Cantabria

Spain

Cantabria offers a diverse landscape, from stunning coastlines and beaches to the majestic Picos de Europa mountains. It's a region rich in history, culture, and gastronomy, providing a blend of outdoor adventure and charming villages.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay3 days
Budget$50/day
Mid-range$150/day
Luxury$500/day

Known For

Cantabrian MountainsBasque CountryAsturiasSantanderNorthern SpainPicos de Europa

🇪🇸 Country Information: Spain

CapitalMadrid
CurrencyEuro (€)
Language Spanish , Catalan, Galician, Basque, Valencian
Phone Code+34
Electricity230V (Type C, F)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is generally not obligatory but appreciated for good service; 5
  • 10% in restaurants is common for good service, rounding up taxi fares, small change for baristas

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in urban areas
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and tourist areas, but smaller establishments might prefer cash
  • It's good to have some cash for small purchases and less urban areas
  • There is no black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Meal times are typically later than in many other countries, with dinner often starting at 9 PM or later
  • Siesta is less common in major cities but still observed in smaller towns
  • Personal space can be closer than in some other cultures
  • Dress codes are generally casual but respectful, especially when visiting religious sites

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Spain is very LGBTQ+ friendly with comprehensive anti-discrimination laws and legal same-sex marriage since 2005. There is strong societal acceptance.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are complex: private use and cultivation of cannabis are decriminalized, but public consumption and trafficking are illegal and carry severe penalties

Special Laws

  • It is illegal to drink alcohol in public spaces outside of designated areas
  • Smoking is prohibited in many public indoor spaces
  • Nudity and topless sunbathing are allowed on some beaches but can be restricted in others

Common Phrases

HelloHola (OH-lah) Hola
PleasePor favor (por fah-VOR) Por favor
Excuse mePerdón (per-DOHN) Perdón
Thank youGracias (GRAH-see-ahs) Gracias

Climate

Climate Zone: Marine Oceanic

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Cocido Montañés regional_speciality

This hearty 'mountain stew' is the most representative dish of Cantabrian cuisine, perfect for chilly days. It is made with white beans, collard green

Rabas snack

These are deep-fried squid rings or sticks, served as a popular snack, especially along the Cantabrian coast. They are often enjoyed with a white wine

Anchoas de Santoña must_try

Highly appreciated anchovies from the coastal town of Santoña, salted and preserved in olive oil. They offer a hint of umami flavor and are a local sp

Sobaos Pasiegos dessert

Sweet, buttery cakes made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and eggs. These are a local favorite, originating from the Pasiegos valle

Picón Bejes-Tresviso regional_speciality

A distinctive, strong blue cheese from the Liébana Valley, crafted from a blend of cow, sheep, and goat milk. It has a rich, slightly spicy taste and

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Museo Nacional y Centro de Investigación de Altamira (Altamira Cave tickets) Attraction
Book 1–3 months in advance

Tickets are often limited, especially for Saturday afternoons and Sundays (which are free but must still be booked). Online advance purchase is required for most slots, and tickets cannot be bought on the day of the visit.

Cenador de Amos (3 Michelin Star Dining) Dining
Book 2–6 months in advance

As a highly-rated 3 Michelin Star restaurant, reservations are extremely difficult to secure and often require booking months in advance, regardless of the time of year.

Fun Facts

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