Viewpoint · San Sebastián, Basque Country
Monte Igueldo
Hill at the western tip of the bay, reached by a 1912 funicular, with a viewpoint over La Concha bay and an old amusement park featuring a 1928 roller coaster.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Monte Igueldo
Monte Igueldo closes off La Concha bay to the west, about 180 metres above sea level. From the top you get the most famous view of San Sebastián: the curve of the beach, Santa Clara island in the middle of the bay, Monte Urgull on the other side and the city spread among the hills.
The traditional ascent is by the funicular, opened in 1912, with wooden cars that climb the slope in a few minutes from the Ondarreta neighbourhood, near the Peine del Viento. There is also a road for cars and city buses.
At the top is the Parque de Atracciones Monte Igueldo, a family amusement park with old rides, including the Montaña Suiza, a 1928 roller coaster that runs along the cliff edge, and a boat that sails along a channel on the slope. There is also a hotel, restaurants and the old lighthouse.
Late in the afternoon, the sunset over the Cantabrian draws many people to the viewpoint.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours.
Best time
Late in the afternoon, for the sunset and the city lights. On days with low cloud the view can be covered. The amusement park has its own schedule; check ahead.
How to get there
The funicular station is at the Plaza del Funicular, at the end of Ondarreta beach, about 2 km from the centre. City buses serve the station and the top of the hill.
Tip
Combine it with the Peine del Viento, a few minutes' walk from the funicular station. Go at the end of the afternoon and stay to see the bay lit up. The funicular sells return tickets.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Monte Igueldo
How do you get up Monte Igueldo?
By the 1912 funicular, which departs from the end of Ondarreta Beach, or by city bus and car via the road.
Is the Igueldo amusement park for adults?
It's a family park, with vintage rides. The Montaña Suiza, from 1928, runs along the cliff edge with sea views.
Igueldo or Urgull: which has the better view?
Igueldo offers the classic view of the entire bay. Urgull sits within the city and shows the harbor, the Parte Vieja and La Concha from a different angle.
