Cantabria is consolidating its position as an increasingly accessible tourist destination, thanks to its excellent air connectivity. Recently, the region hosted the 4th Turespaña-AENA Air Connectivity Conference—an important event that brings together airlines, tour operators, and destinations to strengthen and expand air routes. In 2025, Cantabria reinforces its place on the international tourism map with direct flights from 20 destinations across 9 countries, operated by 7 different airlines.

Cantabria: Just One Flight Away

Seve Ballesteros-Santander Airport, located just 5 km from the city center, allows travelers to arrive in Cantabria quickly and comfortably. With an increasing number of direct connections to cities across Spain and Europe, the region is an ideal choice for both weekend getaways and longer stays to explore its landscapes and culture.

Every traveler finds their own adventure in Cantabria:

• Tom, a British surfer, lands with his board in hand and in less than half an hour is at Ribamontán al Mar, ready to ride the waves at Spain’s first Surf Reserve.
• Anna and David, a German couple who love winter sports, have flown in to ski at Alto Campoo and are amazed by how close the snow is to the sea.
• Jean-Pierre, a French foodie, has come with a single goal: to taste the most authentic flavors of Cantabria—from fresh seafood to mountain stew and sobaos pasiegos.
• Elena and Marco, an Italian couple passionate about nature, came to hike the trails of the Picos de Europa and ride the Fuente Dé cable car, which lifts them to 1,823 meters for breathtaking views.
• Johann, an Austrian geologist, arrives to study the Costa Quebrada, which is in the process of being declared a UNESCO Geopark.
• Marta and Luis, a family from the Canary Islands traveling with their child, have come to explore the Cabárceno Nature Park, where they’ll see elephants, giraffes, and bears living in semi-freedom.
• Sophie, a Belgian art student, wants to immerse herself in Cantabria’s culture, starting her journey at the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana in Santillana del Mar—a Romanesque gem—before continuing on to the Roman site of Julióbriga.

Each of them arrived in Cantabria with a different plan, but they’re all about to enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience.

From Plane to Wave: Surf in Ribamontán al Mar

One of Cantabria’s most distinctive features is its close relationship with the sea. Ribamontán al Mar is a national surfing hotspot, with perfect waves for all levels and a wide range of surf schools and specialized accommodations.

Surf Playa Gerra San Vicente Oyambre

Top beaches for surfing:

• Somo Beach: The heart of Cantabria’s surf scene, with consistent waves and numerous schools.
• Loredo Beach: Perfect for those looking for gentler waves and stunning surroundings.
• Langre Beach: A more untamed spot, surrounded by impressive cliffs.

From the Beach to the Snow in Under Two Hours

Less than two hours from the coast lies Alto Campoo, one of northern Spain’s premier ski resorts. With over 27 kilometers of slopes and a stunning natural setting, it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced winter sports enthusiasts.

If skiing isn’t your thing, you can enjoy a day of hiking through the Campoo area—discovering the Route of the Menhirs, prehistoric remnants that connect us to the region’s earliest inhabitants, or visiting the rock-hewn hermitages of Valderredible, small churches carved into stone that reflect medieval spirituality.

Gastronomy: Cantabria’s Warmest Welcome

One of Cantabria’s strongest identities lies in its gastronomy. From the moment you step off the plane, you’re invited to indulge in the region’s most authentic flavors.

Must-try Cantabrian flavors:

• Mountain stew and Lebaniego stew: Two traditional dishes perfect for cold days. The mountain version includes beans, cabbage, and smoked meats, while the Lebaniego feat
• 

  Lebaniego stew

  ures chickpeas, pork, and breadcrumb stuffing.
• Sobaos and quesadas pasiegas: Iconic pastries from the Pasiego Valleys—perfect with a good coffee.
• Torrelavega puff pastry: A crispy and delicious treat, typical of the Besaya region.
• Fresh seafood and fish: From rabas (fried squid) in Santander to top-quality shellfish in San Vicente de la Barquera.

Nature in Its Purest Form

Cantabria is a natural paradise, where the sea, mountains, and protected landscapes create unforgettable settings for nature lovers. From the towering peaks of the Picos de Europa to the dramatic cliffs of Costa Quebrada, and the wildlife haven of Cabárceno, the region offers endless opportunities to connect with the environment.

Fuente Dé cable car

• Picos de Europa: Nature at its finest. Elena and Marco took the Fuente Dé cable car up to 1,823 meters and felt small against the immensity of the mountains. From there, they explored scenic trails and marveled at the park’s rich biodiversity.
• Costa Quebrada: A true open-air geological museum. Johann came to study its unique formations, but anyone who visits will be stunned by its cliffs, natural arches, and fossil beaches—telling stories from millions of years ago.
• Cabárceno: More than a zoo—it’s a wildlife sanctuary set in a breathtaking landscape. Marta, Luis, and their child drove through this natural park where animals roam in semi-freedom. From giraffes to brown bears, elephants, snakes, gorillas, ostriches, rhinos, and lions, the whole family enjoyed an educational and thrilling nature experience.

A Cultural Destination Full of History

Cantabria is not just about sea and nature—it’s also rich in culture, history, and heritage. Exploring the region reveals architectural gems and the footprints of ancient civilizations.

Must-see cultural visits:

• Collegiate Church of Santillana del Mar: One of the finest Romanesque examples in Spain.
• Julióbriga: The best-preserved Roman city in Cantabria, with an interpretation center that takes you back in time.
• Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana: A historic pilgrimage site with centuries of tradition.
  

  Collegiate Church of Santillana del Mar

Cantabria, Closer Than You Think

Thanks to its air connectivity, Cantabria is an accessible destination full of possibilities. Each traveler finds their own unique adventure—whether surfing in Ribamontán al Mar, hiking in the Picos de Europa, savoring local cuisine, immersing in nature, or diving into culture and history.

Tom, Elena, Marco, Anna, David, Jean-Pierre, Sophie, Johann, and Marta, Luis, and their son have already discovered the magic of Cantabria. 

Now it’s your turn. Have you flown to our region yet? Book your flight and come discover Infinite Cantabria. After your trip, tell us which experience was your favorite!
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Flying to Cantabria… sounds like a plan. Book your flight now and start your Infinite Cantabria adventure.