No matter how much time you spend discovering this charming corner of the world, there will always be something new and exciting waiting for you! If you are wondering what to see in Cantabria in 7 days, prepare to be captivated by its unparalleled beauty, rich culture, and exquisite gastronomy.
Welcome to magical Cantabria!
We know that time always seems short to explore our beloved tierruca, but with 7 days you can intensely experience the best that Cantabria has to offer. With our guide, we will walk you through some of the jewels of northern Spain, ensuring that every moment is made the most of.
Looking for the perfect itinerary for your adventure?
You are in the right place!
We have carefully selected a list of must-see visits for your 7 days in Cantabria. And remember, there are many more options available, which allows you to customize your trip and make it absolutely unforgettable.
To truly immerse yourself in this experience and move with total freedom around the region, we recommend driving your own car or renting one upon arrival. Breathtaking destinations await you, and taking a road trip through Cantabria will be the perfect way to embrace all its wonders. Also awaiting you are dizzying mountains and prehistoric caves.
This is not the only tip we have for you today. In our previous, shorter trip guides, we always suggested making Santander, the charming capital of Cantabria, your base of operations. This is because, in this region, distances are short enough to travel comfortably in a day.
But, so that you can really make the most of your time on this occasion, we recommend organizing your stay by splitting it between 4 days in Santander and the remaining 3 days in San Vicente de la Barquera or its surroundings.
By adopting this strategy, you will be able to enjoy a wonderful change of scenery, immersing yourself in the tranquility and beauty of nature without rushing, experiencing Cantabria at its best. It will allow you to fully relax and establish a deeper connection with the natural environment, making the most of the region’s diversity and richness. It is the perfect way to experience Cantabria, enjoying its splendor calmly and without stress.
Are you ready?
Let this wonderful adventure begin!
From the western to the eastern end of our region, here is our suggestion.
Also Read: 10 essential tips for traveling to Cantabria
Also Read: Cantabria in 5 days
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DAY 1: SANTILLANA DEL MAR AND THE ALTAMIRA CAVE
Our first day of this 7-day trip to Cantabria will be dedicated to Santillana del Mar; with its historical and cultural charm, it is an unmissable destination in Cantabria. Despite being known as the “village of the three lies,” Santillana is a place full of history and beauty. We have to confess our weakness for one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, but we assure you that you won’t be disappointed by this medieval town.
We recommend starting your visit at the Regina Coeli Diocesan Museum, the first of its kind in Spain, and then letting yourself be carried away by the charm of the historic center.
The Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, the heart of Santillana, is a must-see for its Romanesque value and the relics it houses.
Other points of interest include the Palace of the Velarde and the Plaza Mayor de Ramón Pelayo, which shows the architectural diversity of Santillana with the Casa de la Parra or the Tower of Don Borja.
To make the most of your visit, we recommend booking a guided tour of Santillana del Mar that includes admission to some of the must-see spots in this medieval town. Don’t forget the Torture Museum for a unique look at European history, and the Convent of San Ildefonso, known for the nuns’ handmade sweets.
The Altamira Cave, located near Santillana del Mar, is world-renowned for its impressive prehistoric paintings, earning the nickname “Sistine Chapel of Rock Art.” Discovered in 1875, these paintings, which date back as far as 36,000 years, represent a peak of Paleolithic art and are UNESCO World Heritage.
Although the original cave is closed to protect the works, the Neocave, an exact replica opened in 2001, allows visitors to experience the magnificence of these paintings up close.
The Altamira Museum complements the visit with more than 400 archaeological objects, offering a deep insight into prehistoric life. The cave and its depictions have also been featured in film productions, showing the cultural and artistic importance of this unique site.
If you come to Cantabria during the summer months try to buy tickets in advance because if you don’t, it will be very difficult to get them.
We recommend reading our posts on the El Soplao Cave and the Moro Chufín cave.
If you brave the cold of our lands and come at Christmas, you cannot miss the Three Kings Parade, named a Festival of National Tourist Interest.
WHERE TO EAT GLUTEN-FREE IN SANTILLANA DEL MAR
In Santillana del Mar, ACECAN highlights three ideal places for celiacs, ensuring a top-notch gluten-free gastronomic experience: “El Pasaje de los Nobles”, “La Villa”, and the quintessential gluten-free confectionery of Cantabria, “Las Quintas”, where you can find our sobaos pasiegos suitable for a gluten-free diet.
DAY 2: COMILLAS AND EL SOPLAO CAVE
On the picturesque west coast of our province are two other charming villages:Comillas and San Vicente de la Barquera, unmissable places on your visit to Cantabria. Therefore, we recommend using San Vicente de la Barquera as a starting point for 3 days to discover these and other corners.
This strategy will allow you to fully enjoy the beauty of this seaside town, nestled in the magnificent Oyambre Natural Park, without having to give up any of them.
San Vicente is home to very important architectural landmarks such as the Church of Santa María de los Ángeles, the King’s Castle, and the Punta de la Silla Lighthouse. It is important to note that staying here during iconic festivities, such as La Folía or the El Carmen Festivities, could increase the cost of your trip.
Also Read: What to visit in San Vicente de la Barquera
El Soplao
Heading towards Comillas, about 25 minutes from San Vicente, you will find the El Soplao Cave, a treasure of Cantabria not only for its prehistoric value but also for its geological uniqueness, with stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and calcite crystals forming extraordinary figures over the centuries.
In addition to its geological importance, the cave stands out for its industrial mining archaeological heritage, with more than 20 km of underground galleries. It is worth taking a guided tour or venturing into one of the two caving routes available, suitable for different levels of difficulty.
Don’t forget to wear sturdy footwear and a jacket; the damp and cool environment of the cave has allowed for the preservation of its splendor.
Also Read: Mining adventure in El Soplao cave
Also Read: Moro Chufín Cave
Comillas
After this early morning adventure, you can continue to Comillas, a setting for 19th-century bourgeois leisure that has preserved its aristocratic essence and glamour. Comillas presents itself as an open-air museum of architectural wonders, highlighting El Capricho de Gaudí, a modernist building with sunflower mosaics, hailed as the Best Monument in the World!
To make the most of your visit, we recommend booking a guided tour of Comillas which includes El Capricho de Gaudí.
The offerings are completed by the Sobrellano Palace and Chapel, the Pontifical University, and other sites of interest such as the Constitution Plaza and the Cemetery with the Exterminating Angel. And to cap off a perfect day, especially in summer, a swim at Comillas beach offers the ideal close near the town’s historic center.
Also Read: What to see in Comillas: 10 must-sees
Also Read: Sequoia Forest of Cantabria
Also Read: The best free tours in Comillas
WHERE TO EAT GLUTEN-FREE IN COMILLAS AND SAN VICENTE DE LA BARQUERA
Although we haven’t found restaurants that are members of the Cantabrian Celiac Associationin the area, we were fortunate to come across El Carel in Comillas during one of our visits. This place offers gluten-free alternatives and exceptional service.
In San Vicente de la Barquera, we haven’t yet had the opportunity to try “El Bodegón”, a place we’ve heard great comments about, where we still have to experience tasting their Sorropotún.
Also Read: Cantabria and Gastronomy: a tour of the best dishes and products
DAY 3: POTES
For the third day of your adventure in Cantabria, we recommend dedicating an entire day to exploring Potes, the charming heart of Liébana, and marveling at the journey there.
Enjoy the spectacular Hermida Gorge, the traditional casucas lebaniegasin Mogrovejo, the tasty cheeses of Bejes, and the beautiful Mozarabic church of Santa María de Lebeña on your way. The hour-long journey from San Vicente de la Barquera is well worth it.
Once in Potes, immerse yourself in the network of its streets, particularly in the La Solana Neighborhood. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Deva River, admire the historic Roman bridges, such as the San Cayetano, the New, and the Prison bridge, and feel the vibrant atmosphere near the Infantado Tower, the Church of San Vicente, and the Capitán Palacios Plaza.
Don’t miss visiting Fuente Dé, an essential tourist landmark on your journey. Drive to the base of the cable car and ascend to the Picos de Europa to experience an unbeatable view.
This visit is mandatory for anyone visiting Cantabria, especially for nature lovers, who can choose to do some of the hiking routes available. These trails offer you the opportunity to take a complete route or simply descend on foot after enjoying the views from the viewpoints.
Don’t forget a jacket, even if the sky is clear, the temperature is low at the top of the mountains.
Naturally, your visit would not be complete without making the trek to the Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana. Located just two kilometers from Potes, this place marks the end of the Lebaniego Way and attracts both the devout and the curious. You may feel called by the desire to see the Lignum Crucis, seek redemption at the Gate of Pardon, or simply by the stunning views from the San Miguel Viewpoint.
Each experience will leave its mark; the atmosphere and the pure air you breathe will completely envelop you.
Also Read: Things to do in Potes
WHERE TO EAT GLUTEN-FREE IN POTES
In the heart of Liébana, “El Cenador del Capitán” provides a unique culinary experience for those seeking gluten-free options. With its atmosphere that recalls ancient times and genuine dishes, it is an excellent choice, even if not affiliated with ACECAN. It offers dishes suitable for celiacs, although it is worth mentioning that it does not guarantee the total absence of cross-contamination.
SUGGESTION
Get ready to explore Santander! To optimize your 7-day visit to Cantabria and ensure easy access to all the must-see sites we recommend, we suggest changing accommodation from the fourth day onwards and staying in the charming Cantabrian capital for the rest of your stay.
DAY 4: SANTANDER
Santander, the pearl of the Cantabrian Sea, awaits you with an itinerary packed with history, nature, and culture. Get ready for an unforgettable day in this vibrant city.
This Santander itinerary invites you to discover the variety and abundance that the city has to offer in just one day. During Easter and summer, the tourist bus is an excellent option to visit the highlights of this beautiful city with ease.
Outside of these seasons, the municipal bus service is equally useful for exploring Santander without any complications.
Start your journey with the sunrise at the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, a historical jewel that since 1839 has been the guardian of the Cantabrian coast. Let yourself be seduced by its stunning views and discover the trails that lead you to the hidden cove of Mataleñas. Imagine a breakfast by the sea where nature meets flavor to awaken your senses.
As the sun rises, your next stop awaits: the Sardinero, the beating heart of Santander, where dreamy beaches stretch out beneath your feet.
The Piquío Gardens are the perfect setting to admire the contrast between “The First” and “The Second” beach. And as if that weren’t enough, the majestic Magdalena Palace invites you to explore its history, its mini zoo, and even take a ride on the “El Magdaleno” mini-train.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in local life in Puertochico, a feast for lovers of good food, before letting yourself be carried away by the beauty of the Promenade.
The Botín Center, with its avant-garde architecture, awaits to envelope you in the most innovative art and freshest cultural offerings. We recommend reserving tickets so you don’t have to wait in lines.
And when the day begins to say goodbye, let yourself be carried by the calm waters of the Bay of Santander on a boat ride that will reveal the city from a unique perspective. The Río de la Pila Viewpoint will be the crowning glory, offering you breathtaking views of the city.
But it doesn’t all end with the sunset; the old town of Santander is a labyrinth of history and culture. From the imposing Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption to the mysterious Roman ruins, every corner tells a fascinating story. And for those curious by nature, the Prehistory Museum and the Cantabrian Maritime Museum are unmissable on your visit to the Cantabrian capital.
Also Read: What to see in Santander in 1 day
Also Read: What to see in Santander’s Fishing District
Also Read: Traveling to Santander with children? Places you must visit
Also Read: Best free tours of Santander
WHERE TO EAT GLUTEN-FREE IN SANTANDER
We are truly impressed and grateful for the effort the restaurant sector in Santander is making to adapt their menus, offering a growing variety of gluten-free options that cater to restrictive diets like ours.
While it is true that not all establishments are affiliated with ACECAN, which means they cannot completely ensure the absence of cross-contamination, we want to highlight their remarkable attention and sensitivity to this issue. This dedication motivates us to confidently recommend the places we are discovering day after day.
Gluten-Free Restaurants in Santander:
Also Read: Gluten-free flavors: the most charming cafes in Santander
Also Read: Where to eat gluten-free in Santander
DAY 5: CABÁRCENO and LIÉRGANES
We set aside a day to visit two jewels that enchant both adults and children, and their combination is perfect for us.
Cabárceno
A short 20-minute trip from Santander awaits you at Cabárceno, a spectacular nature park located in an old iron mine. This unique space is home to animals from all over the world living in semi-freedom. With more than 5,000 species of flora, the park is a true visual and sensory delight.
Exploring Cabárceno by car or bus is an essential adventure, which generally requires more than three hours to fully experience. Book your tickets to the park and skip the lines.
In addition, its cable car offers two different routes to admire the park from the air. Remember to buy your tickets in advance, especially in summer, to avoid long lines.
WHERE TO EAT GLUTEN-FREE IN CABÁRCENO
Near Cabárceno, you will find that La Cagigona, located in La Concha, presents a delicious selection of gluten-free options, perfect for resting after a day full of adventures in the shade of its terrace.
However, what we really love is organizing a picnic in the designated areas inside the park, making the most of the nature and tranquility it offers.
Liérganes
A short distance from Cabárceno, Liérganes will captivate you with its picturesque beauty and fascinating history, deserving its place among the most beautiful villages in Spain. The legend of the Fish Man and monuments such as the Main Bridgeand the Fish Man Interpretation Center enrich your visit with culture and history.
To get to know the most iconic spots and the history of the Fish Man, we recommend booking a guided tour of Liérganes.
The historic center of Liérganes, with its remarkable architecture and the Fluviarium Ecomuseum, immerses you in the tradition and nature of the region. Don’t miss the House of the Cannons, the Cuesta Mercadillo Palace, and the churches of San Pantaleón and San Pedro Advíncula, which reflect the cultural richness of the town.
WHERE TO EAT GLUTEN-FREE IN LIÉRGANES
We invite you to enjoy more than just a simple meal: try a gluten-free beer from the Andrew Thomas Dougall craft brewery.
And if you’re looking to end the day with a memorable dinner, the Mexican restaurant “La Cantina” awaits you near the station, in one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. There, you can savor authentic dishes in a cozy atmosphere. That said, if you are celiac, we recommend exercising caution due to the risk of cross-contamination.
Are you willing to leave Cantabria without exploring the fascinating eastern coast of this wonderful region?
No way!
DAY 6: SANTOÑA, LAREDO AND CASTRO URDIALES
It would never occur to us to overlook such a beautiful and vibrant part of the coast. However, there is a small inconvenience: visiting all three towns in a single day can be exhausting. For this reason, we leave it to you to choose which of them you will discover on your next visit to Cantabria.
SUGGESTION
In our guides, and relying on our own adventures, we always advise you to start at the destination furthest from your starting point. Thus, you will be able to gradually get closer as the day progresses and fatigue sets in.
Castro Urdiales
Castro Urdiales emerges as the first stop on our journey through the three coastal jewels. This seaside town, formerly known as Flavióbriga, stands out for its rich history and vibrant marine life.
Our tour begins in the Cotolino Park, leading into the lively Promenade and culminating in the iconic Breakwater.
Brazomar beachand structures such as the Chalet de Sotileza and the Ocharán Palace-Castle, next to the Don Luis Pier, tell us stories of architecture and tradition.
The Old Town (Puebla Vieja) is the beating heart of Castro, with its narrow streets that invite you to get lost among bars and restaurants full of life.
For those passionate about the past, don’t miss the Flavióbriga site or the Peña del Cuco Cave. And in terms of festivities, the Living Passion and the Coso Blanco are events that transform the city into an epicenter of tradition and joy.
WHERE TO EAT GLUTEN-FREE IN CASTRO URDIALES
Although we are still missing some places to visit personally, if you find yourself in Castro Urdiales and are looking for somewhere to eat, we recommend the bar “Quinto Pino”. It is a cozy place where we enjoyed tasty gluten-free options at affordable prices, although it is worth mentioning that they cannot completely guarantee the absence of cross-contamination.
Laredo
Laredo, with its historical echo of “glaretum,” welcomes us with its extensivebeachesand dunes, proud possessors of the “Q” for tourism quality. This old royal port is today a renowned tourist destination, divided into the medieval Puebla Vieja, the modern Ensanche, and the Puntal area, where every corner tells a part of its rich history and tradition.
The festivities of Laredo, especially the Battle of Flowers and the Landing of Charles V, are an explosion of color and history that attracts visitors from all over.
WHERE TO EAT GLUTEN-FREE IN LAREDO
Right in the Old Town (Puebla Vieja) is a restaurant that we love, “El Faro“, with its exceptional and very family-like service.
Santoña
Finally, Santoña awaits us with the promise of adventures like the route to the Horse Lighthouse (Faro del Caballo) and relaxing afternoons at Berria Beach.
Napoleonic history is brought back to life through its fortifications, and to get to know it thoroughly, don’t miss the dramatized tour of Napoleon Bonaparte. In addition, the Marismas Natural Park offers an unparalleled natural spectacle.
To enjoy the stunning views, consider a boat ride from Santoña to the Horse Lighthouse.
The Santoña Carnival is the jewel in the crown of its festivities, a celebration of color and joy.
WHERE TO EAT GLUTEN-FREE IN SANTOÑA
We have not yet been able to personally explore the restaurants in Santoña, but we found a well-rated option: La Esquina de Tasca, which lists “gluten free options” among its features and has reviews from celiac diners noting that the staff handles the gluten issue well. Since it isn’t ACECAN-affiliated, we still recommend confirming directly when booking. We also suggest an alternative experience: visit a local cannery to immerse yourself in the art of making the famous Santoña anchovies. This visit provides an authentic gluten-free gastronomic experience.
In our guide “7 Days in Cantabria: A Perfect Gluten-Free Travel Itinerary“, we committed to offering you a deep immersion into our region and culture. Therefore, on the last day, we invite you to explore the interior of the province, opening the door to even more authentic experiences.
DAY 7: CAMPOO AND ITS VALLEYS
Yes! Here in Cantabria, we have the privilege of enjoying the shining beaches of the Sardinero and, just over an hour’s drive away, finding ourselves gliding down the ski slopes of Alto Campoo. Surely you have already heard wonders about this area, whether for your love of nature or your passion for winter sports.
But let me tell you, Campoo is much more than snow; its green valleys are full of hidden treasures that will leave you breathless. From the ancient archaeological sites of the Roman town of Julióbriga, through the imposing Castle of San Vicente de Argüeso, to the Ebro reservoir or Fontibre, cradle of the longest river in Spain.
If you are passionate about adventure, don’t miss the opportunity to take a snowshoe excursion through the snow! And if you come with children, a visit to the Cantabrian village of Argüeso will be an unforgettable experience.
And do not let the cold deter you; the true warmth of Campoo comes from its people. Aitana and Paola, with their friendliness and warmth, embody the welcoming spirit of the Campurrians. We assure you that the coldness of the climate is no match for the hospitality and zest for life of the inhabitants of one of the coldest regions in Spain.
If you are eager to immerse yourself in the depths of our culture, you cannot miss the San Sebastián festival, famous for its railway pot competition and the unique spectacle of wine flowing from the fountains of Reinosa.
And don’t forget the San Mateo celebrations, a time when you can be part of the most significant livestock fair in our community, admire the float competition, and enjoy the ox-cart parade.
On the day of Campoo, most Campurrians dress in their most elegant attire and the typical costumes of the region, all to pay tribute to their patron saint with great pride and joy. It is a vibrant and colorful experience that reflects the essence of our people and our traditions.
WHERE TO EAT GLUTEN-FREE IN REINOSA
In “La Mole”, a cozy pizzeria and restaurant located in the heart of Reinosa, you will find delicious gluten-free options on their menu. We were absolutely delighted with their pumpkin rice. Although prices may be slightly higher than average, the quality of the dishes and the excellent service justify every euro.
Final Thoughts
Do you really think Cantabria is limited to just a few places of interest?
The truth is that the possibilities are as vast as our iconic landscape. Although we have provided you with some recommendations on sites that definitely deserve a visit, there are many more waiting to be discovered by you.
And so, after touring the cultural richness, natural beauty, and culinary delights that Cantabria has to offer, we reach the end of our 7-day trip to Cantabria. But, as you well know, this is just the beginning of your own adventure in this land of contrasts and wonders. Every corner of Cantabria is a discovery, every dish a revelation, and every tradition a warm hug from its people.
We say goodbye, but not before reminding you that Cantabria will always have its arms open to receive you, whether in the serenity of its valleys, the charm of its villages, or the majesty of its coast. We are proud to have shared this itinerary with you, hoping it has inspired you to pack your bags and experience for yourself what words and photos can barely begin to describe.
Remember, the true essence of Cantabria is not just seen, it is lived. So, what are you waiting for? Venture out, explore, savor, and above all, enjoy every moment in this land that uniquely combines history, nature, and gastronomy.
Until the next adventure, glutendtrotters!
Are you joining us on our next journey?
Cantabria awaits you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most beautiful thing to see in Cantabria?
It is a difficult question to answer because the options are many, but we suggest the following: Santillana del Mar, Bárcena Mayor, Potes, Mogrovejo, Fuente Dé, the Altamira neocave, San Vicente de la Barquera, Comillas, Santander, the Cabárceno Nature Park, Liérganes… and the list would never end.
How many days are needed to see Cantabria?
At least three days to be able to see Santander and a village like Santillana del Mar. But 5 or 7 days is ideal; with this number of days you could see the essence of Cantabria. We have guides that can help you plan your trip. Do not hesitate to read them, and if you have any questions, contact us.
Which villages can you not miss in Cantabria?
From our point of view, the villages you cannot miss are: Santillana del Mar, Potes, Comillas, and Bárcena Mayor. There is much more, but for us, those are essential.
What is the best time to go to Cantabria?
The best time to go to Cantabria is spring and autumn. In these two seasons of the year, the heat is not intense and the influx of tourists is low. We do not recommend coming in winter because it usually rains, although for some time now it hasn’t rained as much. In summer there are many tourists and the temperature does not usually drop below 25 ºC (77 ºF). We are aware that for people who live in the south of Spain, for example, it is a pleasant temperature; the problem we have in Cantabria is the humidity. There are days when it gets heavy.
Where can I eat gluten-free during this 7-day Cantabria itinerary?
Along this route you’ll find gluten-free options in several towns: in Santillana del Mar, ACECAN recommends El Pasaje de los Nobles, La Villa and the Las Quintas bakery; in Comillas, the restaurant El Carel; in Potes, El Cenador del Capitán; in Santander, several restaurants that are attentive to gluten-free diets even though not all are ACECAN-affiliated; near Cabárceno, La Cagigona; in Castro Urdiales, the bar Quinto Pino; in Laredo, El Faro; and in Reinosa, the pizzeria La Mole. Establishments not affiliated with ACECAN cannot fully guarantee the absence of cross-contamination, so it’s always worth confirming on arrival.
Do I need to rent a car for this 7-day Cantabria road trip?
Yes, to make the most of this itinerary it’s best to drive your own car or rent one on arrival, since the route covers towns and landscapes spread across the whole region, from the western coast to Reinosa inland, that aren’t always well connected by public transport.
