Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian

Marie Cristina was designed a century ago as a hotel. As a result the rooms, public spaces and dining rooms are generously proportioned and elegant. On the walls in the public spaces are life sized portraits (probably reproductions, although pretty good ones) of Spanish grandees from a century ago; they contribute to the overall sense of a bygone era. Complementing this old world style is the most friendly and professional staff one could hope for. From the moment your bags are picked up from the hotel entrance to check-in to being escorted to your room (we were nicely upgraded), the staff goes out of its way to welcome you. I think this must be down to good management and the essential way of Spanish hospitality. Christian, the hotel’s manager, personally went out of his way welcome us. Marriott should promote him. This was perhaps the sixth or seventh time we have visited San Sebastián, having driven down from England, and we would not stay anywhere else.

As a Platinum Bonvoy member, we were upgraded to a suite. It had a very large living room (very large for American standards) and large bedroom. The bathroom had double sinks, but with the door, only one sink was really usable. Clean, comfortable and well appointed room. The bed was delightful after a long day of touring! Breakfast was amazing: lots of delicious selections. Staff was professional and very accommodating. Location can't be beat!

We stayed at Hotel Maria Cristina for four nights and could not have asked for a more attentive staff or more beautiful rooms. The three rooms our family of four adults stayed in were clean, spacious and in excellent working order. Our supplies including water, cotton wipes, tooth paste, soap, towels were always replenished prior to request. The entire front desk staff and concierge went above and beyond in making our stay enjoyable. They were very patient in explaining everything in detail from shops, restaurants to the hike from San Sebastián to Pasaia. Trust them when they say the hike is clearly marked! They were right, we did not get lost and it only took two hours and half to get to the ferry!! Thank you all for making this family vacation the best!!!!

We stayed at Hotel Maria Cristina (San Sebastián) in August 2025. At check-in I tentatively agreed to an upgrade. As an Ambassador Elite member, I typically receive upgrades if available (and one clearly was). The hotel informed me that these benefits did not apply there, so I reluctantly agreed to pay the ~$4,100 USD upgrade fee. Before a room was even assigned, I immediately contacted my Marriott Personal Ambassador to request the fee be waived. She responded right away in writing: “I took the liberty of speaking with my colleagues at the Front Desk and I’ve asked him to waive any upgrade charges. My sincerest apologies for the confusion.” Despite this assurance, the fees were charged in full. When I raised the issue, Marriott leadership declined to refund me and instead offered points worth far less than the charges. Even after escalating through American Express, and emailing Marriott’s executive team (who never responded), the charge remained. The property itself is beautiful and the onsite staff were professional, but Marriott’s unwillingness to stand behind its own written commitment has seriously damaged my trust in the brand. Guests should be aware that Marriott may not honor assurances given in writing.

From the very start a warm welcome all hotel staff from start to finish very helpful and efficient. Hotel room immaculate comfortable and little gifts a delight. Breakfast so much choice and waiting staff very friendly and attentive to your needs. All in all a wonderful stay adding to our vacation x.