Miramar Palace - a statue in front of a building
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Miramar Palace

4.6
·11k reviews·Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain

Historic royal summer residence with stunning Tudor architecture and panoramic views of La Concha Bay.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daylight hours

Best views and garden exploration

CrowdMedium
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Miramar Palace - a statue in front of a building

Miramar Palace

Best Time

Daylight hours

Best views and garden exploration

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic royal summer residence with stunning Tudor architecture and panoramic views of La Concha Bay.

4.6
(11k reviews)

"A beautiful spot to enjoy the city’s elegance and history with a lifetime view on the beach."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture Stunning Photos

The palace and bay offer incredible photo ops. Bring your camera for those postcard-perfect shots!

🧺 Picnic with a View

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the gardens with breathtaking views of La Concha Bay.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Palace Exterior Architecture

Palace Exterior Architecture

Exterior

Admire the elegant English-style architecture of this historic royal summer residence.

La Concha Bay Views

La Concha Bay Views

Gardens

Experience unparalleled panoramic vistas of the iconic La Concha Bay from the palace grounds.

Palace Gardens

Palace Gardens

Gardens

Wander through beautifully maintained gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a scenic picnic.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Views

Miramar Palace offers breathtaking views of La Concha Bay, especially on clear days. Visiting during daylight hours maximizes your photo opportunities and allows you to fully appreciate the palace's architecture and gardens. Consider the time of year for pleasant weather for exploring the grounds.

Accessing the Palace Grounds

While the interior of Miramar Palace is generally not open to the public, the stunning gardens and exterior are accessible. Plan to spend time strolling through the grounds and enjoying the panoramic scenery. Check for any special events that might grant interior access.

Best Times

When
Daylight hours
Why
Best views and garden exploration
Crowd
Medium
When
Clear days
Why
Maximizes scenic beauty
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I can’t wait to go back!! #kidfriendlyresort #familyfriendly #familyvacation #summervacation #kidfriendly #floridaresort #baytownewharf #miramarbeach #30A #destinflorida #resort
@ausher81818
17.6K likes • 637.2K views

📸 Capture Stunning Photos

The palace and bay offer incredible photo ops. Bring your camera for those postcard-perfect shots! Instagram

🧺 Picnic with a View

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the gardens with breathtaking views of La Concha Bay. Instagram

How to visit Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal 🇵🇹 🚊Take an early train from Lisbon to Sintra 🚌 Take the hop on hop off bus from Sintra Station 🏰 Pre-book your shuttle tickets to the palace entrance ⛰️It is still a steep walk and there are long lines even on a weekday! 🖼️ The palace is stunning, colorful, and a great example of Moorish design 🪴Don’t miss the gardens and lagoons, but especially the c...
@kellymcgrath11
11.1K likes • 184.3K views
There are hidden gems in Cannes that aren’t easy to find, one of which is tucked behind the facade of a historic building—the former Miramar Palace Hotel. Once built in the 1920s, this hotel marked an era of unprecedented economic prosperity for the country after World War I. However, in the 1940s, the once-luxurious hotel was converted into a condominium, retaining its original Art Deco facade ...
cannes.imperial
0 likes • 845 views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

Even if the interior is closed, the gardens are a must-see for their beauty and views. Reddit

🧐 Learn the History

Look for exterior panels explaining the palace's fascinating history as a royal retreat. Reddit

📍Welcome to the Miramar Palace! This was built in 1893 for the Spanish Monarchy and is still filled with excitement and joy and beauty! 📍This palace is on the picturesque coast of San Sebastian. This stunning palace was commissioned by Queen Maria Christina as a summer retreat for the Spanish royal family. The palace’s Tudor-style architecture, surrounded by lush gardens, offers a glimpse into ...
ticetraveltime
0 likes • 701 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture Stunning Photos

The palace and bay offer incredible photo ops. Bring your camera for those postcard-perfect shots! Instagram

🧺 Picnic with a View

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the gardens with breathtaking views of La Concha Bay. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

Even if the interior is closed, the gardens are a must-see for their beauty and views. Reddit

🧐 Learn the History

Look for exterior panels explaining the palace's fascinating history as a royal retreat. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(11k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Miramar Palace is lauded for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views of La Concha Bay, making its gardens a must-visit for their beauty and tranquility. While interior access is limited, the exterior and grounds offer a rich historical and scenic experience, perfect for photography and relaxation. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity for a scenic picnic.

"Beautiful view and building with an interesting story , you’ll find panels outside explaining it"

A V

"Very beautiful!!! With a one in a lifetime view on the beach 🥰🥰🥰"

Lavoisier Junior WAH KENOUNOUH

"Palacio Miramar in San Sebastián is a charming historical palace with stunning views of La Concha Bay. Built in the late 19th century for the Spanish royal family, it features elegant gardens perfect for a peaceful stroll. While the interior is not usually open to the public, the exterior architecture and panoramic scenery make it a must-visit. Ideal for photography, relaxation, or a scenic walk between the city’s beaches. A beautiful spot to enjoy the city’s elegance and history."

Dani Baal

What People Like

Stunning bay views
Beautiful palace architecture
Peaceful garden atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited interior access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Miramar Palace is easily accessible by public transport. You can take a bus from the city center to a stop near the palace. Many visitors also enjoy a scenic walk along the bay to reach it. Instagram

Parking can be limited in the area, especially during peak season. It's often recommended to use public transportation or walk if possible. Instagram

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from La Concha Beach to Miramar Palace, offering beautiful coastal views along the way. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are generally not required to visit the exterior and gardens of Miramar Palace. However, the interior is typically only open for special events or guided tours. Reddit

The gardens are usually open to the public during daylight hours. It's advisable to check local listings for any specific seasonal hours or event closures. Instagram

The interior of Miramar Palace is usually not open for general public access. It's primarily used for special events and university courses. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the beautiful gardens, admire the palace's exterior architecture, and enjoy stunning views of La Concha Bay. It's a great spot for photography and relaxation. Instagram

Absolutely! The palace's architecture and the panoramic bay views make it a photographer's dream. Instagram

While some areas of the gardens are accessible, the terrain can be uneven in places. It's best to inquire locally for the most up-to-date accessibility information. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants within Miramar Palace itself. However, San Sebastian is renowned for its culinary scene, with many dining options available near the palace and along the bay. Instagram

Yes, the palace gardens are a perfect spot for a picnic with incredible views. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo opportunities are from the gardens overlooking La Concha Bay, and capturing the palace's distinctive Tudor-style architecture. Instagram+1

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the vicinity of the palace. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Miramar Palace offers a wonderful outdoor experience for families. The expansive gardens provide plenty of space for children to run around and explore. The stunning views of the bay can captivate young imaginations, and the historical aspect, even from the outside, can spark curiosity. Consider packing a picnic to make the visit even more enjoyable and budget-friendly. TikTokInstagram

While the palace interior isn't accessible, the accessible parts of the gardens are generally manageable for families. The walk along the bay to reach the palace can also be a pleasant part of the outing. Remember to check for any specific event schedules that might offer unique family-friendly activities. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Miramar Palace is a dream location. The Tudor-style architecture of the palace itself provides a striking subject, especially when framed against the backdrop of the azure La Concha Bay. The gardens offer various angles and perspectives, allowing for creative shots. Instagram+1

Aim to visit during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the most dramatic lighting. Clear days are essential for capturing the vibrant blues of the sea and sky. Be mindful of any restrictions regarding professional photography equipment or drone usage, and always respect the historical nature of the site. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Strollers & Picnickers

If you're looking for a relaxing experience, Miramar Palace is perfect. The beautifully maintained gardens are ideal for a leisurely stroll, offering a peaceful escape with incredible scenery. It's a fantastic spot to unwind and enjoy the coastal ambiance. Instagram

Many visitors find it to be an ideal location for a picnic with a view. Grab some local delicacies and find a quiet spot on the lawn to savor your meal while taking in the breathtaking panorama of La Concha Bay. It’s a simple yet profoundly enjoyable way to experience the palace grounds. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Royal Retreat with a Storied Past

Commissioned by Queen Maria Cristina of Spain in 1893, Miramar Palace served as the royal family's cherished summer residence. Designed by architect Ralph Selden Wornum, its English-style architecture was a departure from traditional Spanish designs, reflecting a modern aesthetic for its time. The palace was a place of leisure and retreat for the monarchy, offering stunning views and a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Its historical significance is palpable as you explore the grounds, imagining the royal gatherings and quiet moments that once took place here. Instagram

Today, the palace is owned by the city of San Sebastian and plays a different role. While the interior is not typically open to the public, it hosts university courses and special events, continuing its legacy as a place of learning and cultural significance. The exterior and its meticulously maintained gardens remain a testament to its grandeur, offering visitors a glimpse into its royal past and a beautiful space to enjoy the coastal scenery. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the peaceful atmosphere and the breathtaking views of La Concha Bay. Even without access to the interior, the exterior architecture and the expansive gardens provide a rich experience. Panels outside the palace offer historical context, allowing visitors to connect with its storied past. Reddit

Gardens and Views: The Heart of the Experience

The gardens of Miramar Palace are as much a draw as the palace itself. Designed to complement the architecture and maximize the stunning coastal setting, these grounds offer a serene environment for visitors. Strolling through the manicured lawns and pathways, you'll find numerous vantage points offering uninterrupted, panoramic views of La Concha Bay, the Cantabrian Sea, and the surrounding coastline. Instagram

These views are particularly spectacular on a clear day, making it an ideal spot for photography and quiet contemplation. Many visitors recommend bringing a picnic to enjoy on the lawns, soaking in the beauty and tranquility of the location. The combination of the elegant palace facade and the dramatic natural landscape creates a truly memorable scene. Instagram

While the interior of the palace is restricted, the accessible exterior and gardens are more than enough to make a visit worthwhile. The historical context provided by external panels adds another layer to the experience, allowing you to appreciate the palace's significance while enjoying its picturesque surroundings. Reddit

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