Much lesser known that its coastal Spanish counterparts, San Sebastian is perhaps better left the secret it is. Those who do choose to go here to learn Spanish will not need to be told why. The incredible golden beach is worlds away from the crowded, touristy ones of the southern Costas, while the town itself is a delightful mix of Basque tradition and Spanish, surrounded by the lush green hills of Gipúzcoa.

Don't let any political unrest tarnish your view - San Sebastián is surprisingly safe and in fact one of the top spots to go for a good time, with restaurants dishing up plate after plate of outstanding seafood and nouvelle cuisine, and thriving tapas bars filling the city’s charming Parte Vieja.

”I had an excellent time in San Sebastián. It’s such a fantastic city - not too big, but big enough for good facilities and a decent night life, whilst still being able to bump into people. There is loads going on, especially with all the festivals, but what makes it great is the two beaches - I finally managed to have a go at surfing which I’ve wanted to do for ages!”
Hannah Meir