From Bilbao: Villages of Cantabria Private Tour with Lunch

Discover the Villages of Cantabria on a Private Tour from Bilbao

Imagine spending a day wandering through medieval streets, marveling at Gaudí’s unique architecture, and tasting authentic Cantabrian dishes — all comfortably arranged in a private setting. This Villages of Cantabria Private Tour with Lunch offers exactly that, starting from Bilbao, with a price tag of around $280 per person.

In about nine hours, you’ll visit three distinctive towns: Santillana del Mar, Comillas, and Castro Urdiales. Your guide — whose knowledge and friendly manner visitors rave about — will lead you through historical sites, picturesque streets, and scenic coastal views.

Two aspects that truly make this tour stand out are the stunning scenery and the authentic local experience. First, you’ll love the way Santillana del Mar’s cobbled streets and ancient stone buildings transport you back in time. Second, visiting Gaudí’s “El Capricho” in Comillas offers a rare glimpse of his later work, with its quirky greenhouses and sun-based room design.

A possible consideration is the full-day commitment— at nine hours, it’s a substantial outing, and travelers who prefer shorter visits may find it long. Also, since it’s a private tour, expect personalized attention, but that also means planning ahead for pickup and the full schedule.

This experience suits those who appreciate history, architecture, and local cuisine, especially if you value a relaxed, guided exploration with a knowledgeable guide. It’s excellent for travelers eager to see beyond Bilbao’s city center and dive into authentic Cantabrian culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic villages: Explore Santillana del Mar and Comillas, renowned for their well-preserved medieval and historic charm.
Architectural highlights: See Gaudí’s “El Capricho”, a unique piece reflecting his distinctive style.
Culinary delights: Savor local dishes like El Cocido Montañes and traditional sweets like sobaos pasiegos.
Scenic coastal visit: Walk along the harbor in Castro Urdiales, a fishing village with a storied past.
Comfortable transportation: Enjoy transfers included, making logistics hassle-free.
Private guide: Benefit from personalized insights and flexible pacing tailored to your interests.

Planning more time in Cantabria? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting from Bilbao

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your Bilbao accommodation. This eliminates the stress of finding transportation and sets a comfortable tone for the day. You’ll travel by private vehicle — a major plus, especially for those eager to relax and enjoy the views without the hassle of public transit.

Santillana del Mar: Medieval Charm

Our first stop is Santillana del Mar, often called one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. As we wander its cobbled streets, you’ll feel transported to the Middle Ages. The Colegiata de Santa Juliana, a Romanesque church, dominates the town’s skyline and offers a glimpse into its religious past.

Your guide, who is both knowledgeable and personable, points out ancient palaces and charming balconies, sharing stories that bring the town’s history alive. We loved the way our guide highlighted details that aren’t immediately obvious, like the origins of the town’s name — which comes from “Santa Juliana,” and the way the stone buildings have weathered centuries.

Taking a break, we sampled sobaos pasiegos, a sweet bread made with fresh milk. The guide explained that these treats are a local specialty, and they are a perfect snack to enjoy while soaking in the medieval atmosphere.

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Comillas and Gaudí’s “El Capricho”

Next, we traveled to Comillas, a small fishing village with a big architectural surprise — “El Capricho”, designed by Antoni Gaudí. This structure was intended as a green house and showcases Gaudí’s early work, with playful curves and colorful ceramic details.

The guide describes how Gaudí’s “El Capricho” was crafted to maximize sunlight in each room, with different rooms used at different times of day. It’s a fascinating blend of art, architecture, and functionality. Visiting this site offers a rare glimpse into Gaudí’s experimentation before Barcelona’s Sagrada Família.

After the visit, you’ll stroll through the picturesque main square, where locals gather for a glass of wine and a pintxo (a traditional tapa). This stop allows you to indulge in local flavors and observe everyday life in a peaceful seaside setting.

The Coastal Charm of Castro Urdiales

The final stop is Castro Urdiales, a coastal fishing town with a long history stretching back to Paleolithic times. We appreciated how our guide detailed the town’s evolution through Celtic and Roman eras.

Here, you can explore the castle, a 13th-century church, and the harbor, all set against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and sea views. The town’s harbor, with its lively boats and seafood restaurants, provides an authentic maritime atmosphere. We found it charming to walk through the narrow streets, imagining the town’s bustling past as a trading hub.

Lunch and Local Cuisine

A highlight of the tour is the lunch, included and set at a traditional eatery. You’ll try El Cocido Montañes, a hearty stew made with chorizo, panceta, ribs, morcilla (blood sausage), and beans. Visitors describe it as filling and a perfect way to experience real Cantabrian comfort food.

The included drinks complement the meal nicely, and the guide may recommend local wines or ciders to round out the experience. The emphasis on fresh local ingredients makes this meal especially satisfying.

Practical Details

The tour lasts about nine hours, with flexible timings depending on availability. It’s a private group, which means the experience is tailored to your pace and interests. The cost of $280 per person may seem high, but considering the personalized service, transportation, entrance fees, and included lunch, it offers excellent value for those wanting an in-depth, curated experience.

Authenticity and Value

We loved the way this tour balances culture with comfort. Visiting authentic villages, seeing Gaudí’s work, and tasting local dishes creates a well-rounded picture of Cantabria beyond the typical tourist spots.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the experience is paced with enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. The private nature of the tour also means you can ask questions and delve deeper into topics that pique your interest.

What Reviewers Say

One traveler, Alberto, summarized his experience perfectly: “Great tour, great guide, we truly enjoyed!” His words echo the sentiment of many who appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views along the way.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate history, architecture, and authentic local experiences. It’s ideal if you want a personalized, relaxed day with plenty of opportunities to explore, taste, and learn.

It’s also great for those who don’t mind a longer day and enjoy guided commentary that enriches each stop. If you’re looking for a comprehensive yet intimate introduction to Cantabria’s villages, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main locations visited?
You will visit Santillana del Mar, Comillas (including Gaudí’s “El Capricho”), and Castro Urdiales.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel, visits, and lunch.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private transfer between all locations from Bilbao.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for groups?
This is a private tour, so your group will travel together with a guide tailored to your needs.

What languages are offered?
Tours are conducted in Spanish and English.

Does the tour include a guide?
Yes, a knowledgeable private guide accompanies you throughout the day.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes lunch and drinks, with a focus on local specialties.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
No, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Final Thoughts

This Villages of Cantabria Private Tour with Lunch offers a well-balanced day of history, architecture, and culinary delights. The personalized guide makes a significant difference, adding depth and context to each stop.

If you’re seeking an authentic taste of Cantabria’s coastal villages, with comfortable transportation and a flexible schedule, this tour strikes a fine balance between value and experience. It’s perfect for those wanting to step off the beaten path and explore Spain’s northern charm in a relaxed, intimate setting.

Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or simply a traveler eager to taste local flavors, this tour promises a memorable day full of beautiful sights, fascinating stories, and delicious food.