Things To Do
in El Astillero
El Astillero is a quiet coastal town in Cantabria, Spain, just west of Santander, perched along the Cantabrian Sea. It is known for its shipbuilding heritage and maritime charm that blends industry with relaxed seaside living. The town is compact and walkable, offering easy access to beaches, estuaries and the surrounding countryside.
In a short visit you can taste fresh seafood, stroll promenades and use El Astillero as a base to explore Santander and the north coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly baked pastries and rich Spanish coffee. Stroll through the quaint streets of El Astillero, admiring the traditional architecture and vibrant colors of the buildings. Visit the charming Church of San Juan Bautista, where you can appreciate the beautiful interior and its historical significance.
After exploring the church, head to the nearby Plaza de la Constitución for a light lunch at one of the outdoor terraces. Enjoy local specialties such as 'tortilla española' or fresh seafood while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the plaza. Spend the afternoon wandering through local artisan shops, where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot by the waterfront to watch the sunset over the Bay of Biscay. Later, indulge in a delightful dinner at a local seafood restaurant, sampling the catch of the day paired with a glass of regional wine. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the promenade, enjoying the sound of the waves and the twinkling lights of the town.
Begin your day at the bustling Mercados de El Astillero, where you can experience the vibrant local culture. Stroll through the various stalls filled with fresh produce, meats, and cheeses, engaging with friendly vendors eager to share their products. Don’t forget to try some local delicacies like 'quesada' or 'sobao' while you explore.
After shopping, head to a nearby café for a leisurely lunch, enjoying fresh tapas made from your market finds. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Museo de la Ciudad, where you can learn about the rich history and heritage of El Astillero through interactive exhibits. Take your time to absorb the stories of the town through its artifacts and displays.
In the evening, join a cooking class where you can learn how to prepare traditional Cantabrian dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you share dinner with fellow participants and savor the dishes you’ve created. As the night winds down, consider visiting a local bar for a nightcap and some live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥖Bakery item or sandwich | $3-6 |
| 🚆Local transit day pass | $6-12 |
| 🛏️Hostel bed per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and easy access to Santander
- Compact and walkable town with authentic local vibe
- Excellent seafood and fresh produce
- Good base for day trips along Cantabria coast
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some services may close during siesta hours
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable
- Public transport less frequent on weekends
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in El Astillero
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sea views and a working harbor ideal for dawn and dusk photography.
Calm waters, reflections and migratory birds at golden hour.
Dramatic dunes meeting the sea with dramatic light at sunrise.
Panoramic view of the Bay of Santander and the coast.
Colorful boats and moorings with warm evening light.
Food in El Astillero
El Astillero Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried calamari rings served as tapas at seafood bars along the coast.
Must-Try!
A hearty Cantabrian bean and meat stew that warms on cooler days.
Cod fish cooked in a garlic and chili pepper sauce for a bright, shimmery finish.
A soft sponge cake that pairs beautifully with coffee or dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market in Santander offering seafood, produce and ready-to-eat bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple hello or buenos días; handshake is common in formal situations.
Be aware many shops close between 2 and 5 pm for a siesta or lunch break.
Toast with light clinking is not mandatory; wait for everyone to be served before eating.
Safety
Tipping in El Astillero
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Spain. Round up bills or leave 5-10% for good service.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; some small establishments may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sea breezes, peak tourist season but plenty of day trip options to Santander and the coast.
Milder weather and comfortable sea conditions, increased rain likelihood, great for hiking.
Cool and wet with occasional strong Atlantic storms, quieter town centers.
Fresh greens and blooming cliffs, pleasant for walks and outdoor dining.
El Astillero at Night
Hiking in El Astillero
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal dunes with hiking trails and viewpoints
Steep cliff paths with panoramic views over Santander
Easy coastal walk between El Astillero and nearby towns
Airports
How to reach El Astillero by plane.
Small regional airport near Maliaño; quick drive to El Astillero and Santander
Major international hub about 1.5-2 hours drive; more flight options
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees and workers connected to shipping and services
Visitors from Cantabria and other parts of Spain, especially in summer
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local matches and fields
Coastal waters support sailing and paddling
Popular on coast and country roads
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Astillero.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Cantabria. Look for vegetable tapas, gazpacho, salads and mushrooms. If ordering, ask for sin carne or sin pescado.