Hotel Zinema7

Inspired by San Sebastián’s famous film festival, this stylish boutique hotel is set in a former cinema, with movie-inspired décor and affordable room rates.

Each of its large, quiet rooms – with super-comfy beds – is dedicated to a different film star or director who has appeared at the festival. Continuing the arts theme, there’s a great media room with books and DVDs to borrow, with players in every room.

The hotel has a  good restaurant, Bistoreka, and serves a breakfast buffet, but you’re better off heading to the adjacent café, where you can order what you fancy.

It’s worth noting that the hotel is a fair old hike from the centre of town and the beaches – about a 20-minute walk, albeit along a pretty riverside path. But you’re staying in an authentic residential area, with cheaper shops and restaurants than those in the city centre. There’s an onsite garage, a bus stop is across the street and the train station is within walking distance.