For your next stay on the Spanish Basque coast, you are concerned about safety in San Sebastian and the areas to avoid.

Indeed, choosing the right neighborhood for your stay will avoid unpleasant surprises and can contribute to an even more positive experience!

Therefore, below you will find a study on safety in San Sebastian with the best areas to stay and the neighborhoods to consider with caution.

Insecurity on the rise in San Sebastian (Donostia)

San Sebastian, with a low crime rate, has always been among the safest cities in Spain as well as Vigo, Zaragoza, Tolède ou Salamanca. 

In many rankings, it even ranks among the safest cities in Europe. In fact, with a crime index of only 29.31, San Sebastian is safer than Lisbon, Cagliari ou Varna.

However, San Sebastian has seen a significant increase in crime and insecurity in recent years.

According to data from the Ministry of the Interior, crimes increased sharply in 2024 (+11,08%) See statistics and press articles: enterat.com, epdata.es et abc.es.

Mayor Eneko Garcia has called for help to curb the rise in crime. Especially since the councilor in charge of security, Martin Ibabe, acknowledges that the feeling of insecurity is real and must be addressed urgently.

Fortunately, apart from a few areas where security is a concern, the city of San Sebastian remains a safe city for tourists.

Neighborhoods to avoid in San Sebastian

The neighborhoods of San Sebastian most affected by insecurity and increased crime are:

• Old part (Zaharra part) : Although it is a very popular tourist area, it has seen an increase in thefts, sexual assaults and fights, especially at night.
• Herrera : Residents reported problems of cohabitation, theft and violence, linked to the occupation of abandoned factories by people in vulnerable situations.
• Aegean, Martutene et Morlans : These areas have seen a steady increase in crime.
• Altza, walnut tree, Bidebieta : These neighborhoods have social problems that generate violence.
• Centro, Amara et Miracruz-Bidebieta also saw a significant increase in crime.

It should be noted that the city experiences a large influx of tourists, which can sometimes create tensions with local residents. While this is not necessarily a safety issue, visitors are advised to be respectful and aware of their impact on the local community.

Best neighborhoods to stay in San Sebastian

For a tourist stay in San Sebastian, apart from the few areas to avoid listed above, all areas are possible.

But, in this large Basque city, the districts ofOndarreta, Fat and sagües stand out for their tourist and seaside interest.

Ondarreta Neighborhood

The Ondarreta neighborhood is an excellent choice for a tourist stay in San Sebastian for several reasons:

• The neighborhood is located along Ondarreta Beach, one of the three main beaches in the city. This beach is ideal for families and children, offering a quieter atmosphere than other beaches.
• The area provides easy access to several important tourist sites:
  • The Ondarreta Gardens, perfect for a pleasant walk.
  • The Comb of the Wind, a famous sculpture by Eduardo Chillida offering spectacular sunsets.
  • Miramar Palace, a former royal residence with remarkable architecture.
  • Mount Igeldo, accessible by funicular, offers panoramic views of the city.
• The area is well served by public transport, with several bus lines nearby. It also offers parking options for visitors who drive.

If you are looking for accommodation in this area, I recommend theHotel Ezeiza. Indeed, it is ideally located opposite Ondarreta beach, with a restaurant, a café and parking on site!

Gros district

The Gros district is perfectly located near Zurriola Beach. This beach stretches for 800 meters and is particularly popular with surfers.

Gros is known for its young, dynamic and cosmopolitan vibe, offering a lively, vibrant and modern atmosphere.

Although less touristy than the old town, Gros is located just a 30-minute walk from the historic center, allowing easy access to the main tourist sites.

Additionally, the Gros district is full of pintxos bars and restaurants, allowing you to taste local cuisine in a more authentic atmosphere.

The Hotel Arrizul Beach is well located close to the beach, entertainment and the city center:

sagües

The neighborhood is located at the end of Gros, near Zurriola beach, popular with surfers.

It is a popular spot for locals, allowing tourists to enjoy a more authentic experience. The area also has many bars and restaurants, ideal for eating in or taking away for a picnic on the beach.

Although slightly out of the way, Sagües remains close to the city centre and the main tourist attractions.

Here is a good hotel located facing the beach and very well rated: Hotel Punta Monpas