Things To Do
in Laredo

Laredo, Spain, is a picturesque coastal town located in the Cantabria region, known for its beautiful beaches and rich historical heritage. The town boasts a charming old quarter with narrow streets and traditional architecture, alongside vibrant seaside promenades. Laredo is also famous for its gastronomic offerings, particularly seafood, which attracts food lovers from all over.

With a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a laid-back atmosphere, Laredo is a perfect destination for relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Coastal Charm
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to Playa de La Salve, one of Laredo's stunning beaches.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the historic old town, visiting the Church of Santa María and the charming Plaza de la Constitución. Enjoy lunch at a seafood restaurant overlooking the marina.

evening
:

Finish the day with a sunset walk along the beachfront promenade and dine at a local tapas bar to sample traditional dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Laredo Archaeological Museum to learn about the town's history and heritage.

afternoon
:

Take a hike in the nearby Natural Park of Oyambre, enjoying stunning coastal views and diverse flora and fauna. Pack a picnic to savor amidst nature.

evening
:

Return to Laredo for dinner at a local restaurant and explore the vibrant nightlife at bars and clubs in the town center.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a cheap restaurant$15
Cappuccino$3
🥖Baguette$1.50
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel night (3-star)$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich history and cultural attractions.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Some attractions may have reduced hours in winter.
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "La cuenta, por favor." - The bill, please.
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Me gustaría una mesa para dos." - I would like a table for two.
  • "Gracias" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Laredo

Visit one of these nice places.

Playa de La Salve

Capture stunning sunsets and the beautiful beach scenery at this famous local beach.

Old Town Square

The historic architecture and lively atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for street photography.

Natural Park of Oyambre

The breathtaking coastal views and diverse landscapes make for spectacular nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Laredo

Laredo offers a delectable array of culinary delights, particularly for seafood lovers, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts.

Laredo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bacalao a la Vizcaína

Cod cooked in a rich tomato and pepper sauce, a typical dish of the region.

Must-Try!

Sobaos Pasiegos

A traditional sponge cake made with butter, sugar, and eggs, perfect for dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Abastos

A vibrant market where you can find fresh fish, local produce, and traditional delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Laredo has a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 8°C (46°F) in winter to around 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being October and November. The pleasant spring and autumn seasons offer a comfortable climate for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common; close friends may greet with a kiss on both cheeks.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin; it's polite to say 'Buen provecho' before a meal.

Personal Space

People tend to stand closer during conversations compared to some other cultures, so be prepared for this.

Safety Guide

Safety

Laredo is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached via the general emergency number 112.

Tipping in Laredo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty.

Summer

Warm weather attracts beachgoers; be prepared for crowds and vibrant nightlife, especially in July and August.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists make it a lovely time for sightseeing and enjoying local festivals.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional rain; a quieter time to explore museums and indoor attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Laredo at Night

Laredo's nightlife is vibrant, particularly during the summer months, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The beachfront promenade comes alive with locals and tourists enjoying tapas bars and cocktails. Popular areas include the old town and the marina, where you can find everything from casual pubs to lively dance clubs.

Hiking in Laredo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cabo de Ajo Trail

This scenic trail offers stunning views of the coastline and is suitable for hikers of all levels.

Picos de Europa National Park

A bit further afield, this park offers challenging hikes through breathtaking mountainous landscapes, ideal for more experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Laredo by plane.

Seve Ballesteros-Santander Airport (SDR)

Located approximately 75 km from Laredo, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights. Regular bus services connect the airport to Laredo.

Getting Around

Walkability

Laredo is a walkable town, with many attractions, restaurants, and beaches accessible on foot. The compact layout of the old town and waterfront promenade encourages leisurely strolls, making it easy to explore at your own pace. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly areas abound.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Laredo's population is primarily composed of local Cantabrian residents, who are known for their hospitality and friendliness.

Tourists

In the summer, the town sees a significant influx of tourists, particularly from other parts of Spain and Europe, drawn by the beaches and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is widely popular, with local teams playing in regional leagues and games attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Surfing

With its beautiful beaches, surfing is a favorite sport among locals, especially during the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Laredo is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns, but services may be limited outside peak hours. Parking is available in designated areas, though it's advisable to arrive early during the summer when tourist numbers increase.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Laredo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check for meat-based broths in dishes.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options are increasing, traditional bread is common, so be sure to ask about alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Laredo is accessible, with public healthcare services available to residents and visitors. The nearest hospital, Hospital de Laredo, provides a range of medical services. For non-emergent issues, local pharmacies are well-stocked and often provide consultations.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide