Fodor's Expert Review Hotel María Cristina

Belle Époque grace and opulence are embodied here, in San Sebastián's most legendary hotel looming over the Urumea. It has hosted countless movie stars and dignitaries since opening in 1912, and its salons are appointed with Oriental rugs, potted palms, and Carrara marble columns. The newly renovated guest rooms—many with river views—feature elegant (if perhaps gaudy to some) design accents like tufted headboards and fuchsia wall art. Marble bathrooms add more pampering with deep-soak tubs and separate showers. A piano player teases out an eclectic medley of tunes nightly at the bar.