The San Sebastian Film Festival and the charm of living culture

17/09/25

Having a ticket or an invitation to see a film at this festival is quite an experience. I look around and see people who share my passion for cinema, who know they are going to see a film for the first time. And not just any film, but films that are likely to be shown in the best cinemas around the world and even at the most important awards ceremonies, such as the Golden Globes or the Oscars.  

We are in San Sebastian and as we climb to the top of the huge auditorium inside the stylish Kursaal building, we see the sea crashing its waves.

San Sebastian is lucky to have a top-class event in a unique, natural setting steeped rooted in local culture. It is possibly the best time to visit this city, after the Basque summer, an oasis from the heat of Spain.  

The combination of nature and high culture, at street level and by the sea, is incredible. These are the ideal dates and city to attend a film festival. An experience to remember. Take note of the artists who have premiered their films and walked the streets among restaurants and the salty smell of the sea :  

Year 2025: Angelina Jolie, Jennifer Lawrence, and Colin Farrell, who presented films such as Couture and Excellent Cadaver.

2024: Cate Blanchett, Javier Bardem, Johnny Depp, and Lupita Nyong'o. Among the most talked-about films were Johnny Depp's Modi and Pedro Almodovar's The Room Next Door.

Tickets for the film of your choice can be purchased online months in advance, so there's no excuse not to plan your visit.

Remember that the approximate dates are at the end of September, each year. For example, the 2025 edition took place from September 19th to 17th.

The ideal complement to this occasion is a walking tour with a local guide. That's why we're here, to offer you the complete experience that will make you feel like a tourist, a local, and, above all, a culture lover. Why settle for less? Trust us to guide you through the city.

Link to the festival and to book tickets:

https://sansebastianfestival.com/es/

Tours recommended for you:  

Culture, history, and architecture on foot : a 2-hour daytime tour to explore the most historic places in San Sebastian at your own pace.

https://www.paisvascobyignacio.com/services/day-walk-san-sebastian

Night tour of the city: a 2-hour walk to experience the nightlife, discover the best gastronomic routes in the old town, and feel like a local on their night off.

https://www.paisvascobyignacio.com/services/night-walk-san-sebastian

We'd love to hear from you ! contact us!

Ignacio F.A.A.

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