Mount Urgull
Tree-covered hill with historic military structures, a museum & panoramic ocean & city views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Mount Urgull
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tree-covered hill with historic military structures, a museum & panoramic ocean & city views.
"My fav viewing spot in the city. Immerse in the nature, you get a castle, a cute church and a great terrace."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
While not a strenuous hike, sturdy footwear is recommended. Flip-flops won't cut it! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city and ocean views are incredible. Bring your camera or phone for stunning photos! :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Summit of Mount Urgull
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of San Sebastián, the bay, and the Cantabrian Sea. A must-see for any visitor.

Castillo de La Mota
Mount Urgull Summit
Explore the historic 12th-century castle ruins, offering a glimpse into the past and more incredible views.

Hidden Castle Bar
Within the castle walls
A unique oasis nestled within the forest and old castle walls, serving drinks in a tranquil, natural setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Mount Urgull Ascent
Navigating Mount Urgull
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
While not a strenuous hike, sturdy footwear is recommended. Flip-flops won't cut it! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city and ocean views are incredible. Bring your camera or phone for stunning photos! :camerawithflash:
🏰 Check Access Fees
Some parts of the castle or summit may require a ticket. Be prepared for potential entry fees. :admission_tickets:
🌳 Enjoy the Nature
Immerse yourself in the tranquil, tree-covered natural surroundings of Mount Urgull. :evergreen_tree:
San Sebastian ideas
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
While not a strenuous hike, sturdy footwear is recommended. Flip-flops won't cut it! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city and ocean views are incredible. Bring your camera or phone for stunning photos! :camerawithflash:
🏰 Check Access Fees
Some parts of the castle or summit may require a ticket. Be prepared for potential entry fees. :admission_tickets:
🌳 Enjoy the Nature
Immerse yourself in the tranquil, tree-covered natural surroundings of Mount Urgull. :evergreen_tree:
🍻 Discover the Hidden Bar
Seek out the unique bar nestled within the castle walls for a refreshing drink. :beer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mount Urgull for its breathtaking panoramic views of San Sebastián and the sea, calling it a favorite viewing spot. The natural beauty and the historic castle add to its charm, making it a worthwhile and scenic walk. However, some visitors have noted potential access fees or booking requirements for certain castle areas, which can be a minor inconvenience.
"My fav viewing spot in the city. Immerse in the nature, you get a castle, a cute church and a great terrace which is only open 9-10 am weekdays."
SolorToursBarcelona
"Beautiful walk with a great view over San Sebastian. 8/10 points"
SYPA Ald
"Panoramic scenery, showcasing the beauty of city from the top of urgull."
Ambreen Khan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Urgull is easily accessible on foot from San Sebastián's Old Town. Simply follow the signs leading towards the hill. The hike is generally considered a moderate walk, taking about 30-40 minutes to reach the summit at a leisurely pace.
There is no direct parking at the summit of Mount Urgull. Visitors typically park in the public parking garages in the city center and then walk to the base of the hill.
While there isn't a bus that goes directly to the summit, local buses can take you to the Old Town, which is the starting point for the walk up Mount Urgull.
The paths on Mount Urgull are generally well-maintained, but they are natural trails. While most of the hike is manageable, some steeper sections and uneven terrain might be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Start from the Old Town and follow the well-marked paths. The ascent is gradual, offering beautiful views as you climb.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The hike up Mount Urgull itself is free. However, access to certain historical structures within the castle complex, like the museum or specific viewpoints, may require a ticket. It's advisable to check for any entry fees before your visit.
Mount Urgull is generally accessible throughout the day. However, specific attractions within the castle, such as museums or terraces, might have limited opening hours, often on weekdays.
Yes, you can visit the Castillo de La Mota, a historic 12th-century castle located at the summit of Mount Urgull. Some parts may have entry fees or limited access.
While not always advertised, local tourist information centers might offer guided tours that include Mount Urgull. It's worth inquiring locally for the most up-to-date information.
Some reviews mention being 'fully booked' for certain areas. This likely refers to specific attractions within the castle that have capacity limits and may require advance booking or timed entry.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers unparalleled panoramic views of San Sebastián, the bay, and the coastline. Look for vantage points near the castle ruins and along the walking paths for diverse perspectives.
Early mornings and late afternoons, during the 'golden hour,' provide the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow over the city and sea.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local ordinances and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over Mount Urgull or San Sebastián.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive cityscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on details of the city or the coastline.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, be mindful of any signage within historical buildings or private areas that might restrict photography.
🎫 🌲 Nature & Outdoors
Mount Urgull is a lush, tree-covered hill with diverse flora. You can enjoy a peaceful walk through its natural landscape, often described as one of the city's 'lungs.'
Absolutely! It's a beautiful scenic walk with well-maintained paths offering stunning views. It's a perfect escape from the city bustle.
While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can find quiet spots along the trails or near the castle to enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature.
You'll likely encounter various bird species. The natural environment is well-preserved, offering a peaceful habitat.
A leisurely exploration, including time for photos and enjoying the views, can take 1-2 hours. If you plan to visit specific attractions within the castle, allow more time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep an eye out for the hidden castle bar as a fun reward after exploring. The panoramic views are also a great way to engage children, pointing out landmarks and imagining life in the past. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for the walk.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Don't miss the chance to discover the hidden castle bar for a unique, relaxed experience. It's a great spot to people-watch or simply enjoy a drink in a memorable setting. The relatively short hike means you can easily fit it into a day of exploring San Sebastián.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different focal lengths, from wide-angle for expansive views to telephoto for details of the city or distant horizons. The unique hidden castle bar also offers quirky photographic opportunities amidst the greenery and stone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Mount Urgull
During your visit, you'll notice remnants of its defensive past, including old cannons and walls. The museum within the castle often showcases artifacts and information about the area's history, providing deeper context to the landscape you're experiencing. It's a fascinating blend of natural beauty and historical preservation.
Experiencing the Hidden Castle Bar
Visitors rave about stumbling upon this spot, which serves a variety of drinks. It's the perfect place to relax, soak in the serene atmosphere, and enjoy a refreshing beverage surrounded by history and greenery. It's a memorable experience that many travelers highlight as a favorite part of their visit.
Best Photography Spots and Tips
For the best shots, aim for early mornings or late afternoons when the light is soft and golden, creating a magical ambiance. Look for unique angles near the Castillo de La Mota and along the winding paths. Don't forget to capture the contrast between the historic castle structures and the vibrant blue of the ocean. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit