Things To Do
in El Astillero

El Astillero is a quaint coastal town located in the northern part of Spain, nestled between the beautiful Bay of Biscay and the lush green hills of Cantabria. Known for its shipbuilding heritage, the town features charming streets and a tight-knit community. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the coastline, rich maritime history, and delicious local cuisine.

With its proximity to the city of Santander, El Astillero serves as a perfect base for exploring the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering El Astillero
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a stroll along the waterfront promenade to enjoy the views of the bay.

afternoon
:

Visit the Maritime Museum of Cantabria to learn about the town's rich shipbuilding history, then head to the nearby Parque de Las Llamas for a picnic lunch.

evening
:

Dine at Restaurante La Mar, known for its seafood dishes, and then take a relaxing walk to see the sunset over the bay.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your second day with a visit to the local market to sample fresh produce and local delicacies, before heading to the nearby coastal cliffs for breathtaking views.

afternoon
:

Explore the picturesque streets of El Astillero, stopping by local shops and art galleries, then enjoy lunch at a tapas bar.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting a local bar, sampling regional wines, and enjoying live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$3
🏨Hotel night stay$70
🚌Public transport ticket$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and rich maritime history.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh seafood.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Can be crowded during the summer tourist season.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
  • "Una mesa para dos, por favor." - A table for two, please.
  • "Me gustaría probar la sopa de pescado." - I would like to try the fish soup.
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Gracias por su ayuda." - Thank you for your help.

Places to Visit in El Astillero

Visit one of these nice places.

La Playa de El Astillero

The beach offers stunning views of the coastline and is perfect for capturing sunset photos.

Mirador del Faro

The viewpoint near the lighthouse provides panoramic views of the bay and surrounding landscapes.

Historic Shipyards

The old shipyards are a great spot to photograph the rich maritime history of El Astillero.

Culinary Guide

Food in El Astillero

El Astillero offers a delightful array of local dishes influenced by its coastal location, featuring fresh seafood and traditional Spanish flavors.

El Astillero Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bocartes Fritos

Fried anchovies served with a squeeze of lemon, a popular local delicacy.

Must-Try!

Sopa de Pescado

A rich fish soup made with local catch, tomatoes, and spices.

Tarta de Santiago

A traditional almond cake from the region, often enjoyed as a dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Abastos

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and regional specialties.

Street Tapas Stalls

Various stalls around town offering delicious tapas, perfect for a quick snack.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in El Astillero is classified as oceanic, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures in summer range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures hover around 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F). Rainfall is common throughout the year, with autumn and spring being the wettest seasons. Visitors should prepare for variable weather and pack accordingly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly greeting with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks is customary when meeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and avoid talking loudly in restaurants.

Personal Space

Respect personal space and avoid standing too close to someone you just met.

Safety Guide

Safety

El Astillero is generally a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings, not leaving valuables unattended, and using reputable transportation. It's also wise to familiarize yourself with emergency numbers and local hospitals.

Tipping in El Astillero

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common practice.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but cash is recommended for small purchases and street food.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flowers; it's a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Expect warm weather perfect for beach activities, though it can get crowded with tourists.

Autumn

A beautiful season with cooler temperatures and stunning fall colors; perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter can be chilly and rainy, but it's a quieter time to explore the town and enjoy local festivals.

Nightlife Guide

El Astillero at Night

El Astillero boasts a vibrant yet relaxed nightlife scene, with a mix of cozy bars and lively nightclubs. Locals enjoy socializing over drinks, and many bars feature live music, especially on weekends. The atmosphere is welcoming, making it easy for visitors to mingle and enjoy the local culture.

Hiking in El Astillero

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pico de Tres Mares Trail

A moderate hike offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and peaks, suitable for all levels of hikers.

Cabo Mayor Trail

A scenic coastal trail that provides breathtaking views of the cliffs and the ocean, ideal for photography enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach El Astillero by plane.

Santander Airport (SDR)

Located about 7 km from El Astillero, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it the nearest gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

El Astillero is highly walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants within a short distance from each other. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore on foot. Additionally, the scenic waterfront promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are Cantabrians, known for their hospitality and pride in their regional culture.

Tourists

A mix of domestic and international tourists, especially during the summer months, drawn by the natural beauty and heritage of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in the region, with local clubs and community events often centered around the sport.

Surfing

With nearby beaches offering great waves, surfing attracts both locals and visitors looking to enjoy water sports.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in El Astillero is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect to Santander and surrounding areas, providing a convenient way to explore the region without the need for a car. Cycling is also common, with dedicated bike lanes in some areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting El Astillero.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check for hidden ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, but it's important to inform the restaurant staff of your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in El Astillero is accessible, with a local health center providing basic medical services. For more specialized care, residents often visit hospitals in nearby Santander, which is well-equipped and offers a range of medical facilities. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance to cover any health-related expenses.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide