Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian

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About

4.5
#6 of 66 hotels in San Sebastian - Donostia
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.2 of 5 bubbles
Value
Travellers' Choice
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Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
4.5 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Luxury
Great View
Languages Spoken
English, French, Spanish, German and 1 more
Property amenities
Electric vehicle charging station
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Bar / lounge
Bicycle rental
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Airport transportation
Business Centre with Internet Access
Valet parking
Paid private parking nearby
Wifi
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast buffet
Breakfast in the room
Wine / champagne
Car hire
Conference facilities
Banquet room
Meeting rooms
24-hour security
Baggage storage
Concierge
Currency exchange
Newspaper
Non-smoking hotel
Butler service
24-hour front desk
Express check-in / check-out
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
Shoeshine
Show more
Room features
Allergy-free room
Soundproof rooms
Air conditioning
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Room service
Minibar
Flatscreen TV
Safe
VIP room facilities
Laptop safe
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Show more
Room types
Bridal suite
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Hotel links
Special Offer:Earn 1,000 Bonus Points & 1 Bonus Elite Night Credit Each Night.

Location

Paseo Republica Argentina, 20004 San Sebastian - Donostia Spain
Name/address in local language
4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles2,398 reviews
Reviews Summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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Nestled in the heart of San Sebastian, Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is heralded for its enviable location that allows guests to effortlessly explore the city. Reviewers are enamored with the hotel's historic charm and sophisticated atmosphere, often lauding the spacious and luxuriously appointed rooms. The exceptional cleanliness and high-end amenities receive accolades from guests, while the attentive service is described as enhancing the overall indulgent experience. Despite its premium pricing, many travelers consider the value justified by the hotel's meticulous attention to detail and luxury offerings.
Location
Convenient
Atmosphere
Historic
Rooms
Luxurious
Value
Expensive
Cleanliness
Immaculate
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Luxurious
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2,398Reviews35Q+A100Room tips
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Detailed Reviews
patsandsox wrote a review Jan 2020
Darien, Connecticut132 contributions106 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed for 5 nights in late October before moving on to a boutique hotel in nearby Hondarribia; we found the location perfect for sauntering both to the old town, by the river, both peaks, and the newer shopping areas. Breakfast was terrific, wonderful service; a little non-plused by the Asian restaurant. Only complaint was with valet car retrieval which kept us waiting 45 minutes after repeatedly telling us it was on the way. There is direct access from just outside hotel to public underground parking which we ended up using for 2 nights. Of course, we loved the food in San Sebastian, but everything about the whole Basque region was unforgettably beautiful, and the Maria Cristina was a perfect base.
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Date of stay: October 2019
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: We had courtyard view; river views are more expensive but not sure makes a lot of difference.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from HMCSS, General Manager at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian
Responded Jan 5, 2020
Dear patsandsox, Thank you for taking the time to write your kind comment. It was a pleasure to welcome you to Hotel María Cristina and we are delighted to know that you spent a memorable time with us. We would be delighted to welcome you back in your next stay to San Sebastian. Do not hesitate to contact me for further assistance. Kind regards, Ned Capeleris General Manager
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Juan wrote a review Jan 2020
Hobe Sound, Florida29 contributions6 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Much to say about our first stay in this Hotel. We had 3 rooms and stayed at this hotel for 3 days and found the hotel beautiful and standing out from other hotels as they had pillows and comforters that resembled home. We were always happy to come back into home like atmosphere specially after being in other hotels in this trip where the beds were less comfortable.
The concierge staff was superb and helped with all our reservations before arriving in Spain.
I highly recommend everybody to do a the cooking classes that they offer if you are a foodie. Our class specialized in Basque cooking and our chef Eneco (not sure if that's the correct spelling of his name) was professional, friendly, great with the kids and entire family. Other chefs that stopped by were super friendly as well. My brother and l love to cook and it was great how he was able to entertain the kids, family while being able to discuss with us more technical cooking. We are definitely coming back and doing more classes.
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Date of stay: January 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Room Tip: Best Bed and location.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from HMCSS, General Manager at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian
Responded Feb 4, 2020
Dear DoctorLexus, We are grateful for your detailed review of your experience in San Sebastian and the María Cristina. We thank you for your loyalty to our hotel and it is certainly comments of guests like you that allow us to do a follow up of our quality of service. I am delighted to read that we have lived up to your expectations once again. I will personally communicate to Eneko that your brother and you enjoyed the cooking clases. We look forward to welcoming you back in your next visit to San Sebastian. Warm regards, Ned Capeleris General Manager
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Annabella G wrote a review Apr 2022
Newton, MA582 contributions244 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Everyone we told who knows San Sebastian/Donostia that we were staying at the Maria Cristina remarked how it is the very best. You can't beat the location and the old world charm and beauty of it.

We're Bonvoy Titanium members, and even though we were staying on points (we have jillions of points and this is a great place to use them because it is very expensive, especially by Spanish standards) we were upgraded to a marvelous suite and treated with the utmost service.

The hotel has one of the most marvelous breakfasts anywhere in the world. The breakfast staff is excellent and works very hard even though they can be a little overly solicitous (but perhaps this is what is expected in a luxury hotel of this caliber, but I really don't need someone to pour me a drink or scoop me some honey at a buffet). Not only do you have the buffet but there is also a menu. The breakfast room is absolutely gorgeous.

Our suite was huge, and though we didn't have a view of the river we did overlook a pretty courtyard and it was quiet. The bed was so comfortable, and I'm a sucker for the Aqua di Parma toiletries. We also appreciated that the shower door closes fully, which often doesn't happen in Europe.

The front desk gave us a guide to Pintxo bars/restaurants, and we found this immensely helpful.

The hotel is in a prime location. We walked very easily from the bus station and then walked all over the city from the hotel. Everything of interest is within walking distance.
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Date of stay: April 2022
3.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sophia S wrote a review Jan 2021
Manila, Philippines4 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
My family and I checked in at this hotel for 3 nights. I would definitely recommend this luxury hotel to anyone who wants to visit San Sebastian, when I first entered the hotel, it was absolutely stunning and very elegant designs were seen here. I just love how it reminds me of how beautiful Spain and the vibe definitely fits the country. The staff were also very accommodating and there were some Filipinos working there as well, which made it even better. The rooms of the hotel were really spacious, there was a living room area separated from our bedroom with closed doors to get some privacy as well. The room really smelled good and it was very neat. One of my favorite things about this hotel as well is the location, if you look outside the hotel it feels very refreshing, and it has easy access to restaurants and close to the beach. Sadly, I wasn't able to try their breakfast buffet. I would definitely go back next time.
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Date of stay: February 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Edurne Mayoz, Other at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian
Responded Feb 6, 2021
Dear sophiasol18, Eskerrik asko! as we say in Basque language, thank you for taking the time to write your feedback in Trip Advisor travelers community. We are delighted to know that you spent a pleasant time in the Maria Crisitna and that both the service and hotel rooms were up to your standards. It will be a pleasure to welcome you back soon if you decide to revisit us in San Sebastian. Warm regards from Donostia and stay safe, EDURNE MAYOZ HEAD CONCIERGE Member of Les Clef’s d’Or HOTEL MARIA CRISTINA A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, SAN SEBASTIAN PASEO REPUBLICA ARGENTINA, 4 SAN SEBASTIAN, 20004 ESPAÑA T +34 943 437600 — F +34 943 437676 THELUXURYCOLLECTION.COM/MARIACRISTINA
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gabrielle m wrote a review Feb 2020
Fairfield, Australia6 contributions2 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
From the moment we arrived at the Hotel we were made to feel very welcome particularly by Margerita at reception. Margerita was very informative and professional and friendly. She invited us to enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne and informed us of the 1.30 pm daily pinxtos and Txokoli service - both of which we enjoyed. Margarita always addressed us by name when we saw her throughout our stay.

Our rooms were breathtaking and the views amazing. The rooms are so well appointed and the attention paid to detail by housekeeping is flawless down to the turn down service. The bottle of Rjoca wine delivered to our room was a lovely gesture.

After checking in and whilst taking photos of the hotel we met the lovely Eva Rojo who was absolutely charming and welcoming. She was very thoughtful and we were so surprised and touched when she greeted us with gifts from the hotel before check out.

The breakfast service was delicious and again the staff were friendly and the service impeccable. The bar staff likewise were wonderful and very generous with their time down to writing a note for us of their favourite Basque cheese!

We feel that whilst spending time in a beautiful hotel with a large number of staff and suites that it was more like staying in a small exclusive 5 star retreat as we were made to feel very welcome.
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Date of stay: February 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from HMCSS, General Manager at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian
Responded Mar 7, 2020
Dear 489gabriellem, Thank you for your detailed and positive comment on your stay in the Maria Cristina. We are delighted to read that our hotel associates made your stay memorable and that we have succeed to live up to your expectations. It is our goal to provide a personalized and unique experience in San Sebastian and we are very happy to read that we have achived it with wonderful guests like you. It would be our pleasure to welcome you back if you decide to revisit us in the future. Our doors will always be opened for you. Do not hesitate to contact me for any assistance. Kind regards, Ned Capeleris General Manager
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Carlos L. wrote a review Jan 2020
Palm Desert, California1,591 contribution762 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We love this hotel: the elegance, the gastronomy, the elite recognition, the cinematic history. . .everything about this place exudes grace, refinement and luxury.

First of all, the service. We have never been disappointed here with the service. Everyone greets you with a smile and is pleasant. We have stayed here innumerable times and everytime we never want to leave.

Food/Drinks: The breakfast is divine and being elite/SPG memeber you get it complementary and it always is amazing. We love having pre-dinner drink at Dry Bar as the bar exudes elegance.

SPG/elite recognition: amazing always get upgrade to nice suite. Cant complain.

Verdict: we love this place and you will as well.
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Date of stay: March 2019
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from HMCSS, General Manager at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian
Responded Feb 4, 2020
Dear ledezmacjl, We are very grateful for your loyalty to the María Cristina and you comment in which you point out that we are one of your favorite hotels in the world. We are delighted to read that we succeed to live up to your expectations every time you stay in our property. We sure are looking forward to welcoming you back in your next visit to San Sebastian. In the meantime, do not hesitate to contact me for any assistance Kind regards, Ned Capeleris General Manager
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btwillis wrote a review Mar 2022
Alpine, California14 contributions13 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Hotel Maria Christina is worth every penny and we cannot wait to come back! When we arrived the valet greeted us warmly ,took our luggage and quickly guided us to the front where Margherita greeted us warmly and provided us with a spectacular room with a terrace looking over the water and throughout our trip . We had breakfast in a grand breakfast room and ILHEM is a gem who waited on us in a professional and warm manner and made us feel like family . and looked forward to seeing her each morning. Eleana was wonderful! Alex is fabulous and outstanding in every respect and we look forward to coming back to see him, too. Mgrs, Alan, Carlos and Pierre and the valet staff are superb and checked to make sure we had everything we need. The food is Absolutely fabulous w/ specialty menu that includes Eggs Benedict, Pancakes and tables laden with fruits, vegetables, empanadas, meat, cheeses, beans, waffles, cereals, and the coffee, water and drinks are replenished and the team works together very well and treat everyone like family. The Housekeeping Manager Almudena , cold not have done more for and checked on us regularly to make sure we have everything we need.. The property is pristine and every part of the hotel is unique and palatial and this is a once-in-a lifetime experience at the Hotel Maria Christina that should be taken as often as possible.. Warm regards to Christina, Perez, Rodrigo are superb and we will be back soon for all of the Hotel Christina Pampering
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Date of stay: March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GeordieBoy18 wrote a review Jul 2020
Manchester132 contributions207 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This hotel is possibly the best in spain. They really dont mess about. Every little thing you need is catered for and they all work so so hard for you to genuinely enjoy your stay.

My girlfriend celebrated her birthday here and left so so happy with many happy memories. Of all the 5 star hotels we have stayed in around the world, we have never experienced service on this level. They made us all feel like rockstars the whole time here, and booked us last minute reservations at some of the finest establishments in spain. The only thing this hotel misses is a swimming pool, however they have that covered as they are a 3 minute walk to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

The room and bed are the comfiest places we've ever been, we slept like logs the whole time, the breakfast is very special, fresh and caters for international clientele perfectly. I feel like I want to say so much more however I want to say thank you to Ned and all of his team here. Not just for working so hard, but in their positive attitudes, kindness and generosity. Unforgettable experience 7stars.
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Date of stay: July 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Room Tip: terrace rooms are superb for breakfast in privacy,
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Edurne Mayoz, Other at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian
Responded Aug 14, 2020
Dear GeordieBoy18, First of all we would like to thank you for your feedback. We highly appreciate you sharing this fantastic review of your experience in Hotel María Cristina, A Luxury Collection San Sebastian. It will be our pleasure to welcome you back if you decide to revisit us in the future. In the meantime do not hesitate to contact me for further assistance. Warm regards, EDURNE MAYOZ HEAD CONCIERGE Member of Les Clef’s d’Or HOTEL MARIA CRISTINA A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, SAN SEBASTIAN PASEO REPUBLICA ARGENTINA, 4 SAN SEBASTIAN, 20004 ESPAÑA T +34 943 437600 — F +34 943 437676 THELUXURYCOLLECTION.COM/MARIACRISTINA
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Tom_M71 wrote a review May 2021
Guadalajara, Mexico193 contributions186 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
My family and I stayed here for 2 nights as we travelled through northern Spain and it was worth the splurge!

All the staff were wonderful, extremely friendly, from the reservations team, to concierge, front of house, and bar / restaurant.

I booked via email with the reservation team and they were able to offer a rate including parking (not available online as far as I could see). Being a Bonvoy Titanium Elite member, both rooms were upgraded:).
The concierge team helped with local restaurant recommendations and reservations.

We had a light lunch at the bar upon arrival, had breakfast at the hotel both mornings and dined at their Saigon Cafe one evening and all was fabulous.
We availed of the hotel bikes for a few hours on our second day. A wonderful way to see the city.

While it is not cheap, the hotel is a jewel and it is highly recommended if you plan to visit San Sebastián.
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Date of stay: May 2021Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Funky_Mel wrote a review May 2023
NSW, Australia50 contributions24 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Amazing 5 star hotel, we stayed for 2 nights and nothing was too much trouble. The staff and very friendly and helpful, the rooms are amazing and amenities outstanding! We wanted a bath one night so they brought up a few packages of bubble bath and a body scrub. At night there were slippers by the bed with a bottle of water and chocolates. Breakfast was as expected, expensive but amazing, you could pick a la carte items to accompany the buffet. We parked in a underground public car park nearby. Great location to walk everywhere.
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Date of stay: April 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Milagros a wrote a tip Jan 2024
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"All is good! Great location and excellent service. Great for couples and families. Highly recommended. Best vacation ever in San Sebastian. "
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Okan D wrote a tip Oct 2023
Istanbul, Türkiye26 contributions13 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"We had a great view of the city and I think it is worth asking for it at an extra price."
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ProjectZen wrote a tip Apr 2023
San Francisco, California33 contributions28 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The gourmet food shop located off the hotel lobby stocks some delectable treats. "
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Mr M wrote a tip Dec 2022
Houston, Texas9 contributions2 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"We’re titanium elite and got upgraded to a beautiful corner suite on a higher floor. "
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Melody olshan wrote a tip Aug 2022
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Book early."
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Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the San Sebastian - Donostia area.
PRICE RANGE
C$426 - C$777 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
maria cristina hotel
LOCATION
SpainBasque CountryProvince of GuipuzcoaSan Sebastian - Donostia
NUMBER OF ROOMS
136
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian - UPDATED 2024 Prices, Reviews & Photos (San Sebastian - Donostia, Spain) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian
Which popular attractions are close to Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian?
Nearby attractions include Discover San Sebastian (0.1 km), Parte Vieja (0.4 km), and Zurriola Beach (0.3 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge.
Which room amenities are available at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
What food & drink options are available at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and breakfast during their stay.
Is parking available at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian?
Yes, a parking garage, paid private parking nearby, and paid public parking nearby are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian?
Conveniently located restaurants include Tedone Jatetxea, Mendaur Berria, and Bar Sport.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian?
Yes, guests have access to a fitness centre during their stay.
Does Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian have airport transportation?
Yes, Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Is Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.6 km away from the centre of San Sebastian - Donostia.
Are any cleaning services offered at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Are pets allowed at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.