Things To Do
in Laredo
Laredo is a scenic seaside town on Cantabria's north coast, famed for its expansive La Salvé Beach and a lively harbor area. Its historic center features pastel facades, narrow lanes, and a waterfront promenade that invites casual strolls. The town serves as a relaxed base for exploring Cantabria's beaches, caves, and green hills nearby.
The climate is mild year-round, with sea breezes that make summers pleasant and winters comparatively temperate.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Laredo's historic center. Visit the Iglesia de Santa María de la Asunción, where you can admire its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate altarpiece. Don't forget to stop by the local bakery to enjoy a traditional pastry with your morning coffee.
After lunch, continue to explore the local shops and boutiques that line the streets, offering unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Visit the Museo de la Mar, dedicated to the region's maritime history, where you can learn about the fishing traditions and culture of Laredo. As the sun starts to set, enjoy a scenic walk along the waterfront promenade.
For dinner, indulge in fresh seafood at a local restaurant overlooking the marina. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, where you can hear the gentle waves lapping the shore. End your evening with a drink at a cozy bar, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
Spend your morning soaking up the sun at Playa de Laredo, one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Settle on the soft golden sands and take a refreshing dip in the clear blue waters. Enjoy a beachside breakfast at a chiringuito, where you can savor local delicacies.
In the afternoon, engage in exciting water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking, perfect for all skill levels. You can also take a leisurely walk along the promenade, enjoying the stunning views of the coast. As you wander, keep an eye out for the beach vendors selling fresh coconut water and ice cream.
As the sun sets, find a spot on the beach to watch the vibrant colors of the sky reflect off the water. Enjoy a beachfront dinner at a seafood restaurant, feasting on grilled fish and local specialties. Conclude your day with a walk along the shore, listening to the sound of the waves and enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) | $70-120 per night |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $6-10 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction entry | $8-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and long sandy beaches
- Excellent seafood and Cantabrian cuisine
- Compact, walkable town with historical charm
- Good base for exploring Cantabria's natural spaces
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Seasonal crowds in peak summer
- Some hillier streets and stairs in old town can be challenging with luggage
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Laredo
Visit one of these nice places.
A long golden-sand beach with dramatic sunsets and lively activity along the shore.
Historic square framed by pastel facades and a busy harbor backdrop—great for street photography.
Colorful boats and fishermen with the morning light creating soft reflections on the water.
Cliffside vantage points offering sweeping panoramic views of the coast and town.
Food in Laredo
Laredo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
High-quality anchovies cured in Santoña; best enjoyed in the harbor bars or as a tapa.
Must-Try!
Steamed cockles with lemon, olive oil, and parsley—a staple snack at beach bars and markets.
Crispy fried calamari rings, typically served with lemon and ali-oli.
Cod with peppers, onions, and olive oil, a classic Cantabrian dish.
A warming fish soup with potatoes and garlic, perfect for cooler evenings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market stalls by the port offering fresh seafood and local produce; great for tasting near-daily catches.
Casual stalls along the seafront offering churros, empanadas, grilled sardines, and other seaside bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet others with a friendly 'hola' or 'buenos días.' Keep voices moderate in public spaces and queues; table manners are similar to the rest of Spain.
Many shops close in the early afternoon for a siesta; main meals are typically later in the evening.
Ask permission if photographing people or private spaces; respect quiet residential areas and religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Laredo
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually included at many restaurants, but leaving a small tip (about 5-10%) for good service is appreciated if not included.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still commonly used, especially at markets and small shops. Contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming coastal flora; excellent for hiking and outdoor strolls before the summer crowds arrive.
Warm days with refreshing sea breezes; long beach days at La Salvé; expect crowds and lively waterfront evenings.
Pleasant days with cooler evenings; seafood season is in full swing and ocean moods grow dramatic.
Milder than inland Spain but capable of wind and rain; some outdoor spaces are quieter, making it good for museum visits and coastal walks on drier days.
Laredo at Night
Hiking in Laredo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular inland hill with coastal views, wildlife, and fairly accessible trails suitable for varied fitness levels.
Wetlands and coastal trails offering birdwatching and flat-to-moderate hikes near the coast.
Airports
How to reach Laredo by plane.
Main regional gateway for Cantabria with regular domestic and some international flights; about a practical drive to Laredo.
Larger international hub with extensive connections; about 1.5–2 hours by car or train to reach Laredo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Cantabrians and residents of Laredo, often family-oriented with strong ties to the sea and local traditions.
Seasonal visitors attracted by beaches, nature, and seafood cuisine; summer peaks with families and weekend travelers.
A portion of seasonal and permanent newcomers drawn by the relaxed coastal lifestyle and milder climate.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A dominant sport across Cantabria with local matches and community clubs.
Coastal access near Laredo and the Cantabrian coast supports surfing and paddle sports, especially during favorable swells.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Laredo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in cafes and restaurants; look for salads, tortilla española, pisto, and veggie-forward tapas; many places can adapt dishes to be meat-free with advance notice.