The Funicular Monte Igueldo is a short cable railway that climbs from the west side of San Sebastián to the top of Monte Igueldo. The wooden carriages are part of the experience, and the ride takes only a couple of minutes. At the top you get wide views of La Concha Bay, its beaches and the city below. The summit also has a small old-style amusement park with rides and arcade games, a restaurant and restrooms. Plan this as a quick stop with a view.
From 1912 to today
The funicular opened in 1912 to carry people from the city up to the casino on Monte Igueldo, a building that is now a hotel. It has since been given Monumental Landmark status, and it is still in use as a working railway.
Many people in San Sebastián rode it as children. The sound of the carriage doors closing before the climb starts is a memory that locals mention. Visitors who come today often describe the carriages as old-fashioned and charming, like a trip back in time.
The cars are wooden and the line is short, so the ride itself is part of the visit rather than a long journey.
The ride and the summit
The climb takes a couple of minutes and gives you a view of the bay and the beaches as the car rises. At the top, a lookout gives you the widest view of the city, with La Concha Bay below.
The summit has the amusement park, with rides and arcade games in a quaint, old-style setting. There is a restaurant, and a bar near the haunted house attraction is a good alternative when the restaurant is busy. Restrooms are available at the top.
You can also visit the tower at the top for a closer view, but it costs extra. Check the price before you go, as it may change.
Getting there
From the centre of the city, a taxi takes about 10 minutes. You can also walk along La Concha Bay in about 30 minutes, which is a pleasant route in itself. The funicular station sits at the foot of the hill, near the Ondaretta Beach end of the bay.
The station entrance is wheelchair accessible, and there is a wheelchair accessible parking lot. Paid parking is available nearby, as is paid street parking.
A bus stop is at the bottom of the funicular, so you can continue elsewhere in the city after the ride.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there an entry fee for the Funicular Monte Igueldo?
Yes, the funicular is a paid ride. The fares are affordable, but check the current price on the official website, monteigueldo.es, before you go.
How long do you need for the funicular and the top?
The ride takes a couple of minutes. The top does not need a long visit, so 30 to 60 minutes is usually enough for the ride, the view and a short look around the park.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Getting tickets in advance is recommended. Expect a wait in summer, and the queue moves steadily.
Is the funicular wheelchair accessible?
The entrance is wheelchair accessible, and there is a wheelchair accessible parking lot nearby.
