Whether it's your first sip of fizzy txakoli wine or umpteenth viewing of La Concha beach, San Sebastián never falters. Located on the coast of the Basque Country region of Spain, this malleable plain is divided into three beaches, each drawing a diverse crowd: La Zurriola is populated by young people and surfer types, La Concha by tourists and Ondarreta is popular among local families.

Bountiful beaches aside, San Sebastián's main draw is its food and drink (a good thing, considering that it rains over 200 days a year). Served in standing-room-only bars across the city, pintxos - the Basque Country's version of tapas - are San Sebastián's signature dish. Bounce from bar to bar, pairing small bites with local wines, ciders and digestifs. If in need of an activity in between meals, the city's booming festival scene is sure to entertain. Prepare for a packed calendar in the summer months - July brings a beachside jazz fest, August offers up the Semana Grande fireworks and September beckons an international film festival.

Blessed with an alluring coastline and diverse cultural offering, Spain's culinary capital is sure to whet your appetite.