Best Neighborhoods in San Sebastián for Students in 2026

Living in San Sebastián (Donostia) is a unique experience: beaches, great food, and a vibrant university atmosphere. However, it is also one of the most expensive cities in Spain, and its layout—with beaches and neighborhoods spread out across the city—means that choosing the right place to live is key.

So, if you're wondering where to live in San Sebastián as a student, here’s a clear guide to help you figure out which area is the best fit for you.

If you're looking for the real college atmosphere in Donostia, El Antiguo is the most popular choice among students.

Advantages:

• Close to the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU)
• A young and dynamic atmosphere
• Wide selection of shared apartments
• Active social life

Opinions on living in El Antiguo in San Sebastián are unanimous: it’s the most convenient neighborhood for everyday university life.

In addition, many students who are new to the city prefer options that make it easy to meet people quickly, such as dorms  StepHouse , which are specifically designed for students in Donostia.

Gros is another great area if you want to balance studying and leisure.

Advantages:

• A youthful yet more relaxed atmosphere
• Close to Zurriola Beach
• A wide range of cultural and culinary offerings

Reviews of life in Gros, San Sebastián, highlight its balance: it’s not as student-oriented as El Antiguo, but it is very lively.

This type of environment, combined with shared spaces and activities, makes it much easier to make friends—something that is part of everyday life in accommodation models such as StepHouse, where communal living is designed with students in mind.

If you're looking for more affordable options in the neighborhoods of San Sebastián, Amara and Egia are two very interesting options.

Amara:

• Excellent public transportation access
• More affordable than downtown areas
• A more peaceful atmosphere

Egia:

• Cultural district
• Close to downtown
• Less touristy

These are ideal areas for students in San Sebastián, without straying too far from the university atmosphere.

Getting around the city is easy:

• City buses (DBus)
• Bicycle
• On foot

Many students use the Mugi Youth Card, which offers significant savings on transportation.

This makes it possible to live in more affordable neighborhoods without losing touch with the university, which is important if you're comparing options with other cities like Madrid. At StepHouse you can view all the residences they have in Spain and Portugal.

El Antiguo is the most highly recommended area due to its proximity to the university and its youthful atmosphere.

It depends on your lifestyle: El Antiguo for convenience, Gros for leisure, and Amara or Egia to save money.

Yes, it's an expensive city, especially when it comes to rent.

Whether by DBus, bike, or on foot, the Mugi Youth Card helps reduce costs.

Choosing from the best neighborhoods in San Sebastián to live in will shape your college experience.

El Antiguo is known for its college atmosphere, Gros for its balance between leisure and study, and Amara or Egia for being more affordable options.

Carefully consider your priorities and remember that the neighborhood you choose will directly affect your social life, your comfort, and how well you settle into the city.