Comillas is one of those towns with a soul. A stately corner of Cantabria that makes you fall in love with its modernist architecture, its green landscapes facing the Cantabrian Sea, and its history tied to nobility, the church, and art. If you are going to visit this beautiful destination, a perfect way to start your journey is with one of the best free walking tours in Comillas.
These free guided tours (with a voluntary tip at the end) are an excellent way to get to know the essentials of the town in an entertaining way without spending too much. And the best part: the guides are usually local people who are passionate about their land, which turns every walk into an authentic and enriching experience.
Below, I present a selection of the free walking tours in Comillas, which are ideal whether you are visiting the town for the first time or if you have been here before and feel like discovering it from a different perspective.
We also recommend that you read our post about the 10 must-sees in Comillas, so you can organize yourself and make the most of this beautiful town.
Before your visit to Comillas
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1. Free Walking tour of Comillas
This tour is the perfect option for those who want to soak up the history and soul of Comillas in a short time. You will walk through the historic center, learn about the history of the Corro de Campíos square, the old Town Hall, and some of the illustrious figures who put Comillas on the map in the 19th century.
You will also see the exterior of the imposing Pontifical University, a symbol visible from different points in the town, and visit the Church of San Cristóbal, the modernist cemetery, and the Monument to the Marquis of Comillas. All this is spiced up with curiosities and anecdotes that make the visit much more enjoyable.
An ideal route for those setting foot in Comillas for the first time who want to capture its essence.
2. Free mystery and legends tour of Comillas
Do you like spine-chilling stories? This night tour is perfect for you. As the sun goes down, the cobblestone streets of Comillas transform into the setting for disturbing tales, local legends, and mysterious events that have been passed down from generation to generation.
There is talk of haunted houses, ancient rituals, characters hidden from official history, and moments that have left a mark on the collective memory of the town. A different, original, and very entertaining plan, ideal for couples or friends, and perfect if you want to get to know Comillas from a less conventional perspective.
Still want more?
Guided tours
In addition to the best free tours in Comillas, there are other guided experiences that will allow you to delve deeper into the art, architecture, and secrets of this very special town. Here are three recommendations that will help you enjoy your visit even more:
- Skip-the-line ticket for El Capricho de Gaudí: a fantastic opportunity to step into one of the few buildings designed by Gaudí outside of Catalonia. Its colors, shapes, and symbolism will not leave you indifferent. With the help of a guide, you will appreciate details that might otherwise go unnoticed.
- Guided tour of Comillas: a more extensive route than the free tour, ideal if you want to delve deeper into the historical, social, and artistic context of the town. Explore the main points of interest accompanied by an expert in the area.
- Private visit to the House of the Dukes of Almodóvar: a private, family-friendly way to step inside one of Comillas’ historic mansions with your own guide, choosing your own schedule and pace.
An experience worth having
Whether you opt for one of the best free tours in Comillas or a more complete guided visit, touring this town in the hands of a guide totally changes the experience. It is not the same to walk through its streets as it is to understand what is behind each building, each sculpture, and each garden.
In addition, Comillas is a very accessible destination to do in one day if you are staying in Santander, San Vicente de la Barquera, or Santillana del Mar. Many visitors combine the morning with the free tour and in the afternoon enter El Capricho or go up to the Pontifical University to contemplate the views. A perfect plan!
If you follow a gluten-free diet, you can also eat with peace of mind in Comillas: the Italian restaurant Quo Vadis (C. del Marqués de Comillas, 26) has an agreement with the local celiac association and offers gluten-free bread, beer and desserts, and can prepare any pizza or dish on its menu with a gluten-free base and sauces. As always, we recommend double-checking their cross-contamination precautions on site before ordering.
✨Glutendtrotter travel tip: wear comfortable shoes, a jacket in case it gets chilly (even in summer), and if you take the night tour, don’t forget your camera… the lights of Comillas at sunset have something magical about them!
Have you been to Comillas yet? Are you planning on doing any of these tours? Tell me in the comments or write to me if you have any questions.
You might also be interested in reading:
- What to see in Cantabria in 5 days: complete guide
- Cantabria in 7 days
- Cantabria in 3 days
- The best free tours in Santander
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does the free walking tour of Comillas’ historic center include?
It covers the Corro de Campíos square, the old Town Hall, the exterior of the Pontifical University, the Church of San Cristóbal, the modernist cemetery and the Monument to the Marquis of Comillas, with anecdotes about the figures who put the town on the map in the 19th century.
What is the free mystery and legends tour of Comillas like?
It’s a night tour through the town’s cobblestone streets where the guide tells stories of haunted houses, ancient rituals and local legends passed down through generations. It’s a different, entertaining plan, ideal for couples or friends.
What other paid guided tours are available in Comillas?
Besides the free tours, you can book a guided visit inside El Capricho de Gaudí, a more extensive guided tour of the historic center, or a private tour tailored to your group’s schedule and interests.
Can Comillas be visited in a single day?
Yes, Comillas is a very accessible destination for a day trip if you’re staying in Santander, San Vicente de la Barquera or Santillana del Mar. Many visitors combine the morning tour with a visit to El Capricho or the Pontifical University in the afternoon.
Where can I eat gluten-free in Comillas?
The Italian restaurant Quo Vadis, on Calle del Marqués de Comillas, has an agreement with the local celiac association and offers gluten-free bread, beer, desserts and pizzas or dishes prepared gluten-free on request.
