breathtaking vistas extends beyond the communal spaces and into the hotel’s elegantly appointed rooms. Each room is designed with luxury and comfort in mind, featuring large windows that frame the stunning scenery. Many rooms offer captivating sea views, allowing guests to awaken to the beauty of the **Bay of Biscay** each morning. Guests can unwind in comfort with plush sofas and step onto furnished terraces, perfect for enjoying a quiet moment. King beds ensure a restful night’s sleep, while modern amenities such as rain showers, bathrobes, and slippers enhance the sense of indulgence. The inclusion of 100% natural toiletries reflects the hotel’s dedication to sustainability and guest well-being. Modern technology, including a Bang & Olufsen sound system, Apple TV, and an espresso machine, ensures that guests have everything they need for a seamless and enjoyable stay.
For ultimate relaxation, **Hotel Akelarre** features an inviting indoor pool where guests can take a refreshing dip regardless of the weather. The spa services further enhance the experience, offering a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Guests can unwind in the heated hydrotherapy pool, cleanse in the sauna and steam room, or indulge in a personalized treatment within one of the private cabins. **Hotel Akelarre** provides a luxurious escape where every detail is carefully considered to create an unforgettable experience.
### Axel Hotel San Sebastián—Adults Only
The **Axel Hotel San Sebastián**, an adults-only oasis, stands out as a beacon of chic modernity. This hotel is celebrated for its rooftop pool and terrace, which offer stunning panoramic views of the city. While San Sebastián boasts numerous hotels with rooftop terraces, the **Axel Hotel** distinguishes itself with its exceptionally spacious setting and inviting swimming pool. Guests are invited to bask in the sun on the expansive sun deck, sip expertly crafted cocktails at the **Sky Bar**, and lose themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.
Beyond the allure of the rooftop, the **Axel Hotel San Sebastián** provides an ideal base for exploring the city. Situated just a short stroll from the iconic **La Concha Beach** and the magnificent **San Sebastián Cathedral**, guests can easily immerse themselves in the cultural and natural beauty of the city. The hotel is located on **Kalea Amara**, a tranquil street known for its array of accommodations and eateries, offering a perfect blend of convenience and serenity.
The design of the **Axel Hotel** is a testament to the vibrant spirit of the Basque Country, dominated by striking blue and copper tones. The hotel offers 100 comfortable and air-conditioned rooms, all bathed in natural light. Select rooms feature balconies or terraces, providing private spaces to savor the city views and fresh air. A generous daily breakfast spread, complete with sparkling wine, sets the tone for a day of exploration and relaxation. Guests can rejuvenate at the wellness center, which boasts a gym, sauna, Turkish bath, Jacuzzi, and a menu of indulgent massage treatments. Practical amenities, such as private parking facilities with a recharge station for electric vehicles, further enhance the convenience and appeal of the **Axel Hotel San Sebastián**. It’s more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience designed for the modern traveler.
### Catalonia Donosti
**Catalonia Donosti**, a charming boutique hotel nestled within a meticulously refurbished 17th and 18th-century convent, proudly claims its spot as one of the best hotels with rooftops in San Sebastián. Perched atop the hill of **San Bartolomé**, this hotel offers unparalleled panoramic views of the iconic La Concha Beach from its stunning rooftop terrace. The terrace features a refreshing outdoor swimming pool and a sun-drenched deck, creating an oasis of relaxation high above the bustling city.
**Catalonia Donosti** is more than just a hotel; it’s a living testament to history and authenticity. The hotel has carefully preserved various architectural elements from its past life as a convent, adding a unique layer of character and charm to the guest experience. Further enhancing its appeal is the hotel’s exquisite gastronomic restaurant, **Aldapeta Gastrobar**, where guests can indulge in the flavors of local cuisine, expertly prepared with fresh, regional ingredients. For those seeking ultimate relaxation, the hotel’s wellness area and spa offer a sanctuary of tranquility.
The hotel features 128 spacious rooms, each exuding an elegant and stately atmosphere. Certain units boast private terraces, providing intimate spaces to savor the stunning views. Family rooms with bunk beds cater to the needs of traveling families, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for guests of all ages. Another significant perk for families is the on-site parking, eliminating the hassle of transporting luggage across long distances. Guests can luxuriate in the warm ambiance of wooden floors and the comfort of plush furnishings. For an elevated experience, suites offer additional perks, including separate living rooms or private, furnished terraces overlooking the beach. The bathrooms are bright and impeccably clean, adorned with marble finishes, and some even offer captivating sea views, further enhancing the sense of luxury and relaxation.
### Lasala Plaza Hotel
The **Lasala Plaza Hotel** stands as a stylish emblem of San Sebastián, embracing the city’s deep-rooted maritime heritage and vibrant culture. Its prime location in the city’s historic **Old Town**, nestled next to the bustling port and strategically positioned between two of the city’s most beautiful beaches, provides breathtaking sea views from its elegantly designed rooms and the panoramic rooftop terrace.
The rooftop terrace at **Lasala Plaza Hotel** is a destination in itself, boasting a refreshing pool, a delectable restaurant, a sun-drenched deck, and mesmerizing vistas of the sea, the active port, the inviting beaches, and the dynamic cityscape. Gastronomy enthusiasts will delight in the on-site **Jarana Taberna**, which serves contemporary Basque cuisine crafted with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a truly authentic culinary experience.
The **Lasala Plaza Hotel** meticulously preserves its original architectural features dating back to 1917 while seamlessly incorporating a modern and luxurious design. Each of the 58 rooms is inspired by French neoclassical architecture, offering captivating views of either the sparkling sea or the historic **Plaza Lasala**. The hotel has partnered with **La Perla Wellness Centre** on La Concha Beach, providing guests with access to a range of rejuvenating health and beauty treatments. Beyond its impressive amenities and services, **Lasala Plaza Hotel** is deeply committed to sustainability, sourcing seasonal produce from local suppliers for its restaurant and diligently minimizing its environmental impact through responsible operations. It is a place where luxury meets conscience, offering a truly exceptional experience.
### Abba San Sebastián Hotel
Nestled within a historic Baroque palace on the elegant **Paseo de Francia**, the **Abba San Sebastián Hotel** stands as a testament to the Belle Époque history of San Sebastián. This rich heritage lends a unique charm to its rooftop, making it an even more special destination for guests. From this vantage point, you can enjoy a prime view of the city’s rooftops, the picturesque bridges that span the river, and the endless expanse of the sea in the distance.
The rooftop at the **Abba San Sebastián Hotel** is the perfect place to unwind, catch the breathtaking sunset, and savor a refreshing drink from the hotel’s bar. The hotel’s prime location offers convenient access to the city’s attractions, being just steps away from the central train station and a leisurely five-minute stroll from the enchanting Old Town and the renowned **Kursaal Arts Center**.
This modern boutique hotel, housed within a protected building, seamlessly blends the past and present, featuring contemporary interiors that complement its historic exterior. Guests can choose from five types of rooms, each decorated in the city’s signature colors of blue and white, and equipped with the latest technology and comforts, including espresso machines and smart TVs. For an extra touch of luxury and history, consider reserving one of the Superior Corner rooms, which features a private terrace. Beyond the captivating rooftop terrace, the hotel offers a range of amenities, including a well-equipped fitness center, a serene historical garden, and a comfortable shared lounge. Begin your day with the hotel’s buffet and continental breakfast options, and indulge in pampering with the hotel’s massage services. **Abba San Sebastián Hotel** offers a truly memorable experience.
### Zenit Convento San Martin
The **Hotel Zenit Convento San Martín**, located in the very heart of San Sebastián, is housed in an exquisitely restored 1887 convent, offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. One of the hotel’s most alluring features is its rooftop terrace, **El Zielo de Donosti**, which is open seasonally and provides breathtaking city and sea views, a refreshing small swimming pool, and a sun-drenched deck for relaxation. These remarkable views are a direct result of the hotel’s prime location, just two blocks from the famous La Concha Beach and its picturesque promenade.
Guests will also find themselves within easy walking distance of the bustling commercial center, the magnificent **Cathedral of the Good Shepherd**, and the charming Old Town, making the **Hotel Zenit Convento San Martín** an ideal base for exploring all that San Sebastián has to offer.
The **Hotel Zenit Convento San Martín** features an array of stylish and comfortable rooms, each equipped with modern amenities. Guests have the option of selecting rooms with private outdoor terraces and/or separate living rooms for added comfort and space. Note that the standard rooms on the ground floor may be considered somewhat subpar, so an upgrade is generally recommended. The hotel’s **Sukaldean Restaurant** is a culinary delight, offering a delectable range of Basque and international dishes prepared with the finest, top-quality products. For a truly unique experience, be sure to enjoy drinks at the hotel’s bar, housed within a beautifully renovated chapel.
### Hotel Villa Victoria
**Hotel Villa Victoria by Intur**, nestled in a tranquil area of San Sebastián, presents a modern boutique experience just a short walk from the iconic La Concha Beach and the historic Old Town. The hotel’s rooftop terrace beckons with a sun deck and comfortable loungers, inviting guests to unwind and soak up the atmosphere.
Guests can relax on the rooftop, taking in the surrounding views and sipping on local beer or wine from the on-site café. The hotel’s location also provides convenient access to most of the city’s major sites, including its beautiful beaches, the impressive cathedral, the grand **City Hall**, and the vibrant Old Town.
The hotel showcases a modern avant-garde design and features comfortable rooms with a variety of options, including rooms with private terraces and city views. Upgrading rooms is highly recommended to enhance your stay, as some of those in the Simple Standard category may be considered a bit too basic. Start your day with a visit to the charming on-site café, which serves breakfast made with fresh, local ingredients. The café also offers traditional Basque cuisine, including regional specialties such as Idiazabal cheese and Txakoli de Guetaria wine.
### Hotel Atari
The **Hotel Atari**, located in the heart of San Sebastián’s Old Town, perfectly blends rich history with modern sophistication. While the terrace is not situated at the absolute highest point of the building, it still provides a relaxing atmosphere and stunning city views, making it a highly desirable spot for guests.
What makes this terrace truly special is that it serves as the setting for the hotel’s daily breakfast service! Start your day with panoramic views of the magnificent **Basilica de Santa María del Coro** and the vibrant Old Town, creating a memorable and enjoyable start to your day. The hotel’s on-site eatery, **Amama**, prepares breakfast, and the restaurant is renowned for its innovative Basque gastronomy, providing guests with a truly exceptional culinary experience.
With its prime location, guests can easily access the Baroque-style basilica and the charming cobbled streets that characterize the Old Town. The hotel’s rooms, featuring elegant and contemporary designs, create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere while offering captivating views of the Old Town. With a variety of room options available, guests can choose from premium units with private terraces to cozy standard options with comfortable double beds, ensuring a stay that perfectly suits their needs and preferences.
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