Donostia-San Sebastián, a city renowned for its coastal beauty and vibrant culture, is also home to an unrivaled wealth of museums offering everything from contemporary art to fascinating explorations of science and the sea. Each museum in this charming Basque city offers a unique window into the past and present, inviting locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in educational and aesthetic experiences. In this article, we will explore some of the most notable museums in Donostia-San Sebastián, providing practical details for planning visits and immersing yourself in the history, art and science that each one offers.
San Telmo Museum
The San Telmo Museum, located in the heart of the Old Town of Donostia-San Sebastián, is an emblematic venue that fuses Basque culture and history. It is housed in a former 16th century Dominican convent, which was renovated and significantly expanded in 2011 to adapt to the needs of the 21st century public.
Official name: San Telmo Museum
Address: Plaza Zuloaga, 1, 20003 Donostia-San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa
Telephone: +34 943 481 580 / +34 943 481 561 (group reservations)
Web page: www.santelmomuseoa.eus
Description: San Telmo Museoa stands out for its mix of historical architecture with modern interventions, offering a characteristic plant-covered façade designed by architects Nieto and Sobejano. The institution has redefined itself as the Museum of Basque Society and Citizenship, presenting its collections from a new perspective that delves into Basque society from prehistory to the present. In addition, it has accessible spaces and various educational and cultural activities.
For more information on schedules and events, visit their official website.
Basque Maritime Museum
Located in the heart of the port of Donostia-San Sebastián, the Basque Maritime Museum, also known as Euskal Itsas Museoa, is located in the Casa Torre del Consulado, an 18th century building that is one of the few that survived the fire of the city in 1813. This museum is dedicated to preserving and disseminating Basque maritime history and heritage.
Official name: Basque Maritime Museum
Address: Kaiko Pasalekua, 24, 20003 Donostia-San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa
Telephone: +34 943 43 00 51
Web page: www.itsasmuseoa.eus
Description: The museum focuses on the naval and maritime history of the Basque Country, exhibiting everything from boats to ethnographic elements related to fishing and life at sea. In addition to monographic exhibitions, the museum offers educational workshops and has a library specialized in maritime topics. It is a place of great cultural relevance not only for its collection, but also for its strategic location in the old Consulate building, from where port activities were controlled.
History House
The House of History is located in the Mota Castle, located at the top of Monte Urgull, a strategic point that offers spectacular views of Donostia-San Sebastián and has played a key role in the defense of the city since the 12th century. .
Official name: House of History
Address: Monte Urgull, 20003 Donostia-San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa
Web page: There is no specific website for the House of History, but you can visit the site San Telmo Museum for more related information.
Description: This small museum uses audiovisual materials, models and objects to narrate the distinctive features of the people of Donostia throughout more than 800 years of history. The museum is not only a journey through history, but also a visual experience, located in an old defensive bastion with cannons and loopholes that can still be seen today.
For more information on how to get there and what else can be discovered on Mount Urgull, you can consult the San Sebastián tourism site San Sebastian Tourism.
Donostia-San Sebastián Aquarium
The Donostia-San Sebastián Aquarium, founded in 1928, is located in an emblematic location at the end of the port and is known for being the first natural science museum in Spain. This place is not only an aquarium but also a maritime museum that offers an educational and environmental awareness perspective through its exhibits.
Official name: Donostia-San Sebastián Aquarium
Address: Plaza de Carlos Blasco Imaz, 1, 20003 Donostia-San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa
Telephone: +34 943 44 00 99
Web page: www.aquariumss.com
Description: This aquarium stands out for its large oceanarium, which includes an impressive shark tunnel that offers 360-degree views, allowing visitors to literally walk underwater while getting a close look at sharks and other marine species. In addition, it has touch aquariums where visitors can interact directly with various marine species, such as sea urchins and starfish, making it an educational and entertaining experience for all ages.
The aquarium is part of the Oceanographic Society of Gipuzkoa, founded in 1908, and since then it has been involved in scientific research work in the Basque and global marine environment (San Sebastián) (Tourism Euskadi).
For more information about schedules and activities, you can visit their official website.
Eureka Science Museum
The Eureka Science Museum, located in the Miramón Technology Park in Donostia-San Sebastián, is an interactive space dedicated to scientific dissemination for all ages. It offers an educational experience with permanent exhibitions, a planetarium and various activities.
Official name: Eureka! Science Museum
Address: Paseo Mikeletegi 43-45, 20009 Donostia-San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa
Telephone: +34 943 01 24 78
Web page: www.eurekamuseoa.eus
Description: The museum features interactive zones where visitors can learn about various scientific topics through direct experimentation. Highlights include its planetarium, one of the best in Spain, and activities such as simulators and thematic exhibitions that facilitate a fun and deep understanding of science.
For more information about schedules and prices, you can visit their website.
Albaola: The Basque Maritime Factory
Albaola: The Basque Maritime Factory, located in Pasai San Pedro, Gipuzkoa, is a unique shipyard and museum dedicated to the construction and restoration of historic Basque vessels. This site is famous for the construction of the replica of the San Juan whale ship, a 16th century galleon that was shipwrecked in Canada and is considered an icon of the UNESCO Underwater Cultural Heritage.
Official name: Albaola, The Basque Maritime Factory
Address: Ondartxo Pasalekua 1, 20110 Pasai San Pedro, Gipuzkoa
Telephone: +34 943 39 24 26
Web page: www.albaola.com
Description: Albaola offers an immersive experience in the Basque maritime tradition. Visitors can observe boat construction using ancient techniques and traditional materials. In addition to visiting the shipyard, you can explore exhibitions related to navigation and Basque maritime heritage.
The museum is open year-round from Tuesday to Sunday, with specific hours that vary depending on the season. It offers guided tours that delve into the history and techniques of shipbuilding, as well as activities related to Basque maritime heritage aimed at all types of audiences (Balea Tours) (News from Gipuzkoa).
For more information about schedules, entry prices, and reservations for group visits, you can visit their Web page.
Rezola Cement Museum
The Rezola Cement Museum, located in San Sebastián, focuses on the history and significance of cement in civilization. Explores the manufacturing of cement and its environmental impact, offering an educational insight into this essential material.
Official name: Museum Cemento Rezola
Address: Av. Añorga 36, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa
Telephone: +34 943 364 192
Web page: www.museumcemento.rezola.net
Description: The museum features thematic areas that explore cement production throughout history, emphasizing its role in society. Visits are free and include access to detailed exhibitions on cement manufacturing and its relationship with the environment (Tired).
If you need more information about specific schedules or special activities, I recommend visiting their website directly.
Real Sociedad Museum
The Real Sociedad Museum, inaugurated on September 7, 2009, coinciding with the club’s centenary, is located in Donostia / San Sebastián. This museum offers an original look at the history of Real Sociedad, covering all the club’s sporting sections, not just football.
Official name: Real Sociedad Museum
Address: New Year’s Eve, 1, 20014 Donostia / St. Sebastian, Gipuzkoa
Telephone: +34 943 47 39 53
Web page: www.realsociedad.com
Time: From October to April: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. From May to September: Monday to Saturday at the same time. Closed on Sundays and holidays.
For more details about exhibitions and special activities, you can visit their official Web site.
Chillida Leku
Chillida Leku is a unique museum located in Hernani, near Donostia-San Sebastián, dedicated to the work of the Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida. The museum extends into a space that fuses art and nature, where Chillida’s sculptures are integrated into a landscape of oaks, beeches and magnolias.
Official name: Chillida Leku
Address: Barrio Jauregui 66, 20120 Hernani, Gipuzkoa
Telephone: +34 943 335 963
Web page: www.museochillidaleku.com
Time: Open from Thursday to Monday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Description: The museum presents an extensive collection of monumental steel and granite works from Chillida, as well as an archive and a library. It also has a cafeteria called Lurra Cafe that complements the cultural visit with a gastronomic offer.
Chillida Leku offers a complete educational experience with school programs and activities that allow visitors to deeply explore the link between art and the natural environment. In addition, the museum organizes special events and temporary exhibitions that vary throughout the year.
For more information on ticket prices, guided tours and special events, visit their website.
Cristobal Balenciaga Museum
The Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum, located in the picturesque town of Getaria, is the first museum in the world dedicated exclusively to a fashion designer. This space not only celebrates the life and work of Balenciaga, but also offers an in-depth look at his influence on the world of haute couture.
Official name: Cristobal Balenciaga Museum
Address: Aldamar Parkea, 6, 20808 Getaria, Gipuzkoa
Telephone: +34 943 00 88 40
Web page: www.cristobalbalenciagamuseoa.com
Description: Located next to the Aldamar Palace, the museum presents exhibitions that explore the innovation and distinctiveness of Balenciaga’s creations. The museum’s design facilitates an immersive experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the human scale and monumentality of its works in an environment that combines modern architecture with historic gardens.
The museum offers various activities and temporary exhibitions that change regularly. These include workshops, guided tours and events that delve into different aspects of Balenciaga’s legacy. Discounts are also offered for large families, students, and group visits.
For more details on current hours, rates and exhibitions, visit their official Web site or contact the museum directly to plan your visit.
