Castro-Urdiales

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Castro-Urdiales's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Beach Day
morning
:

Upon arrival in Castro-Urdiales, settle into your accommodation and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Spend the morning at Playa de Brazomar, where golden sands and crystal-clear waters invite you to relax and soak up the sun. Take a stroll along the promenade, enjoying the coastal views and the fresh sea breeze.

afternoon
:

For lunch, head to a nearby seafood restaurant to relish fresh catch dishes that the region is famous for. After lunch, explore the charming old town, visiting historical sites like the Church of Santa María. Don't forget to take pictures of the iconic Castro-Urdiales Castle, set against the backdrop of the scenic bay.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy terrace to savor some tapas and local wine. The vibrant nightlife comes alive, with lively squares filled with locals and visitors alike. End your day by taking a peaceful evening walk along the beach, enjoying the sound of the waves.

day 2
Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a traditional bakery, indulging in local pastries like 'pantxineta'. Afterward, visit the Museo de Archeología, where you can explore artifacts that tell the story of Castro-Urdiales' rich history. Spend some time in the tranquil surroundings of the nearby Parque de Castro.

afternoon
:

For lunch, try the local dish 'bacalao al pil-pil' in a seafood restaurant that boasts stunning views of the harbor. Post-lunch, take a guided walking tour to learn about the town's maritime heritage, including tales of its fishing traditions. Stop by local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs.

evening
:

As night falls, opt for dinner at a high-end restaurant specializing in Basque cuisine. Enjoy a multi-course meal made from locally sourced ingredients, paired with exquisite regional wines. Cap off your night with a leisurely walk through the beautifully lit streets of Castro-Urdiales.

day 3
Adventure Day
morning
:

Fuel up with breakfast and prepare for an adventurous day of hiking. Head to the nearby Monte Buciero for a guided trek, where breathtaking views of the coastline await. Along the way, discover unique flora and fauna that characterize the region’s landscape.

afternoon
:

After conquering the hike, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by picturesque scenery. In the afternoon, visit the nearby beaches of Arenillas and La Galleta, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Take time for a fun paddleboarding session or simply unwind on the sand.

evening
:

Return to Castro-Urdiales and treat yourself to a traditional dinner at a local restaurant. Engage with locals and share your day's adventures over a hearty meal. As the evening progresses, find a quiet bar to enjoy live music and unwind with a cocktail.

day 4
Wine and Dine
morning
:

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Prepare for a visit to nearby vineyards in the Rioja region, renowned for its wine production. A guided tour will provide insights into the winemaking process as you stroll through the lush vineyards.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a wine tasting session at one of the esteemed wineries, where you can sample a selection of local wines paired with tapas. Afterward, return to Castro-Urdiales for a leisurely afternoon exploring the local shops. Visit the local fish market to witness the daily catch and perhaps buy ingredients for a cooking class later.

evening
:

After a day of indulgence, take part in a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare traditional Spanish dishes using fresh local ingredients. Delight in dining on your own culinary creations while mingling with fellow participants. For a nightcap, relax at a wine bar and toast to a day well spent.

day 5
Historical Highlights
morning
:

Enjoy breakfast at a café in the town square, watching the world go by. Visit the Church of Santa María, an architectural marvel, and marvel at its beautiful Gothic features as well as intricate stone work. Continuing your cultural experience, explore the ancient ruins of the Roman port that date back centuries.

afternoon
:

After a light lunch at a nearby bistro, head to the nearby coastal town of Laredo for an afternoon of exploring. Stroll along the historic streets, visiting landmarks such as the Old Town and the 12th-century Church of Santa María. Enjoy the views from the top of the hill at Castillo del Moral.

evening
:

Return to Castro-Urdiales for dinner at a local tavern, indulging in traditional dishes. Later, take a sunset walk along the beach promenade, watching the sunlight dance on the water. Find a cozy spot to enjoy a hot chocolate or coffee before ending the night.

day 6
Outdoor Activities
morning
:

Start with breakfast at a seaside café, savoring the morning view of the ocean. Equip yourself for a day of outdoor fun with activities such as cycling along the scenic coastline. Head towards the municipal bike trails that connect Castro-Urdiales to the surrounding natural parks.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the scenic parks along the route. After your meal, opt for kayaking in the calm waters of the bay, where guides offer lessons for beginners. The serene environment and beautiful landscape make this a memorable part of your journey.

evening
:

As evening descends, return to Castro-Urdiales and treat yourself to fresh seafood at a harbor-front restaurant. Engage with locals and travelers over a busy dinner service, sharing stories of your day. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk, admiring the twinkling lights reflecting on the water.

day 7
Relaxation and Wellness
morning
:

Pamper yourself with a wholesome breakfast at a health-focused café that offers fresh juices and smoothie bowls. Afterward, spend the morning at a wellness center for a relaxing spa treatment or massage. This rejuvenating experience will set a calming tone for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

After a few hours of relaxation, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside restaurant, indulging in health-conscious options. Take the afternoon to visit the local craft market and browse handmade goods from local artisans—perfect for unique gifts. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and consider joining a yoga class in a nearby park.

evening
:

As you unwind from the day, opt for a relaxed dinner at home or in a quiet restaurant serving vegetarian cuisine. Engage in conversations with fellow diners and local patrons while sharing insights learned throughout the day. End your night with a peaceful walk along the beach, taking in the sound of the waves lapping at the shore.

day 8
Local Flavor and Festivities
morning
:

Begin your day with a traditional breakfast in a bustling café, sampling local specialties like ‘tostada con tomate’. If in season, immerse yourself in local festivities or markets where artisans display handcrafted goods. This is the perfect opportunity to connect with the local culture.

afternoon
:

Afterward, join in the celebrations, partaking in local dance or music events that showcase the region’s vibrant heritage. Pause for lunch at a food stall, enjoying traditional dishes that are often unique to the festival. Post-lunch, spend time exploring the historical parts of Castro-Urdiales, discovering hidden gems.

evening
:

Cap off the festivities with a community dinner, sharing tables with locals and savoring a variety of dishes. Join in traditional dances or music performances that bring the night to life. As the festival winds down, take a quiet moment enjoying the night sky over the bay.

day 9
Departure and Reflection
morning
:

Enjoy your final breakfast at a favorite local spot, reminiscing about your journey in Castro-Urdiales. Take a last peaceful walk along the beach, soaking in the final views of the coastline. Capture some last-minute photos to take home as memories of this scenic town.

afternoon
:

After checking out, visit any shops you missed to purchase local delicacies to take back home. If time permits, wander through the charming streets for one last exploration of Castro-Urdiales’ historic architecture. Make your way to the bus or train station, ready to depart.

evening
:

As you travel away, reflect on the unique experiences you enjoyed in Castro-Urdiales, from culinary delights to breathtaking views. Consider how this charming town has enriched your travel journey. Keep an eye out for future adventures as you plan your next destination.

Discover Castro-Urdiales

Read more in our Castro-Urdiales 2025 Travel Guide.

Castro-Urdiales Travel Guide