Basque Flag
The Basque country of Spain and France has its own language and culture. The language in San Sebastian and the rest of the region is the Basque language of Euskera.
Euskera is spoken in San Sebastian and throughout the Basque country in northern Spain and southwestern France. The origins of the language are debated, but it has been spoken for centuries.
Almost everyone in San Sebastian and the Basque Country also speaks Spanish, so you don’t have to worry about a big language barrier if you travel there. However, as in most places, learning a few words in the local language will go a long way with the people there.
All road and municipal signs in San Sebastian are bilingual in Euskera and Spanish, and San Sebastian is called Donostia in Euskera. You will see this on signs throughout the region, so it is a good one to remember.