San Sebastián-Gipuzkoa has positioned itself as the preferred setting for countless audiovisual productions. In this picturesque territory, it is not unusual to run into big names in the film industry, such as Woody Allen, in full recording, or renowned producers like that of Game of Thrones seeking those perfect landscapes that have defined their series.

San Sebastián and Gipuzkoa have become the backdrop for movies, series, advertisements, and TV programs, thanks to their varied and aesthetically dazzling locations.

Gipuzkoa: A place that holds the “most beautiful City in the world”

The legend of Donostia being “one of the most beautiful localities on Earth” is closer to reality than to myth. And the rest of the province is not far behind. The variety of landscapes that Gipuzkoa offers is astonishing. Its golden beaches, imposing cliffs, and rugged mountains are just the beginning of what this corner of the world can offer.

The vast forests and medieval towns become wonderful cinematic settings. Moreover, this territory enjoys all four seasons, each with its characteristic climate, providing a wide palette of environments for any production.

However, it’s not just about natural landscapes. San Sebastian hosts a series of iconic places. From the emblematic La Concha Beach to the futuristic Kursaal building, through the traditional old town of San Sebastián, every corner has something special to offer. Green areas like the Cristina Enea Park or Mount Urgull, with their panoramic views, complement the offer, providing versatile spaces for any production requirement.

One of the key points in the audiovisual sector in Spain

Beyond locations, Gipuzkoa is a hotbed of talent and professionalism. It is supported by a solid ecosystem of professionals and local companies in the audiovisual field, many of them awarded nationally and internationally. It is also home to numerous relevant entities in the sector such as EITB, Ibaia, Creative Europe, among others. Not to mention the prestigious San Sebastián International Film Festival, which attracts glances from all over the world. For those wishing to learn more about everything Gipuzkoa can offer, in the next edition of the Shooting Locations Marketplace, which will take place on October 17 and 18, the entire proposal of the region will be presented in depth.

The support for audiovisual productions in San Sebastián-Gipuzkoa goes beyond words; it materializes in specific tax incentives. Investments in local and national productions can obtain significant deductions in the Corporate Tax, which rises to 45% if the production is carried out in Basque. Foreign productions also benefit, with deductions of 35% on expenses incurred in the Basque Autonomous Community, and in certain cases, the possibility of exemption from municipal fees.

Aware of the environmental impact of productions, the San Sebastián Gipuzkoa Film Commission (SSGFC) has committed to sustainability. From conferences on sustainability in audiovisual productions, through surveys revealing the need to implement sustainable practices, to the publication of a decalogue of good practices and the offer of sustainability consultancy. The intention is clear: that productions are respectful of the environment in which they are made.

To conclude, great filmmakers, both national and international, have chosen Gipuzkoa as their canvas. Directors of the stature of Woody Allen, Gracia Querejeta, Julio Medem, among others, have immortalized Gipuzkoa landscapes in iconic films. For their part, television producers like HBO, Movistar, and Antena 3 have chosen this region to record hits like Game of Thrones, Homeland, and more. Undoubtedly, San Sebastián-Gipuzkoa has established itself as a first-line dish in the global audiovisual scene.