San Sebastian deserves a spot alongside Madrid and Barcelona on any Spain itinerary. This elegant seaside city in the Basque Country is breathtakingly beautiful, and it's one of the greatest food destinations in the world, with more Michelin stars per capita than almost anywhere.

The Basque culture here feels different from the rest of Spain. Instead of flamenco and bullfighting, the local tradition is hopping between bars for pintxos, small bites piled on bread, in the narrow streets of the Old Town. Many residents speak both Spanish and Basque, and surfing is a favorite pastime. Stroll the graceful curve of La Concha beach, one of the most beautiful city beaches in Europe, and ride the funicular up Monte Igueldo for stunning views of the bay. Queen Maria Cristina made San Sebastian a fashionable summer retreat in the 1800s, and Spaniards still flock here to escape the southern heat.

Despite its fame, San Sebastian keeps a small-town feel. It's easy to pair with Bilbao and its Guggenheim Museum, and with the wine region of La Rioja. I'll plan your pintxos tours, dining reservations and Basque Country itinerary.