The Majestic Sanctuary of Loiola: A Spiritual Haven
Explore the Sanctuary of Loiola, a breathtaking basilica in Gipuzkoa, Spain, dedicated to St. Ignatius, blending history, spirituality, and stunning architecture.
Nestled in the picturesque region of Gipuzkoa, the Sanctuary of Loiola is a breathtaking basilica that blends rich history, stunning architecture, and serene spirituality. A must-visit for every traveler, this site offers a unique glimpse into the life of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, and features beautiful art, peaceful gardens, and a museum dedicated to his legacy.
A brief summary to Santuario de Loiola
- Lugar, Núcleo, 16, Loyola, Gipuzkoa, 20730, ES
- +34943025000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and better photo opportunities.
- Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the rich history and significance of the site.
- Don't miss the museum for an in-depth look at the life of St. Ignatius and the Jesuit legacy.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the surrounding gardens offer scenic paths perfect for walking.
- Check the local schedule for special events or religious services to enhance your visit.
Getting There
-
Bus
From the city center of San Sebastián, head to the bus stop at Mercado San Martín (just a short walk from the Old Town). Take the L19 bus heading towards Loyola. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Get off at the 'Loyola' stop, which is conveniently located near the Santuario de Loiola. From the bus stop, walk towards Lugar, Núcleo, and you will see the Santuario on your right.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
You can also take a taxi or use a rideshare service from anywhere in San Sebastián. Just ask the driver to take you to 'Santuario de Loiola, Lugar Núcleo, 16'. The drive will take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a direct and comfortable way to reach the location without any transfers.
-
Walking
If you're feeling adventurous and the weather is nice, you can walk to the Santuario de Loiola from the city center. Start at the Plaza de la Constitución and walk towards the river. Follow the river along the promenade until you reach the 'Puente de la Zurriola' bridge. Cross the bridge and continue straight on the road for about 5 km. You’ll see signs for Loyola. The walk will take around 1 hour, and the path is generally flat, making it an enjoyable stroll.
Discover more about Santuario de Loiola
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Caserío Larrañaga
1.6 km
Explore the rich heritage and stunning architecture of Caserío Larrañaga, a historical landmark in the heart of the Basque Country.
Monument to Juan Sebastián Elcano
15.6 km
Discover the Monument to Juan Sebastián Elcano in Getaria, a historical landmark celebrating exploration and maritime heritage with breathtaking coastal views.
Elorrioko Udaletxea
21.6 km
Experience the heart of Elorrio at Elorrioko Udaletxea, where history and community come alive in the stunning Basque countryside.
Sanctuary of Arantzazu
23.7 km
Explore the Sanctuary of Arantzazu, an architectural marvel surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, where art and spirituality unite in the heart of the Basque Country.
Parque de Atracciones Monte Igueldo
27.5 km
Experience the excitement of Parque de Atracciones Monte Igueldo, an amusement park with thrilling rides and stunning views in Donostia-San Sebastián.
La casa del Talamo
27.5 km
Explore La Casa del Talamo, a captivating tourist attraction in Donostia-San Sebastián, where history, culture, and stunning architecture converge.
Monte Igeldo's tower
27.5 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Monte Igeldo's Tower in San Sebastián, a must-visit destination for travelers.
Igeldo mendiko itsasargia
27.5 km
Discover Igeldo Lighthouse, a historical gem offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay in Donostia-San Sebastian, perfect for every traveler.
Igeldo mendiko behatokia
27.5 km
Experience stunning panoramic views and lush landscapes at Igeldo Mendiko Behatokia, the perfect scenic escape in San Sebastián.
Funicular Monte Igueldo
27.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and adventure at Funicular Monte Igueldo, a must-visit tourist attraction in Donostia-San Sebastián.
Aiete parkea
27.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Aiete Park, a lush green oasis in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastián, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Miramar lorategiak
27.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Miramar Lorategiak, a delightful city park in Donostia-San Sebastian.
Comb of the Wind (Eduardo Chillida, 1976)
27.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Comb of the Wind in San Sebastián, a sculptural marvel by Eduardo Chillida blending art, nature, and stunning coastal views.
Miramar Jauregia
27.8 km
Discover the enchanting beauty and historical significance of Miramar Jauregia, a royal retreat with stunning views and lush gardens in Donostia-San Sebastián.
Antiguoko Tunela
27.8 km
Explore Antiguoko Tunela: A historical tunnel offering stunning coastal views in Donostia-San Sebastián, perfect for culture and nature lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Azpeitia Railway Museum
2.1 km
Discover the fascinating history of rail travel at the Azpeitia Railway Museum, a must-visit tourist attraction in Gipuzkoa, Spain.
Ekainberri Museoa
7.0 km
Explore the ancient art and nature at Ekainberri Museoa in Zestoa, a must-visit destination for history and nature enthusiasts in the Basque Country.
Palacio Lili
7.3 km
Explore the rich heritage of Zestoa at Palacio Lili, a history museum showcasing the cultural treasures of Gipuzkoa.
Antio Basaeliza
9.4 km
Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual essence of Antio Basaeliza, a stunning Catholic church and cultural landmark in Zumarraga, Gipuzkoa.
Hernio (1.078m)
10.5 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Hernio, a premier hiking destination in Gipuzkoa, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hernio
10.6 km
Explore Hernio, a stunning mountain peak in Gipuzkoa, where adventurous hikes meet breathtaking views of the Basque landscape.
Igartubeiti Baserri Museoa
11.1 km
Explore the essence of Basque culture at Igartubeiti Baserri Museoa, a cultural center showcasing the region's rich agricultural heritage and traditions.
Caserío Igartubeiti baserria museoa
11.1 km
Explore the rich agricultural heritage of the Basque Country at Caserío Igartubeiti, a captivating cultural center and museum.
Flysch Begiratokia - Baratzazarrak
13.1 km
Experience breathtaking coastal views and unique geological formations at Flysch Begiratokia, a must-visit observation deck in Gipuzkoa.
Fountain of St. John
13.8 km
Explore the enchanting Fountain of St. John in Zumaia, a historical landmark that embodies the rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture of the region.
Sakoneta flysch-a
13.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and geological wonders of Sakoneta Flysch, a premier hiking destination in Spain's Basque Country.
Puerto de Zumaia
13.9 km
Experience the charm of Puerto de Zumaia, a picturesque marina in the Basque Country, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and delicious local cuisine.
Flysch
13.9 km
Discover the stunning geological marvel of Flysch in Zumaia, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing nature's artistry and Earth's history.
GR 121 Guipúzcoa (Zumaia↔️Deba)
13.9 km
Discover the breathtaking GR 121 hiking trail in Guipúzcoa, where stunning coastal views and lush landscapes await every adventurer.
Algorri
14.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Algorri Beach in Zumaia, where stunning cliffs meet golden sands and crystal-clear waters.
Essential places to dine
Elkano Txiki
15.7 km
Experience authentic Basque cuisine at Elkano Txiki in Getaria – where fresh seafood meets traditional flavors.
Casa Julián
17.6 km
Experience authentic Basque cuisine at Casa Julián in Tolosa - renowned for its exceptional grilled dishes and inviting atmosphere.
Irati Taberna Topalekua
20.8 km
Savor authentic Basque flavors at Irati Taberna Topalekua in Arrasate - the ultimate destination for exquisite pintxos and warm hospitality.
Asador Bittori Erretegia
21.2 km
Experience authentic Basque flavors at Asador Bittori Erretegia in Arrasate - a must-visit Spanish restaurant for food lovers.
Restaurante Arteaga Landetxea
22.2 km
Discover authentic Basque flavors at Restaurante Arteaga Landetxea, where tradition meets culinary excellence in every dish.
Restaurante Basabe Jatetxea
24.0 km
Experience authentic Basque cuisine at Restaurante Basabe Jatetxea in Aretxabaleta – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Asador Etxebarri
26.5 km
Experience world-class Basque cuisine at Asador Etxebarri - where tradition meets innovation in every grilled delight.
Abakando
26.8 km
Experience the best of Basque cuisine at Abakando, where fresh seafood meets Mediterranean flavors in a vibrant setting.
Rekondo
26.8 km
Experience the finest Basque cuisine at Rekondo in Donostia-San Sebastián—where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.
Bar Hemen
27.0 km
Experience authentic Basque flavors at Bar Hemen, where every pintxo tells a story in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastian.
Duit Wine & Bistro
27.0 km
Experience exquisite Basque cuisine paired with fine wines at Duit Wine & Bistro in Donostia-San Sebastian.
ANTIGUA jatetxea
27.0 km
Experience authentic Basque flavors at ANTIGUA Jatetxea in Donostia-San Sebastian - where grilled perfection meets inviting ambiance.
Restaurante Kukuarri NH Collection Aránzazu
27.1 km
Savor exquisite Basque cuisine at Restaurante Kukuarri, where fine dining meets elegance in Donostia-San Sebastián.
La Rebotika (Brasa Bar&Denda)
27.1 km
Experience the flavors of Basque cuisine at La Rebotika, a lively brasserie and bar in Donostia-San Sebastián offering delicious grilled dishes.
Caffè Bar Malandrino
27.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Caffè Bar Malandrino in Donostia—where every pizza tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Boutique de Señora Troko
20.7 km
Explore the vibrant fashion scene at Boutique de Señora Troko, a unique clothing store in Arrasate that showcases local style and craftsmanship.
Almilashop
23.7 km
Explore Almilashop in Aretxabaleta for exquisite handcrafted jewelry that reflects the artistry of Gipuzkoa's rich heritage.
Centro Comercial Urbil
23.8 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Centro Comercial Urbil, where fashion, dining, and entertainment come together in Usurbil.
Petit Comité
26.8 km
Explore Petit Comité in Donostia-San Sebastian for a unique selection of stylish women's clothing reflecting contemporary Basque fashion.
Manami Boutique by MA
27.1 km
Explore Manami Boutique in Donostia-San Sebastián for unique fashion pieces that blend local culture and contemporary style in a charming setting.
La Petite
27.3 km
Explore La Petite in Donostia-San Sebastian for a curated selection of chic clothing and accessories reflecting the vibrant local style.
OCRE
27.4 km
Discover OCRE in Donostia-San Sebastian, where trendy clothing and stylish shoes meet the vibrant local fashion scene.
TOME SAN SEBASTIAN - Moda, calzado y complementos
27.4 km
Explore the vibrant youth fashion scene at TOME SAN SEBASTIAN, where modern trends and stylish accessories come together in Donostia.
tamarindoSS
27.4 km
Explore unique fashion at Tamarindo, a stylish women's clothing store in San Sebastián's vibrant shopping district.
REGALOS CLARA
27.5 km
Explore Regal Clara for unique gifts and stylish accessories in Donostia-San Sebastian's charming boutique scene.
Punto 23
27.6 km
Explore unique women's fashion at Punto 23 in Donostia-San Sebastián, where style and quality intertwine for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Keala By Beatriz Armendariz
27.6 km
Explore the exquisite collection of dresses at Keala By Beatriz Armendariz, where fashion meets the vibrant culture of Donostia-San Sebastian.
Bazar Aquarium
28.7 km
Explore Bazar Aquarium in Donostia-San Sebastian for unique gifts and souvenirs that embody the spirit of the Basque Country.
Boutique Open's Donostia
28.9 km
Explore Boutique Open's Donostia for exquisite women's fashion and unique accessories in the heart of San Sebastian.
Brokante 66
28.9 km
Explore Brokante 66 in Donostia-San Sebastian for a unique collection of antique treasures and local artistry that tells a story.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Nebraska
21.2 km
Discover the charm of Bar Nebraska, a vibrant café and bar in Arrasate, perfect for enjoying local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mogambo taberna
26.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Spain at Mogambo Taberna, a lively tapas bar in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastian.
Mandragora
27.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mandragora, a local bar in San Sebastián offering craft beers, cocktails, and delicious tapas.
BENTA BERRI BAR
27.1 km
Experience authentic Basque flavors at Benta Berri Bar in Donostia-San Sebastian, where the atmosphere is vibrant and the pintxos are divine.
Belle Epoque Wine Bistro Bar
27.5 km
Discover the elegance of Belle Epoque Wine Bistro Bar in Donostia-San Sebastian, where exquisite wines and gourmet tapas come together in a charming atmosphere.
El Almacén Wine Bar
27.5 km
Explore the exquisite flavors of El Almacén Wine Bar in San Sebastián, where exceptional wines and delicious tapas create an unforgettable experience.
La Cervecería del Antiguo
27.6 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Donostia-San Sebastian at La Cervecería del Antiguo, where local beers and delicious tapas await in a lively atmosphere.
Pepe Taberna Garagardotegia
27.6 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Pepe Taberna Garagardotegia, where traditional tapas meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of San Sebastián.
Bar Xerpa
27.7 km
Discover the essence of Basque cuisine at Bar Xerpa, a vibrant tapas bar in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastián.
The Blind Pig
28.6 km
Discover The Blind Pig, a hidden cocktail bar in Donostia-San Sebastián, renowned for its innovative drinks and inviting atmosphere.
Cafe Bar Sebastopol
28.8 km
Discover the flavors of Basque Country at Cafe Bar Sebastopol, a cozy bar in Donostia-San Sebastian offering exquisite pintxos and a vibrant atmosphere.
El Nido
29.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at El Nido, a lively pub in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastián.
Udaberri
29.0 km
Experience the charm of Udaberri, a historic bar in Donostia-San Sebastian, serving traditional Basque snacks and drinks in a vintage atmosphere.
Drop - Donostia, Gipuzkoa
29.1 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Drop in Donostia, where craft beer, cocktails, and dancing create unforgettable experiences.
Arraun
29.1 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of Donostia-San Sebastián at Arraun, a cozy bar renowned for its creative drinks and welcoming atmosphere.
