Whether you are exploring its rugged coastline or its hidden mountain gems, our itinerary for 5 days in Cantabria will guide you through the region’s most stunning landscapes. Get ready to discover a perfect blend of nature, architecture, and delicious local cuisine on this unforgettable journey.
It is true that in five days you won’t be able to see everything, but you will enjoy a perfect combination of nature, sea, and tradition. The intense green of its mountains, the deep blue of the Cantabrian Sea, and the gold of its beaches will be etched in your memory, inviting you to return again and again.
We have designed a road trip through Cantabria with must-see stops and suggestions so you can adapt the route to your own pace. Our goal is to help you explore the best of Cantabria in 5 days, enjoying every moment of the journey.
And here is our first Glutendtrotter Tip: the best way to get around the region is with your own car or a rental, to be able to discover hidden places off the beaten tourist track. If you like rural landscapes, we also recommend reading our road trip through the Pasiegos Valleys, a true green fairytale among the mountains.
Read also: 10 essential tips for traveling to Cantabria
Before your 5-day Cantabria road trip
🚗 As we mentioned earlier, the best way to get around is by car: compare rental options on Discover Cars.
🛡️ We never travel without IATI travel insurance (5% off for Glutendtrotters readers), essential for any multi-day trip.
📶 And to stay connected between villages throughout these 5 days, a Holafly eSIM (also 5% off for you) keeps you online wherever you go.
Day 1: Santander, between history, sea, and Cantabrian flavor
Start your what to see in Cantabria in 5 days route in Santander, an elegant, luminous city that is perfect to explore in one day. Here, where the sea and mountains meet, every stroll reveals a corner full of history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes.
Start your day at the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, a spectacular viewpoint surrounded by cliffs that offers one of the best panoramic views of the Cantabrian Sea. From there, walk down to Mataleñas Cove, a small natural jewel ideal for enjoying the sound of the waves and the salty air.
Continue towards the famous Sardinero Beach, a symbol of the city, with its fine golden sand and stately atmosphere. Very close by, you will find cafes and restaurants where you can savor Cantabrian gastronomy with sea views.
Afterward, head into the Magdalena Peninsula, one of the most iconic places to see in Santander. Here, you can visit the Magdalena Palace, the former summer residence of King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenia, and take a stroll by its small marine zoo and viewpoints facing Mouro Island.
Continue your tour through Puertochico and the Promenade, where the bay—considered one of the most beautiful in Spain—will accompany you with its changing light and maritime atmosphere. For postcard-worthy views, go up to the Río de la Pila Viewpoint, especially at sunset.
Before saying goodbye to the city, spend some time in its Old Town and its local museums, such as the Centro Botín, the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology, and the Cantabrian Maritime Museum, three spaces that combine art, history, and sea in perfect balance.
Santander is an ideal city to explore on foot or by tourist transport. You can sign up for a free walking tour of Santander or hop on the City Sightseeing bus, which connects the main points of the Cultural Ring. A convenient way to make the most of your time on this first day of your itinerary.
Other posts related to Santander:
- What to visit in Santander in 1 day
- Traveling to Santander with kids? Places you must visit
- The best free walking tours in Santander
Where to eat gluten-free in Santander
Don’t leave without immersing yourself in the delicious world of our gastronomy!
We recommend living the complete experience: for lunch, head to the Fishing District and delight your palate with exquisite fresh fish.
When night falls, join the vibrant energy of Santander’s Old Town. End your day at the lively Cañadío Square, a favorite meeting place for both locals and visitors. It will be a gastronomic journey you won’t forget.
You cannot leave without savoring the culinary essence of the Cantabrian capital. For lunch, head over to the Fishing District, where you will find traditional restaurants with fresh fish and seafood brought straight from the harbor.
As night falls, choose the Old Town or the lively Cañadío Square to enjoy some tapas and the local atmosphere. Many places offer gluten-free options, so you can enjoy a complete gastronomic tour without worries.
Santander will leave you with the feeling of having discovered a unique place: elegant, vibrant, and with the maritime soul that marks the perfect start to your adventure through Cantabria in 5 days.
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Day 2: Santillana del Mar and the Altamira Cave, historic treasures of northern Spain
The second day of this what to see in Cantabria in 5 days itinerary takes us to Santillana del Mar, a must-see stop for lovers of history, art, and architecture. Located just 30 minutes from Santander, this medieval village on the Cantabrian western coast is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, thanks to its impeccable preservation and atmosphere from another era.
Popularly known as the “village of the three lies” —because it is neither holy, nor flat, nor does it have a sea— Santillana del Mar enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, ancestral houses, and flowery balconies that look like they came straight out of a painting.
The tour can begin at the Regina Coeli Diocesan Museum, housed in a former Dominican convent. Its collection of sacred and colonial art is a true jewel that opens the way to a journey through centuries of Cantabrian history.
As you enter the historic center, every corner tells a story: the Peredo-Barreda Palace, now a cultural space; the Velarde Tower; and the numerous mountain-style houses with noble coats of arms that give character to the village. Abad Francisco Navarro Square is the heart of the village, presided over by the majestic Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, one of the masterpieces of Cantabrian Romanesque.
Nearby you will find the Barquillero Museum and the Jesús Otero Museum, which showcase local tradition and art, as well as the Museum of Torture, which provides a curious—and somewhat unsettling—look at the European judicial past. In contrast, the Convent of San Ildefonso, where the Poor Clare nuns make traditional sweets (with gluten), sweetens the visit with an artisanal touch.
Just three kilometers away is the legendary Altamira Cave, known as the “Sistine Chapel of Cave Art.” At the Altamira Museum, you can explore the Neocave, a faithful replica of the original paintings that date back more than 15,000 years. If you are traveling in summer, book your tickets in advance, as spots tend to sell out.
If you are passionate about archaeology and cave art, don’t miss our articles on other caves to see in Cantabria:
Before continuing the route, we recommend exploring the surroundings of Santillana del Mar: Santa Justa Beach, with its hermitage perched on the cliff, or the impressive Bolao de Cóbreces, where a waterfall merges with the Cantabrian Sea. These are landscapes that complete the experience between history, nature, and sea.
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Where to eat gluten-free in Santillana del Mar
Celiacs will find several safe and delicious options in Santillana del Mar to enjoy without worries.
- Restaurante La Villa offers a menu based on traditional Cantabrian cuisine, with high-quality local products.
- Las Quintas, the quintessential gluten-free confectionery of Cantabria, is a mandatory stop to try gluten-free sobaos pasiegos, pastries, and cakes, all made with care and without risk of cross-contamination.
- And recently, Restaurante Conde has earned a spot among the favorites for its skillets of fried eggs with jijas, morcilla, or chorizo criollo. Their staff is well-informed about celiac disease and the necessary safety measures.
Each of these establishments reflects the gastronomic diversity of Cantabria, adapted for all travelers looking to enjoy a gluten-free meal and savor the best of this land.
Read also: Cantabria and Gastronomy: a tour of the best dishes and products
Day 3: Comillas and San Vicente de la Barquera, two essentials to see in Cantabria
We continue our what to see in Cantabria in 5 days itinerary by traveling along the western coast, where two of the region’s most beautiful and iconic villages are hidden: Comillas and San Vicente de la Barquera. Although many guides recommend visiting both together with Santillana del Mar in a single day, we prefer to enjoy each place at a leisurely pace. Cantabria is best savored without rushing, leaving room to return and keep exploring.
Comillas
About 45 minutes from Santander, Comillas dazzles with its history, architecture, and aristocratic atmosphere. This coastal village, which we visit several times a year, combines the splendor of 19th-century bourgeoisie with the soul of a fishing village.
Its streets, once the setting for the famous “wave baths,” hold endless stories. Here every corner breathes elegance, from the ancestral homes to the modernist mansions.
Among the must-sees is El Capricho de Gaudí, an architectural jewel covered in sunflower mosaics, even recognized as the Best Monument in the World. No less impressive are the Sobrellano Palace and Chapel or the majestic Pontifical University, which crowns the village with its imposing silhouette.
Comillas invites you to stroll aimlessly through its historic center, discovering magical places like the Constitution Square or the Cemetery, guarded by the iconic Exterminating Angel. To make the most of your visit, we recommend booking a guided tour of the village and El Capricho de Gaudí: this way, you will avoid lines and learn all its secrets.
And if you are traveling in summer, don’t miss the chance to go for a swim at Comillas Beach, a perfect corner to end the day between sea and architecture.
If your visit coincides with the Fiestas del Cristo del Amparo, experience the maritime processions, fireworks, and great local atmosphere. They are the best display of the joyful and traditional spirit of this Cantabrian village.
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- What to see in Comillas: 10 essentials
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Where to eat gluten-free in Comillas
During our last visit, we stumbled upon El Carel, a charming restaurant in the heart of the historic center. They offer gluten-free options, excellent service, and delicious food at reasonable prices. The portions are generous, and the atmosphere is cozy: a place we would definitely return to.
San Vicente de la Barquera
Our next stop takes us to San Vicente de la Barquera, the westernmost point of the route. This fishing village, included in every list of what to see in Cantabria in 5 days, combines monumental heritage, natural landscapes, and a rich fishing tradition.
Located in the heart of the Oyambre Natural Park, San Vicente is a true ecological paradise formed by estuaries, cliffs, dunes, beaches, and meadows where varied Atlantic fauna lives.
Its fishing harbor remains the soul of the village, while tourism has become its main economic driver.
Among the places you cannot miss are the Church of Santa María de los Ángeles, with its mixture of styles and the statue of the Inquisitor Corro; the Sanctuary of the Barquera, where the municipality’s patron saint rests; the King’s Castle; the Palace of the Corro, current Town Hall; the Convent of San Luis, the medieval wall, and the La Maza Bridge, a symbol of the village. It is also worth approaching the Punta de la Silla Lighthouse, which houses a small artisanal and folk museum.
To experience the essence of San Vicente, nothing better than visiting it during one of its festivities. The Folía, declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest, is celebrated after Holy Week and fills the harbor with emotion and maritime tradition. Also noteworthy are the Carmen Festivals in July and La Barquera and El Mozucu in September.
As a curiosity, there is a legend in Cantabria about the La Maza Bridge: if you make a wish and hold your breath while crossing it by car, it comes true. One more reason to come!If you want to fully understand its history and curiosities, we recommend booking a guided tour: you will discover corners and legends that only locals know.
Read also: What to visit in San Vicente de la Barquera
Where to eat gluten-free in San Vicente de la Barquera
Although we haven’t tried it personally, we have heard wonderful things about El Bodegón, a cozy restaurant with gluten-free options and excellent service. It is not part of ACECAN, but its staff is very aware of celiac disease and takes care regarding cross-contamination.
If you visit, be sure to try the Sorropotún, the most typical maritime stew of the village, made with northern bonito, potatoes, and peppers. A dish that tastes like pure Cantabria.
Day 4: What to see in Santoña, Laredo, and Castro Urdiales, three must-visit fishing villages
On this fourth day of what to see in Cantabria in 5 days, we change course to explore the eastern coast, an area marked by the taste of the sea, history, and endless landscapes. Although visiting Santoña, Laredo, and Castro Urdiales in a single day may seem like a challenge, each one has so much charm that it’s hard to choose. We encourage you to select the ones that attract you the most… or leave one for your next getaway through Cantabria.
Castro Urdiales
We start with Castro Urdiales, the most eastern of the three and one of the most picturesque villages in northern Spain. Founded as Flavióbriga in Roman times, it retains that ancient yet coastal vibe that makes it irresistible.
The tour can start at Cotolino Park, from where a pleasant walk will take you along the Promenade to the Breakwater, passing by Brazomar Beach and the Sutileza Chalet, an example of mountain architecture. Also noteworthy is the Ocharán Palace-Castle, with its blend of Neo-Mudéjar and Neo-Gothic styles.
As you approach the Don Luis Wharf, you can enjoy the bay, swim in its calm waters, or simply relax contemplating the Cantabrian Sea. The route continues towards La Puebla Vieja, the historic center, full of bars and houses with maritime flavor.
Among the essentials, don’t miss the Church of Santa María de la Asunción, a jewel of Cantabrian Gothic; the House of the Chelines and the Hermitage of Santa Ana, connected to the Castle-Lighthouse by a picturesque medieval bridge. For the more curious, the Roman site of Flavióbriga and the Peña del Cuco Cave, with cave engravings, complete a very complete visit.
Glutendtrotter Tip
Book aguided tour of Castro Urdiales to make the most of your time and learn its secrets without worrying about lines.
Castro Urdiales vibrates especially during its festivities. During Holy Week, the famous Living Passion is celebrated, declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest, while in summer, the colorful parade of the Coso Blanco shines. Both show the joyful and participatory soul of this fishing village.
Where to eat gluten-free in Castro Urdiales
During our last visit, we had a stroke of luck. Upon finding the restaurants we had in mind closed, we discovered Bar Quinto Pino, a traditional and cozy place with excellent service. There we enjoyed several gluten-free portions at very reasonable prices. They cannot guarantee the complete absence of cross-contamination, but if you are looking for an authentic and local place, it is worth a visit.
Laredo
We continue our tour along the eastern coast of Cantabria in Laredo, a municipality that combines sea, history, and nature like few others. Its name derives from glaretum, alluding to its sandy environment, and it is no coincidence: with more than 8 kilometers of coastline, its beaches are a true spectacle.
From the quiet Regatón Beach, next to the Treto estuary, to the extensive Salvé Beach, awarded with the “Q” for tourism quality, Laredo is a paradise for seaside strolls. An unforgettable experience is taking a boat trip around its bay, with views of the Horse Lighthouse and the dunes that embrace the Cantabrian Sea.
The village is divided into three areas: The Old Town and the Suburbs, declared a Historic-Artistic Site; the Ensanche, modern and lively; and El Puntal, the most touristy and coastal part.
In the historic center, the cobblestone alleys hide jewels such as the House of the Mar family, the House of the Marchioness of Arcentales, and, above all, the Church of Santa María de la Asunción, with its magnificent Flemish altarpiece.
Don’t miss the Battle of Flowers, the last Friday of August, with its parade of floats covered in petals, or the Landing of Charles V in September, a historical reenactment that attracts thousands of visitors.
Where to eat gluten-free in Laredo
In the heart of the Old Town is El Faro, a restaurant with excellent service and safe options for celiacs. Its menu includes rice dishes, fried squid, grilled fish, and gluten-free burgers, always served with individually packaged bread and all the necessary precautions. You can book a table on their website, which is highly recommended in high season.
Read also: Top 3 gluten-free restaurants in Laredo
Santoña
We close this day in Santoña, one of the jewels of the Cantabrian coast and a mandatory stop in any guide on what to see in Cantabria in 5 days. This fishing village combines sea, history, and nature with a charm that is hard to match.
Its most famous corner is the Horse Lighthouse, which is accessed by descending more than 760 steps between cliffs and vegetation. The effort is worth it: the views of the Cantabrian Sea from below are spectacular. In summer, the ideal is to do the route early or, better yet, enjoy a boat trip around the Bay of Santoña, which arrives directly at the lighthouse.
Berria Beach, wide and serene, is perfect for relaxing or going for a swim. From the Passage and the harbor viewpoint, shaped like a ship, you get the best views of the marshes, the fishing harbor, and the bay.
Santoña also has a rich military heritage. The Napoleonic fortifications of Fort San Martín, San Carlos, and El Mazo still remain, all with exceptional panoramas. If you are passionate about nature, don’t miss visiting the Natural Park of the Marshes of Santoña, Victoria, and Joyel, the largest wetland in northern Spain, ideal for bird watching.
And if you like parties, mark the Santoña Carnival on your calendar, recognized as a Festival of National Tourist Interest, an explosion of color, humor, and maritime tradition.
Where to eat gluten-free in Santoña
Santoña is synonymous with anchovies, and getting to know their production process is a unique experience. We recommend visiting a local cannery, where you can see up close how these gluten-free delicacies are prepared. And, of course, don’t leave without taking home a good assortment of Santoña anchovies: a delicious souvenir of your time in this fishing village.
Day 5: Cabárceno and Liérganes, nature and charm in the heart of Cantabria
We have reached the last day of our what to see in Cantabria in 5 days route, and we can’t think of a better ending than combining the wild nature of Cabárceno with the historical charm of Liérganes. Two very different, yet equally magical, places that win over adults and children alike.
Cabárceno
Just 20 minutes from Santander, the Cabárceno Nature Park immerses you in a spectacular landscape formed on an old iron mine. This space, considered a kind of modern Noah’s Ark, houses animals from the five continents in large enclosures where they live in semi-liberty.
More than 120 species and 5,000 native trees and shrubs shape an environment that combines conservation, education, and natural beauty. The park can be toured by car or bus and requires at least three hours to enjoy it at a leisurely pace. Don’t miss the birds of prey and sea lion exhibitions, especially if you are traveling with children: they are a total spectacle.
Another jewel of Cabárceno is its cable car, with two lines that offer an unforgettable aerial view of the park and its karst landscapes. That said, if you are traveling in summer, buy tickets in advance to avoid lines and make the most of your visit.
Where to eat gluten-free in Cabárceno
During our visits, we prefer to bring a gluten-free picnic and enjoy it in the open air: Cabárceno has numerous areas equipped with tables, benches, and children’s areas next to the animal enclosures.
If you prefer to eat outside the park, you will find two good options nearby:
- La Loma del Chonuco and
- La Cagigona, both in La Concha, a few minutes away by car.
Both offer gluten-free dishes (including desserts) and have an outdoor terrace, perfect for the sunniest days.
Liérganes
Very close to Cabárceno, among mountains and meadows of the Miera valley, is Liérganes, recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. This corner of the Trasmiera region combines tradition, history, and legend, being the perfect closing to any guide on what to see in Cantabria in 5 days.
The village is famous for the legend of the Fish-Man, a story that comes to life next to the 16th-century Major Bridge and the statue of the protagonist, located next to the river. At the Fish-Man Interpretation Center, you can learn about the history and origins of this myth so cherished by the Cantabrians.
Strolling through the historic center, declared a historic-artistic site in 1978, is like traveling back in time. The stone houses with wooden balconies, the Mercadillo Neighborhood, the House of the Cannons, or the Cuesta Mercadillo Palace show the architectural wealth of the 17th and 18th centuries, when Liérganes prospered thanks to its artillery factory.
Don’t miss the Fluviarium Ecomuseum, which shows the fauna and traditions of the river environment, or the churches of San Pantaleón and San Pedro Advíncula, true landmarks of the local religious heritage.
And if you feel like a rest, the historic Liérganes Spa, known since the 19th century for its thermal waters, offers a relaxing environment with views of Mount Cotillamón.
To get to know the village in depth, we recommend a guided tour of Liérganes, where you will discover its history, legends, and curiosities from the hands of local guides.
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Where to eat gluten-free in Liérganes
Liérganes surprises not only with its history but also with its gastronomic and artisanal offerings. One of the most famous beers in Cantabria is brewed here: Dougall’s, produced by English brewer Andrew Thomas Dougall, with gluten-free versions that you can’t miss.
If you love Mexican food, there are two highly recommended restaurants:
- El Bigote Mexicano
- La Cantina
Both stand out for their cozy atmosphere and traditional dishes with gluten-free options. Although they are not part of ACECAN and cannot guarantee the complete absence of cross-contamination, many of their dishes are naturally suitable and their staff is well-informed.
End of the itinerary: five days discovering the essence of Cantabria
What did you think of our guide on what to see in Cantabria in 5 days?
We hope to have inspired you to tour this land of mountains, sea, and charming villages, following our itinerary or creating your own.
Cantabria is infinite, diverse, and surprising. Each trip reveals something new: a hidden beach, a green valley, or a gastronomic corner that steals your heart. And that is, perhaps, its greatest magic: it always invites you back.
We would love to hear about your own experiences, your favorite corners, and your tips for other travelers.
So, what are you waiting for? Prepare your next getaway and immerse yourself in the adventure of Cantabria. We assure you it will be an unforgettable experience!
You might also want to read:
- What to see in Cantabria in 7 days: complete guide
- Cantabria in 3 days: guide to your Cantabrian getaway
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What can’t you miss in Cantabria?
It’s a difficult question to answer because there are many places worth visiting. But our must-sees would be: Santander, Potes, Santillana del Mar, and Comillas. If you have more time, add Liérganes and San Vicente de la Barquera.
How many days are needed to visit Cantabria?
As a minimum, three days, so you can see Santander and a couple of nearby villages, such as Santillana del Mar and Comillas. Five days would be ideal, as shown in the complete day-by-day itinerary in this post.
Which villages should you not miss in Cantabria?
The villages you shouldn’t miss are: Santillana del Mar, Comillas, Liérganes, Bárcena Mayor, Potes, Mogrovejo, San Vicente de la Barquera, Ramales de la Victoria, and Vega de Pas, among others. Cantabria has plenty of beautiful villages waiting to be discovered.
Is it easy to eat gluten-free during this 5-day Cantabria itinerary?
Yes. Throughout this itinerary you will find safe options for celiacs at every stop: the Fishing Quarter and Plaza de Cañadío in Santander, La Villa and Las Quintas in Santillana del Mar, El Carel in Comillas, El Bodegón in San Vicente de la Barquera, Bar Quinto Pino in Castro Urdiales, El Faro in Laredo, La Loma del Chonuco and La Cagigona near Cabárceno, and several gluten-free-friendly spots in Liérganes.
