Cantabria is an autonomous community in northern Spain bordering the Cantabrian Sea (Bay of Biscay), celebrated for its rugged Atlantic coastline, prehistoric cave art at Altamira, soaring Picos de Europa peaks, and a cuisine centred on fresh seafood and aged cheeses.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Cabárceno Nature Park
Price: €34 (~$37) adults; €18 (~$19.50) children 4–12; free under 4
Fuente Dé Cable Car
Price: Return: €18 (~$19.50) adults; €9 (~$9.72) children 4–12
Museo de Altamira (Neocueva)
Price: €3 (~$3.25); free Sundays
Playa del Sardinero — Beach Day
Price: Free
Santillana del Mar Village Walk
Price: Free (village); €3 Colegiata
Cueva del Soplao (guided cave tour)
Price: €12 (~$13) adults; €8 (~$8.65) children under 12
Laredo Beach
Price: Free
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Cabárceno village area campsite (Camping El Puente)
Parador de Fuente Dé
Gran Hotel Sardinero
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Restaurants in Spain welcome children warmly and will often provide high chairs (trona) without being asked
The menú del día is ideal for families — most include a children's portion option and cost €10–14 (~$11–15)
Sobaos pasiegos (butter sponge cakes) from any bakery are perfect child-friendly snacks
Supermarkets (Mercadona, Carrefour) have reliable refrigerated sections for baby food and dairy products
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.
Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.
Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.